VETERAN’S AFFAIRS COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 4, 2013
1. Call to Order: Chair Bernie Corona called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm.
2. Roll Call:
Present: Bernie Corona, Timothy Siggia, Vincent Parys, Paul Barry, David Whalen
Excused: Linda Carrasquillo, Mary-Ann Roczynski, Kirk Allison, J. Roger Pelletier
3. Approval of Minutes:
January 7, 2013 – Upon a motion by Vinny seconded by Paul, the Commission voted to approve the minutes of the January 7, 2012 meeting. Motion carried.
4. Old Business:
- Bicentennial Square – Vinny mentioned that he had a conversation with the Mayor who informed him that both the Police and Fire Chiefs who had previously approved their interest in having an area in Bicentennial Square for their fallen heroes have now informed the Mayor otherwise. Although Vinny has placed calls to both Chiefs they have not returned a call to him. He was also asked if the council members who previously supported the changes are still on board. He has not heard from them.
5. New Business:
- Paul mentioned that on March 30, 2013 Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans will be held at the Hartford State Armory. Time and further information still pending.
- Bernie passed a handout passed that covered Department of Veterans Affairs and Defense just released improvements www.ebenefits.va.gov a joint self-service web portal that provides registered users with secure online information and access to a variety of military and Veterans Benefits resources.
- Veterans Service Organization: IRS shows that VSO received $5.8 million in revenue in fiscal year 2009-10, yet only distributed $379,000 for grants and assistance to veterans. $1,5 million paid in salaries and compensation, $241,000 office expenses and $72,000 for uniforms probably worn by individual who never served in the military.
- Beware of an organization who calls and identifies it as Veterans Affairs Services (VAS). This organization is not affiliated with the VA. Do not give them any information for obvious reasons. Request widest distribution of this information.
- Adjournment – Upon a motion by Paul seconded by Vinny, the Commission adjourned at 7:50 pm.
The next meeting will be March 4, 2013 in the Town Council Chamber.
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