36th National Veterans Wheelchair Games June 27-July 2, … · June 27-July 2, 2016 Aylward got...

Executive Director’s Report

3

Service Officer’s Report

4

Election Resumes5, 8 ,9, 11, 12

Sports & Recreation6

Sail to Prevail7

Fishing at Winnie12

InsideWhat’s

continued on page 6

By Eileen Craffey, Coach

Vol. LXVI, #8 The NewsleTTer of The New eNglaNd ChapTer paralyzed VeTeraNs of ameriCaAugust 2016

a member ChapTer of The paralyzed VeTeraNs of ameriCa – CharTered by The CoNgress of The uNiTed sTaTes

CORD WORDWORDCORD

With the beautiful backdrop of the

Wasatch Mountains in Salt Lake

City, UT, more than 600 veterans

with mobility disabilities across the US, Puerto

Rico and the U.K. lived up to the National Vet-

erans Wheelchair Games motto to “Strive, Live

and Conquer”. With competition in 20 different

sports, it was one incredible week of camarade-

rie, sportsmanship and fun. The weather was

hot! (100 degrees) and so was the competition.

The mighty team of 22 athletes representing

NEPVA and VA from around New England

brought home an unbelievable 43 Gold, 18

Silver and 9 Bronze medals!

Great experiences cannot be measured in medals

alone. NEPVA especially welcomes its Novice

athletes. Their participation embodies what the

Games are all about: the camaraderie among

vets, and their continuing rehabilitation to

make the most of life despite a disability. Frank

Bergeron, Mike Moran, Stephen Aylward and

Raquel Ardin are this year’s welcome Novices.

Raquel hauled in 3 gold in Air Pistol, Motor

Rally, and Motorized Slalom. She also partici-

pated in Air Rifles and Power Soccer. Stephen

36th National Veterans Wheelchair GamesJune 27-July 2, 2016

Aylward got gold in Ramp Bowling and silver

in Motorized Slalom, and took part in Air

Rifles, Boccia, and Nine Ball. Frank Bergeron

competed in Bowling, Boccia and Motor Rally.

Mike Moran earned bronze in trapshooting and

also competed in Air Rifles, Boccia, and the 10K

Handcycling events. He was a standout in the

crowd of more than 90 cyclists with his Viking

–horned helmet and bright orange bike.

Veteran “vet” Mike Savicki topped the gold

medal winners on the NEPVA team (which he

has done in many past Games). He garnered 5

gold in Track, spanning the distances – 100m

through 800m. He added a silver in Shotput and

a bronze in Discus the following day, for good

measure.

Proving that “practice does make perfect” in

the pool, Watson Connolly swam to 5 gold and

1 silver in the 50 yd. Free, 50 yd. Back, 50 yd.

Breastroke, 50 yd. Butterfly, 75 yd. Individual

Medley and 100 yd. Free respectively. Included

in his 6 swim events were the very difficult 50

yd. Butterfly and the 75 yd. Individual Medley

The NEPVA Coasters team poses for a group photo at

the 36th National Veterans Wheelchair Games in Salt

Lake City, UT.

Cord Word August 2016

www.nepva.org

PARALYZED VETERANS of AMERICA

NEW ENGLAND CHAPTERNEPVA ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE

1600 PROVIDENCE HIGHWAY-SUITE 143WALPOLE, MA 02081

TEL: (508) 660-1181, 1-(800) 660-1181FAX: (508) 668-9412; e-mail: [email protected]

web: www.nepva.orgOffice Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm

NEPVA OFFICERSPresident, Wayne RossVice President, Mike GuilbaultSecretary, Peter MooreTreasurer, Charles SchenaNational Director, Neal Williams ADA Coordinator, Neal Williams

EXECUTIVE BOARD Bruce Bowen John BrakoBrad CarlsonWalter FarringtonMichael NegreteMark Sanders Jim Wallack

Cord Word is published twelve times a year by the New England Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1600 Providence Hwy., Suite 143, Walpole, MA 02081 in the interest of Chapter members. Membership in NEPVA entitles you to a free subscription to Cord Word. Articles published in Cord Word do not necessarily reflect the views of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, New England Chapter. NEPVA neither endorses nor guarantees any of the products or services advertised herein. Postmaster: send changes of address to NEPVA, 1600 Providence Hwy., Suite 143, Walpole, MA 02081

Monthly meetings are held every first Wednesday of the month at the NEPVA office in Walpole, Ma. The executive board meets at 10:30 a.m. Followed by the regular membership meeting at 1:00 p.m.

PROGRAM DIRECTORSDevelopment Director, Wayne RossMembership Officer, Judy GoldsteinMS Liaison, John BrakoCommunity Outreach, Mike GuilbaultNEPVA Peer Mentor Rep., Mike GuilbaultScholarship Chairman, Wayne RossSports Director, Mike GuilbaultAssistant Sports Director, Brad CarlsonBass Trail Liaison, Jim WallackWomen Veterans’ Liaison, Debra FreedVolunteer Coordinator, Judy Goldstein

Hospital Liaisons Brockton, MA VAMC, Mike GuilbaultWest Roxbury, MA VAMC, Wayne RossNorthampton, MA VAMC, Tim KellyProvidence, RI VAMC, Bruce BowenManchester, NH VAMC, Walter Farrington West Haven, CT VAMC, VacantWhite River Jct, VT VAMC, Jim WallackTogus, ME VAMC, Neal Williams

