Since the Veterans Administration (VA) scandal broke in 2014, Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) across the country have worked with Congress to ensure greater accountability, transparency, and efficiency in delivering quality care to our veterans.
The current VA Choice Program is one of those opportunities. With over two million veterans using the Choice Program to schedule over 39 million essential appointments, it is in danger of running out of funding by the end of the month. Without funding, millions of our nation’s warriors will lose access to the care they desperately need.Â
The MISSION Act, supported by over 38 National VSOs—a staggering and unified number—strengthens the VA’s ability to deliver efficient and immediate care to our veterans. It does so by providing over $5 billion to prevent disruptions of care in the Choice Program, modernizing VA healthcare, creating integrated networks of high-performing providers to support the VA, creating a commission to review current VA facilities, and making it possible for World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Gulf War veterans with severe combat-related disabilities to receive comprehensive caregiver assistance.Â
Last Wednesday, 70 Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives voted against the MISSION ACT and voted for political games over improving healthcare for those who served our country.  Without immediate passage of the bill in the Senate, veterans could lose a critical support line to receive the care they require—and will again be forced to face long waiting periods to receive treatment.
Such waiting periods have led to veteran deaths in the past, and we cannot let a single veteran die waiting for the care they need simply because of Congressional delays.
As one who wore an Air Force uniform for 30 years and later chaired the Joint Virginia House-Senate Military and Veterans Caucus that is the legislative clearing house for bills on behalf of 800,000 Virginia veterans, I know first-hand that the MISSION Act is crucial.
I strongly encourage those reading this letter to call Senators Warner and Kaine, urging them to support this bill that ensures that our nation’s heroes receive the care they deserve.
Recent Stories
On Monday, February 10, 2025, the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden featured a special appearance by Chesty XVI, the United States Marine Corps’ bulldog mascot. This presentation was part of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation’s (MCHF) celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary. Chesty XVI was accompanied by his handlers and MCHF President and CEO, retired Maj. Gen. James Lukeman, from the National Museum of the Marine Corps at Quantico.Â
Winter weather is prompting widespread closures and delays for Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Government offices, schools, and colleges across Northern Virginia are impacted, including Prince William, Stafford, and Fredericksburg. The Federal Government is open with a suggested two-hour delay.
Law enforcement and emergency responders in Prince William County, Stafford County, and the City of Manassas handled multiple incidents over the past several days, including a house fire that displaced a family in Woodbridge, two shooting investigations, drug-related arrests, and a series of disturbances and crimes.
The Manassas City Council voted to extend a lucrative tax incentive for Micron Technology Inc. through 2035, solidifying the semiconductor company’s continued presence in the city. The deal, passed during the February 10, 2025, council meeting, ensures Micron’s annual tax payments increase by 4% while maintaining a lower tax rate than other manufacturers.
However, the decision has raised questions about a potential conflict of interest involving Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger. Multiple sources have indicated that Davis-Younger is in a relationship with Delbert Parks, Vice President and Site Director at Micron’s Manassas facility.
Parks is named in an official letter from the mayor, dated the same day as the vote, outlining the incentives offered to Micron. During the meeting, Vice Mayor Mark Wolfe alluded to the relationship, stating that “some of the comments floating around online are BS,” referring to speculation that the mayor’s ties to Parks influenced the tax break discussions.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
