For Information Contact:

Ralph J. Eannace, Jr.
 798-5800

Oneida County Executive Ralph J. Eannace, Jr., today announced that the Oneida County Veterans Service Agency will host three social/informational receptions for local families with relatives in the military.

"This is a very difficult and stressful time for the families of area residents who are serving in Iraq or other places around the world where America is defending freedom," Eannace said. "As part of our outreach to all veterans – including those currently serving our nation – we want to bring our military families together so that they can network with each other and also receive information on any support services available to them – and who to contact when they have questions."

Eannace said the receptions will be held:

Boonville - May 2, 2003, - American Legion Post, Boonville - 2:00-5:00

Rome - May 3, 2003, - Henry P. Smith Post, Rome - 2:00-5:00

Utica - May 9, 2003, - Station Restaurant and Martini Bar Café, Utica - 3:00-6:00

Eannace said families wishing to attend one of the receptions should call Utica-Mike Clark 798-5830, Rome-Ron Casadei 336-4270 to confirm their attendance.

"During the Cold War, the families of the service people at Griffiss Air Force Base provided a tremendous support group for one another," Eannace said. "We want to continue Oneida County’s tradition of supporting our military families in every way we can. Military personnel who are involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom, or who are on duty in Afghanistan or other world hot spots, have families in various communities throughout Oneida County. By hosting these receptions, we hope that families can come together to meet others who are dealing with the same issues, and draw strength from one another in this difficult time. Just being able to pick up the phone or visit someone who shares the same feelings can make it easier for families to bear with the pressures and stress they face."

Eannace said that members of local Veterans organizations who wish to offer outreach and hospitality to the families of active duty personnel are also welcome to join the events. "We want to thank the Military Family Services organization in our area and our Veteran's Associations, who are providing great assistance to this effort."

"When any of us in Oneida County need help, all of us are there to provide that help," Eannace said, adding that representatives of the Oneida County Veterans Service Agency will be on hand at each event to outline existing services, and provide contact information so that families can have a local office to call upon for help.

Eannace said that the system for assisting military families can be very complex, and families can often encounter difficulties in obtaining information about support services or other issues.

"Veterans Service Agency staff are trained to wade through the maze of red tape to get results, and are willing to help the families of all veterans – including those protecting freedom on the front lines today -- with questions on any topic," he said. "If you have a question call us."

The Utica Office of the Veterans Service Agency is located at the Oneida County Office Building, 800 Park Ave. Contact Agency Director Michael Clark at 798-5830.

The Rome Office of the Veterans Service Agency is located on the First Floor of 228 Liberty Plaza in Rome. Contact Rome Office Director Ron Casadei or Homebound Services Coordinator Joe Perrone at 336-4270.

The Veterans Service Agency can be e-mailed at veterans@co.oneida.ny.us. Information on services is also available on the county’s Web site, www.co.oneida.ny.us.