STAFFExecutive Director, Debra FreedCord Word Editor, Judy GoldsteinGovernment Relations Director, Debra FreedAdministrative Assistant, Judy GoldsteinBookkeeper, Jeri FarinellaCord Word Design & Web Master, Harley Freedman

2

of our Chapter MemberRobert G. Letendre

We deeply regret the passing

NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICEPARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA

BOSTON VA REGIONAL OFFICEJ.F.K. FEDERAL BUILDING - Room - 1575 C

BOSTON, MA 02203TEL: (617) 303-1395 & 1-800-795-3607

FAX: (617) 303-1396Eastern Region Director, Joseph E. Badzmierowski

Senior Secretary, Ann Marie Wallace

PVA NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICETOGUS, VARO, 1 VA CENTER

BLDG 248, ROOM 112AUGUSTA, ME 04330

Serving maine, new HampSHire and vermont

TEL: (207) 621-7394, FAX: (207) 621-4829TOLL FREE: 866-795-1911

Senior National Service Officer, John StansburySecretary, Violet Bates

PVA NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICEBROCKTON VAMC

940 BELMONT ST., BLDG. 3 ROOM 207BROCKTON, MA 02301

TEL: (774) 826-2219FAX: (774) 826-3167

Veteran Health & Benefits Specialist III, Heather CherniackEast-North Area Manager


www.nepva.org 3continued on page 4

Executive Director’s Report By Debra FreedExecutive Director

The Summer of 2016

It truly never ceases to amaze me

how quickly the Summer flies by.

I couldn’t tell you what happened

to June, and now July is already gone. I

have seen some great photos of SCI/D

folks enjoying a variety of activities.

As you may

recall, I and

National Di-

rector Neal

Williams

attended the

ADA Sym-

posium in

Denver, CO from June 19th through

the 23rd. As always, the ADA Sympo-

sium was well attended and it was nice

to see several Chapters and PVA staff

too. Unfortunately, the timing was such

that I had to leave Tuesday evening to

come home and collect the truck that

we were taking to Salt Lake City, Utah

for the 36th Annual National Veterans

Wheelchair Games. As always, the

trip out was a little grueling, but it all

worked out in the end. I would like to

thank my partner and Chapter volun-

teer Joy Lawrence for suffering through

nearly 7 days as my co-pilot – I make a

terrible passenger. Anyone who has sat

in a box truck bench seat knows how

awful they can be.

Was it worth it? We travelled nearly

7 days over two weeks not just to

transport medical equipment, medical

supplies, sporting equipment, and lug-

gage. So yes, it was worth it. There are a

myriad of reasons.

• TheNewEnglandChapterremains

one of maybe two chapters that spon-

sor long term care patients to attend

the Games.

• Itgaveourfolks,bothin-patientand

out-patient the opportunity to keep

practicing up to a week prior to leav-

ing for the Games.

• Thestaffand

volunteers who

accompanied

the athletes were

grateful that all

they had to worry

about was every-

one’s carry on.

• Threeofourathletes–twonovices

were able to bring their power-chairs

for use during the week so they

wouldn’t have to deal with them

through airports.

• Otherfactorsindoingwhatwedo,

the way we do them are the faces, the

smiles, the camaraderie, and sincere

appreciation by all.

From what I know everyone, everyone

of our group went home with at least

one medal or more. How cool is that?

There were options to ship everything

out in advance, but it would require

giving up medical equipment, medical

supplies, and sporting equipment nearly

a month or more in advance. The

Chapter Board weighed the expense of

the truck, fuel, and overnight stays over

the emotional and mental attitudes of

the athletes, caregivers, and others. The

emotional and mental attitudes of all

helped make their decision. The Salt

Lake City VA would provide durable

medical equipment

but the Chapter

would have

had to share

a Hoya

between sev-

eral rooms.

I would truly

be remiss for not

mentioning I and my

partner were well aware what was in it

for us - we didn’t have to shell out for

air fare not to mention our stuff coming

in the truck as well. And, we saw some

great country. When I retire, we can

enjoy driving through the mid-west a

lot more slowly!

Please remember that I mentioned in

the July newsletter that things will

be changing at the chapter. Chapter

finances will be sorely tested in 2017. I

cannot stress enough that 95% of direct

donations go to programs and services.

I also need to stress that we need your

help on a number of issues: volunteer-

ing, chapter elections, fundraising,

and the general election. For Chapter

elections, you may have already received

your ballot. It costs the Chapter over

$1,000 to create and mail out ballots.

To receive less than 10% is more than

sad. Please, show your support and vote!

Fundraising, if you have ideas, please be

willing to share.

Finally, the general election is still

several months away. It matters to you

who you vote for, but please, take the time

…everyone of our group

went home with at least

one medal or more. How

cool is that?


www.nepva.org4

Service Officer’s Report By Amauris PolancoVeterans Health & Benefits Specialist II,

Bronx, NY

Amauris PolancoVeterans Health & Benefits Specialist IIParalyzed Veterans of AmericaJames J. Peters VAMC130 West Kingsbridge Rd. Room 1D-52ABronx, NY 10468718-584-9000 X6272; 866-297-1319Fax: [email protected]

Bruce Weston, NSO III Paralyzed Veterans of America245 W. Houston St.Room 212ANew York, NY 10014212-807-3114; 800-795-3620Fax: [email protected]

Charles TocciVeterans Health & Benefits Specialist IIParalyzed Veterans of AmericaSyracuse VAMC800 Irving Ave, Room C419Syracuse, NY 13210315-425-4400 X 53317Fax: [email protected]

Michael Kruse Senior Benefits AdvocateParalyzed Veterans of America130 South Elmwood Ave., Ste 621Buffalo, NY 14202716-857-3353; 800-795-3619Fax: [email protected]

PVA Service Offices Serving New York

National Service Officers (NSO’s) are individuals ac-

credited by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Their

responsibilities include helping veterans file claims for any

benefits the veteran may be entitled to. NSO’s can assist

veterans with not only obtaining service-connection for

injuries or illnesses that were incurred or aggravated during

active military service but also help in determining if rating

percentages assigned are correct. Using NSO’s are the best

course of action when submitting claims for VA benefits.

