Message from the Director – December 2018

I join with all of those who are committed to supporting and honoring military members and the veteran community — in wishing you and your family health, happiness and joy this holiday season. This is the time of year to share with loved ones and give thanks, but for many reasons, being with loved ones or feeling connected is not always possible. Please know you are part of a community that cares about you and is here to support you.

This month’s newsletter provides a wealth of resources if you find yourself facing struggles this time of year. Click here to find more information and resources at your fingertips.

Fortunately, we are feeling very grateful and thankful we are able to end an especially successful year with quite a bang. We are hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to usher in the completion of the construction on the new Northern Nevada State Veterans Home in Sparks, Nevada.  The ceremony will be held on December 17th at the new home, located at 36 Battle Born Way in Sparks, Nevada. There will be a tour of the skilled care facility beginning at 4:30 PM with the ceremony beginning at 6:00 PM. For more on the ceremony and the new home itself, please click on the Programs and Services portions of this newsletter. You will find information on becoming a new resident as well as employment opportunities you may want to consider.

Other significant events happening in December include: the anniversary of Pearl Harbor is December 7^th, the Civil Air Patrol birthday on December 1^st, and U.S. National Guard Day is December 13^th.

One other tradition for December is Wreaths Across America, held this year on December 15^th. It is a time to honor, remember and teach — as participants donate and also place wreaths on each gravesite in our Veteran Memorial Cemeteries in Fernley and Boulder City. We have additional information on how you can participate here.

Finally, and this is important, a major deadline for military retirees regarding new dental abd vision coverage is fast approaching. The Tricare Retiree Dental Program ends December 31^st. It will be replaced by the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). BUT THE CHANGE IS NOT AUTOMATIC!  The enrollment period started November 12^th and runs through December 10^th! We have an article that provides more details and how to apply for the new coverage you can find here.

We greatly appreciate your support over this past year and wish you joy in 2019!

Respectfully,
Kat Miller