Latest news with #Veterans
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Reader wonders about a little slice of history in downtown Rochester
Jul. 14—Dear Answer Man: I have heard there is a museum in downtown Rochester called the Veterans & Emergency Services Museum. Can you, and/or your various minions, find out where it is located, and a little more about it? — A History Buff. Dear Buff, Well, if you know the name, then you are already way ahead of most people in Rochester. And since a trip through the internet shows you actually have a connection to this place, I think you're looking for a little publicity. The Veterans & Emergency Services Museum, the brainchild of — among others — the late Tom Hosier, is dedicated to those people who, frankly, run toward disasters and dangers rather than away from them. Sherry Irvin, the museum's board vice president and a former EMT, said the museum is hoping to grow in the future from its humble, yet noteworthy, beginnings. For starters, the museum is located on the ground floor of the Hilton Rochester at 10 E. Center St. But Irvin said she and the board are hoping to develop partnerships with Mayo Clinic and the History Center of Olmsted County to be able to either find a new, larger space or places where more exhibits can be shown on a permanent or even temporary basis. "We're going to be changing our display for a Korean War display," she said, adding that the museum owns multiple uniforms from every branch of the military, plus other tools and even old K-rations. From law enforcement, firefighters and first responders to our men and women in the military, Irvin said she believes we need to do a better job of honoring their hard work and sacrifice. "They see the worst of the worst," she said, adding, "Without the veterans, we wouldn't have the rights that we have today. We need to honor those that kept us safe." With recent news of folks who saved people during the flooding in central Texas, not to mention our own firefighters, law enforcement, first responders and veterans right here in Southeast Minnesota, Answer Man concurs. Irvin said they get a lot of positive response from visitors who stay at the hotel when it comes to the museum, but "not a lot of people in Rochester know about it." So, next time you're there, stop by. Irvin said you can read all the explanations and take in the exhibits in about half an hour. And it's free of charge, though if you go to the museum's website at they'll happily take a donation. Honor your curiosity by sending questions to Answer Man at answerman@
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
VA Announces Expansion of Benefits
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced a temporary expansion of burial benefits for certain veterans and their families. Recipients will see a temporary expansion of burial benefits thanks to the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, known as the Dole Act. The department has been contacted via email for comment. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins pictured in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins pictured in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call via AP Images Why It Matters The VA is the second-largest U.S. government department, employing about 470,000 people, a quarter of whom are veterans. Some 6.2 million veterans in the United States receive disability benefits from the VA. Veterans who received VA healthcare were not always eligible for a VA-covered burial, resulting in families having to cover the costs after their deaths. This benefit from the Dole Act will mean eligible veterans will have their full burial costs covered. This temporary expansion of burial benefits comes as the department reduces its headcount as part of the Trump administration's program to downsize the federal government - although by much less than originally planned. The VA had planned to reduce its workforce to 400,000, but after much criticism last week announced it would shed fewer than 30,000 jobs this year. Some 12,000 staff will leave their roles by the end of September, after 17,000 job cuts were made between January and June. The department says it has "multiple safeguards in place to ensure these staff reductions do not impact veteran care or benefits." What To Know "The new law specifies eligible Veterans are those who are discharged from VA-provided medical or nursing care to receive VA-provided hospice care at their home and who pass away between July 1, 2025, and Oct. 1, 2026," said the VA in a statement. "Previously, Veterans who died at home under VA hospice care after discharge from VA-provided medical or nursing care were not always eligible for a full VA burial allowance. The Dole Act addresses that gap." The Dole Act was signed into law in January 2025 by then-President Joe Biden. Following its passage, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Republican Illinois Representative Mike Bost said: "The men and women who have served have earned access to a VA that puts them – not government bureaucracy – at the center of its operations. The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act will do exactly that." The act includes several increases and changes to veterans' benefits, including changing the definition of "surviving spouse" to "someone who lived continuously with the veteran until their death and who has not remarried," and requiring the VA to create a plan for creating transitional housing grants for homeless veterans. Trump administration changes to the VA include barring transgender veterans from getting their fertility treatment covered by the VA, and increasing the VA budget by $83 billion through the recent budget. What People Are Saying VA Secretary Doug Collins said in a press release: "VA is working hard to fully implement the many provisions of the Dole Act. We're excited to offer this expanded benefit, which better supports Veterans who choose to spend their final days at home, surrounded by their loved ones." What Happens Next Families and caregivers are encouraged to contact their local VA office to determine eligibility and to apply for the expanded burial benefits. Additional details are available on the VA burial benefits website or by calling 800-827-1000.
