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RI Veterans: Did you know? 02.11.23 (medical, events, resources, discounts…) – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, contributing writer
Did you know November is designated as National Veterans and Military Families Month to thank service members and their families for all their hard work and bravery, and honor those who have died in the pursuit of freedom/
Did you know Rhode Island has over 62, 000 veterans living throughout Rhode Island?
Did you know October 30-Nov 4 is National Veteran Small Business week?
Did you know businesses throughout the month of November offer FREE and or DISCOUNTED items to Veterans ?
Local Businesses Offering FREE and or Discounted Items in November
If you are a business or know a business offering free items and or discounted items to veterans and active duty members on veterans day, email RINEWSTODAY at [email protected]. We will add to next week’s column and post the event on Veterans day. See the list at the bottom of the page for discounts.
From a veterans (22-year U.S. Army veteran myself), thank you. Veterans appreciate the kind gesture and support.
Medical
Dental
FREE Day of Dentistry , November 11, 2024, Warren Dental, 634 Main Street , Warren RI (401) 245-5825. Must call for appointment.
Unless your 100% VA combined rating, and or have a service-connected disability that covers basic and maintenance of your teeth, majority of veterans DO NOT have dental thru the VA. Moreover, many of the veterans who don’t have dental can not afford dental coverage not only for themselves, but their family.
EEGs
November 6 through November 17, Brainwaves Neuro Restoration Center , 400 Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI is offering complementary EEG to Veterans and Active Duty military personnel.
Why would a veteran want a EEG?
Many veteran are diagnosed with PTSD, TBI ( Traumatic Brain Injury( TBI), anxiety, and major depression.
An EEG might assist the veteran in identifying misdiagnosis and provide additional option for treatment using EEG that might currently not be available at the VA.
More information from government studies on EEG:
According to a VA study in 2016, EEG can help tell apart PTSD & Mild Traumatic Brain Injury( TBI). The two disorders often carry similar symptoms, such as irritability, restlessness, hypersensitivity to stimulation, memory loss, fatigue and dizziness. Scientists have tried to distinguish between mTBI and PTSD in hopes of improving treatment options for Veterans, but many symptom-based studies have been inconclusive because the chronic effects of the two conditions are so similar. If someone is rating high on an mTBI scale, for example, that person may also rate high for PTSD symptoms.
The researchers used electroencephalogram, or EEG, a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. The size and direction of the brain waves can signal abnormalities.
Analyzing a large set of EEGs given to military personnel from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the researchers saw patterns of activity at different locations on the scalp for mTBI and PTSD. They saw brain waves moving slowly in opposite directions, likely coming from separate places in the brain.
The researchers emphasize that these effects don’t pinpoint a region in the brain where the disorders differ. Rather, they show a pattern that distinguishes the disorders when the EEG results are averaged among a large group.
“When you’re looking at an EEG, you can’t easily tell where in the brain signals associated with TBI and PTSD are coming from,” said Laura Manning Franke, Ph.D., the study’s lead researcher and research psychologist at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. “You get kind of a coarse measure – left, right, anterior, posterior. We had a different distribution, which suggests that different parts of the brain are involved. In order to determine what patterns are tracking their TBI and PTSD, you need an average to do that,” Franke added.
The study linked mTBI with increases in low-frequency waves, especially in the prefrontal and right temporal regions of the brain, and PTSD with decreases in low-frequency waves, notably in the right temporoparietal region.
The differences in the levels of the waves may explain some of the symptoms of the two disorders, suggesting a decline in responsiveness for someone with mTBI, for example, and more anxiety for someone with PTSD.
Franke also noted that more low-frequency power has also been linked to cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and less low-frequency power to problems such as drug addiction. Additionally, spotting distinct patterns of mTBI and PTSD in separate parts of the brain is key for two reasons: the possibility these conditions can be confused with each other is reduced. That can help improve diagnosis and treatment and the patterns show that electrical activity appears to be affected long after combat-related mTBI, suggesting long-term changes in neural communication, the signaling between cells in the nervous system. “That could help, in part, explain the reason for persistent problems.”
