Veteran Owned Business Directory Blog» Armed Forces http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog Blog for information and updates regarding VeteranOwnedBusiness.com Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:48:49 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3 SBA’s 2012 Operation Startup and Grow – Free Conference for Military Veteran Business Owners in New York http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2012-sba-operation-startup-grow/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2012-sba-operation-startup-grow/#comments Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:44:23 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=4102 Attention Veteran Owned  Business Members in Upstate New York:

2012 Operation: Start Up & GrowClick image above to view/download event flyer

Tuesday, March 13, 2012
8:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Gordon Student Center
Onondaga Community College
Syracuse, New York
View the flyer

Operation: Start Up & Grow is the premier veterans business conference in Upstate New York for veterans and members of the military community who want to start or expand their own small business. This FREE conference features speakers, workshops, networking, exhibitors and much more. More than 100 veterans with an idea for a business or already in business found valuable information and resources to take their business to the next level at last year’s conference. Please call 315-471-9393 for more information about this event

Do you want to start a business? Expand your existing business? Find all the resources in one location at this FREE conference for veteran entrepreneurs! Operation: Start Up & Grow is the premier veterans business conference in Upstate New York for our veterans and members of the military community who want to start or expand their own small business.

Conference highlights include keynote address from Brian Bluff, USN veteran and president of Site-Seeker, Inc. and emcee interview with Mary Warren, PE, USAF veteran and president of Black Horse Group General Contractors. The half-day event includes breakout workshops, dozens of exhibitors, networking sessions, awards ceremony and lunch.

REGISTRATION
Registration is now open!  Please contact SBA at 315-471-9393 ext. 233 or stephanie.ubowski@sba.gov to register for the event.

SPONSORS
The 2012 Operation: Start Up & Grow conference is sponsored by: Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities, Falcone Center for Entrepreneurship at Syracuse University, M&T Bank, New York Business Development Corporation, New York Veteran Business Outreach Center, Onondaga Community College, Small Business Development Center at Onondaga Community College, The Tech Garden, U.S. Small Business Administration, and WISE Women’s Business Center.

EXHIBITORS
Allgaier Law Firm, Clear Path for Veterans, Empire State Development, Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve, Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities, Excelsior College, Falcone Center for Entrepreneurship at Syracuse University, M&T Bank, New York Business Development Corporation, New York State Division of Veteran’s Center, New York State Office of General Services Procurement Services Group, New York Veteran Business Outreach Center, North Country Procurement Technical Assistance Center, Onondaga Community College Veterans Affairs Office, Onondaga County Veterans Services Agency, Onondaga Employee Leasing Services, Inc., PathStone Enterprise Center, Site-Seeker, Inc., Small Business Development Center at Onondaga Community College, Start-Up NY, Syracuse Veterans Center, Syracuse Literacy Zones, The Tech Garden, U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs Buffalo Medical Center, U.S. Small Business Administration, Visions Federal Credit Union, Watertown Veterans Center and WISE Women’s Business Center.
AGENDA

8:45-9:00 Registration-Networking

9:00-9:05 Opening Remarks

9:05-9:15 SBA Initiatives for Veteran Small Businesses

9:15-10:00 Keynote Address from USN veteran Brian Bluff, president of Site-Seeker, Inc.

10:00-10:30 Networking with Exhibitors

10:30-11:15 Workshops

- Social Media-Bootstrap Marketing
- Where’s the Money?
- Doing Business With Uncle Sam

11:15-12:00 Workshops

- Marketing-Tools to Increase Market Share
- A Look at a Successful Veteran Loan
- The VA as Your Customer

12:00 Lunch

12:20 Awards Presentation: Veteran-Owned Business Achievement Award and Patriot Lender of the Year Award

12:30-1:00 Emcee Interview with USAF veteran Mary Warren, PE, president of Black Horse Group General Contractors

1:00 Conclusion

Cosponsorship # 12-0248-05

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

If your business is (or you know of another business) owned by a veteran (VOB), active duty military, reservist or service disabled  veteran (SDVOSB) of the United States, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard or National Guard, please be sure to visit the VeteranOwnedBusiness.com sign up page to get your free listing.

The objective of our FREE Veteran Owned Business Directory is to continue to offer a growing list of products and services that are unique in the fact that they are all owned by, sold by and/or serviced by past and present military members.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2012-sba-operation-startup-grow/feed/ 0 Attn SDVOSBs: November/December 2011 Issue of VetLikeMe Newsletter is now available for viewing http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/sdvosb-novdec-2011-vetlikeme/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/sdvosb-novdec-2011-vetlikeme/#comments Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:27:43 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3968 Attention Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses:

The November-December 2011 VetLikeMe SDVOSB Newsletter (Volume 2, No. 6) is now available for viewing.

In this issue: Aldevra GAO Decision — Moot but Not Mute – My name is Rodney Marshall, owner of Aldevra. Many people have followed our case over the last several months. It started by protesting the Department of Veterans Affairs‘ (VA) solicitations to use the fed-eral supply schedule (FSS) without first considering service disabled veteran owned small businesses (SDVOSBs). The Government Accountability Office (GAO) sustained our protest (meaning they agreed the VA should consider SDVOSBs before FSS) and recom-mended that the VA cancel the solicitations and re-solicit as SDVOSB set aside if there were two or more qualified SDVOSBs. The VA initially refused to comply with GAO‘s recommendation and, most recently, cancelled the solicitations so it becomes a moot issue.… click here to view entire issue.

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VetLikeMe (VLM) is a publication focused entirely on service-disabled veteran owned business.  We feature National news that affects our community, interviews with federal government officials and agencies, legislative activities at the State level and editorial opinion.

Launched in October 2009, VLM is published by BluePoint Productions, a non-profit business certified and verified by the  Veterans Administration as a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business.

Hardy R. Stone, the sole proprietor of BluePoint Productions, is a 100% service-connected disabled veteran (SDVOSB).

The following newsletters require Adobe Acrobat Reader, a free download from adobe.com.

Current VetLikeMe Issue:

November – December 2011 VetLikeMe

Archived VetLikeMe Issues:

September – October 2011 VetLikeMe

July – August 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

May – June 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

March – April 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

January – February 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

November – December 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

July – August 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

May – June 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

March – April 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

January – February 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

If your business is (or you know of another business) owned by a veteran (VOB), active duty military, reservist or service disabled  veteran (SDVOSB) of the United States, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard or National Guard, please be sure to visit the VeteranOwnedBusiness.com sign up page to get your free listing.

