From Cathy Haynes
NOVEMBER 2016 –Week #2 of veterans, military and patriotic events in Central Florida
This list includes the Veterans Day events that were provided to me. There MAY be others.
*Send me your events – people cannot attend an event if they don’t know about it! And I’m a very poor mind reader!
*Please share this information and events with your friends and interested others and attend. Post where appropriate.
*Event information is concentrated mostly on the Central Florida counties served by the new VA Hospital at Lake Nona – Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard, Lake and Volusia. Other events elsewhere are considered based upon uniqueness and groups best served.
Theft Notice – Someone stole the month of October! It seems that the entire month vanished and skipped from September to November…..
Veteran’s Day/weekend recognitions
Lists are circulating with offers for free meals/discounts for veterans at businesses who are thanking them for their military service. Call ahead to verify their participation. Please remember to tip the eatery servers. “Thank-You” notes to managers are especially thoughtful to thank them for the offering / participating. A few kind words mean a lot as they would be more likely to continue support in the future!
(Note: Ask the owners/managers if they served in the military, too. If so, thank them for their service! Tell them about FAVOB – Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses. While military service is NOT required, they may wish to become more involved with others for similar efforts and share the contact info of the November 9 FAVOB event. There is strength in numbers!)
Avoid the confusion - Just a bit of a reminder - There is a difference between veterans and military. Sometimes people get confused that veterans were once active military but they are not officially serving anymore. And our military who are serving now and will one day be veterans. Retired veterans served a specified required time in service. All military retirees are veterans but not all veterans are military retired.
Veterans Day honors all persons who once were in the military - especially the living. Formerly known as Armistice Day after WWI – 11/11/11 – Eleventh day of the Eleventh month at the Eleventh hour.
Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May - it was established in 1950 to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Air Force Days. That is a day to pay tribute to men and women who ARE currently serve the United States’ armed forces.
Memorial Day honors those who died while serving in the military; Observed on the last Monday in May.
Tribute to USO on TV – Mon. Nov 7 – A very special program will air on the local PBS Stations at 9pm -- a history of the USO which celebrates the organization's 75th anniversary. USO has assisted many military personnel thru the years with entertainment (ie: Bob Hope, Ann Margaret, etc.) and various needs. Check your local TV station line up for channel. (ie: WUCF in Orlando/Central FL.)
Election Day – Tues. Nov 8 – Become educated and exercise your civic privilege and responsibility – VOTE! Our local elections are especially important as they tend to have a more direct impact on us.
LEADING UP TO VETERAN’S DAY
Vietnam Huey Helicopter lift – Tues Nov 8 - Beginning at 9:30am a Vietnam Huey copter will be lifted 13 feet in the air and mounted on the monument pole at the Veterans Memorial Park at 411 Meadow, Leesburg, 34748. Gawkers and sidewalk supervisors are welcome! Dedication ceremony on Friday, Nov 11. (see below in Lake County.) Info: 352.314.2100 Don Van Beck, executive Director. Visit them on line at the Veterans Memorial www. lakeveterans .com In addition to the Huey Helicopter, there is a 15 foot wall for engraved names of our Vietnam Veterans. To request an engraving, they are accepting donations of $20 and will need the Vietnam Veteran’s DD-214. The office is located in the Southern Monument Studio Building at 404 North Boulevard (Hwy 441) in Leesburg, FL. Time is extremely limited to have the engravings complete for this dedication. Info: 352.314.2100 Don Van Beck, Executive Director. Thank you Peggy of AMVETS Post 2006 Auxiliary!
The First Academy Veteran’s Day Celebration – Wed. Nov 9 – The students of Wounded Warrior Club of The First Academy would like to honor members of the Armed Forces. 10am in Faith Hall where the talented students will perform. First Baptist Orlando, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, 32805. (North of I-4 and John Young Pkwy, exit 79.) Special guest Lt. General Benjamin Mixon and the UCF USAF ROTC. Info/RSVP’s appreciated for head count planning to 407-206-8748 Shared by Brian Rose.
