DMVA Digest

A publication of Pennsylvania's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

August 16, 2017

DMVA News

Employment At DMVA State Veterans Homes:

The DMVA operates six veterans homes throughout the Commonwealth with a variety of employment opportunities available, particularly in nursing. For detailed information about available jobs, check our website.

Tell Us About Events Or Jobs For Veterans:

As a service to Pennsylvania’s veteran community, DMVA is committed to sharing notices from employers who are interested in hiring veterans as well as sharing information about veteran or military-oriented events being held in Pennsylvania, via the DMVA DIGEST. We encourage you to submit your event or employment opportunity for consideration to be included in the weekly Digest. To submit an employment opportunity, please email [email protected]. To submit an upcoming veteran or military-oriented event being held in Pennsylvania, please email [email protected] with the following details: 1. Name of event; 2. Date of event; 3. Time of event; 4. Address of event; 5. County of event; 6. Event website; 7. Point of contact name; 8. POC phone number; 9. POC email address; and 10. Additional details/coordinating instructions (required fee to attend, pre-registration, etc.).

 Around the State

Campaign Aims To Raise $100,000 For Lancaster Barracks, A Temporary Home For Offenders In Veterans Court:

Life was challenging enough for Michael B., a 40-something, single father of a teenage son. He was recovering from alcohol dependency. He also was an offender trying to meet the hard-nosed expectations of Lancaster County’s Veterans Court. Then Michael lost his apartment. Read more.

Carl Stoops 'Had Lots Of Great Adventures, But I Wasn't Heroic':

Carl "Biff" Stoops had a rewarding career in the National Guard as a recruiter, military intelligence analyst and career counselor. Stoops, 76, of Perry Township, said his Army training and varied experiences enabled him to go on to a second career as a security officer at the Lawrence County Courthouse. Read more.

Decorated Veteran Earl Granville Named Top Outstanding Young American:

Staff Sgt. Earl Granville, a decorated veteran of the United States Army and an accomplished public speaker, adaptive athlete, and nine-year veteran of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard was named one of 10 Top Outstanding Young Americans (TOYA). He will be honored at the 79th Annual TOYA Awards ceremony on Sept. 23 at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. TOYA is one of the oldest and most prestigious recognition programs in America. Read more.

Hatboro Area Rep. Murt Announces Veterans Benefits Service:

Assisting veterans in learning about their benefits and how to access them is one of the most important things that can be done to support the men and women who have served this nation. Read more.

Illinois' 126th Civil Engineer Squadron Lends Helping Hand To Pennsylvania National Guard:

The history of Fort Indiantown Gap extends back to 1755 when colonial settlers established fortification of the area during the French and Indian War. Almost two centuries later, the fort was developed into a National Guard training site at the recommendation of Gen. Edward Martin. Read more.

North Penn Students Produce World War II Documentary:

North Penn High School (Montgomery County) students recently premiered a World War II documentary that tells the story of a seminal moment in American history through the eyes of local soldiers who lived it. “World War II: The Men Who Were There" premiered at North Penn High School's Audion on Aug. 10. It was spearheaded by Zach McHoul who produced the film as part of his Eagle Scout service project. Read more.

Stand Down Helps Homeless Vets:

Lawrence County's veterans and service members were invited to experience some rest and relaxation Friday at the seventh annual "Stand-Down." Stand Down was a term used during the Vietnam War to describe a safe place where battle weary soldiers could get food, medical care, and fellowship to renew their spirit, according to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. The term has been used to describe the events that provide services for veterans, other service members, and anyone else who wants to attend. Read more.

Vietnam War Veteran Receives Medals After A 45 Year Wait:

A Vietnam War veteran has finally received medals for his service after 45 years of waiting. Francis McKenna was presented with the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, the Vietnam Service Medal, and a Vietnam Gallantry Cross during a ceremony in Tarentum, about 20 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. Read more.

 Employment Opportunities

This listing is offered as a resource to both Pennsylvania's veterans and businesses that seek to employ veterans. The DMVA has not investigated the positions being offered or the businesses listed, and does not warrant or guarantee either the availability or the terms and conditions of the positions listed. Please contact the employers represented in this listing directly. To have an employment opportunity listed please email: [email protected]

Bus Operator Testing Session:

Testing session will be held on Aug. 26, 2017
D.C. Armory, 2001 E Capitol St., SE, Washington, D.C.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority in partnership with the District of Columbia National Guard will conduct an invitation-only bus operator testing session, a 10-week full-time training program.
To receive invitation instructions, you must forward your resume to [email protected] no later than Aug. 20, 2017. When emailing your resume, please title your Subject line "Military."