The objective of our FREE Veteran Owned Business Directory is to continue to offer a growing list of products and services that are unique in the fact that they are all owned by, sold by and/or serviced by past and present military members.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/sdvosb-novdec-2011-vetlikeme/feed/ 0 2011 Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies for Active Duty Military, Veterans and Military Families http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2011-veterans-day-discounts-freebies/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2011-veterans-day-discounts-freebies/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:14:13 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3738 Attention Veteran Owned Business Members and Visitors:


Many wonderful organizations have put together special “thank you” offerings for veterans and active duty military members (in some cases their respective families as well). Do you know of a special offer we are missing?  Email us details and we will be sure to add it or call us toll free at: (877) 862-5478 (extension #1).

Here is a growing list of what some of these companies are offering for Veterans Day 2011 (and beyond):

Updated 11/10/2011 (3:00pm EST):

Spinning Fork Italian Restaurant
Fairfield Ohio
20% off for Veterans and their families this 11/11/2011. Not to be used with any other offer or promotion. Alcohol Beverages Excluded.

UFood Grill
Boston Area
UFood Grill in Boston at Downtown Crossing, 530 Washington St, Landmark Center, 201 Brookline Ave and 222 Arsenal St in Watertown will be feeding all past and present military personnel free tomorrow for Veteran’s Day (11/11/11). Military guests will just need to provide ID. This is their 3rd year providing this service. UFood Grill’s CEO and COO are very proud to be veterans.

Charlie and Jake’s
West Melbourne Florida Location: “50% off for military members on Veteran’s Day”.
All other locations: “10% off and a free alcoholic beverage”.

Papaya King Hollywood
Hollywood, California
Veterans and Active Duty Military receive one of their renowned hot dogs, for free, all day on Veteran’s Day.  In addition, for 11.11.11 (also Veteran’s Day), we’re offering everyone $0.11 fries with the purchase of any hot dog.

Bar Louie America
Nationwide
Offering one free lunch or dinner on Veterans Day.

Southwest Moe’s
Nationwide
10% off for veterans

 

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2011 Nationwide Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies
Restaurants

Applebee’s
Applebee’s is again offering a free meal to military veterans and active-duty service members on Veteran’s Day, Friday, Nov. 11, 2011. There will be 7 entrées to choose from. Military ID or proof of service required.

Champps Americana
We’re celebrating our Veterans with an All American Meal! All Veterans and Active Military will receive a free burger on November 11th! Proof of service required. Offer not valid for the Pepperjack Bacon Stack Burger or Kobe Burger. Dine in only, valid at participating locations.

Chili’s
Visit Chili’s on Friday, November 11, 2011, to get your Veteran’s Day free meal if you are a veteran or on active military duty. You’ll get to choose between 7 great entrees at participating restaurants.

Denny’s
Denny’s Veterans Day Appreciation Event, Nov. 11. 2011. Free Grand Slam breakfast to any veteran from 6:00am – 10:00pm. Only valid in Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo NY areas.

Duffy’s Sports Grill
Duffy’s is donating 5% of all sales on Veterans Day 2011 to Honor Flight of South Florida.

Famous Dave’s
On November 11th, in honor of Veterans Day, Famous Dave’s would like to thank all former and current military personnel for their dedication and commitment to our country. Discounts vary in each of the 150 United States Locations.

Golden Corral
For the 11th year in a row, Golden Corral Restaurants will offer their Military Appreciation Monday dinner. The event is scheduled this year from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 14. All personnel are welcome, including retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard and Reserves.

Hooters
On November 11th, in honor of Veterans day Hooters is offering a free meal to veterans and active military. The free meal is 10 free wings boneless or traditional. (Drink Purchase Required).

Hy-Vee
Free breakfast buffet – Nov. 11
Applies to: Active military and veterans
Available at participating Hy-Vee grocery store with in-store dining.

Krispy Kreme
Free doughnut – Nov. 11
Applies to: Active duty and veterans
Available only at participating Krispy Kreme stores.

McCormick and Schmicks
On Sunday, November 13th Mccormick and Schmicks pay tribute to our veterans with a complimentary entree from a special menu. Space is limited. Reservations are highly recommended.

Olive Garden
On Friday, November 11th, all veterans and active duty military are invited to enjoy a FREE entree during regular business hours.  ID required.  Go here to see menu options and for more details.

Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse – A week of Free Bloomin’ Onions and Coca Cola from Monday Nov. 7 – Friday Nov. 11.

Shoney’s
Bring a veteran or active duty military to Shoney’s on Friday, November 11th from 6AM to 2PM receive a FREE BUFFET with the purchase of a regularly-priced buffet!

Spaghetti Warehouse
11-cents meal with coupon – Nov. 11
Applies to: Everyone
Print the coupon here and get a serving of lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, or any original recipe spaghetti entree for just 11 cents.

Subway
Select SUBWAY® Restaurants will offer a FREE six inch sub or flatbread to military veterans on Veteran’s Day. This offer is valid only on November 11, 2011 at participating local SUBWAY® restaurants.

Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse will be giving away Veteran’s Day free meals on Friday, November 11, 2011 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

T.G.I Fridays
On Friday, November 11 2011, Veterans can take advantage of a Buy One, Get One Free deal on entrees. This offer is not valid with any other offer, must present acceptable ID, and valid only at participating locations.

Tijuana Flats
50% off military and active duty on Friday (11/11/2011), 10% off year round.

Tim Hortons
Free donut – Nov. 11
Applies to: Veterans

Twin Peaks Restaurants
Free entrée, up to $10 – Nov. 11
Applies to: Active duty and veterans
Dine-in only and a tip is not included.

Uno Chicago Grill
Show up on Veterans Day in uniform, with a photo of yourself in uniform or with a military or veteran’s I.D. and receive a 19.43% discount on their food and non-alcoholic beverage beverages purchases.

Restaurants.com
Get $25 Restaurant Gift Certificates for only $10; $100 eGift card for only $10.99.

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2011 Nationwide Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies
Entertainment

Anheuser-Busch Parks
(SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, Adventure Island, Water Country USA)
Single Day Complimentary Admission.

Battley Harley-Davidson – Veterans Day Ride to Arlington National Cemetery
Gaithersburg, Maryland
All Riders Welcome. Join us for ride to Arlington National Cemetery as we pay tribute to Veterans past and present.
Meet 7:45am Kickstands up 8:30am SHARP.

Battleship Cove
Fall River, Massachusetts
The world’s largest naval-ship museum, located in Fall River, Mass offers free admission and a special ceremony for veterans, active duty and reservists on Veterans Day.

Brevard Zoo
Melbourne Florida
Free admission to all active and retired military from November 11 to 13.

