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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In New Virginia, IA

Home Care New Virginia, IA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in New Virginia, IA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care New Virginia, IA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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“Tracey Gray helped me in the biggest way today! She saved my day and I am so thankful for her choice to help me! Thank you! #CertPrint #AlwaysBestCare”

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care provided excellent caregivers to us. I am really happy with the care and support they provided to my father. Highly recommended to all!”

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“On behalf of my family, I would like to thank Always Best care for all the support your caregivers have provided to my mother. She was very pleased with the care she received. I confidently recommend Always Best Care to all.”

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care in Cedar Valley IA realy helps me a lot. They have Reliable Caregivers who helped me to take care of my loved one for several years. They are highly trained and managed well the daily routines and activities like bathing and dressing. Caregivers of always best care is dependable and passionate to their work. I am satisfied and so glad that I chose their service. Highly recommend whoever needs their caregiving service!”

Melanie S.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in New Virginia, IA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care New Virginia, IA

Types of Elderly Care in New Virginia, IA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care New Virginia, IA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers New Virginia, IA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care New Virginia, IA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care New Virginia, IA

Benefits of Home Care in New Virginia, IA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in New Virginia, IA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care New Virginia, IA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your IA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care New Virginia, IA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in New Virginia, IA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care New Virginia, IA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers New Virginia, IA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Home Care New Virginia, IA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care New Virginia, IA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in New Virginia, IA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care New Virginia, IA

Latest News in New Virginia, IA

Navy to commission the new USS Iowa this week | Letter

Letter to the editor...

Letter to the editor

Known as “The Ghost,” it can operate in theater, anywhere in the world, undetected, with its lethal force prepared to defend our nation where necessary.

Iowa's complement consists of 117 enlisted servicemembers -- both men and women, as well as 15 officers. In fact, Iowa will be the first submarine commissioned for sea duty to be specifically designed for men and women.

The average age of crew members is 24 years old, and several lowans are currently assigned to serve on her.

Its nuclear reactor powers the submarine for the 30-plus-year life span of the boat. Its pump jet propulsion allows for maximum stealth.

The Iowa can deliver Navy SEALs via underwater release anywhere in the world. She has four torpedo tubes and two Virginia payload tubes, the latter carrying tomahawk missiles with a range of 1,500 miles.

Iowa's primary mission is defensive. It puts aggressors on notice of retaliation capabilities in order to deter them from first-strike action.

The men and women of the Iowa will operate for up to three months at a time, underwater, in tight quarters in defense of our nation. The ship will carry with it habitability upgrades and furnishings of specialized significance to our state to include references to our state's fertile land, top-flight universities, agricultural and industry prowess, technologic and energy advances, food production, sporting success, education focus, and courageous citizens.

Iowa will project the kindness and protective capability of our people, backed up by resolve to act when the danger of an opponent's force requires a response.

Business, industry, and individual lowans have volunteered time, talents, and resources in support of this new submarine carrying the name of our state. We can all be justifiably proud of this new warfighter, its crew, and their families as the Iowa is brought into service. Its mission, on watch as our silent guardian, is to deter, detect, and defend.

As lowans, we can all celebrate this powerful, silent protector as she begins her 30-year journey putting to sea this April 5.

Fred L. Dorr, Navy Officer Veteran Executive Director USS IOWA (SSN-797) Commissioning Committee

Send us your stories

Do you want to share good news that’s happening in your community? This Register feature focuses on stories of thanks and local spirit, identifying people in Iowa who are making a difference. The Iowa Pride feature appears on our Inspiration page on Sundays. To contribute, try to keep your submission around 100 words. If possible, send a photo that we have permission to use, along with your contact information. Email your Iowa Pride submission to [email protected].

Looking Ahead: Potential for Extended Disruptions

Home » America Travel News » US Travel Alert: Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, St. Louis, Chicago, Nashville, New Orleans, Atlanta, West Virginia, Georgia, and Carolinas Set to Experience Another Powerful Tornado Affecting More than One Hundred Million People, Need To Know for W...

