News from the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Metrocare
July 2019
What Does Independence Day Mean to You?
By Jonathan Hill, Outreach Director
The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Metrocare

July 4 th (Independence Day) is a time to celebrate our freedom, the day we became a free and united nation in 1776, the day that the Second Continental Congress adopted the full and formal Declaration of Independence. This was a time when so much history about patriotism, sacrifice, and service to our nation was written with blood, sweat, and tears to bring together our nation as one.

Our nation’s colors are red, white, and blue. Each color represents something that we should always remember when raising, lowering, folding, presenting, or see flying and waving in the breeze. Red – represents hardiness and valor, White – represents purity and innocence, Blue – represents vigilance and justice. The stripes represent the original 13 colonies and the stars represent the 50 states of our nation.

This day is also a time to reflect on all the men and women who fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms that we have today. The United States has fought in many battles to protect our nation against tyranny and terrorism with men and women who have volunteered to take arms, fight and continue to stand for freedom.

Independence Day celebrations that occur throughout the country and here in North Texas gives family and friends an opportunity to gather, remember, reflect and celebrate -- celebrate by standing tall and looking at our nation's colors and being proud to be a free person in a governed nation -- by the people for the people.

The United States of America is the greatest country and we should continue to celebrate Independence Day with pride, patriotism, and unity. I am proud to be an American and to have served our country alongside some of the very best men and women. I will always remember their sacrifices so that that I and others can continue to enjoy the freedoms we have today and every day.  
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
This month, we highlight Ashly Smith , Data Manager at The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Metrocare.

What is your role at the Cohen Clinic at Metrocare? I am the Data Manager. That means I am responsible for maintaining the Clinic's electronic health records.

How long have you worked at the Cohen Clinic at Metrocare? My three-year anniversary was just on June 20th!

What do you like most about your job?
I like that I get to work with every department within the Cohen Clinic at Metrocare and help with the needs of the clinicians, administrative staff and the clients by recognizing data points that can improve care or notice patterns that could help with our outreach efforts. 
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
As a military spouse, I like that I am part of a network that is providing great care for the military family community. 

What is something fun and interesting that most people don't know about you?
I LOVE the ocean, but I cannot swim.      
VSO SPOTLIGHT
KVGI Radio
This month, we spotlight Mark Wariner, CEO of KVGI Radio, which focuses on veterans issues. Wariner gives back to the community through conversations, mentoring, and speaking.

KVGI is a premiere modern age media company that believes in the power of going the distance to connect with global, passionate, and curious audiences. The radio station specializes in radio, podcasting, and video services.
Having featured the Cohen Clinic at Metrocare and its services in the past, KVGI's radio shows focus on a variety of topics with a heavy passion to talk about today's, yesterday's and tomorrow’s veteran issues. Wariner is excited to extend this conversation even more. He was recently introduced to Project RELO in 2017, an organization that provides leadership training where participants develop a deep understanding about the character, quality, and full extent of veteran skills. They have collaborated on a project. This year, KVGI and Project RELO will launch its first program and vision to discuss veteran issues through a show called “Vet Talks," designed to help veterans have a better ground to stand on once they transition from service to civilian life. For more information about KVGI Radio and Vet Talks, visit kvgiradio.com and vet-talks.org .