Boston Duck Tours
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston Duck Tours will also offer all spouses and children of any present or past military personnel a special $10.00 per person ticket.

Colonial Williamsburg
Williamsburg, Virginia
Free admission – Nov 11 to 13
Applies to: Active-duty, retirees, veterans, Reserves and their immediate dependents
Tickets are only available on-site.

FCW (Florida Championship Wrestling)
Florida
Offering free admission to  both Florida wrestling shows on November 11 and 12.

Historic Jamestowne
Jamestowne, Virginia
The National Park Service commemorates Veterans Day with Fee Free days at Historic Jamestowne November 11-13.

Knott’s Berry Farm/ Knott’s Soak City
Buena Park, California
Free park admission to U.S. armed forces personnel and a guest during Veteran’s Month, November 1-26.

Navy Memorial
Washington, D.C.
Free admission to any veteran or member of the armed forces.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Offers free admission to veterans and five guests from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Veterans Day.

National Parks, Forests and Monuments
Nationwide
Admission is free to everyone on Veterans Day.

Natural Elements Salon & Spa
Chesapeake, Virginia
Providing free services from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to both active duty and retired military.

The North Carolina Aquarium
Free admission to everyone on Thursday, November 11.

Pro Football Hall of Fame
Canton, Ohio
Any veteran or member of the armed forces and their spouse or a guest will be admitted free of charge to the Hall of Fame for a day-long recognition of  US Military veterans.

Reds Hall of Fame & Museum
Cincinnati, Ohio
In honor of Veterans Day, the Reds Hall of Fame & Museum is pleased to offer all veterans and active military members (with valid I.D.) complimentary general admission from Tuesday, Nov. 8 though Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011.

San Jacinto Monument and Museum
La Porte, Texas
Free admission – Nov. 7 to 13
Applies to: Veterans and their families
Free admission to the theatre, Observation Floor and, on Nov.12-13. the special exhibit.

Universal Studios Hollywood
Hollywood, California
Discount options for tour and attraction tickets to all armed-forces members all year long, including Veterans Day.

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2011 Nationwide Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies
Stores

7-Eleven
Free small Slurpee – 11.m. to 7 p.m., Nov. 11
Applies to: Active military and veterans

Amazon.com
Free Veterans Day Honor MP3 album download. Album includes 12 songs by bands and ensembles of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Big Lots
10% off your entire purchase with valid military ID.

Brides Across America
Provides free wedding gowns to qualified military brides.

Build-A-Bear
Members of the armed services including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Reserve Officer Training Corps, will receive a 20% discount November 11th-15th on any one transaction at Build-A-Bear Workshop.

Cabela’s Outdoor Store
Employee discount of 5% to 50% – Nov. 11 to12
Applies to: Veterans, active-duty military and reserves, law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel.

Dollar General
From  November 11, 2011 till November 13, 2011 11, all veterans, active duty military, National Guard, Reserve, and their immediate families will receive a 10-percent discount.

Fashion Bug
Get 20% off all plus-size and misses clothing purchases with a copy of military ID or spouse’s military ID.  Contact your local store for more details.

Foot Locker
Veterans, Service members (Active, Guard, and Reserve), and their immediate families with a Foot Locker Veterans Advantage Card receive a 20% discount every day of the year. That offer is good both online and at any store location, including Foot Locker, Lady Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Footaction and Champs Sports, even on sale items.

Jos. A. Bank
Veterans Day Sale- 1 Day Only! All Suits On Sale- 2nd for $47 Mix ‘n Match. 40% Off All Dress Shirts, Sportshirts, Ties & Sportswear. Free Shipping on Orders $195+. Valid: November 11.

Lowe’s
All veterans receive the 10-percent discount on Veteran’s Day, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. The discount is available on in-stock and special-order purchases of up to $5,000.

Home Depot
Offers a 10-percent discount (up to a $500 maximum) to all active military, reserve, retired or disabled veterans and their family members with a valid military ID.

K-Mart
Exclusive Early Veterans Day Sale – Nov. 10th! EXTRA 5-10% off Almost Everything.

Macy’s
15% off – through Nov. 13
Applies to: Everyone

Sears
5% to 15% off almost everything – through Nov. 10
Applies to: Everyone
Applies only to sales through Sears.com.

Sport Clips
Discounts on haircuts -  Nov. 11
Applies to: Active duty and veterans

Surdyke Harley Davison
Fetus, Missouri
10% of sales (MotorClothes, P&A, & Service) from Nov. 11 – 12 will be donated to Camp Hope–an outdoor recreational camp for wounded soldiers.

Sams Club
In honor of Veterans Day, Sam’s Club® locations nationwide will distribute 36,000 Hugo® canes free of charge on November 9th, 11th and 12th, 2011 to U.S. military veterans in need of mobility assistance.

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2011 Nationwide Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies
Accommodations

Red Roof Inn
Offering 15% off all stays for veterans for the month of November.

Bed & Breakfast for Vets
B&Bs throughout North America will open their doors to active and retired military and vets and one guest by offering a free room to those who’ve served in the military on Thursday, November 10, 2011.

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2011 Nationwide Veterans Day Discounts and Freebies
Miscellaneous

Free Car Wash (various locations around the United States)
Grace For Vets is a united front of car wash operators that provide a FREE CAR WASH to veterans & service personnel each year on November 11 to honor their past & present service to their country.

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Many offers come with disclaimers. Please be sure to contact each company directly with any questions/concerns.

Do you know of a special offer we are missing?  Email us details and we will be sure to add it or call us toll free at: (877) 862-5478 (extension #1).

This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2011-veterans-day-discounts-freebies/feed/ 0 Today we say “Happy 236th Birthday to the United States Marine Corps!” http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2011-birthday-marine-corps-usmc/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2011-birthday-marine-corps-usmc/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:59:47 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3823

Today we say “Happy 236th birthday to the United States Marine Corps!”

Search Only “USMC” Veteran Owned Businesses

A special “thank you” today also for our brothers and sisters who have and continue to serve in the USMC. Thank you for your service!

Please be sure to “Follow VOB” on Twitter and “Like VOB” on Facebook for news, updates, events, bids and more.

From one veteran to another… thank you for your service to our country!

