Also in this issue:  

PVA President's Message  PVA is working to ensure medical needs of our members, other veterans and all people with disabilities are adequately considered and that the services we currently have are protected.

Reasons & Remarks Redivivus  Veterans at vet facilities can use a word of encouragement and the knowledge their service to our country is appreciated.

Living Well  Having a healthy holiday requires you to follow some sound advice on what and how much to eat.

Travel Tips  Box with wood shavings provides relief for "Froggie" and other service animals on long ocean cruises. Also: PVA Advocacy staff members attend TSA security screening procedures meeting.

Access Through Architecture  Increased accessibility and modern technology enable aging population to compensate for physical and cognitive changes.

On the Job  New ODEP director assures PVA Advocacy staff that people with disabilities are considered in all Department of Labor (DOL) programs. Also: Initiative calls on employers and others to improve the disability-employment landscape, plus other DOL news.

Caregiver Connection  If you describe yourself as a "family caregiver" you are among more than 50 million people in America providing care to a chronically ill or disabled loved one. You are part of a large and ever-growing group who share common issues, needs, and concerns.

Do You Know...?  PVA is an awesome organization for tapping into local knowledge.

On the Hill  VA Appropriations Act for FY 2010 exceeds The Independent Budget request, and includes advance appropriations for VA medical-care accounts for FY 2011. Also: Healthcare-reform legislation includes provisions affecting long-term services for people with disabilities and seniors.

Money Talks  Tax tips involving weight-loss programs, medical travel expenses, long-term-care insurance, medical-related capital expenses and home improvements, and nondeductible medical and dental expenses.

A Closer Look  Southeastern PVA invites eligible veterans and others with disabilities to stay overnight for free at their accessible lodge in South Carolina.

Veteran Advisor  The four service connected disability classifications are explained. In all cases, you are required to have served under "other than dishonorable" conditions.

Sports and Recreation  Encouraged by family and friends, Greg Drown gets back championship form on shooting range. Also: Chris Waddell conquers Mount Kilimanjaro, billiards action in the Midwest, bowling, and trapshooting.

Newsbeat  PVA's Americana Gala honors leaders who help our nation's paralyzed veterans and their families. Also: Wayne Stillerman launches Datebility.com, a dating and social Web site exclusively for people with disabilities and illnesses.

Innovations  A device to pick up grounded golf balls from a moving cart, custom wheelchair spoke guards, and a bag to conceal urinary equipment on your wheelchair.

And Finally...  You draw a name for the annual holiday office party gift exchange. Now the agony begins.