TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN LIFE Career Strategies
TRANSITION
The Power of Networking
We Need More Military Veterans in TECH
The Dark Web Are You Safe?
Building a Legacy of Love: Healing & Growth
A Veteran’s Love Letters
A Message of Hope and Support
FIGHTING PTSD
MENTAL HEALTH
Publisher
Editor-In-Chief
Mike Miller
Monthly Columns
What’s Next Transition
Eve Nasby • Kristin Hennessy
Human Resources
Paul Falcone
Franchise Dreams
Doug Dwyer
Successful Transitioning Stories
Dr. Julie Ducharme
Veterans in Business
Homeland is a veteran-focused magazine throughout the country. It serves to assist all veterans, active military as well as their spouses and families.
It’s the leading veterans magazine emphasizing resources, support and focusing on topics and issues facing today’s veteran community. Homeland focuses on resources, support, community, transition, mental health and inspiration for our veterans, & military personnel.
The content is the driving force behind our magazine and the connection it makes with our veterans, service members, military families, and civilians.
The magazine is supported by a distinguishing list of veteran organizations & members, resource centers, coalitions, veteran advocates, and more.
We are honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people.
Despite all the challenges, our team has upheld their focus and let not one opportunity go to provide resources and support to our veterans & military personnel.
On behalf of our team, we wanted to take this moment to say THANK YOU to the readers and the military and veteran community for supporting our magazine. With that support we aim to make a difference and continuing to make a profound impact on the quality of life for our veterans, military personnel and their families.
If you want to catch up on the current and all past issues please visit: www.homelandmagazine.com/archives
Mike Miller
Editor-In-Chief
mikemiller@homelandmagazine.com www.homelandmagazine.com
Barbara Eldridge
Risky Business
Hadley Wood
Real Talk: Mental Health
Hope Phifer
PTSD: Reclaiming Control
Robert ‘Bob’ Cuyler, PhD
TLC Caregiving
Kie Copenhaver
Legal Eagle
Kelly Bagla, Esq.
Veterans Chamber Commerce
Joe Molina
Contributing Writers
Wounded Warrior Project
Disabled American Veterans
(In-House) Correspondents
Holly Shaffner
CJ Machado
Homeland Magazine 9528 Miramar Road, #41 San Diego, CA 92126 (858) 275-4281
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Homeland Magazine is published monthly. Submissions of photographs, Illustrations, drawings, and manuscripts are considered unsolicited materials and the publisher assumes no responsibility for the said items. All rights reserved
ith billions of records exposed in recent data breaches, it’s safe to assume that, unfortunately, your personal information such as your name, Social Security number, and email address have been exposed.
There’s more bad news as veterans and active duty military members are 76% more likely to report identity theft than civilians, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). So where does your personal information end up? It can end up on the dark web.
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet often associated with criminal activity, including the sale of stolen personal information. Knowing if your personal data is on the dark web is crucial for protecting your identity and your finances
How to Check if Your Personal Information Is on the Dark Web
1. Watch for Warning Signs: A sudden influx of spam or phishing emails from unknown senders can indicate that your email address has been exposed on the dark web. Alerts for applications for credit cards or other lines of credit using your Social Security number that you didn’t authorize also are signs your information is exposed.
2. Use Dark Web Monitoring Services: Dark web monitoring services are available that monitor for your email address, Social Security number, and other data on the dark web. These tools can alert you if your information has been compromised.
Personal information is valuable on the dark web because it can be exploited for various malicious purposes:
• Identity Theft: Hackers can use your details to open credit accounts, apply for loans, or commit fraud in your name.
• Phishing Scams: Compromised emails are often targeted with scams designed to steal more sensitive data, such as passwords or financial information.
• Credential Stuffing: If you reuse passwords, hackers can use stolen login credentials to try to access multiple accounts.
• Resale of Information: Hackers frequently sell personal data to other criminals.
What to Do if Your Information Is on the Dark Web
If you discover that your personal information has been compromised, take immediate action to mitigate the risks:
1. Change Your Passwords: Update passwords for all accounts, using strong, unique combinations. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
2. Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for possible suspicious activity.
3. Consider a New Email Address: If your email is heavily targeted, switching to a new address and notifying trusted contacts may be a safer option.
4. Report to Authorities: File a report with local law enforcement and federal agencies such as the FTC to document the breach.
5. Invest in Identity Protection Services: Consider enrolling in identity theft protection and credit monitoring services for added security.
By staying vigilant and taking swift action, you can minimize the impact of having your information exposed on the dark web.
For more information visit www.identityiq.com
‘There are no state lines when it comes to DAV’
In just 30 years, the federal government has allocated hundreds of billions of dollars to disaster response in the United States. While this spending provides crucial resources, it often overlooks the unique challenges faced by some of the nation’s most vulnerable individuals. Disabled veterans—many of whom live on fixed incomes and are unable to work—face a special kind of peril when their communities are devastated by natural disasters.
These men and women who once served their country now find themselves navigating destroyed homes, disrupted medical care and financial instability without the safety net of robust employment or savings. Yet, amid the sea of federal aid and staggering costs, the most inspiring stories often emerge not from the government’s efforts but from the resilience of everyday Americans— neighbors helping neighbors, veterans supporting one another and communities uniting to rebuild.
The one-two punch of hurricanes Helene and Milton last fall proved this once again.
“I live in East Tennessee where the hurricanes and flooding devastated so many areas,” said Kenny Belew, adjutant of Chapter 39 in Bluff City, where water and sewage systems were in total disrepair and people required airlifts to bring drinking water in for residents.
Belew and his chapter members mobilized their relief efforts.
“Commander Michael Harman of Chapter 39 immediately reached out to all chapter commanders in East Tennessee and set up a videoconference call to discuss what we needed to do for veterans in our area,” Belew said.
Because veterans in Chapter 39 operate a food pantry, their first step was to secure more food and then reach out to every chapter and Auxiliary unit member to see if anyone needed assistance. They distributed food, clothing, water and other much-needed supplies. The veterans who may not have power until spring received generators.
In North Carolina, some areas are expected to be without power until March or April. Hurricane Helene caused 1,400 landslides and damaged over 160 water and sewer systems. At least 6,000 miles of roads and over 1,000 bridges were ruined. “Right now, things are getting better,” said Commander Jim Hunter of the Department of North Carolina. “There’s a lot of grunt work going on out there, opening roads. So we’re finding pockets here and there that have not gotten everything that they would like, but we’re working to mitigate those.”
Coordination was key in the Tarheel State. At 6 a.m. the day after Helene hit, Hunter was coordinating with members of his department. Within hours, he was on the phone with the local Auxiliary commander as she was driving, trying to make her way through the mountains.
Hunter, an assistant chief volunteer firefighter, used his connections to find a fire department in the mountains willing to take initial food and water donations.
Their efforts made it possible for the first truck of food and water to arrive within two days of the first storm. Once the initial process was set in the first area, they moved on to the next.
community members and veterans, totaling 90 people for two days during Hurricane Milton. The Manatee County chapter provided “three hots and a cot” for their guests during their stay.
“Most of the places we go, we tap in either with our local chapter or a local Auxiliary member and we hand communication off to them. They take it from there to get where it needs to go,” said Hunter.
DAV North Carolina Department Adjutant Janice Weathers took things from there. She continues to manage the wish list for Hunter. “We don’t call it a 24/7 response; we call it a 25/8,” Weathers said. “It goes back to the (esprit de corps). It goes back to never leave your buddy behind. It goes back to I got your six.”
According to Hunter, being part of a national organization made relief efforts easier. Chapter commanders throughout the region were in constant communication to identify needs and resources.
“There are no state lines when it comes to DAV,” said Hunter. “I could not be prouder of a national organization, that we act as one.”
“In the military, we rely on each other for survival,” said DAV National Commander Daniel Contreras. “Many of our members had life-or-death experiences while on active duty. Relying on someone for your survival leads to a sense of collective identity, so when one hurts, we jump into action to help. Especially after devastation at this scale.”
Florida received catastrophic damage from both hurricanes, capping one of the most destructive hurricane seasons in recent history.
“Houses and cars are covered in either water and sand. The whole beach is destroyed—for about 80 miles,” said Florida resident and Past National Commander Andy Marshall days after Hurricane Milton hit.
A member of Chapter 4 in New Port Richey, Marshall said many veterans throughout the state were hit hard. In Bradenton, a mandatory evacuation ahead of Milton closed two mobile home parks, leaving 90 people without a shelter. Chapter 18 housed the refugees for two days, providing three meals daily during their stay.