Brian K. St.Ours, Founder
Veteran Owned Business
2420 Minton Road
Melbourne, FL 32904
(877) 862-5478
Follow VOB | Like VOB

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/2011-birthday-marine-corps-usmc/feed/ 0 Wish Upon A Hero Foundation Ready to Distribute More Than $500,000 to Active Duty and Veteran Families In Need http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/wish-upon-a-hero-foundation/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/wish-upon-a-hero-foundation/#comments Wed, 09 Nov 2011 22:24:01 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3810 Attention Veteran Owned Business Members and Visitors:

WISH UPON A HERO FOUNDATION READY TO DISTRIBUTE MORE THAN $500,000 TO ACTIVE DUTY AND VETERAN FAMILIES IN NEED

Broadcast PSA Available to Encourage Military Families to Post a ‘Wish’ For Help

Moorestown, NJ (November 9, 2011) –With the veterans unemployment rate at an all-time high of 12.4%, the Wish Upon a Hero Foundation (www.wishuponaherofoundation.org, WUAHF) is launching a national campaign on Veterans Day to give away more than $500,000 to assist active duty and veteran families in need.    Public service announcements on TV stations nationwide (http://screen.2mg.com/movies/WUAH/PSA_PostWishesR.2.wmv) will encourage families to post wishes on Wish Upon a Hero (www.wishuponahero.com), the online giving platform where anyone can post a wish and anyone can grant a wish.

WUAHF’s recent Hike For Our Heroes campaign, led by Iraq War veteran Troy Yocum, raised more than $500,000 via Yocum’s 18-month, 7,800-mile journey across America.  Through the generosity of thousands of Americans, with support from Modell’s Sporting Goods and other retailers across the country, WUAHF is ready to grant wishes to ease the burden for military families who need assistance with medical, educational and everyday living expenses.

“This is such a critical time in our country.  With more troops returning from Iraq and discouraging employment prospects, we need to rally behind these brave men and women in every way possible,” says Wish Upon a Hero Founder Dave Girgenti.

WUAHF was recently selected by Chase Community Giving as one of five charities to be honored at Chase’s American Giving Awards in December.

The Wish Upon a Hero Foundation is a non-profit organization that grants the wishes of those in need.  In 2011, WUAHF partnered with Hike for Our Heroes to raise funds and awareness and grant the wishes of military families in need.   The Foundation and Wish Upon a Hero.com were founded by Girgenti following the catastrophic events of September 11th and Hurricane Katrina. Communities and individuals helped each other during those difficult times.  Girgenti created a platform where anyone can post a wish, and everyone can be a hero.  For more information, go to www.wishuponaherofoundation.org.

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

If your business is (or you know of another business) owned by a veteran (VOB), active duty military, reservist or service disabled  veteran (SDVOSB) of the United States, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard or National Guard, please be sure to visit the VeteranOwnedBusiness.com sign up page to get your free listing.

The objective of our FREE Veteran Owned Business Directory is to continue to offer a growing list of products and services that are unique in the fact that they are all owned by, sold by and/or serviced by past and present military members.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/wish-upon-a-hero-foundation/feed/ 0 NFL recognizes Veterans Day and honors military with ‘Salute to Service’ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/nfl-recognizes-veterans-day/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/nfl-recognizes-veterans-day/#comments Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:10:04 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3733

Attention Veteran Owned Business Members:

NFL, USAA launch inaugural ‘Salute to Service Award’

2011 NFL-Tillman Military Scholar announced

The National Football League will continue its long history of honoring veterans and active duty members of the military with its new annual “Salute to Service” campaign that will occur each November.

The “Salute to Service” campaign is designed to unify and elevate the extensive military appreciation work of the NFL and its clubs.  Throughout November, teams will designate home games as special military appreciation games.  During these games, teams will display “Salute to Service” banners on their sidelines, in addition to hosting ceremonies to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s troops.

In addition, the NFL and USAA are launching the inaugural “Salute to Service” Award which will recognize NFL team representatives who demonstrate an exemplary commitment to honoring and supporting the military community. USAA, a leading provider of insurance and other services to members of the U.S. military and their families, is the NFL’s first Official Military Appreciation Sponsor.

The “Salute to Service” campaign aligns with the NFL’s long history of supporting America’s armed services, including a partnership of more than 45 years with the USO that includes overseas visits to troops and trips to military hospitals nationwide.

The NFL also works closely with the Wounded Warrior Project, a non-profit organization that honors and empowers wounded warriors.  This past offseason, former NFL players and coaches climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro alongside four wounded warriors as part of the Wounded Warrior Project’s “Believe in Heroes” initiative.

In 2010, the NFL and Pat Tillman Foundation established the NFL-Tillman Military Scholar award to annually honor an individual who exemplifies Pat’s enduring legacy of service. The scholarship is part of the Tillman Military Scholars program established by the Pat Tillman Foundation to support educational opportunities for veterans and active service members and their spouses.  The Tillman Military Scholars program covers direct study-related expenses such as tuition and books, as well as other basic needs such as housing and childcare.

Navy Petty Officer Third Class D’ONIOR FELTON of Clarksdale, Miss., has been selected as the 2011 NFL-Tillman Military Scholar. She will be recognized in December at a Washington Redskins game. Felton, who is currently a medical student at George Washington University, earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Maryland while serving on active duty.

USAA will work with several teams during Veterans Day weekend to honor the men and women who have served and are serving in the U.S. military.  Kicking off at the Chargers-Raiders game in San Diego on November 10 and closing with Monday Night Football in Green Bay on November 14, NFL fans at these games will participate in an in-stadium card stunt to thank our nation’s military for their service. All fans will be able to visit www.usaa.com/nfl to download photos to share with and thank veterans and military members.

Additional “Salute to Service” moments will include recognition of all military personnel in attendance and on-field ceremonies honoring service men and women.

The NFL continues to offer its Game Pass HD service free of charge at USO Centers for military members stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Germany, Italy, Korea and Japan.  At the USO facility in each of these locations, service members can watch every NFL game live and online in its entirety.  Game Pass HD service also is offered free of charge at US Embassies.

The NFL’s work with the military extends to the area of health and safety.  Members of the NFL Head, Neck and Spine Committee are collaborating with Department of Defense physicians on medical research and helmet technologies aimed at protecting both athletes and service members from head injury.

In addition, during their Military Appreciation games, the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers will collaborate with LucasFilm to honor the 70th anniversary of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, a select and heroic group of African-American fighter pilots during World War II. The Tuskegee Airmen are the subject of an upcoming LucasFilm’s production, “Red Tails.”

Fans can find out more about the NFL’s commitment to the military and veterans by visiting the www.nfl.com/salute.

Teams will honor veterans and the armed services with the following pregame and in-stadium initiatives:

Arizona Cardinals — As part of their Veterans Day recognition on November 6, the Cardinals will host 140 military volunteers, representing all service branches, and unfurl a field-sized America flag for the National Anthem, which will be performed by Navy Petty Officer Steve Powell. In addition, the Colors will be presented by the Luke Air Force Base Honor Guard. At halftime, the 36th Army Band from Fort Huachuca will perform a patriotic medley while Cardinals Cheerleaders and military personnel pay tribute to veterans.