The application process can be very challenging. Knowing

what forms to use for particular claims and knowing the cor-

rect way to fill out VA forms can be the difference between

getting service-connected or being denied for service-con-

nection. NSO’s can help expedite claims due to exceptional

circumstances such as terminal illnesses, homelessness, and

financial hardships. Reviewing rating decisions and explain-

ing them to veterans are also an important part of an NSO’s

job. In the event of denied Rating Board Decisions, NSO’s

can help determine the best course of actions to address the

denials.

Veteran Health & Benefits Specialist (VHBS) primarily

deal with hospital issues and healthcare advocacy. VHBS are

located in VA medical centers nationwide with the purpose of

providing guidance to veterans with questions about hospital

benefits. Some of the issues are related to equipment from

Prosthetics that the veteran may be entitled to and travel

arrangement for veterans in need of travel. They can also

help veterans who are in the process of becoming eligible for

enrollment in the VA Health Care system. Other assistance

provided by the VHBS include:

• ApplicationsforClothingAllowances

• InformingtheVAofupdatesonveteran’scontact

information

• Obtainingmedicalevidencefromdoctorstosupport

claims

• Arrangingtransfersbetweenmedicalfacilities

• EnsurethattheVHAcomplieswiththeirdirective

(VHA Handbook 1176)

VHBS visit different VA medical centers and interview

patients as well as staff to ensure optimum quality of care

is provided to veterans. They are trained to take action if

any deficiencies are found. VHBS advocacy can range from

speaking to the person in charge of maintenance to taking

part in meetings with members of the VA hospital leadership

to discuss issues.

If you have any questions no matter if it relates to the VA

Hospital or the Veterans Benefits Administration, please

contact your local PVA National Service Officer or Veteran

Health and Benefits Specialist.

Responsibilities of a National Service Officer and Veteran Health & Benefits Specialist

continued from page 3Executive Director’s Report

to vote. This year’s election includes all House Representatives,

several New England Senators and of course the President.

The House and Senate votes are extremely important as they

control what will happen to the VA Healthcare System. We are

all aware VA Healthcare is not perfect. Speaking for myself, I

will not use anything else, especially after 30 plus years of good

healthcare. My suggestion when considering who to elect: check

out the Commission on Care’s report, https://commissionon-

care.sites.usa.gov/



2016–17 Election Statements & Resumes

Bruce Bowen: In 1964 I joined the

Navy and spent 1965 in a Class ‘A’

electronic school where I learned how

to work with large systems, radar in

particular. I was then sent to the De-

stroyer Flotilla in Newport RI. Our first

deployment was doing plane guard duty

in the Gulf of Tonkin. This deployment

ended up with a dip below the equa-

tor and finished with around the world

cruises. I ended my enlistment in 1968

and entered the work force concentrat-

ing on the banking side. After leaving

2 companies due to lack of a challenge

I ended up with a company where I

would spend the better part of 36 years.

I started with the new company at the

bottom repairing safety deposit locks

and then got the opportunity to work

on automated teller machines. My train-

ing kicked in and I made it up thru the

ranks to be the Technical Manager of

New England. The company downsized

the number of areas so I made the trans-

fer to the software division. Eventually

the technical side of the ATM’s allowed

me to develop a text to speech system

so the ATM could talk a blind person

thru the transactions. I currently hold 6

software patents related to this.

John Brako: I am an Army veteran,

and received a Multiple Sclerosis

(MS) diagnosis while in the military.

I have taken a proactive approach to

reviewing the latest neurological disease

research. The VA’s adoption of new

medication and treatments can some-

times lag that of the civilian environ-

ment, so I take a very active approach

in endorsing the acceptance of leading-

edge remedies for fellow paralyzed

veterans. I currently serve on the board

of directors for the NEPVA as the MS

Liaison. I have sponsored teams, and

raised veteran awareness of the NEPVA

at events such as the MS Muckfest,

PAWS dog walks, and NEADS celebra-

tions. I appreciate speaking with MS

compatriots about common issues and

solutions at the national and winter

games.

I attended the Army Defense Language

Institute in Monterey. I subsequently

served in an Airborne Psychological

Operations unit in the First Special

Operations Command. When I com-

pleted my service, I joined the Army

Reserves and furthered my studies in

the Russian and Italian languages at

Northeastern University. After earn-

ing my undergraduate degree, I worked

for Southwestern Bell DBA Cellular

One. I served as a board member at the

Central Florida PVA in 1996, before

returning to Massachusetts in 1998. I

served on the Commission on Disabil-

ity for the Town of Acton throughout

the last decade.

Walter Farrington: I have been a

veteran since 1973 and para-

lyzed since 1983. I am currently serving

on the Executive Board, as Hospital

Liaison to Manchester, N.H. VA.

I am also co-chair to the wheelchair

committee of the US Tennis Assoc. and

Past Treasurer of the State Advisory

Committee of N.H. USTA. In addition

to tennis and bowling, I have competed

in wheelchair basketball, softball, quad

rugby, fishing and weight lifting.