Back in East Tennessee, Belew and Chapter 39 continued reaching out to veterans in their area to determine their needs and offer assistance. They rented storage units to store and sort supplies coming in from as far away as Buffalo, New York.
“I cannot be prouder of the chapters reaching out to help,” said Shannon Sander, DAV Department of New York commander. “Helping our brothers and sisters when disasters happen is so vital to our mission.”
This aid was provided alongside disaster relief grants from DAV. All told, DAV benefits advocates were in affected areas providing more than $1 million in disaster relief for veterans and their families from these storms alone, bringing the total distributed in 2024 to over $1.5 million as of Dec. 1.
After Helene swept through Tennessee, Belew and his chapter helped a local veteran in need. Not too long after they left, he received the following text from the person they helped:
“Sir I want to personally thank you for what you did for me. I wasn’t expecting it as I’m getting ran around everywhere else up here. How do I become a member of DAV?”
For Belew, this makes all the hard work worth it. n
By Cynthia N. Weiss Wounded Warrior Projec
Shea Hughes remembers when her husband Scott returned from a Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) outing with other veterans.
“He came back excited, saying it would be great if we could do it as a couple,” she said.
Although delighted by her husband’s experience, Shea was skeptical.
“I knew we were broken, but I was terrified to step outside of my comfort zone because it was unknown to me,” said Shea, who was struggling to help her husband cope with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other health issues.
It took almost a year before Scott, a former Army sergeant, convinced his wife to attend Project Odyssey,® a multi-day adventure-based program hosted by WWP.™ The couples retreat aims to help veterans and their loved ones improve their relationships.
“I didn’t know how badly broken and how much help we needed until we got to Project Odyssey,” said Shea.
Looking back, Shea admits she didn’t know what to expect when in 2004, her then 31-year-old husband went off to war. “When he came home, he was different. The man I sent to Iraq was not the same man who came home,” she said.
Scott was medically retired from the Army after sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal fractures. He was also diagnosed with PTSD.
For many with PTSD, trust, intimacy, and interpersonal communication become strained.
Scott said he would shut himself off from the family when trying to manage his PTSD. He became more reserved but, at the same time, would get angry at the slightest things and had outbursts that confused his two children.
“Before he left, he was happy and supportive,” said Bri Hughes, Scott and Shea’s eldest child. “When he came back, it was completely different. It was like a light had switched. The simplest, everyday things, would set him off.”
The couple’s younger daughter Erin has similar memories of growing up. “He was just so angry all the time—at my mom, at us. He would constantly yell. He would remain in the bedroom, shut the door, and not talk to us,” she said.
Shea tried to shield her daughters, but as time went on, her frustrations grew. “I was constantly on guard because you never knew who he’d be from one day to the next,” she said. “When our warriors come home, there is no handbook or help to understand what they have gone through. We cannot relate to what they have experienced. It’s like you, your loved one, and their PTSD are in your relationship.”
Scott first learned about WWP in 2005 after he was initially injured. “When I arrived at the hospital in Landstuhl, Germany, they placed a Wounded Warrior Project backpack on my chest,” he recalled.
Though he carried the pack everywhere, in his mind, WWP services were for more seriously injured veterans, said Scott. It wasn’t until he heard Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen talk about his journey with PTSD after the loss of his arm that Scott realized there was hope.
“He spoke about trying to ignore it, but then he met it full-on to live through it,” said Scott, whose love for his family propelled him to look at treatment options for PTSD. “Taking the chance to ask for help allows everyone to find a path to healing.”
One objective of a couples’ Project Odyssey is to help partners learn to communicate more effectively and manage conflict better.
“Marriage and relationships are not easy, but when you throw the military on top of it, it’s more of a stumbling block, especially since, as Scott says, the military is about directives, not communications,” said Shea.
“Wounded Warrior Project taught us how to communicate and helped us heal our marriage by giving us tools to reconnect and learn more about ourselves.”
During the retreat, Shea also learned more about what her husband and other veterans experienced while in combat – and the lingering effects of PTSD.
“I understood more about PTSD and what it does, why it happens,” she said, including that Scott’s behavior was not because of something she or the girls did. “I took that information home and explained it to the girls, which really helped us.”
Scott and Shea felt called to share how much they gained from Project Odyssey and became peer mentors as a way of giving back. They have been on 15 adventures together, sharing and advising over 125 couples.
“We’ve been with couples who have been married a year, others 20 years. You see them learn the tools, break down, cry, and realize their marriage isn’t over,” said Shea.
While the Hughes’ have built many friendships with warriors and their loved ones, they are most proud of being role models for their children and grandchildren.
“I know, generationally speaking, I did not pass on my traumas,” said Scott.
“The lessons we learned are valuable not only for couples but for all families of every generation,” Shea added. “What a gift for our children to see good in marriage, to learn about how to communicate, to witness their parents working things out in a healthy and constructive way, and to not run away from problems.”
New Adventures Await
Shea, who recently retired from her job, says she and Scott are excited about their next chapter in life. They know there will be bumps in the road but are confident in their love for each other and the skills they gleaned from WWP.
“The Army kept him alive; the VA made sure he was physically healed, but WWP helped Scott grow and thrive and taught us to communicate,” she said.
“Everyone changes based on their lived experiences. You must decide if you will embrace each other and the challenges that come,” Shea added. “We are still a work in progress, continuously evolving, but we have great days ahead.”
Shea’s 5
Learn “Fight Club” rules
Fight but fight fair. Figure out what works for you and your partner. If Scott can leave the room for a bit, he’s willing to address a resolution when he returns. So now, instead of an argument lasting days, we resolve it in 15-20 minutes.
Learn your partner’s comfort zone
What do they like? What makes them nervous? Scott doesn’t like crowds, and he prefers to sit facing a door. So even now, even though he’s changed and grown, it’s his preferred place, so I will sit with my back to the door so he can face it.
Be mindful of your partner
Be aware of your partner and how he or she may react in certain situations. When you focus on each other –as opposed to watching a movie and scrolling on your phone – you may be able to identify subtle changes that could indicate things are bubbling to the surface.
Try something different
During Project Odysseys, couples are often challenged to try new things that may be uncomfortable for them. The objective is to help people process differently. Getting out of your comfort zone is hard, but that is where you grow and learn. For instance, Scott learned to kayak. I had no desire, as there was nothing about it that I wanted to like, but I tried it. Now, we have our own kayak and take multiple trips to a local lake when the season is right.
Embrace the new normal
We are not the same people we were 25 years ago. Everyone changes, whether through lived experiences in the military or otherwise. You must decide if you will embrace your new normal and how to be most effective.
To learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org or call 888.ALUM (997.2586) to connect with the WWP Resource Center.
He came into this world at the start of the Great Depression. Life was not easy growing up during one of the most devastating economic times in the country’s history, but there was something special about him. Even as a kid, he saw light instead of darkness.
Later, his older friends and relatives served in the military during World War II, but he was too young to join the fight. In 1948, however, after a few unfulfilling semesters at college, he enlisted in the Navy.
Having learned to play multiple instruments in his youth, Bill earned a coveted spot in the Navy’s School of Music in Washington D.C. It was there that he met Bea, who would become the love of his life.
The daughter of an American diplomat, born and raised in Europe, and speaking three languages, Bea only came to the United States as a 10-year-old to escape the Nazis at the start of the Second World War.
After a chance meeting in 1949, their casual conservations blossomed into a romance. A few years later, after tying the knot in the nation’s capital, they moved to Norfolk, Va., where Bill was assigned to the USS Midway (CV-41) as member of the ship’s band.
In May 1951, Midway pushed away from the pier in Norfolk. The ship would be at sea for most of the
Dozens of other letters and cards were written between 1951 and 1952 while Bill was assigned to Midway. For more than 50 years, they remained hidden. It wasn’t until 2007, shortly after Bea’s death, that the letters were discovered.
“The night of Bea's memorial service, my sister, cousins and I retreated to the upper loft, our hang-out space at my grandparents' house,” said Peyton Roberts, Bill and Bea’s granddaughter. “My older sister was rummaging through old family artifacts and found a small, fireproof box. Inside the box was a neat stack of love letters.”
With Bill still alive, Peyton and her relatives didn't feel comfortable reading the letters. However, since Bea had made the point to save them for more than five decades, they knew they were significant.
Sadly, Bea’s death was very difficult on Bill. It was only after he passed away a few years later that the letters resurfaced.