Home » America Travel News » US Travel Alert: Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, St. Louis, Chicago, Nashville, New Orleans, Atlanta, West Virginia, Georgia, and Carolinas Set to Experience Another Powerful Tornado Affecting More than One Hundred Million People, Need To Know for Weekend Trip

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

A significant and potentially devastating tornado outbreak is set to impact a vast portion of the central and southern United States, affecting more than 100 million people across multiple states, including the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Missouri, West Virginia, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and the Carolinas. Major metropolitan areas such as St. Louis, Chicago, Nashville, New Orleans, and Atlanta are also in the storm’s path.

This severe weather event, expected to unfold from Friday through Sunday, will bring damaging tornadoes, strong winds exceeding large hail, and torrential rain. These conditions will disrupt travel across the region, with widespread flight cancellations, airline delays, road closures, and potential cruise interruptions.

Airports in storm-affected cities are already preparing for significant operational challenges, and travelers should check with airlines for updates before heading to the airport. Road travelers should anticipate reduced visibility, potential flash flooding, and dangerous driving conditions.

For those planning weekend trips to affected areas, flexibility is crucial. Consider rescheduling non-essential travel and ensuring accommodations have emergency protocols in place. Stay informed through weather alerts, avoid unnecessary travel in high-risk areas, and be prepared for last-minute disruptions.

The tornado threat will extend into the nighttime hours, increasing the danger for those in vulnerable locations. Travelers should have emergency plans, stay indoors when possible, and monitor local advisories to ensure safety during this extreme weather event.

A powerful and expansive severe weather outbreak is set to impact more than 100 million people across central and southern United States, bringing widespread travel disruptions. As extreme storms stretch across 500,000 square miles, the tourism industry braces for major airline delays, flight cancellations, and cruise interruptions.

Multi-Day Storm System Spreads from Midwest to East CoastStarting Friday and continuing through Sunday, the storm system will move eastward, affecting key regions from the Great Plains to the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee valleys. The severe weather outbreak will stretch into the central and southern Appalachians, the Gulf Coast, and the Atlantic coastline, causing significant travel disruptions.

The storm’s northern reach is particularly unusual for this early in the season. States that recently experienced freezing temperatures and snow—such as the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin—will now face the risk of severe thunderstorms. AccuWeather meteorologists warn of a major risk zone spanning Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, and surrounding states.

Flight Cancellations and Airline Delays Expected NationwideThe aviation industry is already preparing for substantial disruptions. As violent storms bring powerful wind gusts and possible tornado activity, major airports in St. Louis, Chicago, Nashville, New Orleans, and Atlanta could experience extensive flight cancellations and airline delays.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a severe weather advisory, warning of widespread turbulence, rerouted flights, and possible ground stops at major travel hubs. Passengers traveling through impacted regions should monitor real-time flight updates and prepare for extended wait times.

Severe Storms May Cause Cruise and Rail DisruptionsThe weather event may also impact cruise operations along the Gulf Coast. Port closures and delayed departures are likely as strong winds and storm surges create hazardous maritime conditions. Similarly, Amtrak and regional train services may experience delays due to high winds and flash flooding risks across the Midwest and Southeast.

Tornado Outbreak Possible in Midwest and SouthThe risk of multiple tornadoes will escalate throughout the weekend, particularly in Missouri, central and southern Illinois, and northern Arkansas. Tornado watches and warnings may extend into major cities, posing dangers for travelers staying in hotels, rental homes, or mobile accommodations.

Nighttime tornadoes add an extra layer of risk, as reduced visibility makes it harder for residents and travelers to respond quickly. Visitors in affected areas should remain vigilant, review emergency procedures, and ensure they have access to real-time weather updates.

Severe Winds Could Damage Property, Power Lines, and VehiclesStrong winds, potentially exceeding 70 mph, could bring widespread damage to homes, hotels, and tourist attractions. Power outages are a significant concern, with thousands of properties likely to experience blackouts.

Visitors should prepare for disruptions by keeping emergency supplies, such as flashlights, portable chargers, and bottled water, readily available. Many attractions and businesses may temporarily close due to hazardous conditions.

Hailstorms Could Impact Travelers and VehiclesLarge hail—potentially reaching the size of golf balls—may also develop in the strongest storms. Rental car agencies and travelers using personal vehicles should take precautions to prevent hail damage, such as parking under covered structures or delaying travel until storms pass.