I’m looking forward to my increased

involvement with sports activities,

Manchester VA and SCI clinic. Thanks

for your votes.

Mike Guilbault: I grew up in

Woonsocket, RI and joined

the USAF right after high school. I

served as an Electronic Warfare Sys-

tems Technician with the 23rd Tacti-

cal Fighter Wing, The Flying Tigers

working on both the A7D and later the

A-10 aircraft. I was later assigned to 8th

Air Force 2nd Bomb Wing in Strate-

gic Air Command working on B-52

aircraft older than I. A car accident in

1995 would leave me a C6 Incomplete

Quadriplegic. I became a life member

in 1996.

I am running for the office of Vice

President. I have been involved with

all Chapter Programs for over 18 years

now. I was first elected to the BOD in

1998 and served as Asst. Sports Direc-

tor until becoming Sports Director

in 2001. Since becoming a member,

I’ve been to DC to advocate for vet-

erans benefits many times, attended

PVA Conventions and run our school

presentations program. I helped get the

PVA-NE website running. I represent

the Chapter as the Brockton VAVS Rep

for PVA-NE, the PVA-NE Peer Mentor

Rep, Community Outreach Director,

and the Brockton VA Hospital Liaison.

I have and continue to travel around

New England to find many opportuni-

ties for our members who cannot get


www.nepva.org6

Sports & Recreation

continued on page 14

which he did for the first time this year.

The competition in Watson’s class (III)

was the most difficult, not only with

swimmers from other teams. Mark

Sanders pushed Watson with swimming

silver medals in 75 I.M., 50 Free, and

50 Breastroke. He won a hard fought

gold in the 100 yd. Free. Mark topped

off his Games’ experience with a Silver

in the Slalom event.

Brett Smith returned for his 2nd year at

the Games, swimming to 4 gold in the

swimming events – 25 yd. Back, 25 yd.

Free, 25 yd. Butterfly and 75 yd. I.M..

The former Connecticut high school

swim star added the Butterfly and IM

this year. He also tried his hand at the

Field events and earned 3 bronze in the

Shotput, Discus and Javelin. Mary Lou

Corrigan proved that she could “go the

distance” in the 100 yd. Free and the

100 yd. Back earning 2 silver medals

and personal best times. She won 3

golds in Air Rifles, Stick Bowling and

Motorized Rally. Tim Kelly showed his

diverse talents by winning gold in the

Stick Bowling, 25 yd. Free, and in the

team sport of Quad Rugby. He earned a

silver in the 25 yd. Back.

Roland Filion’s multiple talents were on

display as he won 3 golds in 5K Hand-

cycling, Stick Bowling and Archery.

He scored a respectable 436 in the

very competitive Air Rifles event. Also

winning triple golds was Lawrence

Berry in the Ramp Bowling, Motorized

Rally and Motorized Slalom events.

Dan Shaul won 2 gold and 1 silver in

the Ramp Bowling with Hand Con-

trols, Nine Ball and Motorized Slalom,

respectively.

George Norton’s ageless talents were

on display in Table Tennis where he

won gold against his annual rival from

Puerto Rico. And even though he didn’t

make the gold medal rounds of play in

Basketball and Softball, his expertise

was shared and appreciated by his team

members and spectators alike.

continued from page 1Vet games

(Above left) Debra Freed goes for gold in Bowling; (Center column top): Mike Savicki earning 5 gold medals on the Track; (Center bottom) Michael Moran with his Viking helmet competes in Handcycling; (Right column top to bottom): Dan Shaul competes in Motorized Slalom; Larry Berry competes in Boccia; Mike Guilbault dancing at the Block Party; Roland Filion (right) goes for gold in Handcycling.(Photos by VA and PVA photographers; photo of Michael Moran by his dad)


www.nepva.org 7

Driving into Newport on Friday evening, my

wife and I had butterflies in our stomachs.

Neither of us had been sailing before, and

we really didn’t know what to expect. Would we

be out of our element? Asked to do things beyond

our physical ability? Maybe even get seasick? We

forgot our fears as we approached Newport.

The town was abuzz with the excitement of the

Newport Bermuda Race, a 635 mile ocean race

between sailors far more dauntless than we

newbies.

We got to our hotel, taking in the view of the bay,

a sea of sailboats at sunset, and thought about

the weekend ahead of us.

On Saturday morning we reported to the Sail to

Prevail dock in Fort Adams Park, on Narragansett

Bay. We joined the staff and a growing group of

participants, and made introductions while we fit-

ted ourselves with life jackets. A jovial camaraderie

built between the veterans, some who had sailed

before and others also on their first outing.

Boarding the boats was easier (and more digni-

fied) than I had expected. Sail to Prevail has a

Hoyer-type lift for those who request it, and boxes

with extending planks and hand rails for those

who prefer to transfer manually. Each boat has

two high-backed chairs with shoulder straps for

disabled sailors. One is located in the forward

cockpit to control the Jib and Main lines, the other

is located in the stern to control the rudder. This

sailor was happy for the shoulder straps every time

the boat heeled over; mostly because they kept

me out of the drink.

We were proud to see Speedy, the boat do-

nated by the Paralyzed Veterans of America,

New England Chapter (NEPVA) and to see our

favorite mascot rolling along on the waves in his

wheelchair. Sail to Prevail and the NEPVA have

had a good partnership for the last few years

that has benefited many veterans, and others in

the disabled community. There’s no doubt this

partnership will continue to grow.