“My mom brought the letters to our duty station in Virginia Beach,” said Peyton, whose husband is currently in the Navy. “I remember feeling absolutely astonished when I discovered the letters were written just weeks after Bea and Bill were married. The letters were such treasures, and I instantly wanted my mom, aunt, sister and cousins to be able to read them. I spent the next year transcribing them, researching their contents, and editing it all into a book just for family and close friends.”
next two years. Bill and Bea would routinely beseparated by hundreds to thousands of miles. Thus began a longdistance letter writing crusade – letters of love – that would ensure the two would remain united in spirit regardless of how far they were apart.
It would take a few more years before elevating her efforts into a book available to all. The re-sult is an intimate examination of the relationship between her grandparents through his letters when he was deployed on Midway. The book titled “My Dearest Bea” was published earlier this year.
“I worked on this book over the next 10 years,” said Peyton. “The project morphed and changed as time passed, and the significance of the letters took on new meaning. During the past two years, I revised the story for readers who didn't know my grandfather personally, but might take interest in the love letters or in his story. Turning the letters into a book was such a worth-while process because of the time spent savoring every sentence my grandfather wrote.”
For Peyton, it’s hard to say which of the letters is her favorite as each one holds a special meaning. However, the constant thread woven through each letter was how much he loathed being away from his darling Bea.
The book has been both an emotional and personal journey for Peyton, one that has helped her become even closer, albeit now in spirit, to her grandparents. It has also been a rare opportunity to share with others a poignant love story, a story that spans the ages.
“When I spend time with these letters, I feel the warm glow of a love that crossed oceans,” said Peyton. “I hope “My Dearest Bea” will be an encouragement to couples, especially those who are enduring a season of separation. I also hope all readers, no matter their background or season of life, will see the tremendous, lasting value of writing down what you appreciate about someone and sharing those words with them.”
“My Dearest Bea” is available at the USS Midway Museum’s gift shop and on Amazon. www.midway.org
Navigating the resources available to veterans can be confusing, but Homelkand Magazine believes no veteran should have to go it alone.
At Homeland Magazine you can find Veteran organizations and private nonprofits with resources for veterans that can help ease the process of attaining earned benefits, coping with the lasting effects of service-connected injuries and finding programs and services that meet your specific needs.
Impress your Valentine’s Day sweetie with an encyclopedic knowledge of the facts surrounding this quintessential day of love that’s been around since Roman times.
Surely, someone so well versed in the day must also know a thing or two about actual amore.
February 14th
Theories abound on the origin of Valentine’s Day, but the most popular dates back to 270 A.D and the reign of Roman Emperor Claudius II. Seems Claudius didn’t want men marrying during wartime because he believed single men fought better. Bishop Valentine took exception and performed secret nuptials anyway. Claudius found out, jailed Valentine and had him executed on Feb. 14. From jail the holy man wrote a love letter and signed it “From your Valentine” and greeting card industry cheered.
In the Middle Ages, young men and women picked names out of a box to see who would be their Valentine. Then they would wear the names pinned to their sleeves for a week. This lead to the expression “to wear your heart on your sleeve.”
Doctors in the 1800s routinely advised patients pining for lost love to eat chocolate to calm themselves. Later in the century Richard Cadbury produced the first box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day. Today, no fewer than 35 million boxes of chocolate are sold each Valentine’s Day.
More than $1 billion in chocolate is bought in the United States alone.
Besides the United States, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, France, Australia, Denmark and Italy.
Valentine’s Day was introduced here in 1936 and quickly became popular – with a twist. Because of a translation error, women buy men chocolates on this day to show interest. The men return the favor, if so inclined, on White Day, March 14.
Valentine’s Day – along with Christmas and Mothers Day – is huge day for florists. This single day generates sales of $14.7 billion, which is greater than the gross domestic product of several countries.
An estimated 189 million flowers are sold in the United States this day of which about 110 million are roses.
Capt. James Cook killed by natives in Hawaii (1779), Oregon and Arizona admitted to the Union (1859 and 1912, respectively), James Polk becomes first president photographed in office (1848), United Parcel Service formed (1919), the League of Women Voters established (1920), Aretha Franklin recorded “Respect” (1967), Richard Nixon installed a secret taping system in the White House (1971) and Voyager I photographs entire solar system (1990)
By Kelly Williams, Kirsten White and Jolene Balancio, Clinic Directors
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD www.vvsd.net/cohenclinics
As Clinic Directors at The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics at VVSD in California, we have witnessed remarkable resilience within the military community. Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families live with extraordinary strength, shaped by service and the challenges they’ve faced. Still, when catastrophic events like the California wildfires strike, even the strongest can feel overwhelmed.
The path to recovery after these wildfires is not an easy one. Lives have been uprooted, homes lost, and futures blurred with uncertainty. For the military community, these challenges are often compounded by past traumas, the stress of ongoing service, and limited access to crucial resources. That’s where we step in. Our mission is to support the military community through moments like this, ensuring no veteran, service member, or family feels alone.
We recognize that recovery is not one-size-fits-all, especially for the military community. Unique challenges shape their journeys, and disasters like wildfires can magnify them. Veterans may find that these events reignite memories of past traumas, while activeduty service members and their families often face compounded stress from instability or displacement.
For military families, the strain affects everyone. Parents shoulder the burden of providing stability and comfort while managing new realities. Children, sensitive to disruptions, may struggle to articulate their fears. These challenges highlight the importance of offering support that’s as unique as the lives they touch.
This understanding lays the foundation for everything we do. The Cohen Clinics at VVSD provide tailored care to meet these needs, ensuring that every individual and family receives the compassionate support they deserve.
Mental and emotional well-being are at the heart of our services. We specialize in evidence-based tools to help veterans, service members, and their families deal with challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD —issues often exacerbated by the stress of natural disasters.
For children and teens, we provide personalized counseling to guide them through the intense uncertainties they may experience. Creating safe spaces for families—whether through individual, group, or family therapy sessions—helps them process their experiences and rediscover their inner strength, together.
We also understand how difficult it can be for many in the military community to ask for help. That’s why we prioritize creating a welcoming environment—whether that is in person at one of our clinics, or from the comfort of our client’s home via telehealth. Seeking care is not a sign of weakness; it’s a reflection of courage and a commitment to recovery. Whatever you’re navigating, we’re here to help you take that first step.
The challenges don’t stop at mental health. After a disaster, practical hurdles like housing, finances, and day-to-day disruptions can become overwhelming. For many military families—already balancing considerable responsibilities—these obstacles may feel insurmountable.
Our case management team is dedicated to identifying and addressing these needs. They help clients find temporary housing, access financial support, and connect to essential resources like food programs or employment aid. What sets us apart is our expertise in serving the military community. Whether it’s navigating VA benefits or seeking childcare while balancing servicerelated commitments, we ensure that each client receives the tailored guidance and support they need. This comprehensive approach allows families to focus on healing, knowing they’re not alone in managing the details of daily life.
The military community has repeatedly shown its strength in adversity. But strength doesn’t mean going at it alone. The burden of rebuilding after the wildfires isn’t something anyone should face without support. At the Cohen Clinics at VVSD, we are committed to being by your side every step of the way.
Whether through therapy for you or your children, guidance navigating resources, or simply providing a space where you feel seen and understood, we are here to support you. Recovery is not something to sidestep—it’s an opportunity to rebuild not just your circumstances but your confidence and connection with others.
We stand with you, ready to help you rebuild and reclaim your future. Together, with empathy, determination, and support, we can face what lies ahead with renewed strength and unity.
The Clinic Directors of the Cohen Clinics at VVSD vvsd.net/cohenclinics
By: Robert ‘Bob’ Cuyler, PhD Psychologist and Trauma Expert
One of the most troubling aspects of post-traumatic stress is what we call hypervigilance, and this constant state of alertness has important roots long before exposure to trauma. This may help explain why hypervigilance can be so persistent.
If we consider first what military training entails, we get a first important clue. Hypervigilance to danger is a fundamental component of warrior training and culture. If you are not alert to danger and you are not prepared to respond, you may not survive. I’ll oversimplify, but we civilians only need the basics: Look both ways before crossing the street. Don’t stick your hand in an open flame. Check the rearview mirror before changing lanes. Sure, there are more, but the point is that our civilian training is limited and unsystematic compared to our service members. Scanning for danger and preparation for response is so vital to military training, and ranges from basic firearm safety to radar operators detecting missile strikes. Being under-vigilant can be deadly.
So, let’s assume that learning how to stay in the correct zone of heightened vigilance is fundamental. When a soldier is exposed to intense and life-threatening events, the consequences of that exposure are heaped on top of the healthy vigilance we’ve just described. For the unfortunate individuals whose trauma evolves into PTSD, distressing hypervigilance can become a central part of existence; think of it as a completely understandable coping mechanism that backfires.