Central Florida Navy League luncheon and meeting – Wed. Nov 9– All persons who support the sea services, whether civilian or military, are welcomed to attend this gathering on the 2nd Wed. of each month. 11:30 – 1pm at the Holiday Inn – UCF, 1724 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, 32826. Interesting speakers and networking potential includes the simulation technology businesses. $20 with RSVP on website (cfnavyleague .org) or $25 at the door. 3rd largest Navy League in FL with diverse membership including nearby technology industries. Contact Bob K. (Membership Chair.) at navleaguecenfl@ juno .com 407-977-7575 (NEW! The Navy League offers national E-Membership for only $25per year! Prior military service is NOT required. Support the sea services – Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines – with membership.)
Florida Veterans Hall of Fame induction –Wed. Nov 9 – Central Florida resident, Dennis O. Freytes, will be inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame by the Florida Governor and Florida Cabinet. He is being recognized for significant civic, military, and public service. Ceremony at 2:30pm in the Cabinet Rm, Capitol of Florida—Tallahassee. Reception follows at 5:30 in the Governor’s Mansion. He is a retired Army Colonel, and amongst many activities, he has been influential in the congressional approval of the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to members of the U.S. Army’s 65th Infantry Regiment. The majority of them are from Puerto Rico and served during WW-I, WW-II, and the Korean War – also known as “The Borinqueneers”. (Nominations for next year’s Florida Veterans Hall of Fame persons should begin soon. Check online for requirements.)
FAVOB After Hours – Wed. Nov 9–Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (FAVOB) hosts this After Hours event of drinks, fellowship and networking. Twin Peaks Sports Bar 6-8pm at 8350 International Dr., Orlando, 32819 in southwest Orlando. Free for FAVOB members, $10 donation from non-members. Open to all civilians and veterans alike....You don't have to be a vet to support the veteran business community! 19 states offer contract preferences to veteran owned businesses. Florida is NOT one of them. Our goal is to change that in big business, our cities, and counties too. See FAVOB Facebook site and .www. FAVOB. org Info: Trish at marketing@ FAVOB .org Sponsors welcome!
Thurs. Nov 10 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, United States Marine Corps! 241 years of service since 1775. Thank a Marine, past or present, for your freedom! Semper Fi!
Lake Brantley High School Salute – Thurs. Nov 10 – 10am – 10:30am at the Lake Brantley Football Stadium. 991 Sand Lake Road, Altamonte Springs, 32714 (Seminole County) The entire school populace will assemble in the Football Stadium by 10am. The Chorus sings the National Anthem, followed by a helicopter flyby. A patriotic speech is given that generally focuses on a specific group each year as well as faculty/staff veterans. The honored guests from the local community will stand in place while their bio is read. The Band plays a Salute to America's Finest. There is a gun salute followed by Taps. Veterans – arrive early and wear apparel that represents your branch and/or membership organizations.
Veterans Commemoration Ceremony at UCF – Thurs. Nov 10 – Public is invited to this ceremony at 11am where veterans will be honored and remembered by UCF Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, UCF History and Music Departments. 11 am at Veterans Memorial on Memory Mall near the UCF Arena. Info: Tiffany Rivera at 407-823-3817 tiffany.rivera @ucf. edu
Veteran’s Day Commemoration – Thurs. Nov 10 – Student Veterans of America on the West Campus of Valencia Community College host this event. 11am – 2pm Building 11 Courtyard, 1800 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, 32811. Food, scholarship raffle, and various vendors participating. Info: 407-582-8387 or telkhatouly@ mail.valenciacollege .edu
Homes For Our Troops (HFOT) - Thurs, Nov 10 - Watch HFOT on TV live on ABC's “The View” (check local listings) to follow the journey of Navy PO2 Tim Birckhead and learn about the life-changing gift he will receive from HFOT. This same organization has provided mortgage-free homes to several families in the Central Florida area.