Business Wire
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
North Carolina Joins Growing National Movement to Protect Veterans by Regulating VA Claims Assistance
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The National Association for Veterans Rights (NAVR) today acknowledged the enactment of Senate Bill 118, known as the Military and Veteran Support Act, following its signature by North Carolina Governor Josh Stein. This landmark law, effective October 1, introduces vital consumer protections for Veterans and their families while preserving their right to choose how they access earned benefits. 'This law helps ensure that Veterans are protected from bad actors while maintaining access to trusted, free-market assistance,' said Peter O'Rourke, President of NAVR Governor Stein's leadership in signing the bill reflects a strong commitment to those who serve. In his public remarks, he emphasized the need for action: 'I encourage the General Assembly to find ways to support servicemembers and their families and protect them from those who want to take advantage of them.' The Military and Veteran Support Act creates enforceable standards for third-party assistance providers in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) claims process. The law caps contingency fees, bans upfront and referral fees, mandates clear disclosures about the availability of free accredited services, and prohibits deceptive advertising practices. Violations will now be treated as unfair trade practices under North Carolina law, providing meaningful enforcement tools to deter abuse and promote accountability. 'This law helps ensure that Veterans are protected from bad actors while maintaining access to trusted, free-market assistance,' said Peter O'Rourke, President of NAVR, a Veteran of both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force, and former Acting Secretary and Chief of Staff at the VA. 'North Carolina's actions strengthen transparency and fairness in a system that too often leaves Veterans vulnerable.' NAVR also recognizes Senate Judiciary Chairman Danny Britt and House Rules Chairman John Bell for their leadership in advancing SB 118 and ensuring that Veterans and their families are protected without losing access to reputable, results-driven assistance. With the enactment of SB 118, North Carolina joins a growing coalition of states, including Alabama, Louisiana, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Florida, that have passed similar legislation in response to rising concerns over unregulated practices targeting the Veteran community. About NAVR: The National Association for Veterans Rights (NAVR) is a national trade association dedicated to promoting ethical and transparent business practices among companies that engage with the service-disabled Veteran community. NAVR advocates for businesses that empower Veterans with professional and transparent solutions while advancing support for Veteran-owned businesses.
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Iconic Scots kids' TV host dies aged 99 as devastated family pay tribute
SHOWBIZ legend Glen Michael died peacefully at home this week - just two months after celebrating his 99th birthday. Generations of Scots grew up with Glen who fronted Cartoon Cavalcade every Sunday on STV from 1966 to 1992. 3 Glen Michael was a popular face on STV from 1966 to 1992 Credit: John Kirkby - Commissioned by The Sun Glasgow 3 Glen Michael, who has passed away at the age of 99 Credit: John Kirkby - Commissioned by The Sun Glasgow 3 Glen Michael with some of the characters who appeared on the Cavalcade Programme. Credit: John Gunion - The Sun Glasgow In an interview with The Scottish Sun shortly before turning 99, Glen proudly boasted how he had just renewed his driving licence, joking: 'It's valid until I'm 101 — at this rate I may even outlive my car.' Glen passed away at his cottage his Ayrshire, where he lived alone since the loss of wife Beryl a decade ago. He leaves behind his two adult children, former journalist Yonnie, 74, who is now a guide at King Charles's Dumfries House, and award-winning film editor son Chris Buckland, 66, who has worked on high profile shows including Outlander, as well as five grandchildren. Yonnie said: 'Dad died peacefully at home, and not in hospital, which is what he wanted. 'He had people beside him and he just literally took a deep breath and passed away. 'Dad had been determined to make it to 100, as he wanted his telegram from the King, but sadly it wasn't to be. 'But he was still driving until six weeks before falling ill and had also filmed a video for the Veterans charity Erskine in his back garden, which he did in one take. He was a performer to the end.' Bobby Hain, MD Audience, at STV said: 'We are deeply saddened to hear that Glen Michael has passed away. Most read in News TV "Glen was a wonderful performer and personality and we know that many viewers will have very fond memories of him. "He was an STV legend, with Glen Michael's Cavalcade a particular favourite for children across Scotland during its 26 year run. "Our thoughts are with his family at this time and we send them our deepest condolences.'
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Beloved STV legend dies as family pays tribute to Cartoon Cavalcade star
Children's TV presenter and entertainer Glen Michael has been remembered as an 'STV legend', as the broadcaster announced his death at the age of 99. The TV star was known to millions as the face and writer of Cartoon Cavalcade each Sunday on the network between 1966 and 1992. The legendary star died at his cottage in Ayrshire, where he had lived alone since the death of his wife, Beryl, ten years ago. His child, Yonnie, 74, now a guide at King Charles' home, Dumfries House, said: "Dad died peacefully at home, and not in hospital, which is what he wanted. He had people beside him and he just literally took a deep breath and passed away. "Dad had been determined to make it to 100, as he wanted his telegram from the King, but sadly it wasn't to be. But he was still driving until six weeks before falling ill and had also filmed a video for the Veterans charity Erskine in his back garden, which he did in one take. He was a performer to the end." Reflecting on the performer's passing, Bobby Hain, STV's Managing Director of Audience, expressed: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Glen Michael has passed away. Glen was a wonderful performer and personality, and we know that many viewers will have very fond memories of him. "He was an STV legend, with Glen Michael's Cavalcade a particular favourite for children across Scotland during its 26-year run. Our thoughts are with his family at this time, and we send them our deepest condolences."
