A ribbon cutting for the newly
renovated Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC) building in Lincoln
took place Saturday April 26. The building, located at 122 N. McLean
Street, hosted a grand re-opening to show off new additions to their
building and services. These improvements include a new wheelchair
ramp to the main door of the building as well as a van and a new
transportation program to transport veterans who do not have
reliable transportation for themselves. The ribbon cutting was also
to introduce everyone to Stephanie Lucas, the Logan County VAC’s
newest addition.
In addition to Dan Benedict, superintendent of the VAC, and Lucas,
there were many others present for the ribbon cutting. This
included, but was not limited to, Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch, Senator
Sally Turner, Lance Conahan of the Logan County Board, Vince Long of
the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Annie Coers of the Central
Illinois Veterans Commission, the members of the VAC board, and many
more.
Before the ribbon cutting, the
guests were invited inside the VAC building to look around and
partake in refreshments, including water, sandwiches, and snacks.
The space was buzzing with friendly greetings and excited
conversation.
Once 11:15 came, Karen Castelein of
Lincoln Daily News invited everyone out to the front of the building
for the ribbon cutting. Once out front, Castelein made sure everyone
was in place with the ribbon and large scissors. She also introduced
several of those present.
Before the actual ribbon cutting
occurred, Benedict and Mayor Welch said a few words. Mayor Welch
started, sharing that, as a veteran himself, the VAC and all veteran
organizations are “very near and dear” to his heart. He shared that
he is excited to see Lucas come on board and serve alongside
Benedict. He ended by congratulating the VAC on their new upgrades
and stating that he is excited to see what more they will be able to
do for veterans moving forward.
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Benedict was the next to speak.
Benedict started by referencing the tax referendum that was passed
in 2016 that allowed funding for the VAC to be collected. Benedict
was hired that fall and has been working for veterans through the
VAC since then. He then mentioned the support that he receives from
the Logan County Board. As the vice president for the state
association of the VAC, Benedict stated that he hears many
complaints from other counties that their county boards restrict
what they are able to do for the veterans of their respective
counties. He described the Logan County Board as “awesome,” stating
that any time he needs anything, the board as well as the department
heads are eager to help.
Benedict then thanked the larger VAC, stating that they have also
been extremely supportive. He also thanked the Marine Corps League
for donating the new van and voiced great praise for their
organization and what they do for veterans. Benedict then thanked
Senator Turner for her support, stating that she often consults on
his opinion on legislation regarding veterans. Next, Benedict thanks
Mayor Welch and the city officials. He stated that the city was
responsible for putting in the new wheelchair ramp. Benedict then
thanked the County Board for paying for all of the renovations, as
they offered to do so, they were not asked to. Benedict then thanked
Michelle Ramlow and the late Joe Schaler for their work in helping
get the VAC to Logan County in the first place. Benedict ended by
thanking Lucas, stating that she has been doing a great job filling
in any gaps that he leaves behind and a great job overall. This was
echoed by some of the veterans in attendance.
Once the words were over, Castelein started a countdown and the
ribbon was cut. After the ribbon cutting people stuck around and
partook in more refreshments and conversation. During this time, LDN
was able to speak to Benedict about more information regarding the
VAC.
The VAC used to be located in the Logan County Courthouse building.
This created some issues for accessibility, as some veterans were
not aware of the elevator on the outside of the building. Benedict
shared that, due to personal reasons, some veterans are not always
the biggest fans of having to go into government buildings. He went
to the county board and asked about finding another location, and
they were given the building they are in now.
Being more out in the open, this created an environment that was
more inviting and dedicated to veterans. Benedict stated that the
biggest thing this space provides is accessibility. He helps
veterans with claims, home loan certificates of eligibility, helping
with education benefits, and connecting veterans with people who can
help them with what they need.
[Matt Boutcher] |