Atlanta Falcons — The Falcons will honor the military at their November 13 game. The National Anthem will be performed by an active duty National Guardsman as 85 other Guardsmen hold a large American flag. Members of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America will deploy the Falcons Flag during player introductions. A joint Color Guard will be on hand. The halftime show will pay tribute to World War II veterans.

Baltimore Ravens — The Ravens hosted their military appreciation game on October 30. The game included a flyover by the MD National Guard (A-10s), a serviceman presenting a flag to the team that was flown over his base in Afghanistan, and a live feed to MD National Guard troops in Afghanistan before kickoff. The Ravens invited the family members of those service members to watch the test taping on October 28 The team also had 40 members of the Maryland National Guard on-field for pregame ceremonies. On November 8, several Ravens players will visit the Loch Raven Veteran Affairs Community Living and Rehabilitation Center in Baltimore to host a karaoke party for local veterans.

Buffalo Bills – The Bills will honor former members of the military as well as current members from all five branches on November 6. They will unfurl a large American flag on the field.  During pregame activities, the National Guard will conduct an enlistment ceremony. “God Bless America” will be sung by CAITLYN KOCH of “The X-Factor” and there will be a flyover after the National Anthem.

Carolina Panthers — On October 30, the Panthers hosted an Oath of Enlistment ceremony with a live hook-up to troops in Afghanistan. It will be led by General DAVID M. RODRIGUEZ, commander of U.S. Army Forces Command. The team also hosted Pro vs. GI Joe Purpose Driven Rehab trailer with four Wounded Warriors. On November 13, the Anthem and halftime show will be performed by the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Chorus while a large American flag is unfurled. Operation Gameday program will recognize service members who will lead the team out of the tunnel and also take part in the coin toss.  There will be a Color Guard and flyover at both games.  The Panthers will also donate hundreds of tickets to the military for both games.

Chicago Bears — The Bears will honor the military on November 13. Military personnel will lead the team out of the tunnel, and a member of the Armed Forces will serve as the Honorary Captain. A Marine will sing the National Anthem as a large American flag is held by 100 members of the different branches of the military. There will be a flyover at the end of the Anthem, and a reenlistment and Purple Heart ceremony at halftime.

Cincinnati Bengals — The Bengals will hold their military appreciation game on November 13. The Ohio Air National Guard will deliver the team mascot, Who Dey, to the game in a HumVee. Master Sergeant Doug Reed and Sergeant First Class Ty Henery will deliver the coin for the coin toss. National Guard members will hold a large American flag during the National Anthem. A local unit will be honored at halftime.

Cleveland Browns — Browns players will spend time at a local USO headquarters on November 8, visiting with military representatives and families. The team will honor the military at their game on November 13. Pregame activities will include a special presentation of an American Flag shaped like the United States held by 100 Ohio National Guard members. Star flags representing each branch of the Armed Forces will frame the flag as the National Anthem is performed by Army Veteran Specialist Chanel Curry. As the Browns are introduced from the home team tunnel, local Marines will form a gauntlet. During halftime, a special recognition will take place to recognize Ohio National Guard soldiers. The USO will also be on-site to pass out literature.

Dallas Cowboys — The Cowboys will honor military and veterans on November 13. Recognition elements include recording artist Neal McCoy performing with the 77th Army Band; 250 soldiers presenting a field flag; recognition of the 70th Anniversary of the Tuskegee Airmen; a USAA halftime card stunt and pregame tailgate reception; and three active soldiers receiving new homes. Medal of Honor recipient LeRoy Petry will join players on field as the Honorary Captain after the coin is delivered to referees by the U.S. Navy Seals.

Denver Broncos — The Broncos will hold their “Military Salute” on November 17. All military attending the game (with their own tickets) will receive free admission in the Broncos Barn Tailgate Tent. Military members will help hold a large American flag during the National Anthem. Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient Salvatore Guinta has been invited to the game for on-field recognition.

Detroit Lions — The Lions will honor the military on November 20. A group of veterans will stand with a Color Guard for the National Anthem. At halftime, approximately 100 individuals will take part in an Air Force swearing-in ceremony on-field. Near the end of the first quarter, all veterans and active military personnel will be asked to stand so they can be recognized for their service. Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America will have a presence in the stadium.

Green Bay Packers — The Packers’ Military Appreciation Game is November 14. The team will have a card stunt during the National Anthem. A Navy flyover is scheduled. At halftime, the Packers will honor each branch of the military by playing their hymns and displaying their flags on the field. Following the fight songs, the Army Band will play “God Bless America,” and a small fireworks display will conclude the ceremony.

Houston Texans — The Texans will hold a Military Field Day for groups including the USO and the Wounded Warrior Project on October 31. They will also host a BBQ at Reliant Stadium for military groups on November 3. The team’s military appreciation game is November 6. Before the game, a large Texas flag and U.S.-shaped American flag will be held on-field by OEF and OIF veterans. Golden Knights will parachute in to the stadium and “Challenger,” a bald eagle, will be released during the National Anthem. The Honorary Captain will be President George H. W. Bush. There will be a USMC Silent Drill Platoon performance at halftime, as well as a mascot rappel with one member from each service branch rappelling with him.

Indianapolis Colts — On November 8, the Indianapolis Colts will work with local students to decorate 200 Colts footballs with encouraging messages and place them in care packages. These care packages will then be delivered by players and students to veterans at the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis. In addition, the team will honor veterans from all branches of the military through a pregame full-field American flag presentation and halftime tribute at their November 13 game.

Jacksonville Jaguars — The Jaguars will host their military appreciation game on November 27. Prior to the game, the team will recognize a group of veterans on field followed by “God Bless America” performed by the Navy Band Southeast. The National Anthem will be performed by an active duty sailor and the flyover will be conducted by two F-22 Raptors from Tyndall Air Force Base. At halftime, a large induction ceremony involving more than 200 recruits from all branches will take place with the Oath being conducted by a high ranking military officer.  Following the induction ceremony, country music duo Tim Rushlow and Doni Harris will perform “Bagpipes Cryin’.”