Anticipation of this weekend had me nervous

and excited for months. It’s not often that I allow

myself to try something new and out of my com-

fort zone. I had known about disabled sailing for

years, but I couldn’t imagine how it would work,

and I certainly couldn’t picture myself controlling

a sailboat. I hadn’t known of any place that could

accommodate people with spinal cord injury, but

when I learned about Sail to Prevail and their free

Veteran’s Weekend, I made sure to sign up. As

the snow melted and the weather warmed, it

was great to have this event to look forward to,

anticipating trying something that I’ve wanted to

try for a long time.

Once we were out in the bay, the sailing was

perfect. The boats are set up thoughtfully to

ensure fun and success. The Sail to Prevail staff

was confident and knowledgeable about sailing

and disabilities. Our instructor, Abby, gave us the

training and guidance

we needed and sat

back without being

overbearing while we

controlled the boat.

There was a light

breeze on Saturday

and a stronger breeze

on Sunday. Both days

the sailing was peace-

ful and pleasant. The

Narragansett scenery was inspiring, especially

from the water.

The two-day event allowed me to try both posi-

tions in the boat. While controlling the sails or

holding the tiller, I felt alive and in the moment. In

a short time I learned to react and anticipate the

shifting winds, boat traffic, and the bay currents.

Saturday night Sail to Prevail hosted a banquet at

the La Forge Casino restaurant (before you ask,

there was no roulette table) where we got to

know the Sail to Prevail staff and fellow partici-

pants further over delicious seafood. After dinner,

one of the participants, who had a great voice

and an endless repertoire of classic hits joined the

piano player in the lounge, and got the whole

restaurant singing the Beatles’ “Here Comes the

Sun” in perfect time. It was the wonderful sort

of happening that seems to occur when you get

a group of veterans together over good food and

drink.

On Sunday afternoon Jessica and I headed home.

Jessica thoroughly enjoyed the weekend of sailing

and I was feeling confident that given the right

equipment and practice, I could master this skill as

well as anyone else.

Veteran’s Weekend at Sail to Prevail in Newport Rhode Island – June 18-19, 2016By Peter Moore and Jessica Wilson, Photo by Daniel Erwin


www.nepva.org8continued on page 9

Vets Day

to our local area events and make sure

they get posted on our website so all

members can be aware of opportunities

closer to their home locales. I organize

the ‘What’s it Like’ school visit program

and enjoy spending time educating the

elementary school children that I be-

lieve can then go help educate their par-

ents that being in a wheelchair does not

make us any different from them. We

just may have to do some things a little

differently. I also get great satisfaction

mentoring new injuries and working

with the VA Recreational staff to help

get our members involved in the many

excellent opportunities for recreation

as well as team sports. I was the Sports

Director who started the Air Rifle

shooting program at the VA hospitals

in order for our members to practice

weekly for the annual wheelchair games

event. I’ve written many Cord Word

articles detailing all the programs avail-

able to us and am always willing to hear

from you if there is something that you

think we could add.

I have gained much from those who

mentored me and got me involved in

activities when I was a new injury. I

would like to continue all I do and

would ask for your support to vote

for me as Vice President. I work well

with the hospital staff and would like

to make sure we continue to have

quality care and many opportunities

to get out and enjoy life through the

many recreation and sports programs

now available to our members. I have

a great relationship with the nursing,

rec therapy, and other staff at the West

Roxbury and Brockton VAMCs.

Please vote for me and I will continue

to do all I can to continue to improve

both quality of life and of healthcare at

our VA Medical Centers for our mem-

bers. Thank you.

Peter Moore: I grew up in Stur-

bridge, Mass, and my wife and I

currently live in Tyngsborough, Massa-

chusetts. From 1999 to 2002 I proudly

served aboard the fast-attack submarine

USS Olympia (SSN-717) as a Sonar

Man and ship’s Diver. The years aboard

that great ship were some of the most

challenging and rewarding of my life.

During my freshman year in college,

in the Fall of 2003, I was involved in

a motorcycle crash that left me a T-4

Asia-A paraplegic. As a patient at the

West Roxbury VA Medical Center at

West Roxbury I was introduced to the

NEPVA. I was challenged and mo-

tivated by fellow veterans. The Peer

Mentor program and the outstanding

NEPVA service officers ensured that all

of my and my family’s needs were met

during that difficult time. I have since

mentored several individuals myself,

and feel that peer mentoring is one of

our most important initiatives.

I returned to college and graduated

from Worcester Polytechnic Institute

with a Bachelor of Science degree in

Aerospace Engineering. I have been

employed as a Systems Engineer at Ray-

theon Company since 2010.

In the disabled community I see nu-

merous opportunities for service and

outreach. I believe activities such as

the NEPVA Bass Tour, winter sports

clinics, and the National Veteran’s

Wheelchair Games are important for

quality of life and camaraderie and

that individuals should be encouraged

and enabled to participate. I also feel

that there is huge value in research into

health and life issues.

Michael Moran: Hello all, My

name is Michael Moran. I was

born and raised in Massachusetts, and

currently reside in Londonderry NH.

I enlisted in the Air Force in March

of 1988 and was medically retired in

August of 2007, while stationed at

Minot AFB ND. I spent the majority

of my career in North Dakota serving

as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist for the

Minuteman III ICBM and Air Launch

Cruise Missile. I moved back to New

England three years ago from ND to be

closer to family and hospitals.