Additionally, a study by NIH, National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31697371/ found that veterans with chronic pain, TBI, and PTSD were able to use neurofeedback with mobile devices independently after modest training and support. While a double-blind randomized controlled trial is needed for confirmation, the results show promise of a portable, technology-based neuromodulatory approach for pain management with minimal side effects.
Moreover, the FREE EEG could assist the veteran with his or her claim with the VA for disability compensation.
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EVENTS
November 2023
November 4, 2023, Saturday – 1st Annual Veterans Day Pig Roast. FREE Hog Pig Roast for Active Duty and Veterans, Flat River Tavern, 2260 Flat River Toad, Coventry RI, 2:00-6:00 p.m. Flat River Tavern is veteran owned and family operated.
November 4, 2023, Saturday – WaterFire Providence. Salute to Veterans Opening Ceremonies will consist of two parts. The Opening Ceremonies at the RI State House with a speaking led by local representatives and a keynote speaker at 4:30 pm. Starting at 7:30 pm, wreaths will be laid at the World War, World War II, Korean, and Rhode Island Nine Beirut Memorials while taps plays throughout Memorial Park. More information in WaterFire Providence, https://waterfire.org/events/saturday-november-4/
November 4, 2023, Saturday – Masonic Lodge Franklin Lodge No. 29, F.& A.M., in Westerly is having a free Turkey Dinner on Saturday, November 4, 2023; at Masonic Temple, 20 Elm Street, Westerly for veterans and active military. Spouses and companions welcome.RSVP 860-608-5265, Ray Geer, [email protected]. Dinner is served from 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.
November 5, 2023, Sunday – Veterans Inc 2023 Run4Heroes 5K Road Race, Registration begins at 8 a.m, race begins at 10:30 a.m at the start/finish line in front of Wormtown Brewery, on Shrewsbury St., Worcester, MA. All participants will indulge in a post-race celebration featuring food, a complimentary beer from Wormtown Brewery, live music, exciting prizes, and more! If you can’t make it in person this year, we are offering a virtual sign-up option as well! Just run a 5k before the deadline, submit your times, and we will recognize your participation and honor the virtual winner alongside the in-person honorees.
November 10-12, 2023 – at Six Flags:
10-12 November, FREE admission to all veterans and active-duty military members at Six Flag New England – How To Claim Your Six Flags Military & First Responders Discount
To qualify for this discount, you must be registered with ID.me. You will be prompted to log in after you select your tickets.
To purchase tickets:
· Select Product Below – Once you select your product, you will be prompted to log in to ID.me – Verify your status by registering and logging in to ID.me – Once verified with ID.me you will be redirected back to the Six Flags store – Complete your purchase and enjoy your visit!
*Discounts are not available at the front gate. All offers must be redeemed online.
November 11, 2023 – Free Golf Tournament for Veterans, Glocester Country Club and the Marine Corps League are hosting a Veterans Day Golf Tournament, 121 Wentworth Ave, Chepachet. The event is open to all veterans and active duty military, who will receive a free entry to the tournament, breakfast, dinner, and drinks. To sign up, or for more information, call Vin Lafazia, 401-233-2564.
Novembber 11, 2023 – Veterans Day Breakfast – On Veterans Day, Bishop Hendricken and Iggy’s Boardwalk will once again host their annual Veterans Day Breakfast to honor those who have served. All veterans, retired, and active-duty military and their families will eat for free and may choose between two serving times at Iggy’s Boardwalk in Warwick on Saturday, November 11, 2023: 8:30am or 9:30am.