Governor Wolf Announces COE Distributing To Expand, Moving Operations From Out Of State To Fayette County:

Gov. Tom Wolf announced COE Distributing (COE), a wholesale distributor of office furniture and accessories, will expand its footprint in Fayette County and consolidate operations from outside the commonwealth to its site in Smock, creating 20 new, full-time jobs. Read more.

Veterans' Expo & Job Fair:

Aug. 29, 2017
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Radisson Hotel Harrisburg, 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill, PA (Cumberland County)
Website.
This event is FREE for Expo attendees and job seekers!
Please join us!

Wolf Administration Joins LBP Manufacturing In Celebration Of New Facility In Lackawanna County:

On behalf of Gov. Tom Wolf, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Dennis Davin joined company executives and local leaders at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new LBP Manufacturing facility in Jessup, Lackawanna County, a project supported by the Governor’s Action Team. Following the ceremony, Secretary Davin toured the over 100,000-square-foot facility.Read more.

 Veteran Events

This listing is offered as a service to individuals and organizations to promote their veteran and military-oriented events being held in Pennsylvania. The information is taken directly from emailed submissions from requestors. DMVA is not responsible for incorrect information submitted. Please send details on events to [email protected] and include the following key pieces of information: 1. Name of event, 2. Date of event, 3. Time of event, 4. Address of event, 5. County of event, 6. Event website, 7. Point of contact name, 8. POC phone number, 9. POC email address, and 10. Additional details/coordinating instructions (fees, pre-registration, etc.)

VA Butler Healthcare Is Hosting A Series Of Health And Wellfare Activities:

For a full calendar of events for August and September, visit the Veterans Affairs Butler Healthcare calendar.

Spring Creek Chapter Of Trout Unlimited Veterans:

Second and fourth Sunday of each month through November, 2017, 1 p.m.-dusk
Fishermans' Paradise, 1150 Spring Creek Rd., Bellefonte, PA (Centre County)
Point of contact: Jim Lanning, 951-231-8000 or email at [email protected]; or Dan Van Winkle, 609-203-5051 or email at [email protected]
Open to all veterans and active duty military personnel. Fishing gear, supplies, and fishing license (as needed) are provided.

Special Screenings Of The Vietnam War-A Documentary By Ken Burns And Lynn Novick:

Aug. 16, 29, and Sep. 12, 2017, All screenings begin at 6 p.m.
Aug. 16 at the Willow Valley Cultural Center Theater, Aug. 29 at the Liberty USO of Fort Indiantown Gap in Annville, PA (Lebanon County) and on Sep. 12 at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center in Carlisle, PA (Cumberland County). WITF invites you to special community screenings of THE VIETNAM WAR–a landmark documentary film series by Ken Burns & Lynn Novick. All screenings are free and open to the public. Details.

Veterans Benefits Counseling:

Aug. 17, 2017
Center for Veterans Enterprise, Building 37, 1700 South Lincoln Ave., Lebanon PA (Lebanon County)
Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA) onsite claims clinic, 9-11 a.m. and 1:30-4 p.m., Building 22, Room 219; town hall, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Point of contact: Robert Toohey, 215-842-2000 ext. 5536

Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports Off-Road Handcycle Awareness:

Aug. 19, 2017, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Mt. Penn Preserve Trails
Point of contact: John Pacharis, email at [email protected]
Free Registration: Website.
Vermont Adaptive has a limited amount of mountain handcycles. There will be an online ride schedule to sign up for a bike and ride time. We will also need plenty of volunteers to assist with the adaptive rides. Lunch will be provided by BAMBA.

Warriors Of America Black Tie Fashion Style Gala:

Aug. 19, 2017, 5-11 p.m.
Scotland Community Center, 3832 Scotland Main St., Scotland, PA (Franklin County)
For tickets and information contact Dominique Brown at 717-331-7402 or email her at [email protected]
Cocktail reception, wine & spirits bar, three course dinner, dancing, and charity auction. Elected officials/retired military heroes tickets $25-VIP tickets $35.

3rd Annual Jakie Invitational Miniature Golf Tournament:

Aug. 20, 2017, two start times: 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Rich Valley Golf Course, 227 Rich Valley Rd., Mechanicsburg, PA (Cumberland County)
Register.
Parrot Heads in Amish Paradise is partnering with Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Inc. (PAWW) for the 3rd Annual “Jakie Invitational” Miniature Golf Tournament. $20/adult golfer, $10/child golfer (12 yrs. & under). Event includes golf, picnic-style meal, soft drinks, and water.

Get Connected To Benefit Information And Resources:

Aug. 22, 2017, 2-3 p.m.
For more information about the event, and to register for email reminders, visit the event page.
Learn more during the “How to #ExploreVA Benefits” Facebook Live event on Aug. 22 at 2 p.m. The event will focus on how veterans can use Explore.VA.gov to learn about VA benefits. After the live video, veterans can ask questions about the resources and tools on the Explore.VA.gov website.