Kansas City Chiefs — The Chiefs will host their annual military appreciation game on November 6. Armed Forces representatives, designated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, will participate in the pre-game first pass and coin toss. In addition, uniformed members of the Kansas National Guard, Navy, Coast Guard and Marines will hold a large American Flag on the field during the National Anthem. The Colors will be presented by the Kansas Army National Guard and United States Air Force Technical Staff Sergeant Jennifer Sherman will perform the Anthem. Two T-38 jets from Whiteman Air Force Base will be part of a flyover. On November 8, General Manager Scott Pioli and the Chiefs defensive backs, as well as VFW representatives, will visit Whiteman AFB.

Miami Dolphins — On November 7, a military group will join Dolphins players, alumni and cheerleaders for the annual Kids and Fins Publix Shopping Spree. The program offers 100 underprivileged kids the opportunity to shop alongside a celebrity. The Dolphins will honor the military on November 13. The National Anthem will be performed by the Parris Island Marine Band while sailors hold a large American flag. A flyover will occur. There will be military vehicles on display in the AT&T Grand Plaza. There will also be a ‘Cell Phones for Soldiers’ collection. The stadium will host a military job fair on November 10.

Minnesota Vikings – On November 8, several Vikings players will visit a VA Medical Center, while a number of alumni players will go to the Minnesota Veterans Home to play bingo. The Vikings’ military appreciation game will be on November 20. The Vikings will honor Purple Heart recipients during pregame; a large American flag will be unfurled at halftime and a military band will perform.

New England Patriots — The Patriots will celebrate Veterans Day at their November 6 game. Veterans will be recognized on-field prior to the National Anthem while active duty soldiers from each branch of the military and Coast Guard hold three separate American flags on the 30, 50 and 30 yard lines. The Color Guard ceremony will be performed by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1822. The National Anthem will be sung by members of the United States Coast Guard Academy Glee Club, followed by a flyover by the 104th Wing of the Air Force. There will be a moment of silence for Steven Gutowski, a fallen soldier from Plymouth, Massachusetts. Gutowski was a former Patriots game day employee.

New Orleans Saints — The Saints will hold their military appreciation game on December 4. Local Marines will be honored during an on-field “Heroes” presentation and Joint Color Guards will present the Colors prior to kickoff. Local hometown heroes will receive complimentary tickets to the game. Soldiers from the Louisiana National Guard will be the giveaway crew volunteers and will receive tickets to the game as well.

New York Giants –On November 11, Giants Alumni will march with members of the Wounded Warrior Project in the Veterans Day Parade. The Giants will honor veterans on November 20. A 100-yard flag will be unfurled on the field with the assistance of 150 servicemen and women—25 Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Wounded Warriors respectively. The National Anthem will be performed by one of the branches of the Armed Forces and the Colors will be presented by the Joint Color Guard. There will be a special military presentation at halftime that will include representation from service members from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan.

New York Jets — The Jets will host their military appreciation game on November 13. The Coast Guard Choir will perform before player introductions. Tuskegee Airmen will serve as Honorary Captains. Twenty members from each branch of the military will unfurl an American flag on-field as the National Anthem is performed. The West Point Band will perform at halftime.

Oakland Raiders — Raiders players visited the Palo Alto VA Health Care System’s Spinal Cord Injury and Poly Trauma Units on November 1. Players interacted with active and veteran members of the Armed Forces who have suffered spinal cord, poly trauma and amputee injuries.  The Raiders will honor Bay Area service men and women throughout the game on November 6, including a special halftime presentation.

Philadelphia Eagles — The Eagles will honor the military on November 7. A representative from each branch of the military will lead the team out onto the field during player introductions while running with their branch’s flag. A field-size American flag will be unfurled during the National Anthem, which will be performed by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Generald Wilson. The Eagles will be presenting a game-ball to the family of fallen Navy SEAL, Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Strange.  The Eagles and ESPN will host a Monday Night Football Chalk Talk event on November 7. A Color Guard and veterans group from Willow Grove VFW 3612 and the Liberty USO will attend.

Pittsburgh Steelers — The Steelers’ military appreciation game will be on November 6. The team will honor local veterans from World War II, the Korea War, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm; Iraq and Afghanistan. The team also will honor a Pearl Harbor survivor. They will be on-field for the National Anthem and introduced to the crowd. The Steelers and Troy Polamalu will also host 12 Special Operations personnel through Operation Once in a Lifetime. They will also be recognized.

St. Louis Rams — The Rams will visit Operation Homefront on November 8. Players, along with members of the military, will contribute to Operation Homefront’s mission of providing support and assistance to families of service members by putting together care packages to send overseas. On Veterans Day, the Rams will host members of the military at a private practice at Russell Training Center.  The Rams will partner with Boeing to provide 1,000 tickets to the USO for the Rams’ military appreciation game on November 20. The National Anthem will be performed by 4-Digit Chords, a group of military members from Scott Air Force Base.

San Diego Chargers — The Chargers’ Veterans Day Weekend Tribute presented by USAA is on November 10. There will be a card stunt to thank the military following the National Anthem, and five soldiers will be honored on-field at halftime. USAA will also host 100 military members and their families at a private tent party.

San Francisco 49ers — The 49ers held its military appreciation game on October 9 to coincide with Fleet Week in San Francisco. Members of the fleet performed a flyover prior to the contest. On November 13, the 49ers will host 50 service members at their game and will further honor the military, as five Tuskegee Airmen will serve as Honorary Captains.

Seattle Seahawks — The Seahawks will honor the military on November 13. A reenlistment will take place on the field prior to the National Anthem, and an enlistment will take place in the south end zone prior to pregame festivities. A local soldier will lead the team out of the tunnel. Air Force Staff Sgt. ANGIE JOHNSON will sing the National Anthem with her band, Sidewinder. George Hickman, one of the six known living Tuskegee Airmen in Seattle, will raise the 12th Man Flag.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers — On November 8, Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik and a selection of players will visit veterans at James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa. Dominik and players will present the hospital with a financial donation towards the purchase of necessary equipment and materials to assist in veteran recovery. On November 13, the Buccaneers will celebrate the 70th anniversary of MacDill Air Force Base with a salute to the military. Military-themed elements will be prevalent throughout the game, including the family of wounded veteran Corporal Michael Nicholson as Honorary Captains.

Tennessee Titans — On November 6, approximately members of the 20 Tennessee Air Guard will swear in during a pregame ceremony, and 100 members of the 101st Airborne Division will unfurl an American Flag with four Navy F-18s providing a flyover at the end of the National Anthem. The honorary 12th Titan will be Air Force Staff Sergeant Shaun Meadows. At halftime, the 101st Airborne Division Band will perform the song for each of five military branches. A military vocalist will sing “God Bless America,” and a game-ball will be presented to Major General James McConville, commanding general at Fort Campbell. Ten players and four cheerleaders will visit a veterans hospital on November 8.