VETERAN’S DAY Nov 11 and WEEKEND Nov 12-13
(Organized by County and then by date)
ORANGE COUNTY
Lake Highland Preparatory School’s Veteran’s Day Tribute - Fri Nov 11 - “The American Dream Goes On” - Students and faculty presents its annual tribute of music, dancing, drama and video footage to honor veterans. Includes a performance by Project Magic. FREE Shows at 8:45 am, 10:45 am, and 1 pm in the Harriett Coleman Center for the Arts on campus, 901 N. Highland Ave., Orlando, 32803. Veterans, LHP friends and community are welcome to attend. 407-206-1900
SPECIAL ATTENTION - Everyone: Notify your local social events planners at any senior living facilities - The program will be broadcast over the internet! This is a wonderful opportunity for travel-challenged seniors to see a great tribute – near professional - performed by our youngest generation! Go to the Lake Highland school website (www. lhps .org) and click on the links. The Tribute will be broadcast LIVE for all 3 shows! See one and then see it again! Info: Candace at 407-206-1900 x3343 (but not available the day of the shows.)
City of Ocoee’s Veterans Day Ceremony & Tribute to Pearl Harbor survivor – Fri. Nov. 11 – The City pays special tribute to Pearl Harbor survivor 99-year-old Donald Kaup. Mr. Kaup, who lives in south Orlando, will celebrate his 100th birthday on November 21. In addition, Steve Shuga, Department 1st Vice Commander for the American Legion Department of Florida, is the keynote speaker for the Veteran’s Day ceremony portion. Ocoee resident Tamia Dawkins ( a Dr. Phillips High School Magnet Fine Arts Program student) will sing the National Anthem with music from the Ocoee Middle School band. Flag presentations by the Ocoee High School Junior ROTC Color Guard, the Ocoee Police and Fire Department Honor Guards. 11am at Bill Breeze Park, 125 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee. Refreshments after ceremony. Info: 407-905-3100 (Note: Mr. Kaup was 25 years old and served as 1C Machinist’s Mate on the USS Medusa. This year is the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, Dec. 7, 1941.)
“Honoring Winter Park Heroes” - Fri. Nov 11 - 6th Annual Veterans Day Celebration honors all veterans at the Winter Park Community Center, Ruby Ball Amphitheatre at 721 W. New England Ave. at 9:30 am, organizations and services that offer resources specifically for veterans’ needs will have tables set up while the VFW Post 2093 Community Band entertains guests. The official program will begin at 10 am with musical tributes, anecdotal speakers, and recognition of veterans according to the various military branches served. Info: 407-599-3428.
Winter Park Golf Day for Veterans – Fri. Nov 11 – An afternoon of FREE golf! 1st annual event on the renewed course! Tee times start at 12:30, 9 minute intervals – reserve yours now! Winter Park Golf Course, 761 Old England Ave, Winter Park. 407-599-3419 winterparkgolfcourse .com
Tribute to Veterans - Fri. Nov 11 – The Red Tail Pilots will receive a tribute wreath at 11am at their monument located at the Orlando Science Center, 777 E. Princeton Ave., Winter Park, 32803. The monument is located outside of the Subway Café on Level 1. Info: 407-514-2000. (Fri to Sun. Nov 11-13 – In honor of Veterans’ Day, veterans with valid military ID receive free admission to the Science Center; accompanying family members receive 50% off admission.)
Veterans Day Celebration – Fri. Nov 11 – Organized by the Town of Windermere and the Rotary Club of Windermere, 4-10pm in front of the Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main St, Windermere, 34786. Marching band, 2 color guards, lots of food and beverages, mid-afternoon fun for the kids, and a popular music band in the evening. Honored guest speaker Lt General Jay Garner. Many of the supporting organizations are having information tables; More are invited but space is limited! A portion of the proceeds raised go to The Home at Last Project, The Lone Sailor Memorial at Baldwin Park's History Wall and the USO. Info: Dan Fanelli at 407 844-7632 dan@ protectovision .com
Lake Nona High School Concert – Fri Nov 11 – The band will provide a tribute to veterans with a concert of patriotic music beginning at 7pm at 12500 Narcoossee Rd, Orlando, 32832. This will include an armed forces salute to the different military branches. Veterans can receive special seating and recognition by contacting Band Director Monica Leimer ahead of time at monica.leimer@ ocps .net 407-956-8300
Veterans Day Celebration – Sat. Nov 12 - Timber Creek High School AFJROTC provides this tribute in the high school's Performing Arts Center, 1001 Avalon Park Blvd, Orlando, 32828. (East Orange County.) The 10am FREE program will include a replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with scheduled changing of the guard. There will be a POW/MIA Missing Man Table Ceremony, A Battle Cross Ceremony honoring one of our former cadets, Cpl. Patrick Deans KIA in Afghanistan December 2010, and a moving tribute to the Wounded Warriors. The program will be capped off by honoring the Military Family. Info: David.Cohen@ ocps .net or donald.dowdy@ ocps .net
Veterans’ Day Parade in Orlando – Sat. Nov 12 – Beginning at 11am – 1pm, 80+ units will march in one of the largest parades in the southeastern United States. Floats, bands, military units and organizations, & more! Route goes south on Orange Ave. from Amelia St., turns east on Central St, turns north on Magnolia and past Lake Eola towards the Courthouse. Volunteers for the parade are very welcomed! Contact De at daila.espeut-jones@ zeltech .com for volunteering opportunities.