The brain and the five senses remain in overdrive, scanning one’s surroundings for danger, even where sources of danger are objectively no longer there. Hyper-alertness to sights, smells, noises, facial expressions, body language, crowds, and unfamiliar surroundings primes the pump to perceive threats and respond; that response can vary widely, from aggression to avoidance to numbing via alcohol or substances. The end effect is that hypervigilance is exhausting, often interferes with sleep, and can be damaging to relationships.
A current research project has me looking more deeply into hypervigilance. One striking finding from a review of the science of PTSD is how persistent hypervigilance is, even in individuals who are otherwise greatly improved with therapy. One theory to explain this refers back to training, emphasizing that learning to be vigilant is baked into military training and that a high baseline level of vigilance can’t be readily unlearned. In this view, the residual hyper-alertness even in PTSD recovery may be more a function of military training and culture and is not likely to be affected by talk therapies.
Another perspective is that those talk therapies do not sufficiently address hypervigilance at the bodily level. Our work at Freespira, which addresses the bodily aspects of PTSD through normalizing breathing, is showing promise in current research at improving hypervigilance along with the other main groups of PTSD symptoms. A prior column discussed approaches such as Freespira that take a ‘bottom-up’ approach by targeting bodily responses primarily. I am hopeful that continued research will help us individualize treatment more effectively and integrate mind and body approaches to alleviate suffering.
Dr. Cuyler is chief clinical officer of Freespira, an FDA-cleared nonmedication treatment that helps people with panic and PTSD manage their symptoms by learning how to regulate their breathing.
www.freespira.com
www.freespira.com/veterans
- What’s Next: Navigating Military-Civilian Divide
- Transition: The Power of Networking
- We Need More Military Veterans in Tech
- HR: Overcome Public Speaking
- USPTO: A Sailor’s Path to Civil Service
- New Beginnings: Agricultural Training
- Veterans & Franchising are a Perfect Fit
- Veterans to Franchise Owners
- Fall In Love With Your Business
- Master the Game of Business
- Transitioning into Civilian Life
- Careers in Law Enforcement
For editorial & monthly columns regarding transition, career advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, straight-forward legal tips for military and veteran business owners and more, visit Veterans In Transition.
www.homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition
By Eve Nasby
The transition from military to civilian life presents a complex maze of challenges, but two veteran leaders are illuminating the path forward with their distinct yet complementary experiences.
"Many service members know how to lead troops and execute missions, but they're entering a world where calling a CEO by their first name is normal," explains retired Marine Colonel Chris Keane, who heads the San Diego chapter of the Marine Executive Association (MEA).
His observation resonates with former Marine Captain Janessa, whose journey from peace advocate to combat engineer to veterans' advocate offers a unique perspective on military transition.
"Focus on lifestyle requirements first," Janessa advises. "Your initial civilian role likely won't be your last." Her unexpected path to military service—as the daughter of California hippies who became a Marine officer at 26—provides a striking contrast to traditional military narratives.
Both leaders emphasize the critical importance of understanding and accessing available resources. "Despite my officer background, I discovered VA healthcare eligibility months after separation," Janessa reveals, now directing advocacy for 1.5 million veterans nationwide. Her unique experience underscores recent developments “like the PACT Act, which has streamlined benefits access for veterans exposed to toxic substances in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other wars.
Keane's approach focuses on practical networking and skill translation. "Take a helicopter pilot like me," he explains. "Yes, I flew aircraft, but I’m also experienced in personnel management, leadership development, and complex operations planning. It's about helping those who are transitioning see—and communicate—their full potential."
The MEA, which meets monthly at the Green Dragon Tavern and Museum in Carlsbad, provides a crucial networking platform. MEA has expanded beyond its Marine Corps roots to welcome all service branches, their spouses, and veterans from every rank and background.
His three-point assessment remains crucial for any transitioning service member:
• Where do you want to work?
• What do you want to do?
• What compensation are you seeking?
Janessa echos Chris’ comments and adds: "Many of my peers struggled with identity outside their military role," she observes. "I strongly encourage transitioning service members to prioritize lifestyle needs first. Don't pressure yourself to find your forever career immediately."
For those beginning their transition journey, both leaders stress the importance of mentorship and networking. MEA organizes regular events through EventBrite, while Janessa's advocacy organization works on broader policy issues affecting veterans' lives.
"You're not alone in this journey," Keane emphasizes. The recent MEA event drew 32 attendees, demonstrating the strong community support available. Veterans can connect through the MEA Camp Pendleton LinkedIn group or through organizations like the Veterans Association of North County (VANC). He adds to all readers, “Please follow me on LinkedIn for details of our next event February 19 at the Green Dragon. And join us at the next Military Transition Assistance seminar starting on March 25 at VANC.”
The evolution of both leaders—from their diverse entry points into military service to their current roles supporting fellow veterans—exemplifies the changing nature of military service and its integration with civilian careers. Their combined message is clear: while the transition presents challenges, a strategic approach backed by strong community support can lead to success in the civilian sector.
For personalized guidance, veterans can reach out through MEA's network and monthly meetings, or engage with broader advocacy efforts that leaders like Janessa champion. As she puts it, "It's not just about where you serve, but how you carry that service forward."
Aaron Harper, Vice President of Employment at Veterans Bridge Home
Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can feel overwhelming, but networking is the bridge that transforms potential into opportunity. For many veterans, networking can play a pivotal role in successfully navigating the transition to civilian careers. Military members often struggle with networking due to several factors. The team-oriented culture of the armed forces can make self-promotion feel uncomfortable. Service members also spend years in a structured, closed environment which limits their ability to build professional connections outside of the military. Military roles can also be highly specialized and may not directly align with civilian job titles, making it difficult for veterans to identify where their skills fit.
To overcome these challenges and achieve networking success, veterans can employ the following strategies:
1. Connect with veteran-focused organizations
Groups like Veterans Bridge Home, Got Your 6, and Veterans on Wall Street can ease the cultural transition and provide valuable connections. These organizations understand the unique challenges veterans face and offer tailored support.
By engaging with these groups, veterans can connect with peers who have successfully navigated the transition. This shared experience creates a supportive environment where veterans can learn from each other and build confidence in their networking skills.
2. Attend industry events
Specialized gatherings offer direct access to potential employers in a comfortable setting. These events are designed with veterans in mind, making it easier to connect with professionals who value military experience.
Attending these events allows veterans to practice their networking skills in a supportive environment. It's an opportunity to learn about different industries, explore career paths and make meaningful connections with people who can offer guidance or job opportunities.
3. Optimize LinkedIn profiles
Veterans should ensure their profile reflects their military experience and transferable skills. A well-crafted LinkedIn profile can serve as a powerful networking tool, showcasing unique value to potential employers and connections.
It's important to translate military accomplishments into civilian terms, highlight leadership roles, project management experience, and any specialized training received. Using keywords relevant to the target industry can increase visibility to recruiters and hiring managers.
4. Join professional groups
Engaging with both veteran-focused and industryspecific associations expands networks and offers opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
Active participation in discussions and virtual events can lead to valuable connections and potentially open doors to new career opportunities. Networking is about building relationships, not just collecting contacts.
5. Seek mentorship
Programs like American Corporate Partners can pair veterans with other veterans who have successfully navigated civilian careers. A mentor can provide invaluable guidance, share experiences and help avoid common pitfalls in the transition.
Mentorship relationships often evolve into long-term professional connections. Mentors may introduce veterans to their network, recommend them for opportunities or provide insights into industry trends and expectations.
Skills developed in military service – leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving – are highly valued in the civilian workforce. By effectively communicating these skills through networking, veterans can position themselves as valuable assets to potential employers.
To start building a network, veterans can take small, manageable steps. Joining a local veteran support group, updating professional profiles or attending an upcoming networking event are all excellent starting points. Each conversation and connection made is a potential steppingstone to a new career opportunity.
Aaron Harper joined Veterans Bridge Home, (veteransbridgehome.org) a non-profit dedicated to connecting, leading and advocating for veterans and their families as the vice president of employment 2022. Having served in the United States Marines Corps as an Air Traffic Controller for more than 5 years, he was medically retired as a Sergeant. He was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait for Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Cease Fire and Provide Comfort. Harper is a 2022 Charlotte Hornets' Yellow Ribbon Program Award recipient. He also received two DoD Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Above and Beyond Awards. In 2018, he and his wife (NCARNG COL Michele Harper) were named Veterans Bridge Home's 1st Veterans of the Year.