Washington Redskins — The Redskins military appreciation game will be on December11, the day after the Army-Navy game is played at FedEx Field. The Redskins will honor members of the military on the field as well as on the video boards as part of the team’s “Operation Salute Our Troops”. On November 8, Redskins players and members of the historic Arlington National Cemetery “Old Guard” will connect with military personnel in Afghanistan through video games at a Pro vs. GI Joe event. Approximately 30 military veterans will be invited to watch a closed practice on November 11.

About USAA

USAA provides insurance and more to 8.4 million members of the U.S. military and their families. USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. Known for its legendary commitment to its members, USAA is consistently recognized for outstanding service, employee well-being and financial strength. USAA membership is open to all who are serving or have honorably served our nation in the U.S. military – and their families. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit USAA.com.

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/nfl-recognizes-veterans-day/feed/ 0 Cracker Barrel Offers Thanks to Veterans with Red, White & Blue Limited Edition Signature Peg Games http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/cracker-barrel-peg-games/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/cracker-barrel-peg-games/#comments Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:03:25 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3709 Attention Veteran Owned Business Members and Visitors:

Cracker Barrel Offers Thanks to Veterans with Red, White & Blue Limited Edition Signature Peg Games

Donation to Wounded Warrior Project for Each Special Veteran’s Day Peg Game Purchased

Lebanon, Tenn. (November 4, 2011)– Many of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store’s guests and employees are veterans of the United States military forces, so the popular restaurant concept is pleased to offer a limited edition of its signature peg game in honor of these distinctive people, and in observance of Veteran’s Day. Cracker Barrel is offering, for a limited time, its signature peg game in which the golf tees are a patriotic red, white, and blue. In keeping with Cracker Barrel’s traditional role of supporting organizations that provide for the needs of our service people and veterans, Cracker Barrel is donating to Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP) one dollar for each special edition peg game sold until November 30, 2011. WWP is a non-profit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors.

“Our nation’s troops and veterans deserve our sincerest respect and appreciation,” said Cracker Barrel’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Chris Ciavarra. “We believe that the best way we can be there for them is to provide support to organizations that, in turn, offer the services needed by those who have served their country.” Cracker Barrel has backed Wounded Warrior Project since 2006 through various promotions, including providing a portion of the proceeds from the sale of three popular CDs in Cracker Barrel’s exclusive music program, featuring Montgomery Gentry, Wynonna Judd, and Randy Travis. This is the first time Cracker Barrel has modified its signature peg game for an opportunity to provide for a charitable contribution. Cracker Barrel recognizes that there are many worthwhile ways to support troops and the military effort in general. To focus efforts for a meaningful impact, the company spoke with members of the military and veterans to determine a path, and, knowing that you can’t be all things to all people, it became clear that working with organizations that support our troops is a good way of honoring our military personnel.

About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its made from scratch biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 608 company-owned locations in 42 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors.  Its purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service members, to help severely injured men and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. To get involved and learn more, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

If your business is (or you know of another business) owned by a veteran (VOB), active duty military, reservist or service disabled  veteran (SDVOSB) of the United States, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard or National Guard, please be sure to visit the VeteranOwnedBusiness.com sign up page to get your free listing.

The objective of our FREE Veteran Owned Business Directory is to continue to offer a growing list of products and services that are unique in the fact that they are all owned by, sold by and/or serviced by past and present military members.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/cracker-barrel-peg-games/feed/ 0 Columbus Ohio Councilmember Craig Supports Veteran Owned Businesses http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/councilmember-craig-supports-veteran-owned-businesses/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/councilmember-craig-supports-veteran-owned-businesses/#comments Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:15:10 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3698 Attention Columbus Ohio Veteran Business Owners:

(Columbus, Ohio) It has been a little more than a month since announcing the creation of the Veterans Affairs Committee for Columbus City Council and already the chair of the committee, Councilmember Hearcel F. Craig, is proposing a significant change to the Columbus City Code that will assist veteran-owned businesses compete for city contracts.  Craig, a Vietnam era U.S. Army veteran himself, says the legislation will add veteran-owned businesses to those enterprises certified and tracked by the Equal Business Opportunity Commission Office (EBOCO).

The change, announced at the annual Veteran’s Stand Down event held at Veteran’s Memorial, will allow those businesses to better compete for city contracts in the same manner as minority or female owned businesses currently participate in the bid process.   The change also provides veteran-owned businesses with bid counseling and start-up assistance from EBOCO.

“By increasing our services for veteran-owned businesses, the City of Columbus once again is demonstrating its commitment to helping those who protected the very freedoms we enjoy as Americans,” said Craig.   “This is a business friendly initiative that will help position these firms to expand their opportunities to do work for the city.”

Craig has also committed to exploring the feasibility of awarding credits against cost for bids submitted by certified veteran-owned businesses.  This policy would mirror existing credits for local workforce and local businesses.

Columbus City Council recently passed ordinance 1325-2011, legislation that extends for another year military leave with pay to City employees currently serving on active duty, including the health and life insurance benefits for their family members.  City Council also supports the Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Committee and takes part in numerous activities thought the year supporting our servicemen and women.

View Press Release

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

If your business is (or you know of another business) owned by a veteran (VOB), active duty military, reservist or service disabled  veteran (SDVOSB) of the United States, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard or National Guard, please be sure to visit the VeteranOwnedBusiness.com sign up page to get your free listing.

The objective of our FREE Veteran Owned Business Directory is to continue to offer a growing list of products and services that are unique in the fact that they are all owned by, sold by and/or serviced by past and present military members.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/councilmember-craig-supports-veteran-owned-businesses/feed/ 0 Attn SDVOSBs: September/October 2011 Issue of VetLikeMe Newsletter is now available for viewing http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/sdvosb-septoctober-2011-vetlikeme/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/sdvosb-septoctober-2011-vetlikeme/#comments Mon, 24 Oct 2011 20:12:17 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3684 Attention Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses:

The September-October 2011 VetLikeMe SDVOSB Newsletter (Volume 2, No. 5) is now available for viewing.

In this issue: Fraud Prevention Act Moves to House – S. 633 Requires Agencies to Verify SDVOSB Status. (Washington, DC — SDVOSB News Services, September 22, 2011) — The “Small Business Contracting Fraud Prevention Act of 2011” (S. 633) was passed by the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepre-neurship with unanimous consent on September 21. The bill mandates that all federal agencies verify SDVOSB status through the Veterans Administration‟s VetBiz database of certified SDVOSB. All federal Contracting Officers would verify SDVOSB status of businesses that bid on government contracts before con-tracts are awarded… click here to view entire issue.

