What is the Joint Retiree Appreciation Day (JRAD)?

RAD's provide valuable updates, services, and resources, typically including:

• Benefits & Policy Updates – Information on changes to military retiree benefits, healthcare (TRICARE, VA services), and survivor benefits.

• Vendor & Resource Fair – Representatives from organizations that offer support, discounts, or services to retirees.

• Social & Networking Opportunities – A chance to reconnect with fellow veterans and retirees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can attend?
Although the JRAD is hosted by the Navy Retired Activities Office (RAO), it is open to military veterans, retirees, and their families from ALL branches of service.

Can I walk-in on the day of the event?

In previous years, we allowed walk-in registration on the day of the event for an additional fee. Unfortunately, this option is no longer available due to scheduling and payment challenges. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and we appreciate your understanding.

How much is the 2026 registration fee?

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous benefactor, we are able to reduce the registration fee this year to $30.00/person.

Why is there a registration fee?
In Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, there are no military installations with a venue to sponsor this type of gathering. With over 17,000 retirees in the region, this conference provides valuable information and resources. Since JRAD is intended to be a not-for-profit event, the registration fee is determined each year based on the costs of meals, audio/visual needs, insurance, and other expenses.

When is the registration deadline?

This year's registration deadline is August 28, 2026.

Is there a limit to how many people can attend? Unfortunately yes. The JRAD has become such a success that we have to limit the number of attendees to approximately 500 to comfortably seat everyone.

What does my registration fee include?

Your registration includes a continental breakfast in the morning and a bagged lunch in the afternoon, along with coffee, water, and other beverages available throughout the day. You'll also be entered into prize drawings.

Where is the event held?

The Treasure Island Resort in Welch, MN serves as the venue for our Joint Retiree Appreciation Day. See details below for location information.

Will there be hotel rooms available this year?

We have collaborated with Treasure Island to ensure there are plenty of hotel rooms available both Friday and Saturday for this year's event. In fact, they have completed renovations and added 300 more hotel rooms.

Last year was a bit noisy. Will it be quieter this year? We definately learned some lessons last year and have arranged for exhibitors to be located just outside of the main conference area. This will assist both them and you.

The JRAD contract with Treasure Island has been finalized for 2026. The Treasure Island Staff should be able to help with your hotel reservation.

For discounted Hotel Reservations (Friday and/or Saturday nights) or further information, call 1-800 222-7077 and request the group block: "JRAD".

Seminar attendees may reach the event by entering through the hotel lobby, on the west side of the casino, avoiding going through the casino operations or casino entrance.

Follow the corridor on the right side of the hotel lobby, past the bowling alley to the Conference Center where the JRAD registration begins.

TREASURE ISLAND INFORMATION

REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS

Welcome — Registration Is Open!

We're excited to have you join us for this year's Joint Retiree Appreciation Day. We have room for 500 attendees. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate walk-ins, so please register in advance.

Dietary Options Vegetarian and gluten-free lunches are available. If you need one of these options, please select it on the registration form. If you have no dietary restrictions, leave this section blank — a regular lunch will be provided automatically.

Refund Policy If you need to cancel, a full refund is available through August 21, 2026. After that date, we are unable to offer refunds as meals and supplies will have already been purchased.

How to Register Choose one of two options below — there are no extra fees for either:

• Credit or Debit Card — Register online using the button below. Payment is processed securely through Square.

• Mail-In — Follow the directions on the registration form. Please note that your registration is not complete until your check has been received. To ensure your spot, checks must be received by August 28, 2026.

Thank you for your support. We look forward to seeing you!

Interactive map for Treasure Island Resort

Registration is now open!

Joint Retiree Apprecition Day September 12, 2026