Upon moving back, I rediscovered the

outdoors and what it has to offer, it

truly changed my life. I thought that

chapter of my life was closed, but I was

wrong! The resources that are available

here are amazing. I’ve attended the last

two regional Winter Sports Clinics at

MT Sunapee NH, and the National

Winter Sports Clinic at Snowmass, CO

as well. I also had the opportunity to

attend this years Veterans Wheelchair

games in Salt Lake City, Utah. Which

where Awesome! I got to meet some

great people, and realize that the spirit

of competition never dies.

I’ve been a PVA member since Janu-

continued from page 5Resumes...



ary 2007 as well as a member of the

DAV for the past two years. I currently

volunteer at the West Roxbury, MA VA

wheelchair shop, fixing manual chairs

and catching on to the power chair side

of the house. I’m also involved in the

peer mentor program. I enjoy traveling

and spreading the word of the afore-

mentioned programs to those that may

not know that they are available to

them.

I look forward to being a part of the

New England Paralyzed Veterans of

America board.

Thank you in advance for your consid-

eration and your vote.

Michael E. Moran, TsGT, USAF (ret)

Michael Negrete: I’m a Life

Member of the PVA and have

been a Member of the NE Chapter

since 2008. I currently serve on the

Board of Directors, and previously as-

sisted the Chapter as a Chapter Vol-

unteer. I reside in Milford, NH with

my wife and caregiver Terry, who is

also a Volunteer for both the PVA and

NEPVA, and has also been an active

participant in other local charities. We

have a 20-year-old daughter Ashley, and

2 Jack Russell Terriers.

I respectfully accept the nominations

for Treasurer and Board of Directors.

As a U.S. Marine and Coast Guards-

man, I served during the Cold War

and Persian Gulf/Desert Storm (1985-

1996). My career in the Marines was in

the Infantry as an Assaultman (0351),

after which I transitioned to the Coast

Guard. I had a diverse career in the

Coast Guard, spanning Search and

Rescue, Maritime Law Enforcement,

Electronic Aids to Navigation, and

my last assignment as an Electronic

Warfare Technician aboard the Cutter

Campbell.

My spinal cord injury was caused by

a motorcycle accident in 2001, result-

ing in incomplete C5-6 Quadriplegia.

Shortly after my injury, as a resident

of New Hampshire, I helped co-found

the NH Chapter of the National Spinal

Cord Injury Association, which eventu-

ally became a resource of NH’s Granite

State Independent Living. I believe this

experience provided invaluable skills,

knowledge and insight into the running

of a non-profit.

Having an effective plan to allocate the

Chapter’s resources, as well as, find-

ing new ones, is critical to the ongoing

success of meeting the needs of our

Membership. Recent PVA mandates

require the Chapter to streamline our

efforts and leverage new technologies to

meet these needs. Although the Officers

and BOD all play a role in meeting

these needs, the professional Internet

experience I have to offer Chapter can

significantly help. As the current Chair

of the Internet Committee, I think it

prudent to enhance our current Internet

presence, including adding social media

feeds such as Facebook and Twitter, to

follow the lead of PVA and the New

England VA Healthcare System. In this

way the Chapter will be a more widely,

and timelier, available resource on the

Internet to a broader base of Veterans

throughout New England, particularly

the newly injured and those looking for

ways to volunteer or make donations.

I’ve also had the distinct privilege of

representing NEPVA at this year’s an-

nual Advocacy/Legislative Seminar in

Washington, D.C. Through this, I was

able to personally meet with the Sena-

tors and Congressman representing the

New England States to impress upon

them the unique needs and challenges

of Paralyzed Veterans, such as the

continuance of VA specialized SCI care,

expanded Care Giver support for Pre-

9/11 Veterans and increased SCI long

term care capacity. I see the great need

to continue this important work being

done by PVA/NEPVA, and would

genuinely appreciate the continued op-

portunity to participate in this area of

advocacy.

At the very heart though, of my reason

for wanting to continue serving the

NEPVA, stems from the Chapter’s

assistance helping me obtaining the

VA medical services I required for my

spinal cord injury. They were able to

connect me to the right people to cut

the “red tape” and expedite my benefits.

Serving the Chapter allows me the op-

portunity to give back to an organiza-

tion that’s truly making a difference in

people’s lives, for me and for Veterans

in need.

I’m grateful for the confidence in the

nominations I’ve received, and it would

be a great honor to continue serving

our organization as either Treasurer or a



www.nepva.org10


www.nepva.org 11

Member of the Board of Directors.

Thank you for your consideration, and I

would sincerely appreciate your vote.

Wayne Ross: I am running for

president of the New England

Chapter Paralyzed Veterans of America

and I welcome the opportunity to serve

our organization in this capacity. I have

served faithfully on the executive board

since 1999 and as president for the last

year. As president of our chapter I have

stepped up and attended more events

and represented our organization on nu-

merous occasions. I have conducted the

board of directors meetings and guided

chapter members through different

situations. I am the Veterans Adminis-

tration Voluntary Services representative

for the chapter. I care about veterans

and I care about the NEPVA.

Educated at Norwich University in

Northfield Vermont, the nation’s old-

est private military school, I was then

commissioned a second lieutenant and

served in the United States Air Force

from 1989-1992. I sustained a spinal

cord injury at age thirty while bicycling

from Prudhoe Bay Alaska to Cape

Horne Chile in an effort to raise funds

and awareness for people with multiple

sclerosis, leaving me a C6 quadriplegic.

I competed in my 19th National Veter-

ans Wheelchair Games last summer and

attended every New England Winter

Sports Clinic and every New England

Summer Sports Clinic.