Returning Veteran Issues Symposium:

Aug. 23, 2017 at noon
Hiram G. Andrews Center, Gymnasium, 727 Goucher St., Johnstown, PA (Cambria County)
Website.
Welcoming all veterans! Veteran Community Initiatives emphasizes assisting with the economic and social needs of veterans and their families who are disabled, disadvantaged, physically and mentally challenged, unemployed or under-employed, substance abusers and current and previously incarcerated.

Schuylkill County Veterans Town Hall Meeting:

Aug. 24, 2017, 4 p.m.
D.H.H. Lengel Middle School, 1541 Laurel Blvd., Pottsville, PA (Schuylkill County)
For questions about the event, call 717-272-6621, ext. 4298 or email [email protected]
This event provides veterans with an opportunity to be briefed on the latest developments at the Department of Veterans Affairs and services provided in Schuylkill County. The town hall also serves as a forum for veterans to provide feedback and ask questions to Lebanon VAMC senior leadership.

Third Annual Veterans On The Susquehanna:

Aug. 26, 2017, 1-5 p.m.; dinner, 5:30-7 p.m.
Shank's Mare Outfitters, 2092 Long Level Rd., Wrightsville, PA (York County)
Join "Heroes on the Water" and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation at Shank's Mare Outfitters for a fun day of kayaking and fly fishing followed by a CBF reception. We will be celebrating our veterans and enjoying the beauty of our mighty Susquehanna River.

Pennsylvania’s 24th Annual Ride For Freedom Motorcycle Ride:

Aug. 27, 2017, 9-11 a.m. with kickstands up at 11:30 a.m. Ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m.
The main staging area will be located at 5th and Franklin streets in Womelsdorf, PA (western Berks County).
For more information, please contact ride organizer Bernie Bingham at 610-689-5040 or [email protected]
The event is sponsored by the POW/MIA/Forget-Me-Nots, Inc. and the Reading Motorcycle Club. Participants will ride to Reading City Park, where a ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Vietnam War Memorial. The names of all Pennsylvanians who remain missing in action will be read and honored.

Military Share A Fresh Express Program:

Aug. 28, 2017, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Elizabethtown National Guard Armory, 1455 N. Market St., Elizabethtown, PA (Lancaster County)
Register for the free MilitaryShare distribution. Contact Kim Houck at 610-929-1509, ext. 122, or email her at [email protected]
MilitaryShare, a Fresh Express Program of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, is designed to provide fresh, nutritious foods for families with at least one member who has served or is currently serving in the armed forces.

Flying Legends Of Victory Tour:

Aug. 28–Sept. 4, 2017
The B-17 Bomber “Sentimental Journey” will be in State College, PA (Centre County)
For tour and ride hours, pricing, and to book a flight now, please visit this website.
A one-of-a-kind collection of the rarest historical military planes in the world will be near you. Come see them up close, and better yet fly in one! Departing from University Park Airport. There are a limited number of seats and flights are filling up fast.

MilitaryShare Starve Hunger - Feed Hope:

Aug. 30, 2017, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Lewistown Run Armory, 119 Airport Rd., Lewis Run, PA (McKean County)
POC: Dorothy Staub at 814-398-6037 or email [email protected]
Registration is REQUIRED for the FREE MilitaryShare distribution.
MilitaryShare, a collaborative program of local food banks and the PA National Guard, is desgined to provide fresh, nutritious foods for veterans and military families in need.

REBOOT Combat Recovery:

Starting Aug. 31, 2017, 6-8 p.m.
VFW Post 537, 1095 Pines Rd., Goldsboro, PA (York County)
Point of contact: Charlie Yost, 724-630-4956 or email [email protected]
Join us for 12 weeks focusing on the spiritual aspects of combat recovery. REBOOT is a course, not a support group, providing practical help for service members and families dealing with the after-effects of combat. You won't find shortcuts or easy answers, but instead you'll find solutions that last. Dinner and childcare provided.

Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC) At Night:

Aug. 25, 2017, 7 p.m.
Seven Oaks Country Club, 132 Lisbon Rd., Beaver, PA 15009 (Beaver County)
R.S.V.P. to 412-623-9029 or email [email protected]
The VBC is a nonprofit that creates communities of listening around veterans and their stories. Storytelling events, both morning and night, are held throughout western Pennsylvania. Veterans from World War II to Iraq and Afghanistan share their stories. This is open to the public, and you don’t need to be a veteran to attend. Please mention DMVA Digest when you R.S.V.P.