Author Archives: LOUJSWZ Inc.
Planting Blueberries: A Family Tradition of Health and Renewal
My wife and I wanted blueberries for so many reasons, health, self preservation, annual renewal, family activities, fun and most importantly life.
We have 6 plants for our current six children: Jared Alexis Jacob Michael Cayla and Mikayla. Two different varieties, Emerald and Jewel as you need at least two different types to have berries. There are so many parallels in life.
Everything came together today to get them planted. There is no better day to plant them.
You can say it’s not the right season, they are not big enough, or your Ph is off, but to us it doesnt matter as now is the time.
As they read the names on TV I am galvanized in the remembrance that the beauty and wonder of life is fleeting but must continued.
Donating Blood: An Easy Way to Help Others
- Today as I do every 8 weeks I donate blood
- Blood is ALWAYS in short supply
- Its an easy way to help others
- Helping others feels good
- Give blood if your able
- oneblood.com
Breaking the Stigma: It’s Okay to Accept Support
For over a decade, I’ve urged a close friend—a fellow veteran I served with in the Second Infantry Division and other locations—to apply for VA disability compensation. After two combat deployments and eleven years of dedicated service, he left the military, embodying the kind of leadership that could have made him a great general. Yet, like many veterans, he viewed seeking benefits as somehow lacking honor or dignity.
What finally clicked for him? Hearing his wife say, “Honey, you have these things.” It took a trusted loved one to remind him that it’s okay not to be okay.
Too often, veterans hesitate to accept help, recognition, or support, believing it diminishes their strength or pride. This mindset can lead to isolation, despair, and even veteran suicide. But the truth is, these benefits are a way for a grateful nation to say, “Thank you.” You don’t have to lie, embellish, or feel dishonorable.
I’ve now helped four veterans, spanning the Navy and Army, some out of service for over 20 years, navigate the VA disability compensation process. It’s a small act, but one I hope will encourage others to see the value in receiving the support they deserve.
If you’re a veteran—or know one—remember: it’s okay to receive this benefit. You’ve earned it. Accepting help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to your strength and service. Let’s stand together and support each other, proving that it’s okay to not be okay.
Feel free to share this message, reach out, or offer a word of encouragement to those who might need it. We’re all in this together.
Assisting a Veteran: A Journey of Perseverance and Support
At LOUJSWZ, INC, we understand the unique challenges veterans face, especially when it comes to securing the benefits they rightfully deserve. Recently, we had the honor of assisting a fellow veteran who waited 22 years to file his disability claim. Here’s how we helped him through this crucial process.
Reconstructing the Service Timeline
Our journey began by reconstructing the veteran’s service timeline, linking medical events, documents and exposures in chronological order. This was more than just gathering dates and facts; it was about understanding his experiences. We gathered his military medical records and diagnoses from his service period, creating a comprehensive picture of his military journey.
The Submission Process
When the time came to submit the claim through the VA.gov site, our veteran was well-prepared. Thanks to the groundwork laid over through working together. The actual submission took less than three hours. This efficiency was a testament to the dedication and hard work put into the preparation phase. We also provided psychological support, helping him overcome feelings of pride, guilt, and ego that often prevent veterans from seeking the compensation they deserve.
Understanding the Bigger Picture
At LOUJSWZ, INC., we strive to work with veterans who should receive compensation, even if they believe otherwise. This particular veteran had only a few items to claim and might not receive a high percentage of disability. However, the true accomplishment was his newfound understanding that veterans should be taken care of, and this is one way a grateful nation expresses its gratitude.
A Message to All Veterans
We want to emphasize that seeking compensation is not about pride or ego; it’s about recognizing the sacrifices made and ensuring that veterans receive the care and support they deserve. At LOUJSWZ, INC., we’re here to assist in every step of the process, providing the guidance and support needed to navigate the often-complex journey of filing disability claims.
If you or a loved one is a veteran in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help, honor your service, and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Together, we can navigate the path to securing your rightful compensation, just as we did for our fellow veteran who waited 22 years to take this important step.