Over the last 17 years I have enjoyed

helping others and improving the chap-

ter; please allow me the opportunity to

continue to serve as your president. I

promise to continue working hard for

the chapter and our members. Your vote

will make this possible.

I appreciate your vote. Thanks! Wayne.

Mark Sanders: I have been a

Life member of NEPVA for 30

years. Enlisted in the USMC in March

’81, I did boot camp training at Par-

ris Island, SC. I attended Aberdeen

Proving Grounds Ordinance School,

MD. My job classification was Ordi-

nance and Infantry Weapons Repair-

man. After school, duty station was the

Armory at MAG-26, MCAS (M), New

River Jax, NC. Before overseas duty I

attended courses at Nuclear, Biologi-

cal, Chemical Warfare School, Camp

Geiger, Jax, NC. I then participated

in a Multi-National Peace-Keeping

Force with the 24th MAU, 6th Fleet,

attached to HMM 264 Black Knights

Helicopter Squadron. I served duties

aboard the USS Guadalcanal (LPH)

and the Armories in Marine Corp

Barracks Compound and Airport at

Beirut, Lebanon in ’83. I was hit and

dragged by a truck August ’83 (T-8

Para) and retired (LCpL) receiving the

Marine Corp Expeditionary Medal,

Navy Unit Commendation, Sea Service

Deployment Ribbons and Honorable

Discharge for fighting Terrorism for my

country.

I always loved being a team player,

something I learned from the Marines.

Here are some of my favorite teams

I’ve played for: the NEPVA Celtics

Basketball and Rolling Red Sox Wheel-

chair Softball teams; participated in 5

National Veterans TEE Tournaments;

25 “New England Coasters” NVWG;

7 “Team Chowdah” National Disabled

WSC; 10 New England Wheelchair

Games; 20 New England Winter and

Summer Sports Clinics.

My best team is at home in Plymouth

(Manomet), MA with my wife Nancy

and son Gerald. I care about all veterans

and would like to continue to serve all

members in the capacity of Executive

Board member and would appreciate

your vote.

Charles Schena:

Board of Directors Member –

Treasurer – 2004 to Present

I, Charles Schena have accepted the

nominations for Treasurer and Execu-

tive Board. Please review my resume

below:

An active member on the chapter’s

Executive Board for over twenty years.

This afforded me the opportunity to

learn the organization and its member-

ship. I have had the opportunity to

learn from the following presidents:

Ray Patton, Earle Annis, Ken Medeiros,

Craig Cascella.

Education: University of Massachusetts

Boston: Masters Education


continued on page 12


www.nepva.org12

Accomplishments:

1) Was able to get improved access to

Causeway Outpatient Clinic with

installation of an elevator.

2) Prior to his death, President Larry

Callaghan and myself, with the aid

of the Massachusetts Office on Dis-

ability (MOD) were able to secure

an agreement with the new owners

of the then titled Boston Garden for

improved accessible seating

3) Attleboro, MA: With the assistance

of the Secretary of State’s Office,

forced the city to close all inacces-

sible polling places.

4) Currently working in the town of

Plymouth to have improved Beach

access and enforceable signage placed

on all Town owned parking areas.

5) Set up and organized a three day

conference in Marlboro MA on the

Americans with Disabilities Act.

Legislation: Worked with National

PVA on effort to get the Air Carriers

Access Act and the ADA passed at

the time.

Treasurer: To insure a balanced budget

and all fundraising activities are honest

and transparent. General donations

are the primary source supporting our

programs and services.

Jim Wallack: My name is Jim Wal-

lack, I’m a husband to Donna and

father to Jake, and I’d like your vote for

the Executive Board of the New Eng-

land Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans

of America.

I grew up in Lawrence Mass., joined the

Coast Guard after High School gradu-

ation in 1973, and sustained a Spinal

Cord injury while on active duty in

Brownsville, Texas in 1976. While in

college in California, I made numerous

cross country trips as I adapted to life in

a wheelchair. In 1984, after 3 months

of intense training, I became a National

Service Officer and manned the of-

fice in Hartford Ct. for 2 years before

moving to New Hampshire. I have been

involved with the chapter in fundrais-

ing, Rec. Day, and sports, namely

fishing, softball, bowling, skiing, and

the N.V.W.G.’s. Currently I am the Bass

Trail Liaison to the NEPVA.


Over the past year we have seen a drop

in donations due to the economy, but

we are making do with what we have

and are spreading the funds around as

equitably as possible so that our mem-

bership’s favorite programs continue.

Our programs are the envy of many

chapters and it is through the hard

work of our staff, members, and volun-

teers that they exist. And it is to them

that I say thank you.

If re-elected to the board, I will con-

tinue to look out for what is in the

best interest of our members and our

chapter. Feel free to contact me with

any information or suggestions about

how to make our chapter better and get

more members involved. Suggestions on

how to increase fund raising and where

the money would do the most good

would be greatly appreciated. Thank-

you, Jim.

READY, SET, FISHSubmitted by Lori Chase

WHAT: ANNUAL NEPVA BASS TOURNAMENT

WHEN: September 9-11th

WHERE: Camp Robindel, Moultonborough, NH

WHO: Any disabled angler, gear provided if needed & assistance in & out of the boats.

Families and companions welcome. Meals, lodging, awards banquet & entertainment included.

104.9 the Hawk Radio station will be providing a live broadcast. All

welcome to attend or stop by, weigh in will be between 2&3. This is a

family friendly event you don’t want to miss. We are in our 16th year and

most of our anglers and boaters continue to return annually. We hope to

see you. Pictures from last year’s event can be viewed on our FACE-

BOOK Page NEPVABASSTRAIL.