Finding a job in the civilian workplace may seem easy at first. After all, you have learned skills, practiced leadership and demonstrated initiative that will make you successful wherever you go.
The reality, though, is that it can be difficult. In fact, it can be downright depressing demotivating and you may feel totally disillusioned. We can help.
In our Veterans In Transition archives you will find helpful and informative articles about what’s next in transition, veterans in business, career, advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, veteran franchises, legal tips & resources for veteran businesses and much more...
For assistance in your journey please visit: HomelandMagazine-Veterans-In-Transition
homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition
By Alok Chanani, CEO, BuildOps
When I transitioned from military service to the tech world, I quickly realized that while the environments were different, the skills I brought with me were just as valuable—and often under-appreciated.
The tech industry, known for its rapid pace and need for innovation, is perfectly suited for the strengths that veterans bring. Yet, many veterans face significant challenges when making this shift, finding that the road from military to civilian life is paved with both opportunities and obstacles.
Each year, nearly 200,000 military personnel transition to civilian life, but only a fraction find their way into the tech industry. Despite having developed critical skills like problem-solving under pressure, teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication, many veterans face hurdles in translating these strengths into terms that resonate in the civilian job market.
I’ve been there myself, moving from being a U.S. Army Captain to founding and leading a tech company as CEO of BuildOps. (buildops.com/about) This transition wasn’t seamless, and the experience has shown me how essential it is for companies to actively recruit and support veterans.companies to actively recruit and support veterans.
The skills honed in the military aren’t just relevant to tech—they’re essential. In the Army, I learned to lead teams through complex, high-stress operations where adaptability and clear communication were key. The ability to assess situations and make decisions under pressure is directly transferableto tech projects where deadlines are tight, and stakesare high. These are the same skills that help teams innovate and move projects forward even when plans don’t go as expected.
Yet, too many veterans are overlooked or struggle to showcase their potential. The reasons are varied. For one, translating military experiences into civilian terms can be challenging. What does leading a platoon equate to on a resume? How does coordinating complex logistics operations in a combat zone translate to leading a product launch or managing a development team? Without guidance, many veterans find themselves with a set of unmatched skills and no clear way to present them.
The transition from military life to the civilian workforce is more than just changing jobs; it’s an identity shift. Veterans, who are used to a strong sense of purpose, discipline, and structure, often face a new world where expectations and culture are vastly different. This shift can lead to feelings of isolation and uncertainty.
I remember the initial culture shock of moving from a regimented military life to the flexible, often ambiguous world of tech. I was fortunate to have mentors who helped bridge that gap and translate my military background into a set of valuable assets.
However, not all veterans have that support. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that while unemployment among veterans is relatively low, disparities exist. For example, Black, Asian, and Latino veterans have higher unemployment rates than their white peers. Women veterans, the fastestgrowing segment of the veteran population, face unique challenges, including negative perceptions and difficulties accessing care and support.
Programs like the Soldier for Life – Transition Assistance Program and *Hire Heroes USA* have made significant strides in providing resources and training to help veterans adapt, but more is needed. Companies must actively engage with these
The tech industry, known for its rapid pace and need for innovation, is perfectly suited for the strengths that veterans bring.
For the tech industry, recruiting veterans isn’t just a good deed—it’s smart business. Veterans come with built-in resilience, a focus on mission-driven goals, and the ability to lead with both confidence and humility. At BuildOps, I’ve seen how these traits translate directly into team dynamics and innovation. When veterans join our teams, they bring a unique ability to motivate those around them, push projects forward, and maintain a steady hand when challenges arise.
One of the best ways to support veterans transitioning into tech is by offering training that fills specific skill gaps and connects military experience with tech roles. Internships, mentorships, and tailored onboarding programs can make a significant difference. Helping veterans translate their leadership and problemsolving skills into civilian terms isn’t just about a job—it’s about finding new purpose and continuing to contribute meaningfully.
If we want to truly tap into the potential that veterans bring, we need to create pathways that make sense.
This includes educating hiring managers to understand military backgrounds, creating inclusive support networks, and offering continuous training opportunities that build on existing skills. My experience transitioning into tech showed me that when veterans are given the chance, they excel. They lead with integrity, take ownership, and have a drive that can set teams apart.
It’s time for the tech industry to recognize the value of veterans not just as employees but as leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Companies that invest in veteran talent will find themselves enriched by perspectives built on resilience, adaptability, and dedication—qualities that any high-performing team would be lucky to have.
Alok Chanani, CEO of BuildOps, is a visionary leader transforming the commercial contracting industry. A former U.S. Army Captain turned tech founder, Alok leverages his military-honed leadership skills and an MBA from Wharton to drive innovation in construction through BuildOps ground breaking cloud-based platform.
By Paul Falcone www.PaulFalconeHR.com
What’s the number one reason people get so nervous about public speaking? Because they’re focused on themselves. And that’s a mistake. They need to focus on others—not themselves—to become immediately more comfortable with the whole idea of public presentations. Let’s take a quick look at how this works. First, people who are about to make a public speaking presentation log into Google or ChatGPT and ask the magic question: “What do I need to do to prepare to give a public speaking presentation?” And the responses come right back immediately:
• Understand and engage your audience.
• Do your homework/research the topic thoroughly.
• Structure your content appropriately and include compelling visuals.
• Practice your presentation out loud, including voice control and body language.
• Prepare for questions or objections.
• And last but certainly not least: manage your nerves.
These are all valid guidelines, tips, and strategies to ensure that you feel comfortable giving the best presentation possible. But they’re premature: you’re not ready for this yet because you’re missing the most important element of all: the gift you bring to others through your public speaking presentation.
When checklists focus on you—your posture, tone of voice, body language, content mastery, and the like—you’ll simply get nervous. Instead, be a giver, not a taker. Takers tend to have more anxiety: they want and need validation. Givers, on the other hand, are all about service. Their presentation can be less about them and more about helping their audience learn and grow. Presenting becomes an act of service rather than a talent show or need to impress others. With that wisdom in mind, allow me to propose a different initial checklist that you’ll need to get in the right mind space about your upcoming public speaking assignment:
Successful public speaking is always focused outward on how you can help, how you can serve, and what you can do to make people’s lives better or easier to navigate. Follow the items in this checklist before any presentation to ensure that you’re in the right mindset.
1. How can I help?
2. How can I support you?
3. What can I do to make your lives or jobs easier?
4. What can I pay forward to help you build your self-confidence?
5. How can I help you do your best work every day with peace of mind?
6. What can I do to give people back to themselves—to feel more respected and trusted, and to build stronger relationships with their boss, coworkers, and customers?
7. How can I help people feel rejuvenated and refreshed, not burned out or exhausted?
8. How is my presentation going to make a difference in terms of making their lives, their jobs, or the world a better place?
9. What two or three takeaways do I want people to remember about my presentation one week or one year from now?
10. What gift do I have to bring forward, and how do I want people to feel after my presentation?
No, I’m not going all “airy fairy” on you. This is real. This is why you’re doing what you’re doing. And this is where you can make a real difference. Remember poet Maya Angelou’s famous quote:
"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
That leadership wisdom applies to becoming someone’s favorite boss, friend, and mentor as much as it does to leading a presentation that has the potential to change someone’s life—or at least make one portion of their job easier to understand.
No matter what type of public speaking setting or challenge comes your way, simply think of it as an opportunity to help. Look to the ten “Real” checklist items above to determine which of those elements apply to your upcoming speaking opportunity. Then frame your message and deliverables in that spirit of helping others, making their lives easier, and sharing wisdom. No, not every public speaking opportunity will rise to the level of changing people’s lives or careers, but you’re obviously speaking with them for a reason: Look to that kernel of truth where your gift to them lies.
Once you’re focused on others’ needs and your ability to provide a solution, you can exhale. Your shoulders will drop just a bit. Your heart will stop beating so quickly. It’s amazing how people—when challenged to help others— step up to the opportunity. Reframing the public speaking task that lies before you in terms of connecting with people, helping and serving them, and making their lives or jobs just a bit easier will go an incredibly long way in calming you down and making you more comfortable in your own shoes.
You can connect with Paul on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/paulfalcone1
Paul Falcone (www.PaulFalconeHR.com) is a management trainer, executive coach, and bestselling author on hiring, performance management, and leadership development.
www.harpercollinsleadership.com/catalog/paul-falcone/
By Elizabeth Caraway United States Patent and Trademark Office www.uspto.gov/jobs/veteran-hiring-program
Angelica McKinney admits it “might sound cliché,” but she was excited to join the military to see the world. Born and raised in South America, she moved from Cali, Colombia, to Houston, Texas, with her family as a teenager. She was living in Houston when she decided to enlist in the United States Navy, a decision she says led to her “gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world and the people in it.”