SAR Meeting – Sat. Nov 12 – Descendants of America’s first veterans, the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), meet at 11:30am at the Duxbury Room of the Mayflower Retirement Complex, 1620 Mayflower in Winter Park. Coffee social follows with lunch. Florida Society SAR President, Raymond Wess, joins the Central Florida Chapter and tells about the Order of the Cincinnati (he is also a member) which is America's oldest veterans' organization. It was formed by General George Washington's officers at the end of the war. Did you serve in the military? Honor your ancestors who also served our country at its beginnings with membership (But your military service is NOT required to join.) Info: Dan at catears@ centurylink .net or Don at donaldg100@ aol .com.
Marine Corps Birthday Ball – Sat. Nov. 12 – This 241st celebration will be at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, 9840 International Drive, 32819. Cocktails begin at 6pm and the ballroom doors open at 6:45. At 7:30 the ceremony begins with dinner and dancing following that. Dress is formal. special guests. Interested persons can get more information at the Central Florida Marine Corps Foundation website: centralfloridamarines .org or thru Jan Baka 407.745.3029 during business hours or jan.baka@ ecs-federal .com SPONSORSHIPS welcomed! Only a few openings may be available. Semper Fi!
Motorcycle Fun Run, Bike & Car Show – Sun. Nov 13 – Event at Orlando Harley-Davidson to benefit a Booyah Veteran Bus, and Orlando Rocks. Fun Run begins at 3770 37th St. Orlando, 32805 with registration from 8:30-9:30am. Ride starts at 10am, returns for Bike and Car Show from 12n-4pm. ($25 for show registration to share your pride and joy; trophies, prizes and cash to be awarded.) The Booyah Bus is a project wherein transportation buses are reconfigured to allow homeless veterans to get a shower, clean clothing, haircut and a meal. It is also used to drive veterans without vehicles to their much needed VA medical appointments. The Orlando Rocks portion of the benefit provides assistance to injured USMC Sgt. Kirstie Ennis. Potential vendors contact: Victor at 407-901-0685 or see orlandorocksbenefit .blogspot .com
OSCEOLA COUNTY
Pilgrim and Patriot 5K – Sat. Nov 12 – The roads of Solivita in Osceola Co. support Honor Flight Central Florida with a 5k Run, walk, or roll. Freedom Park at Solivita, 395 Village Dr, Kissimmee, 34759. Register online before at pilgrimsandpatriots.itsyourrace .com or on the morning of the race until 8am. Start time: 8:30am.
Osceola County Veteran’s Day Parade – Sat. Nov 12 – 10am start time. Floats, bands, color guards and more. Starts and ends on Lake Shore Blvd in St. Cloud, 34769. Sponsored by the Osceola County Veterans Council. Info: Stan at 321.402.1279 bobbiebarkley66@ yahoo .com
SEMINOLE COUNTY
Veterans Day Ceremony – Fri. Nov 11 – 11am at the Sanford Veterans Memorial Park, 110 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, 32771. Thank Ed Burford, Seminole Co. VSO!
Veterans Day Celebration – Fri. Nov 11 – 11am at Altamonte Mall, Lower Level near Dillard's, 451 E Altamonte Dr, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701. Thank Ed Burford, Seminole Co. VSO!