An Effective Way to Boost Your Companies Customer Base
“At LOUJSWZ INC., we understand the unique challenges faced by veteran-owned small businesses. Our mission is to guide you through the intricate process of obtaining Federal Certification as a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) by the U.S. General Services Administration. Our team, comprised of veterans like you, leverages deep expertise and shared values to streamline your path to certification. This partnership will not only enhance your competitive edge but also open new opportunities in the federal marketplace. Start your journey towards certification and sustainable growth with us at loujswz.com. Let’s achieve great things together.”
Assisting a Fellow Veteran: Navigating the VA Disability Claim Process
At LOUJSWZ.com, we believe in not only providing exceptional service but also supporting our community in meaningful ways. Recently, I had the privilege of assisting a fellow veteran with his VA disability claim, a journey that spanned over seven months and highlighted the challenges many veterans face.
The Veteran’s Struggle
For over 20 years, this veteran avoided filing a VA disability claim. He perceived the process as daunting and felt an overwhelming sense of guilt, questioning whether he truly deserved the compensation. This internal struggle is not uncommon among veterans, many of whom hesitate to seek the benefits they have rightfully earned.
Sharing My Story
Upon hearing his story, I shared my own experience. I, too, delayed my claim for 13 years, burdened by similar feelings. It wasn’t until I worked closely with my spouse and a mentor that I managed to focus on issues directly connected to my service. This personal connection allowed me to empathize deeply with his situation.
Step-by-Step Guidance
Together, we broke down the process, tackling it piece by piece. We meticulously built a timeline of his injuries, illnesses, and exposures during his career. Acting as his project manager, I guided him through each step, ensuring he felt confident and supported.
Navigating the VA System
One hurdle we overcame was navigating the VA website. Through online meetings, I assisted him in getting an account, working through two factor authentication and submitting his claim in five parts, making the digital process less intimidating. Although the process is light years ahead of what it once was it is still is not as initiative as it could be so two people are much better than one.
A Fulfilling Endeavor
This experience was incredibly fulfilling. Using my own journey to assist someone who truly deserved it reinforced the importance of veterans supporting one another. Helping this veteran was a powerful reminder of the strength found in shared experiences and the impact we can have by offering support and understanding. We look forward to continuing to assist and uplift our fellow veterans in any way we can.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statesville, NC – MWK Ventures LLC., a professional services and logistics management firm, is proud to announce its official designation as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This significant achievement underscores the firm’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its dedication to supporting the veteran community, and is now eligible for preferential access to federal contracts, allowing the firm to contribute more substantially to the public sector.
Mr. Mark Kleinhenz, President and CEO of MWK Ventures LLC, emphasized the importance of the designation: “Becoming an SDVOSB is not just about the growth potential it affords our company. It’s a testament to our dedication to providing opportunities for veterans and ensuring their exceptional skills and experiences are recognized in the business world. It also demonstrates we are operating in accordance with Federal and State laws helping others identify honorable providers of goods and services.”
MWK Ventures, LLC would like to thank Lou Schwartz for his invaluable assistance in securing this designation. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in achieving this milestone.
For further information about hollandlogistics.com Holland Logistics, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, is a leading global fourth-party logistics (4PL) provider that aims to keep our faith first and strives to provide award-winning ethical customer service and solutions. Based in Statesville, North Carolina, we provide complete supply chain management services and a true partnership that allows you to focus on growing your core business.
For more on Lou Schwartz’s services, please visit loujswz.com or contact him directly at lou@loujswz.com or 706-332-6005.
Mark Kleinhenz
President & CEO
MWK Ventures, LLC and Holland Logistics
2227 Salisbury Hwy, Statesville, NC 28677
[Website](https://www.hollandlogistics.com/ )
SAM.gov UIC: WSZZCPZUWNU4 CAGE: 9VU38
A Picture is Worth 1000 Words
We are starting to get a lot of traction around helping founders show potential customers their organizations are being run in accordance with Federal and State legal, financial and business requirements through the awarding of federal certifications. They also demonstrate there past affiliation with the US Armed Services and there pride in the tradition of service and professionalism the Armed Services represent.