As much as she enjoyed her military experiences, McKinney separated to spend more time with her husband and to focus on finishing her bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Maryland University College. She and her husband worked on her military transition plan for almost a year. “We were just so excited for that ‘new chapter’ of civilian life,” she explains. She is thankful they spent so much time preparing and offers the following tips to transitioning service members.
1. Take time for reflection. Transitioning from military to civilian life is a big change, and McKinney encourages veterans to consider all aspects of life, from where you’ll live and whether you’ll buy or rent to what jobs you and your spouse will pursue. “If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you should never just ‘wing it’ when it comes to income and transitioning out of the military. Having as few ‘what-ifs’ as possible is the goal!” she says.
2. Be adaptable. Even with reflection and planning, the process can result in curveballs. When their family’s initial employment and move plan didn’t work out, McKinney says they pivoted. “Talk through all of the things and make decisions as a team.”
3. Don’t wait to get your veteran benefits. Take advantage of the Benefits Delivery at Discharge program, which allows you to file a claim for disability benefits 180 to 90 days before you leave the military.
McKinney served in the Navy for six years, first in auxiliary security forces, then as an operations specialist. Based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, she deployed to Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Palau, Guam, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
“[In the military,] I met people from all over our country and worldwide. Traveling abroad allowed me to experience different cultures firsthand,” she says of her service. “I believe that’s the reason I am more open-minded, tolerant, and accepting of different ways of life.”
4. Start considering jobs/careers early. “Begin now so you can see if you have gaps in either education, certifications, or experience. Figure out the steps to get from A to B and ensure that gaps are closed,” she advises.
5. Consider part-time military service. If you’re leaving active duty, consider continuing service in the National Guard or Reserves.
6. Seek out veteran support groups and organizations. “I missed the camaraderie of the military community; I missed knowing that I had a community to lean on no matter what,” she says. She soon found that sense of belonging in her new role.
From watch shifts to watching innovation
McKinney was first attracted to the patent examiner position at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) due to its benefits—a special salary rate, non-competitive career ladder, flexible schedule, telework options, comprehensive health benefits, and a retirement plan.
She quickly discovered, though, that she found the work exciting and fulfilling. As America’s Innovation Agency, the USPTO is the federal agency responsible for granting U.S. patents and registering trademarks, protecting intellectual property and promoting invention and creativity.
“At the USPTO, you see products before they get to market, some of which will later become successful, some not,” she explains. “You constantly see people making attempts to improve existing technology, such as hearing aids, to make things better for people. I am happy to directly contribute to the advancement of innovation.”
McKinney was also able to leverage skills she developed in the Navy in her current role. The need for clarity in military reports is similar, she says, to the need for plain language when writing an office action to notify a patent applicant of their patentability determination. Conducting briefs and debriefs as an operations specialist built her confidence in providing persuasive analysis of technical content and patent regulations to fellow examiners and applicants.
A culture of inclusion
McKinney appreciates the inclusive culture she’s found at the USPTO, participating in multiple voluntary employee organizations like the USPTO Military Association, Caribbean Intellectual Property Association, and Latinos in Trademarks. She is also a board member of the Department of Commerce’s Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
“The USPTO promotes a culture of diversity, inclusion, and community engagement. Working in an agency with those values allows me to feel accepted and valued,” she says.
The USPTO values the skills of military veterans. Learn more about the USPTO Veteran Hiring Program or reach out to HireVets@uspto.gov.
Veterans emerge from service with strong leadership skills and a thorough understanding of teams. Franchisors have long recognized that entrepreneurial veterans are some of the best qualified, motivated and successful prospective franchisees.
Franchises provide training. A franchise business operates on proven systems and defined procedures and has comprehensive training and support built into the franchising process. This means a veteran can enter a completely new field and is more likely to succeed by following the franchisor’s proven business model.
“As a Marine Corps veteran, I know the value of teamwork and dedication. At VetFran, we’re committed to helping fellow veterans turn their skills into successful franchise businesses and achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.”
of franchisees in the United States are veterans.
franchise businesses offer discounts to veteran prospects.
By Doug Dwyer doug.dwyer@dreammakerbk.com
This month, I’d love to share an excerpt from an article written about some of our veteran franchise owners – Jeff and Ruth Vargo. The full article can be found at the following link: citylifestyle.com/articles/making-your-dreamswork
“When was the last time we actually had a dream?”
Jeff and Ruth Vargo, owners of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of the Woodlands, TX, talk about their experience leading up to buying a remodeling franchise.
The discussion around starting their own business began with a question, “When was the last time we actually had a dream?” says Ruth Vargo, the co-owner of DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen of The Woodlands (a suburb of Houston, TX). The question set her and her husband Jeff on a journey that included a good deal of self-reflection.
Jeff and Ruth Vargo met at West Point. After graduation, they each deployed twice. As company commanders, they had countless discussions with their troops about the difficulties of deploying with children, so they left the Army when they started their own family. From there, they went to Exxon Mobil’s Major Projects Group, and in a blink, ten years had passed.
In 2019, Jeff, who has always had an affinity for home improvement, felt led to pursue something new, an opportunity to examine life’s purpose, happiness, and fulfillment. “He started asking himself some of those questions and really doing reflection and felt like God was really telling him to make a change,” says Ruth.
He began by looking at opportunities in the residential construction space. A year later, they had decided to buy a franchise. Their DreamMaker location in The Woodlands focuses on interior design and remodeling, and as it turns out, following their dreams is helping others fulfill theirs.
“That’s been the most rewarding thing for both of us,” says Ruth. “To have this dream and then actually try to go out and do it, it’s such a gift.”
“It was in construction, remodeling, owning your own business, all of that kind of thing was a really good fit,” says Ruth Vargo.
This month we would like to bless a reader with a $100 Visa gift card!
To enter for a chance to win, scan the QR code above or visit tinyurl.com/dreamgiftcard
God Bless!
Doug Dwyer is the President & CSO of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen, a company dedicated to helping its remodeling franchisees achieve Strong Margins and a Quality of Life.
doug.dwyer@dreammakerbk.com
By Kelly Bagla, Esq.
With each new year, entrepreneurs look to turn their vision into a business. These startups are often overflowing with tremendous ideas, energy and optimism, but don’t always have a roadmap for the legal aspects involved in starting a business. In the flurry of drumming up new customers, getting ready for a website launch and building the first prototype, it’s all too easy to put off some of the less glamorous, more administrative aspects of running a company.
Company filings and regulations are not the most exciting parts of your startup, yet they are critical to the health of your business and personal finances. Here’s a list of administrative aspects you need to consider for your startup or small business:
TO USE IT
Before you start printing our business cards, make sure the great new name you thought of is not infringing on the rights of an already existing business. Start with a simple google search, conduct a free trademark search and then conduct a search with the Secretary of State.
Forming a corporation is an essential step to protect your personal assets from any liabilities of the company. Each business structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your specific circumstances.
To distinguish your business as a separate legal entity, you will need to obtain a Federal Tax Identification Number, also referred to as an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The EIN is issued by the IRS and acts as a social security number for your business. This number will identify your business with the IRS and your clients.
When you rely on your personal credit to fund your business, your personal mortgage, auto loan and personal credit cards all affect your ability to qualify for a business loan. Using business credit separates your personal activities from that of the business. The begin building your business credit, you should open a bank account in the name of your company and the account should show a cash flow capable of taking on a business loan.
Your legal obligations as an employer begin as soon as you hire your first employee. You should spend time understanding what your obligations are according to the state you conduct business in. You should know federal and state payroll and withholding taxes, self-employment taxes, anti-discrimination laws, unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation rules, and wage and hour requirements.
Depending on your business type and physical location, you may be required to have one or more business licenses or permits from the state, local or even federal level. Such licenses include, general business operation license, zoning and land use permit, sales tax license, or professional licenses.
Using a name instantly gives you common law rights as an owner, even without formal registration. However, trademark law is complex and simply registering your company in your state does not automatically give you common-law rights. In order to claim first use, the name has to be trademarkable and in use in commerce. It’s always a great idea to protect your business name as it can become a valuable asset of your company.
No matter how busy things with your startup get, set aside some time to address these matters and take your legal obligations seriously. Getting your legal ducks in a row right from the start will help you avoid any pitfalls down the road, and will help you scale your business successfully as you grow.