Veterans Luncheon and Concert – Sun. Nov 13 - The Military Support Team of the First United Methodist Church of Oviedo is hosting a free luncheon to the first 300 to RSVP. In addition, there will be bagpipe music, Posting of the Colors by the Oviedo HS JROTC, Missing Man Table ceremony, the National Anthem, etc. 12:30pm at 263 King Street, Oviedo 32765 in the church gym. (And see concert below.) RSVP to: MST_RSVP@outlook.com (that's MST(underscore)RSVP@outlook.com). If there are problems with this email address, RSVPs can be texted to 407.405.4120; all RSVPs will be acknowledged. Thank you, Lee Barnes!
Musical Concert – Sun. Nov 13 - Beginning at 2:30 PM, the 70-piece Orlando Concert Band will be performing a "Salute to Our Veterans" concert. First United Methodist Church of Oviedo sanctuary, at 263 King Street, Oviedo 32765. This free concert is open to all, and usually plays to a full house. No RSVP is required for the concert. Thank you, Lee Barnes!
Honoring Our Veterans – Sun. Nov 13 - A free event involving horses for veterans with demonstrations, discussions, games and interaction with the amazing Equine Crüe of The Zenerjen foundation. Two sessions, 9 am – noon and 1 pm - 4pm come for one or come for both; lunch provided by Tijuana Flats from noon – 1 pm, at 1180 N Hart Road, Geneva, 32732. RSVP required because space is limited. Call: Jen at 407-412-0252 or email jen@ zenerjen .org.
LAKE COUNTY
Veterans Day Ceremony and Huey Helicopter Dedication – Fri. Nov 11 - 2pm the Vietnam Huey Helicopter and the Vietnam Veterans Wall will be dedicated at the Veterans Memorial Park at 411 Meadow, Leesburg, 34748. Everyone is welcome to attend this honorable event and dedication. On Nov 8th, beginning at 9:30am the Huey will be lifted 13 feet in the air and mounted on the monument pole. Gawkers and sidewalk supervisors are welcome! Info: 352.314.2100 Don Van Beck, executive Director. Visit them on line at the Veterans Memorial www. lakeveterans .com Thank you Peggy of AMVETS Post 2006 Auxiliary!
Veterans Salute on the Farm – Sun Nov 13 – Performance of a patriotic equestrian drill team, BBQ lunch, American flag retirement ceremony, tours of an Arabian horse farm, and learning about horse care courses. Free but RSVP requested by Nov. 8. Hosted by Al-Marah Equine School and Florida International College. 12noon – 3pm at Al-Marah Arabian Farm, 11105 Autumn Ln., Clermont, 34711. Contact: Al at 407-300-7102 alan@ ffohf .org
BREVARD COUNTY
Homes for Warriors 2 Person Golf Tournament – Sat. Nov 12 – Starting at 8am at Majors Golf Course, 3425 Bayside Lakes Blvd SE, Palm Bay, 32909. All proceeds benefiting The Homes For Warriors Program. Cost: $65 per player/$130 per two person team (Including Awards Lunch of baked chicken, mashed potatoes & green beans); Alternate, Scramble, Best Ball, Closest to Pins, Longest Drive, 50/50 Raffle, Bloody Mary’s. Coordinated by Space Coast Paratroopers. Contact: Dave Eldridge deldridge@ cfl.rr .com 321.794.0068
Veterans Day Weekend Open House, Sat & Sun Nov 12 and 13 - The Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum will provide free admission to the museum for all military, active or retired. Also, ALL Florida residents will be admitted free – but please bring a non-perishable food item. Events include flybys, collection of vintage aircraft, plastic modelers and radio controlled modelers, and the opportunity to speak to former combat pilots. Car Club exhibits. (If you have a classic car that you would like to show on Saturday and/or Sunday, please contact the museum.) 9AM-5PM, Saturday and Sunday. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Space Coast Regional Airport, 6600 Tico Road, Titusville, 32780. Info: www. valiantaircommand .com Warbirds@ valiantaircommand .com 321-268-1941.
