Friday, May 22nd, 2009

On May 21st, Veterans Advantage attended the Fleet Week breakfast hosted by Mayor Michael Bloomberg at Gracie Mansion. It was beautiful, sunny morning and there were an overflowing number of military troops, veterans and Government officials in attendance to include the Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office Veterans Affairs, Roger Newman.

As we’ve been doing since 2000, Veterans Advantage was represented well and we had a memorable day in the sun. Peter Eldredge and I enjoyed a great time, as did my son Parker, fresh off his first year at Gettysburg.

Mayor Bloomberg welcomed all and gave special thanks and recognition to the military for their continuing service in guarding our Nation and our interests around the world. That Day was especially significant in the context of the Mayor’s speech as he mentioned his earlier news conference on the foiling of a terrorist plot just a few miles uptown in Riverdale.

Mayor Bloomberg introduced the commanders of the Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and a contingent of Canadian naval units and thanked all for their continuing, outstanding service. Speaking on behalf of the naval forces assembled, Vice Admiral Melvin Williams, Commander of the Navy’s Second Fleet, spoke emphatically of their mission to deploy around the world to protect our country, interests, and allies in these dangerous times. Moreover, he spoke passionately of the military who choose to raise their hands and volunteer to fight and protect us. This speech was received with rousing cheers and applause. It was a special day for all and as we walked back to our cars, we bumped into a few of the 10,000 sailors walking around the Big Apple this week. We thanked them for their service.

(l. to r.) Scott Higgins with NYC Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Roger Newman and Advisory Board member Peter Eldredge

Scott Higgins with Vice Admiral Mel Williams

Tags: fleet week
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Friday, May 22nd, 2009

The Memorial Day weekend typically marks the start of summer. It’s a time to make travel plans or participate in barbecues with friends and family. Originally, though, Memorial Day was a day of remembrance, but sadly we have departed from this original designation. Memorial Day should include some time for each of us to recognize and acknowledge those who have served and given their lives, so we may enjoy our freedoms on this day and throughout the year. In other words, we need to bring back the “memorializing” aspect of the day. Accordingly, at 3pm EST on Monday, there will be a National moment of Silence. Please take a moment to reflect on our fallen heroes, their service and sacrifice. Also, be sure to take the time over the weekend to say “Thank You for Your Service” to someone who serves or has served our country.

Our editorial team put together a special package for the day, starting with a roundup of remembrances being held around the nation, to a special reminder from Dr. Barbara Romberg who is keeping tabs on the transition of Active Duty troops back into our country.

And please spread the word: We all are taking a moment of silence this Monday at 3pm Eastern Time for those who served and sacrificed.

Tags: memorial day
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Friday, May 15th, 2009

On May 14th, Veterans Advantage attended the Wounded Warrior Project’s (WWP’s) annual Courage Awards & Benefits Dinner, and hosted a table with guests to include a wounded warrior Peter Sunderland and his wife, Melissa. The black tie event was held at Cipriani in New York and over 700 people attended–a sold out Event and a dramatic backdrop adjacent to New York’s Grand Central Station, truly a successful event for WWP, a strategic partner of Veterans Advantage.

The evening was quite emotional and moving as WWP Founder John Melia spoke of his dream to create an organization that cared for our military who have paid a heavy price with physical, emotional and stress related injuries in defense of our Nation. Mr. Melia, a wounded warrior, thanked all of the sponsors and those who have donated to help the Warriors with the proceeds going to assist many service men and women from the battlefield to bedside and beyond.

Guest Speaker was Police Commissioner, NYPD, Raymond W. Kelly. Commissioner Kelly is a Vietnam Veteran and retired after 30 of service with the Marines. He spoke with gratitude and admiration for our young warriors and their ongoing dedication to our Country. Awards were given to Johnny Damon of the New York Yankees, who is part of a military family, for his dedication to veterans and his work as WWP’s National Spokesman.

The Tony Snow Award was presented to Michael J. Ward, CEO, of CSX Transportation. A board member of WWP, Mr. Ward donated generously to WWP and was instrumental in funding TRACK, an organization that offers education courses to assist warriors’ transition from their injuries to a successful civilian life.

Finally — The George Laney Award for Courage was awarded to John Fernandes, a former employee of WWP who was key in our first partnership discussions with WWP, over a year ago. Captain Fernandes, who was seriously wounded losing both of his legs in Iraq, spoke of his life after combat and the strength of his wife and family that brought him through his ordeal. He reminded us that this kind of support and love is so very special and important in transitioning to civilian life. It was an honor working with John, and we wish him and his family the very best.

Capping the night, were a number of videos of wounded warriors, their injuries and rehabilitation, their love of our Country and their pride to have served.

Scott Higgins with Advisory Board Member Donna DeVarona and fellow sportscaster Bob Costas

WWP Honors Veterans Advantage at the Gala

Tags: Events, wounded warrior project gala
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Monday, May 4th, 2009

In case you still need a reminder: There are only six days until Mother’s day. There may still be time to take advantage of some of these great offers in time for Mother’s Day, last-second shipping through 1800flowers.com, and getting an computers at your local Apple Store.

You can even spring a surprise getaway for your special someone. Jump on a Continental Airline flight, or find yourself one of Club Med’s more exotic destinations!

Here’s something interesting that crossed the wires recently: According to Forbes.com, it identified ten things consumers should consider buying before the economy improves: From bargain vacations, to women’s apparel, computers, toys, TVs, furniture and jewelry. We are happy to say we have you covered through our partnerships with Target.com, Dell, Apple, Eastern Mountain Sports and leading sporting goods retailers, and all of our travel partnerships. If you’re ready to make any of these purchases, make Veterans Advantage your first stop for savings!

Tags: apple benefits, mother's day, sports products deals, target.com
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