We help entrepreneurs start, run, and grow their business and I’m proud to provide a limited time offer of 10% discount on our Startup Essentials Package. Please use the code Veteran at checkout.
For more information on how to legally start and grow your business please visit my website at www.BaglaLaw.com
Disclaimer: This information is made available by Bagla Law Firm, APC for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, and not to provide specific legal advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.
By Hadley Wood www.hlinwood-insurance.com
With the devastating fires in California last month, many businesses owners and homeowners should be looking more closely at their property insurance coverage. Insurance policies are written by attorneys and form a binding contract, so they can be lengthy and difficult to read through but it is important to understand what you are and are not covered for. Property coverage whether for home or business, consists of 3 basic parts:
A) General Liability – Your General Liability coverage amount is for 3rd party bodily injury or property damage that you or your actions cause another person.
B) Structural Coverage – This coverage amount should reflect the total cost to rebuild the structure should it become unlivable or unusable. Typical causes of loss are fire, explosion, windstorm, vandalism and water damage. There are three types of structural coverage forms:
Basic Form – this is the most restrictive in coverage and is typically only used when the other forms are not available due to the age of the structure, the lack of maintenance, high number of claims, risky location of structure, etc. This form tends to be less expensive but has many more exclusions of coverage and should be used with caution.
Broad Form – This coverage form is a moderate and fairly inclusive coverage option and includes everything that the Basic Form coverage plus water damage, collapse, theft, weight of ice/snow and other risks.
Special Form – This is the most desired coverage form and can cost more than the other forms but is very inclusive of hazards unless specifically excluded in the policy.
Michael Kidd
C) Contents Coverage (or Business Personal Property – BPP) - This coverage amount is in place to cover the contents of the structure such as furniture, equipment, inventory, etc. Items will be covered by either Replacement Cost or Actual Cash Value at the time of loss. * High value jewelry, artwork, bespoke items need to be added separately as a rider to the policy.
Average structural replacement cost is about $160 per sq foot BUT this will be contingent on where you live, what materials you use and the type of contractor you hire.
It is always best to have a property appraisal every few years to make sure your insurance coverage is accurate.
Loss of Use can be important to have included in the policy. This coverage would allow for insurance monies to be paid out to you to find an alternate home or business location while your structure is being rebuilt. Typically, coverage equates to around 20% of building coverage limit or a particular time limit such as 6 months -1 year.
Be prepared for an inspection from the carrier. Insurance companies are performing more rigorous inspections on properties in high-risk areas. Trees and brush should be cut back at least 5 feet from structures, fire extinguishers should be readily available, smoke alarms and sprinkler systems should be working.
Some useful tidbits to know:
California FAIR Plan - www.cfpnet.com - The California FAIR Plan has been set up for properties that are high risk and uninsurable other ways.
Earthquake and Flood – these coverages are generally NOT included in a typical property insurance policy. They would need to be added on or purchased separately.
Take pictures and videos of the property inside and out. If any renovations are completed, save receipts and update the pictures.
Deductibles should be set at a price you can afford to pay out of pocket without causing too much financial hardship.
Insurance can be expensive – know what you are purchasing and have candid conversations with your Broker.
If you have any Business Insurance questions, please reach out to me. www.hlinwood-insurance.com
By Barbara Eldridge www.mindmasters.com
“We choose to go…not because it is easy, but because it is hard, because that goal will serve to measure and organize the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.”
- John Fitzgerald Kennedy on sending a man to the moon
The driving force in any business comes from the passion and persistence to fulfill a dream and a purpose. If you like winning or achieving success in any game or situation, then you must focus on what the end result looks like. In the game of chess you must capture the King to win; in sports it is getting the highest score, in personal physical areas it might mean reaching a certain weight or winning a marathon.
In business you must define and strategize what the winning game is for you. To get in the game you need personal Goals that create the motivation, enthusiasm and fulfillment for playing all out in “the game of life.” Your personal goals are the benefits you receive as you pursue and take focused action in your business. The strength of your motivation for winning is directly related to the Goals you choose to pursue. They are your trophies, your titles, and your home runs.
Mastering the game of business means you have identified what you want the business to achieve and designed effective results to create a series of wins - the small ones give you a sense of what it feels like to be a winner. Results help measure your performance and give life to the game. Without the challenge there is little hope you will get excited about the activity it takes to be a winner nor will you make the necessary commitments for playing all out - then neither will your goals be met.
When you expect to win, you are committing yourself 100% to the process of playing the game of business. That is when you’ll own the game, and you’ll own the outcome. You must learn the power of focus by writing out a specific plan and getting started on it, whether you’re ready or not. Remember that there is no perfect
plan; the only perfect time to start is right now. Commit yourself to developing the belief that failure is feedback and offers an opportunity to restructure your plans.
Achievement in any area of life requires commitment and consistency, and perhaps as a business owner, it requires it even more. Both work and learning take patience and discipline while consistently going beyond your limits.
Move boldly in the direction of your dreams. Bring your passion, your excitement, your gratitude, appreciation and thankfulness to life, and you will indeed win in the Game of Business.
Barbara Eldridge has built a solid reputation as a Results strategies specialist, within industry and business over the past 40 years. Her unique message, since starting Mind Masters 30 years ago for entrepreneurs and small business owners, continually stresses vision, purpose and values as the key elements of business philosophy. Her undying compassion for the entrepreneur’s journey, her tireless capacity to listen, and her sincere enthusiasm for other’s success have insured her growing influence and her own mastery with MIND MASTERS.
www.mindmasters.com
By Joseph Molina www.vccsd.org
Venturing into the civilian life could be a daunting task. According to the Pew Research Center, 44% of veterans were reported to have difficulties transitioning back to civilian life. These challenges vary in nature from emotional, to physical to loss of purpose, facing several transitioning challenges.
When serving in the military, we build a lifetime of friendships with strong bonds. In the military we are used to having friends who we trust and learned to rely on. But as we transitioned out of the military, those strong bonds get lost or broken and those friends who we learned to trust may no longer be around and those strong bonds shared while in the military are no longer there.
Suggestion: Finding fellow veterans in our new communities is important and very helpful. It will help us reconnect with like-minded individuals, fellow veterans, who may help us identify available resources.
Serving in the military is about dedication and commitment to a unique way of life. Everyone serving identifies with the “Organizational Culture” of the military. Moving into a civilian environment means that we must “adapt” to a new way of life, new “Organizational Culture”. These may create a sense of unclear direction unclear sense of purpose causing us to feel a little lost and we may struggle to find our new purpose or our new direction.
Suggestion: Sense of purpose and sense of direction are our internal guiding points. First of all, we must be realistic, and understand that we are now moving into a new environment and that this could be a great opportunity and a great new beginning. This is a New Adventure.
Having a healthy savings account could make the transition much easier. Whether you are retiring or separating after a few years, having a financial plan will make a world of difference. Start your plan as early as possible, even a Year in advance and before separation,
but even if you missed the mark, the sooner you start a plan the easier it will be once you transitioned from the military. It is advised to have enough to cover the bills for three to four months.
Suggestion:
• Create a reasonable savings plan
• Reduce or eliminate debt
• Learn to manage finances (as it may be very different now as a civilian)
• Manage and monitor your credit score
In Summary: Transitioning from military into civilian environment may feel “different” like uncharted territory, just the way it felt the day we started our military training. Becoming aware that it is “normal” to feel “Not Normal” it helps to move forward, and it will feel lees of an obstacle and more like a challenge –We were trained to face challenges, we can do this!
If you would like direct assistance, feel free to contact us, we will be happy to help! just send us an email at: veteransccsd@gmail.com
The National Veterans Chamber will be more than happy to meet with you and provide some guidance. Check us out at: www.vccsd.org (Our Chamber of Commerce Membership is FREE for all Military/ Veterans and their extended families)
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You’ve served your country, now serve your community!
Military and law enforcement have had a longstanding relationship with overlaps in training exercises, equipment, and, most important, personnel.
It is not uncommon for a service member to make the jump from the military to law enforcement as both professions look for the same characteristics; leadership, fidelity, chain of command, and teamwork are all common themes in both professions.
Quite understandably, many American military veterans often gravitate to a career in law enforcement when the time comes to rejoin the civilian workforce.
The two professions have many fundamental similarities; from the uniforms they wear with pride, to the firm command structure they serve under, to great personal risk they endure while protecting those who cannot protect themselves.
The following agencies are actively hiring & proudly support our veterans, active military and the families that keep together.