They realize as do customers that Federal Certification offered through the GSA have intrinsic values beyond the ability to open another channel for them. Let me help you see that as well.
We want to partner with you and help your organization have an additional tool to be successful. We work to make our services affordable and a true benefit to you.
We would love to help you. Lou Schwartz, founder
Doing the Right Thing
I was sweating, feeling sick to my stomach. I told the examiner and my wife that I couldn’t do this interview.
I left the secure sterile Veterans Benefits Administration office and went to the waiting room and began to pace. Thinking how I hated being here. How I was such a failure for even entertaining this stupid suggestion of reopening my disability claim with the VA after I listed to Jarmon.
I was trying to sell a BBQ Grill to Jarmon at a large chain home improvement store in early November 2023. I worked in the Inside lawn and garden department as the money from my corporate severance package had run out. My wife was only able to work part time as well as myself. My job search for over a year was fruitless. We cut everything we could from cable, yard service, no more going out to dinner, we reduced our health, life and car insurance but it was not enough. I had to bring in something even though I had military retirement and my VA disability to cover my bills and help my family. It was a hard landing for us as our great retirement plan went array.
Jarmon was solemn. He didn’t want to listen to my shtick I did in one form or another to sell BBQs to people. “Are you guys Bar-Be-Queuing this weekend? I wore a vest which represented military service to show to customers the corporation liked Vets. I pretty much knew he was Military because of our interaction and demeanor. Like a soldier knows an officer in or out of uniform. He said: “Thank you for your service but I’m not interested”. I said: “Thank you for your service”. He said: How did you know? I said, “I was in for 23 years so I know”. He laughed, and said; “What’s your my VA rating?” I told him, and he said; “you should be at 100”. I said: “I’ve heard that so many times but that’s just not a thing I want to do. He said, hey stupid this is not a gift or charity, and it’s not you scamming the government. This benefit is for your family and a grateful Nation, so get over yourself and help them. I laughed and said; “how are you so sure?” He said; “I work for the VA and this is what I do”. I advise veterans about this”. He said; “come to my office and I’ll help you”. I said: “Let me think about it”.
Regaining my composure I finally came back to the office. Jarmon, the Veteran Benefits Officer had tears in his eyes. I was scared something terrible had happened and I immediately internalized that it was something I did, or my wife told him I was a bad person as my mind went straight to the dark side.
My wife looked at me which meant to sit down. I did. Jarmon said he was upset and sad because the story my wife recounted about me was his story. He did not want to file. He did not want to appeal. He did not want to get help along the way. He was in a downward spiral. After several years someone out of the blue told him;” Hey stupid this is not a gift or charity, and it’s not you scamming the government. This benefit is for your family and a grateful Nation, so get over yourself and help them. In the long run you will get better for doing this.
I heard this before several times over the years, but that day and in that way it resonated. Hearing a CSM speak to me like when I was a dumb PVT back in 1988 again made it stick. “Tough love” is a good thing!
I appealed my claim 11 years after my first decision. Six months later and three one hour appointments I received my decision.
Now, my daughter will have the ability to go to a school of higher learning or vocation for a minimal sum. We will not have to pay property taxes allowing my wife not to work. The stress of getting care for my wife who suffers from liver cancer has been lifted. I can spend more time helping others in different ways while helping myself too.
I hope this true story helps any Veterans out there that need a good talking to.
Find the strength to do the right thing.
Do you own 51% of a business? Are you a Veteran, or a Woman that wants to do business with the largest customer in the world?
Did you know the GSA with the SBA do ALL Federal Government Certifications for Small Disadvantaged Businesses.
There are many for profit commercial certifications that DO NOT provide the benefits that the official Certifications do.
IF YOUR Certification doesn’t look like these then they are either out of date or a commercial program that does not give you the benefits you earned. The VA also now utilizes the SBA for there program as well.
I would be happy to help you in the process and or answer any questions you may have.
Lou@loujswz.com or call me 706 332 6005 I looking forward to the conversation!
