VVA Chapter PI 887

1. The “FAT LADY” has been delayed again. However, you can abandon the “Nipa Hut” fever.

2. We are still under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ), extended until 31 July 2020. While many check points have been dismantled, there are still remnants remaining with some performing random checks and minimal manning. There are still many barriers remaining in some areas restricting access. Local government units have general leeway to establish restricting access, so please check with your local barangay officials for restrictions (curfews) where you live.

3. The Manila VA Clinic has begun calling veterans concerning appointments. You will be given 2 options: OPTION #1 is to have your appointment conducted by telephone (telemedicine). Option #2 is to wait for an in-person appointment which the clinic will establish once the clinic is authorized to open. I elected to have my appointments by telephone. I can tell you that both my appointments went well. I had the opportunity to, not only answer the doctors questions, but to ask questions. I am extremely satisfied with this accommodation until the clinic reopens. The choice is yours. One caveat; you are not allowed to record the appointment. This is for your privacy.

4. Per Military.com, VA plans to expand health care services at Walmart’s post-pandemic. VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said the agencies telehealth services at Walmarts will expand in parts of the country with limited access to the agency’s hospitals, calling the move the “wave of the future”.

5. ZOOM is not approved for DOD computers or networks. Being considered for banning in the U.S. Please be aware that you risk your privacy if using this app.

6. TIC-TOK has been found to be doing the same as ZOOM and is being considered for banning in the U.S. Recommend that you do not install on any device and if already installed (even by family members) delete unless you want the Chinese Communist Party to know “everything” about you and your family (from the U.S. State Dept.). TIC-TOK has been fined by the U.S. Government for violations of children’s privacy rights. Again, be aware.

7. My personal opinion is that this COVID-19 situation is not going to end until there is a vaccine or “herd immunity” is established. We survived Agent Orange and the other effects of the Vietnam War – we WILL survive this. Just stay “smart” and “stay safe”.

8. Our next General Membership Meeting will be on Tuesday, August 4th at 2 PM in American Legion Post 123. Hope to see you there!

JAMES (JIM) LARY President