Midwest and Southern Tourist Attractions Face DisruptionsPopular tourism destinations, including Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, Nashville’s Broadway, and New Orleans’ French Quarter, could see reduced foot traffic due to severe storms. Outdoor events and festivals may face cancellations, while museums and indoor attractions could see an influx of visitors seeking shelter from extreme weather.

Coastal destinations along the Gulf of Mexico, including beach resorts in Florida, Alabama, and Louisiana, may experience rough surf conditions and temporary closures. Travelers should check with local tourism offices and businesses before finalizing plans.

Monitor Travel Updates and Adjust Plans AccordinglyTravelers should stay updated through airline notifications, weather alerts, and local travel advisories. Major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta, and United, have issued travel waivers for passengers flying through affected regions. Flexible rebooking options may be available for those impacted by airline delays and flight cancellations.

Essential Safety Tips for Tourists in Storm-Affected Areas

As the storm system moves eastward, additional disruptions may occur in states along the Atlantic coastline. The risk of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and strong winds may extend into the Carolinas, Virginia, and Georgia. The travel industry should prepare for continued airline delays, cruise cancellations, and public transportation challenges in the days ahead.

For travelers with upcoming trips to storm-affected regions, flexibility is key. Stay informed, plan ahead, and prioritize safety when navigating potential travel disruptions caused by this historic severe weather outbreak.

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US Navy unveils newest Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS Iowa

The Navy formally unleashed its newest Virginia-class fast attack submarine, the Iowa, in a commissioning ceremony Saturday in Groton, Connecticut.The 377-foot vessel, built by General Dynamics Electric Boat, can dive to depths of more than 800 feet below the surface and maneuver at speeds of over 25 knots, or nearly 29 miles per hour.Iowa is equipped with Tomah...

The Navy formally unleashed its newest Virginia-class fast attack submarine, the Iowa, in a commissioning ceremony Saturday in Groton, Connecticut.

The 377-foot vessel, built by General Dynamics Electric Boat, can dive to depths of more than 800 feet below the surface and maneuver at speeds of over 25 knots, or nearly 29 miles per hour.

Iowa is equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles and a nuclear reactor plant that eliminates the need for refueling, according to a Navy release. And as a Virginia-class, the boat was built with flexible design features, including an expansive lock-in/lock-out chamber for special operations divers and a reconfigurable torpedo room. The submarine can also deliver unmanned undersea vehicles.

“Make no mistake, naval warfare is evolving. Where battleships once ruled the seas, it is the silent strength of submarines that provides our Navy with an unmatched strategic advantage,” Navy Secretary John Phelan said at the commissioning ceremony. “This is not just a milestone for USS Iowa, but a critical step forward in strengthening our Navy and ensuring America’s global maritime dominance.”

The newly commissioned sub, which carries a crew of 135 sailors, is the service’s first vessel to be named after the state since the famed World War II-era battleship Iowa (BB-61).

“In this coming year, this crew of proud American sailors will put this warship to sea and carry the name ‘Iowa’ to the far-flung corners of the globe projecting combat power for decades to come,” Adm. Daryl Caudle, U.S. Fleet Forces commander, said at the event.

“It is the fearless warriors before me that turn this piece of metal weighing almost 8,000 tons — with hundreds of miles of fiber, cable and piping systems — into a combat ship, a warship designed to decisively win our nation’s battles. Your preparation and execution to get this ship to commissioning day is nothing short of amazing.”

U.S. Navy fast attack submarines enable sea control, power projection, maritime security, forward presence and deterrence, the service release stated, with capabilities to carry out operations spanning anti-submarine, anti-ship, strike, special operations, intelligence, reconnaissance, mine and surveillance missions.

“This event is significant for both the life of a submarine and for the amazing people from the Hawkeye State,” Iowa commanding officer Cmdr. Gregory Coy said. “To the plank owners, the shipbuilders, the commissioning committee, and our Navy and Submarine Force leaders, this is your submarine.”

About Zita Ballinger Fletcher

Zita Ballinger Fletcher previously served as editor of Military History Quarterly and Vietnam magazines and as the historian of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. She holds an M.A. with distinction in military history.

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