Please register online at NEPVA.org or by calling 1-508-660-1181


www.nepva.org 13

Connect With What Matters

Being there makes a di� erenceRecently the Ride-Away team joined forces with MobilityWorks so that we could provide our veterans with the largest selection of mobility solutions that best � t their physical capabilities and lifestyle. Veterans have unique needs so we treat each of them as individuals. First of all, we listen. Then, we work together � nd the best solution. Collectively, Ride-Away and MobilityWorks will continue to build on our mission to help veterans connect with who and what matters most.

MobilityWorks has more than 50 locations across the country with the largest selection of accessible vehicles and adaptive solutions:

• Minivans, full-size vans and trucks

• The latest in adaptive technology

• Complete maintenance and service

• Rental vans — veterans receive a 10% discount

MobilityWorks is committed to serving you. Contact us today so we can evaluate your needs and � nd a solution that best � ts your lifestyle.

Trucks

SUVs

Lifts and stowage products Electronic control systems

www.mobilityworks.com

USA’s largest accessible van dealer!

Gray 32 Lewiston Road, Unit 2BGray, ME 04039207-747-2064

Essex Junction5C David DriveEssex Junction, VT 05452802-222-0265

Londonderry54 Wentworth AvenueLondonderry, NH 03053603-210-4610

North Attleboro57 George Leven DriveNorth Attleboro MA 02760508-859-0940

Norwood333 Boston Providence TurnpikeNorwood, MA 02062 781-222-3622

East Hartford104 Pitkin StreeetEast Hartford, CT 06108860-215-4100


www.nepva.org14

continued from page 6Vet games

MobilityAdaptive

Equipment

VOTED #1IN CUSTOMER

SERVICE

LARGEST RAMPVANINVENTORY AT ONE

LOCATION IN SOUTHERNNEW ENGLAND!

Welcome To

Free Veterans Maintenance Program*

We work with the VA for you. New van upgrades every 2 years saving

you $25,000 on average and sometimes very little out of pocket.

-VETERAN SPECIALS--VETERAN SPECIALS--VETERAN SPECIALS-

www.amemobility.com1551 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA 02771

*Please call for details and qualifi cations

1-800-311-2849

If you can’t come to uswe’ll come to you

LIFETIMEWARRANTY(Call or visit us for

more information)

WheelsHelpingWarriors.org866.841.2023

DONATE YOUR VEHICLE TODAY.

Regardless of the condition, all vehicles have value and are sold at auction. Proceeds from the sale help provide jobs, care and benefits for severely injured veterans and their families. Scheduling a pickup is free and easy, and you may be eligible for a tax deduction, too! There’s no better way to give back to those who have given so much.

FUND A LIFETIME OF SUPPORT FOR SEvERELY INJURED vETERANS.

Marketing and advertising by The Jeffrey Carlton Charitable FoundationAd sponsored by Houston Community Newspapers

Schedule a free pickup.

Gary Jezierski won gold in Stick Bowl-

ing. Sam Penny won one gold and 2 sil-

ver in Motorized Rally, Ramp Bowling

with Hand Controls, and Nine Ball.

Larry King won gold in Ramp Bowling

and a bronze in Nine Ball.

Louis Liggiero once again had his an-

nual family reunion and cheerleaders

(wife, daughter and grandchildren)

along with participating in the Games

(how many years?). He earned silver in

the Motorized Rally and bronze in the

Ramp Bowling with Hand Controls.

Debra Freed, our esteemed NEPVA

Executive Director, won one gold in

Bowling and a silver in Air Pistols. She

should also get a medal for driving “the

truck” with all of the team equipment

and extra luggage across country, along

with Joy. Much thanks should be given

to Joanie Lynch and her Brockton staff

who made the Games possible for the

inpatients from Building 8.

VA Recreation Therapist Joanie Lynch poses with Larry Berry at the 36th National Veter-ans Wheelchair Games. (Photo: Debra Freed)


www.nepva.org 15

Enjoyboth hands on the wheel !

KEMPF is a NMEDA member.

Visit: www.kempf-usa.com to find videos and com-ments from users and to request a quotation.

Call Toll-free: 1-888-4-KEMPF-US (453-6738) for a free DVD and free brochure.

DARIOS is VA accepted.KEMPF features nationwide free at-home pick-up and delivery and at-home service.

Digital Accelerator Ringoptimized for speed

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAID

Leominster, MA

Permit No. 17

New England PVA1600 Providence Highway, Suite 143Walpole, MA 02081

tel: 508 660-1181 800 660-1181fax: 508 668-9412

Email: [email protected]

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:30pm

2016 Sports & Events

2016 NEPVA Bass TrailSeptember 9-11, Lake Winnipesaukee, Camp Robindel, NH

October 21-23, Pine Tree Camp, Rome, ME

Shooting Events Contact: [email protected]

9/3 Bellingham Shoot

9/23 Shawme Rod and Gun Club

arrive at 11 am

10/7 Bass River Rod and Gun Club

arrive at 11 am

Holiday Inn, Mansfield, MA

Cocktails: 5:45 p.m.; Dinner: 7:00 p.m.

Join Us for the Annual NEPVA Banquet

September 30th, 2016

36th National Veterans Wheelchair Games June 27-July 2, … · June 27-July 2, 2016 Aylward got...

Documents

Transcript of 36th National Veterans Wheelchair Games June 27-July 2, … · June 27-July 2, 2016 Aylward got...