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VetLikeMe (VLM) is a publication focused entirely on service-disabled veteran owned business.  We feature National news that affects our community, interviews with federal government officials and agencies, legislative activities at the State level and editorial opinion.

Launched in October 2009, VLM is published by BluePoint Productions, a non-profit business certified and verified by the  Veterans Administration as a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business.

Hardy R. Stone, the sole proprietor of BluePoint Productions, is a 100% service-connected disabled veteran (SDVOSB).

The following newsletters require Adobe Acrobat Reader, a free download from adobe.com.

Current VetLikeMe Issue:

September – October 2011 VetLikeMe

Archived VetLikeMe Issues:

July – August 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

May – June 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

March – April 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

January – February 2011 VetLikeMe Newsletter

November – December 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

July – August 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

May – June 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

March – April 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

January – February 2010 VetLikeMe Newsletter

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

If your business is (or you know of another business) owned by a veteran (VOB), active duty military, reservist or service disabled  veteran (SDVOSB) of the United States, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard or National Guard, please be sure to visit the VeteranOwnedBusiness.com sign up page to get your free listing.

The objective of our FREE Veteran Owned Business Directory is to continue to offer a growing list of products and services that are unique in the fact that they are all owned by, sold by and/or serviced by past and present military members.

]]> http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/sdvosb-septoctober-2011-vetlikeme/feed/ 0 JCPENNEY and IAVA honor over 6,000 returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with new apparel http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/welcome-heroes-jcpenny-afghanistan-iraq/ http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/welcome-heroes-jcpenny-afghanistan-iraq/#comments Fri, 21 Oct 2011 19:27:33 +0000 admin http://www.veteranownedbusiness.com/blog/?p=3671 “Welcome Heroes” Campaign Helps Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America to Ease Transition from Combat to Career

J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the nation’s first and largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, are joining forces to provide America’s newest generation of military veterans with more than $1 million in apparel and footwear to start new civilian wardrobes. With over two million servicemen and women who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, the “Welcome Heroes” campaign seeks to honor and support recent vets with the apparel needed to pursue new career opportunities or to enjoy the leisure activities missed most at home.

“Our military service members spend years wearing a uniform and many do not get the opportunity to build a wardrobe that makes it possible for them to go to a job interview, attend a friend’s wedding or simply enjoy a night out with their spouse,” said Steve Lawrence, executive vice president and senior general merchandise manager for jcpenney. “Given all the sacrifices they make to serve our country, we’re doing our part as a leading American retailer to outfit our nation’s heroes with the head-to-toe looks needed to dress for any occasion with style.”

“After taking off the uniform, one of the greatest challenges that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans face is transitioning to a civilian workforce that doesn’t truly understand their experience. Thousands of veterans are coming home today to significantly higher rates of unemployment and underemployment than their civilian peers,” said Paul Rieckhoff, Founder and Executive Director of IAVA. “Having the confidence to walk into an interview and articulate the value of their military experience is absolutely critical for navigating today’s job market. IAVA is proud to partner with jcpenney on ‘Welcome Heroes’ so veterans of this new greatest generation have the resources needed to continue their leadership and service at home.”

To be eligible, military service members who served in Iraq or Afghanistan can go to therucksack.org from Oct. 20 through Nov. 20 to register for the jcpenney giveaway once they have confirmed their free membership with IAVA at iava.org.  Following the registration period, over 6,000 qualified entries will be randomly selected to receive $200 in merchandise certificates toward the purchase of men’s or women’s apparel available at jcpenney or jcp.com. As the retail destination for all Liz Claiborne® and Claiborne® branded merchandise as well as modern career wear options from Stafford®, J. Ferrar®, IZOD, JOE Joseph Abboud®, Worthington®, American Living and East 5th®, veterans will be able to choose from a broad selection of suits, tailored clothing and casual sportswear.

To showcase jcpenney’s stylish assortment of professional and lifestyle attire, jcpenney featured real veterans to model for its “Matters of Style” mailer and captured behind-the-scenes footage from the photo shoot. Through video diaries posted on jcp.com/welcomeheroes and stories highlighted in the mailer, veterans share their deployment experiences by recalling some of the things they missed most from home and the importance of outfitting returning veterans with new clothes.

As Veterans Day approaches, Iraq and Afghanistan vets are not only coming home to yellow ribbons but also unemployment checks. At an average of 12.1 percent, joblessness in our community continues to outpace the civilian rate in 2011. Over 235,000 veterans were left searching for work in September alone. On the ground, IAVA has been working all year with corporate partners on our Combat to Career campaign to open doors and job opportunities for new veterans nationwide. In October, IAVA kicked off the first of five Smart Job Fairs in San Francisco with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, bringing together top U.S. companies committed to hiring the New Greatest Generation. To learn more about upcoming job fairs in New York City, Atlanta, Chicago and Dallas, visit IAVA’s Combat to Career portal.

About J. C. Penney Company, Inc.
J. C. Penney Company, Inc., one of America’s leading retailers, operates over 1,100 jcpenney department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com. Serving more than half of America’s families each year, the jcpenney brand offers a wide array of private, exclusive and national brands which reflect the Company’s vision to be America’s shopping destination for discovering great styles at compelling prices. Traded as “JCP” on the New York Stock Exchange, the $17.8 billion retailer is transforming its organization to support its Long Range Plan strategies to build a sustainable, profitable enterprise that serves its customers, engages its associates and rewards its shareholders.  For more information visit, www.jcpenney.net.

About IAVA
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is the country’s first and largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and has more than 200,000 Member Veterans and civilian supporters nationwide. Its mission is to improve the lives of this country’s newest generation of veterans and their families.

If you are a member of the media who wishes to arrange an interview with IAVA Founder and Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff, an IAVA Member Veteran involved in the “Welcome Heroes” program or veteran struggling with unemployment, please contact Isabel Black at (212) 982-9699 or Isabel@iava.org.

jcpenney media contact: Daphne Avila; (972)431-3400; jcpcorpcomm@jcpenney.com

Follow IAVA on Twitter.com/IAVAPressRoom

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This is a public service announcement (PSA) brought to you by Veteran Owned Business.   Veteran Owned Business is in no way affiliated with the above organization(s). We do not in any way endorse the above business/organization or guarantee the above offer.  VeteranOwnedBusiness.com and the Veteran Owned Business Directory are simply providing information we feel is of interest to veterans, active duty military, reservists, service disabled veterans, veteran owned businesses, service disabled veteran owned businesses, families of veterans, families of our armed forces and any other person or persons directly or indirectly involved with the United States military.

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