By Holly Shaffner
Changing careers can be exciting, exhilarating, and filled with trepidation. Meet Officer Cindy Ovares who has made the transition numerous times – from active-duty service member, to student, massage therapist, teacher, and now police officer.
The life experience she gained in those previous longterm jobs set her up to be successful today. She is doing what she’s always wanted to do – have a career that is challenging and rewarding.
Cindy was like many seniors in high school as she contemplated what she would do after graduation. When the Navy recruiter called the house looking for her brother, the recruiter instead got an eager, independent 17-year-old woman who wanted to find adventure. Just a few months later, she was off to “see the world” and start her first career.
As an Aviation Machinist’s Mate, Petty Officer Ovares was a jet engine mechanic. It was a male-dominated job, and she wanted to prove that anything a man could do, she could do better. She attended military schools in Florida and Virginia to learn her trade, and was later stationed in Lemoore, California. She was attached to VFA-22, an F/A-18 Super Hornet squadron, that deployed on ships. After serving four years on active duty, she earned Post 9/11 GI Bill education benefits, and chose to leave the Navy to attend college.
After completing her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and being a fluent Spanish speaker, she was hired to be a high school Spanish teacher. The job was gratifying; but also, under resourced, understaffed, and had little room to grow professionally. She wanted something new and challenging, was drawn to the community where she grew up, so, in her late 30s she applied to be a police officer.
“Being able to talk to people, figure out what they are going through, and what they need is a huge portion of the job. I enjoy interacting with the public, and engaging in what I call verbal judo.”
Officer Ovares was accepted to the San Francisco Police Academy and has been an officer for the last three years. She is a foot patrol officer working in the Tenderloin District – a 50-block area that has a storied history, and has been known for homelessness, drugs, and crime.
“Being able to talk to people, figure out what they are going through, and what they need is a huge portion of the job. I enjoy interacting with the public, and engaging in what I call verbal judo,” said Officer Ovares.
For Officer Ovares, the parallels between serving in the military and serving in law enforcement made the transition go smoothly:
• Routine – You know what to expect before your shift begins (what time to report, what uniform to wear, the structure of the day).
• Camaraderie – The bond between fellow officers is like the bond between your fellow military brothers and sisters.
• Variety – Every day is different with different assignments and duties, so the job is never boring.
• Benefits – Include a competitive salary, paid vacation days, floating holidays, and sick days, healthcare, retirement, and special pay for certain assignments and being bilingual.
As a Latina giving back to her community, she admits that the job comes with highs and lows. Officer Ovares recommends a career in law enforcement for those military members looking to make a smooth transition to a new chapter.
To learn more about the San Francisco Police Department, or to connect with recruiter, go to: www.sanfranciscopolice.org/your-sfpd/careers
By Amber Robinbson San Diego Veterans Magazine
When I asked to go on a ride along with the San Diego Police Department, making a special request for any veterans-turned-cops, I expected a really serious, possibly dangerous, afternoon of shadowing our city’s toughest crime fighters.
What I got was an afternoon of heartfelt service to our San Diego community, honorable humility and a lot of respect.
When I asked whether former Marine Sergeant Major, Mark Wright, and his partner, former Marine Staff Sergeant, Sean Bunch, had rank or titles he said their titles were just San Diego police officers. They are relatively new partners, but act like they’ve known each other for years, which is usually the case when you get Marines together.
Wright is a newer addition to the force, coming on board two years ago, with Bunch only having two years left.
Currently, these brothers-in-arms spend their days patrolling the entirety of Balboa Park.
Although neither men are taking fire or kicking in the enemy’s door on this beat, like during their time in Iraq or Afghanistan, they still work hard to serve their local community. Service which can range from tracking down criminals to answering questions from lost pedestrians, to giving out stickers to kids and never backing down from a chance to turn on those flashing red and blues just to make one of them smile.
Most of our particular day was cruising around beautiful Balboa Park running car tags to see if they were current, from cars not displaying proper plates and placards to those double parked. Bunch says they often catch parole violators or even stolen cars doing just this. I was struck as I watched both officers go out of their way to look in and around vehicles to find plates or disability placards not displayed correctly so as to avoid issuing superfluous tickets.
“We try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt,” said Wright. “We’re not out to get anybody.”
Although, both officers confirm that enforcing even the most basic of park rules can yield large payoffs. During a recent patrol Bunch spotted an individual smoking in the park, which is illegal. As he circled back round, the individual turned and rapidly tried to walk away, which activated immediate suspicion. He was detained and came back with a warrant for numerous kidnapping and child molestation charges.
Both men say a lot of what they do is talk with museum owners and those living in the neighborhoods surrounding the park about their concerns. A shared concern by all is the park’s homeless population.
Bunch says their posture towards the homeless is mostly that of assistance, adding there are many resources available for those who would take them.
The city spends a lot of money on resources,” said Bunch. “The biggest problem we run into is whether or not the [homeless] people want them, and a lot of them don’t.”
Thus, the men tend to run into the same issues with the same people pretty often. Although frustrating, they have learned that respect goes a long way when challenged with these repeat offenders. Bunch recalls spotting one such offender in the park, who was in violation of his parole and wanted on warrant. He was unable to get to the offender immediately, but still apprehended him with a verbal request. The parolee waited patiently to be hand-cuffed and arrested, simply out of the respect he held for the law man.
“Being respectful of everyone despite their lot in life goes a long way in this job,” said Wright.
Both men say a huge part of their work is being able to connect and communicate with the myriad of people they meet daily.
Bunch says he feels he and Wright are lucky to come to the force later in life, given it means they have a wider frame of reference for those they meet and serve daily. “We deal with people who are going through all kinds of things in life,” said Bunch. “And it’s helpful to be able to say, ‘hey I know what you are going through, I’ve been there.”
As the day progressed, I realized that both gentlemen definitely had a long list of tough and unique life experiences to pull from. Both proudly served the United States Marines for years, traveling to war and all over the world, experiences that yield much wisdom as well as many a story.
Bunch, for instance, did not come to the force straight from the Marines, but from Hollywood. Surprisingly, he is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, working as a military advisor on various productions, like Lonestar 911, and appearing in some as well, such as one of the most recent Men in Black movies.
“I grew up outside of LA,” said Bunch. “So, I’ve always just kind of been around the business and found a place for myself there with all my military experience.”
Bunch hopes to return to work in Hollywood after he leaves the force, bringing with him a new level of experience and respect.
Wright, who retired from the Marines as a Sergeant Major never worked in Hollywood, but he does have plenty of stories about being a proud grandfather, father and new amputee. When I entered the Central Division Station and met him, he said he was just getting back to work after some time off after losing his leg.
Wright remained unscathed during his over-20-years in service, overseas deployments and endless combat train ups. It wasn’t until after service that he lost his leg in a motorcycle accident late one foggy night a little over a year ago. Wright says it had been an eventful second watch and he was leaving the station about 2 AM on his motorcycle when it happened.
“It was only about two minutes from work,” said Wright. “I was coming around a curve and entered into what I thought was fog, and as I’m entering, I see a headlight and side mirror in my lane.”
That headlight and mirror became an entire car that was blocking Wright’s entire side of the road.
“I was a heuy crew chief in the Marines and reverted to my training from that, grabbed my shoulders, braced for impact and went flying like a human lawn dart over my handlebars,” said Wright.
Wright landed in the ditch on the side of the road. He says he realized immediately that he had a back and leg issue. He learned that a bystander had called 911, but he requested they call back and state that the injured motorcycle rider was a policeman with the San Diego Police Department and expedite services. This one request would become pivotal in saving Wright’s life.
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“What I didn’t know at that time was that I had severed two arteries in my leg, and I was bleeding out,” said Wright.
What Wright would learn later is his heel had also been torn off on the wrecked car as he sailed past it into the ditch. After much pain and many surgeries, Wright would finally lose his leg from the knee down. says he doesn’t let it get him down, though. He’s proud to continue to serve as one of our city’s finest.
Both he and Bunch take much pride in their time as Marines and as San Diego Police Officers. Each officer comes from strong military stock, with Wright’s grandfather being a World War II veteran and Prisoner of War and Bunch’s father a decorated veteran of Vietnam.
All in all, this Army vet’s afternoon with two Marines was an impressive one. Both seasoned public servants, these honorable men have discovered you must give respect to get it, that violence is often not the answer and the most important thing to keep in mind along the way, is a good, human dose of empathy.
For more information visit www.joinSDPDnow.com or email us at SDPDrecruiting@pd.sandiego.gov