2nd Annual 5K Run/Walk – Sat. Nov 12 – “Represent (321) 5K” starts at 8am and proceeds benefit the AVET Project (which assists vets and military) and the Brevard Schools Foundation. Pelican Creek Estates, Poinsettia Dr., Satellite Beach, 32937. Contact henry.matta-garcia@ iapws .com 321-338-0070 or Marty at runsalot@ cfl.rr .com 321-537-3526.
FLAGLER COUNTY
Freedom Fest 2016 – Fri to Sun. Nov. 11 – 13 - A Veterans weekend celebration with live music, military aircraft, vendor village, fireworks and patriotic presentations including the traveling Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. Free admission (donations welcomed), free parking. Flagler Executive Airport, 201 Airport Rd, Palm Coast, 32164 (off S.R.100, across from the high school.) Vendor space still open. Contact: Kirk Keller 386-437-1992 #218, Kirk@ beach927 .com (Thank you Daytona Beach Vet Center.)
LEON COUNTY
Book Signing – Sat. Nov 12 - Lt. General Lawrence Snowden will be available for book signing and photos in Tallahassee at Westminister Oaks from 10am to 12noon. He is a twice wounded Iwo Jima Warrior who has written his memoirs for his 95 years of life. 4449 Meandering Way, Tallahassee, 32308. Info from Cdr. Dennis O. Baker, USN (ret), Florida Veterans Foundation Program Coordinator, bakerd@ fdva.state.fl .us (O) 850-488-4181, (C) 850-545-6668
AFTER VETERAN’S DAY
Super Moon – Mon. Nov 14 - Unique natural event - The Moon will be the closest to Earth since January 1948, and will appear up to 14 percent bigger and 30 percent brighter than an average full moon. This is the closest the Moon will get to Earth until 25 November 2034. Military night-vision goggles not needed!
Orange County Mayors’ Veterans Advisory Council –Wed. Nov 16 – 1:30pm monthly meeting (3rd Wed. of ea. mo.) of numerous organizations and individuals for the benefit of Central FL veterans and active duty personnel. Planning of events and awareness is shared. Designated representatives allow groups to coordinate efforts and unite for the common cause. If your Orange County /Central FL vet/military associated group isn’t attending, it should plan to get involved. Mayor Teresa Jacobs is very supportive of a veteran-friendly community. Contact Chairman Col. Edwin Marrero for attendance and location information. emarrero81 @cfl.rr .com
Vietnam Veterans of America Meeting (VVA) – Thurs. Nov 17 - Daytona Beach Chapter 1048 welcomes all veterans to their monthly meeting, 6:30pm at VFW 3282 in Port Orange. DD214 needed to become member. October was Agent Orange Awareness Month. This chapter provided a very educational and informative meeting that was highly attended and greatly appreciated. vva1048 .com Contact Rod Phillips cobra101st@ gmail .com 386.690.9553
Boomer Bash Senior Expo – Fri. Nov 18 – Information resources include health fair, exhibitors, veterans info, and more. 10am – 2 pm at the former Sports Authority building in The Avenue Viera, 2261 Town Center Ave #113, Viera, 32940. Info: Jill at 321-242-1235 jill@ myseniorlife .com
v Orlando VA Town Hall Meeting – Sat. Nov 19 –The Orlando VA Medical Center wants share what’s new at the site thru a Town Hall Meeting. In addition, they want to hear about your thoughts (positive and negative) and your concerns. 10am – 2pm at Concord Street Church Of Christ, 626 East Concord Street, Orlando, 32803. Spend some time with Mr. Liezert for an "Ask the Director" session. You will also have an opportunity to speak to the Veteran Benefits Administration (VBA) expert about your service connected benefits. Learn about the one topic no one wants to talk about - death benefits - The National Cemetery Administration will be there to answer questions. We will have Veteran Justice Outreach and several other counselors on site to serve our Veterans. If you are a Veteran and have not received your flu shot, we will have Orlando Staff onsite to provide the flu shots (ONLY AVAILABLE FOR VETERANS). If you are weak (unlikely, but you never know!) and hungry after the shot then you can go over to Eddie Jenkins and receive some free barbecue. Info: “Annie” at ellamay.artis@ va .gov 407-646-5500 x27246.