November 18, 2023, Rhode Island Aviation Hall of Fame dinner for 2023 honorees who will be recognized. Open to the public. Venue is the Scottish Rite Center on Broad Street in Cranston (at the entrance to Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet). Reception begins at 5:30PM, followed by dinner and the awards starting at 6:30. Tickets cost $65 each and can be purchased at http://www.riahof.org
November 20, 2023, Monday – VFW Post, 134 Shove Street, Tiverton, RI FREE. FREE luncheon for Veterans from 11:30 to 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Italian American War veterans of the US and Building Bridges
November 23, 2023, Thanksgiving – Free Thanksgiving Dinner for veterans and guest, or veteran spouse, and dependents at Perella’s Ristorante, 311 Metacom Ave, Warren RI. FREE Thanksgiving Dinner for Veterans at Perella’s Ristorante sponsored by Italian American War Veterans of the US /Department of Rhode Island. can start making reservations by email [email protected] or phone (401) 677-9838 (DO NOT CALL PERELLA’s). Space availability will allow non-veterans to make reservations. Raffles, donations, and silenet auction will benefit ITAM Recreational and Transportation Fund. MORE INFO TO FOLLOW. Transportation for Veterans from Veterans Home is AVAILABLE by ITAM. Donations are welcomed, make check made out to ITAM ( note Thanksgiving in the remarks): mail to ITAM , 18 Winchester Ave, North Smithfield RI 02896.Volunteers are welcome, contact ITAM , (401) 677-9838.
December, 2023
December 2, 2023, Saturday – Comedy Show and Italian Buffet Dinner (Veal/Chicken Parmigiana /pasta/salad, dessert. Dinner fundraiser for ITAM Rhode Island Veterans Relief and Recreational Fund, VFW, Shove Street, Tiverton RI. Tickets $40, doors open at 6 p.m. Tables of 8 available for $200 to groups. For tickets contact the Italian American War Veterans of US.
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HUNTING & FISHING
Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans: A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.
No cost licenses are available if you are: over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident – a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs – a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration
To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)
To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing.
The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is:
DEM Licensing Office – 235 Promenade Street, Room 360 – Providence, RI 02908 – (401) 222-3576
To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.
Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:
· Active-Duty Service members – Military ID
· Veterans – DD214
· Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter, contact your VA office
Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In-Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management – 235 Promenade Street, Room 360 – Providence, RI 02908 – 401-222-3576
Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.
The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:
· Licensing fees
· Camping fees
· Picnic table fees
· Specialized facility use fees
· Use of equestrian areas
· Performing art centers
· Game fields fees
· Mule shed fees
If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.
Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.
Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters – 1100 Tower Hill Road – North Kingstown, RI -02852 – 401-667-6200 – Email: [email protected]
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Resources & ongoing groups
Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering. As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time!
***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) via email at [email protected]***
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May)
Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Low Impact Walking Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.
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Discounts for Veterans
Who’s eligible for military discounts?
Military discounts are typically offered by businesses and organizations as a way to show appreciation for the service and sacrifice of military members and their families. The eligibility criteria for military discounts can vary depending on the business or organization offering the discount, but here are some general guidelines:
· Active-duty military personnel: This typically includes members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard who are currently serving on active duty.
· Reserve and National Guard members: Military members who serve in the Reserve or National Guard may also be eligible for military discounts.
· Veterans: Veterans are individuals who have previously served in the military and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
· Retirees: Military retirees are individuals who served in the military for a certain number of years and are now receiving retirement benefits.
· Military spouses and dependents: Many businesses and organizations extend military discounts to the spouses and dependents of military members as welll.Next week, more information on Veteran FREEBIES throughout Rhode Island.
Services
No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC: 15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification.
Restaurants
Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2022.
Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021
99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID
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Retailers
Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021
Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source).
BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021
Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner, ID.me.
ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe.
GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me
Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer.
Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type.
Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations: Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI
Michaels – offers a 15% off military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get –
1. Create an Account. Log in or create a Michaels Rewards account.
2. Get Verified. Provide your military information to get verified instantly.
3. Go Shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout.
O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21.
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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]: the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.
If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838)
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To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/
John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.
Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.
Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.
He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.