I/ITSEC 5k – Wed Nov 30 – Run, walk, roll with conference participants of Technology and Simulation industries. Proceeds benefit the local Camaraderie Foundation which provides confidential counseling to veterans, military and their families for Post-Traumatic Stress issues. 6am – 8am at Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, 32819. Sponsors still welcomed. Contact Event Director Sean at iitsec5K@ gmail .com
Fisher House at Lake Nona – Wed. Nov 30 – Groundbreaking for the Fisher House on the property of the Orlando VA Medical Center. This building, like the others located nationwide near military medical facilities, provides nearby housing for veterans and/or their families while care is being given. 10am in the vicinity of 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, 32827. Follow signage. The facility receives no VA or federal monies – the Fisher House's run by donations and volunteers.
MISCELLANEOUS
Shades of Green – This resort on Disney property for military and DOD personnel has some very tempting rates, especially during the months of January and September. The “Salute to Our Veterans” program is designed to give all military veterans who have received an honorable discharge (proof required & verified by current DD-214) Check out the website at www. shadesofgreen .org or call 1-407-824-3400.
New book released - Insightful author, former Central Florida resident and Navy vet, Richard S. Lowry, recently released his historical fiction book to his previous list of non-fiction, documentary books. “Code Name: Scarlet” is available on Amazon. Previous heavily researched books: Pulitzer nominated “New Dawn, the Battles for Fallujah”; Award winning “Marines in the Garden of Eden”, “The Gulf War Chronicles” and “US Marine in Iraq: Operation Iraqi Freedom”. Contact him at : rsl631@ gmail .com
On-Site Employment Services - Orlando VA Medical Center offers On Site employment services every Tuesday from 10am to 2pm at the Orlando VA Medical Center, Lake Baldwin, 5201 Raymond St, Building 503, Room B107, Orlando, 32805; an appointment is suggested, walk-ins are accepted. For an appointment, call 407-646-5500 ext. 27246.
Help for Veterans and their Families - Life isn't always easy after a deployment. With 71 percent of the staff members comprised of veterans, Vet centers are committed to assisting veterans and their families achieve successful adjustment in or near their communities. Vet Centers provide all readjustment counseling services at no charge. Those using vet centers are not required to enroll in the VA Health Care System or to have received a service connection for conditions caused by military service. Vet centers provide services regardless of the nature of a veteran's discharge. The vet center program also has a Veterans Call Center staffed with qualified counselors who will answer your calls after office hours at 1-877-927-8387. See www. va.gov
* Clermont Vet Center - 1655 East Highway 50, Suite 102, Clermont, FL 34711 Phone: 352-536-6701 Or 877-927-8387
* Daytona Beach Vet Center - 1620 Mason Ave., Suite C, Daytona Beach, FL 32117
Phone: 386-366-6600 Or 877-927-8387
* Melbourne Vet Center - 2098 Sarno Road, Melbourne, FL 32935
Phone: 321-254-3410 Or 877-927-8387
* Orlando Vet Center - 5575 S. Semoran Blvd., Suite #30, Orlando, FL 32822
Phone: 407-857-2800 Or 877-927-8387
Veterans in crisis – For you or someone you know
Suicide is a medical emergency. If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, know that you are not alone and care should be sought immediately by calling 911. Free, confidential resources are instantly available through the Military Crisis Line to aid you if you are in crisis.
Call 800-273-8255 and press 1,
OR chat online now for 24/7 access to trained counselors who understand what service members and military families are coping with. Website at veteranscrisisline
OR: text 838255 for 24/7 confidential assistance. They are there because they care….
Camaraderie Foundation in Central Florida provides resources for private and confidential Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) counseling for warriors and their families. They also have connections in other areas, other states. It works. It HAS saved lives, marriages and families. Contact 407-841-0071
Giving Tuesday – Tues. Nov 29 –Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it is a global day dedicated to giving. Please consider donating to an organization –especially a local one - that is dedicated to assisting our veterans and military families.
Caring and sharing,
Cathy Haynes
Member/supporter of numerous veteran and military organizations in Central FL 407-239-8468
chaynes11629@ yahoo .com
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