Ft Meade Soundoff Nov 1, 2012

fist fightMeade Soldier balances boxing, military service

page 14

UPCOMiNg EVENtsfriday, 9 P.M.-1 a.M.: Latin Club Night - Club MeadesatUrday, 10:30 a.M.: Veterans Appreciation Day Luncheon - Club MeadesatUrday, 9 a.M.-5 P.M.: OSC Annual Holiday Bazaar - McGill Training CentersUNday, 10 a.M.-2 P.M.: OSC Annual Holiday Bazaar - McGill Training CenterNOV. 8, 3 P.M.: Veterans Day Observance - Fort Meade Museum

hallOwEENCostume party, 5K run add zest to annual harvest holiday

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Soundoff!́vol. 64 no. 44 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community november 1, 2012

photo by Staff SGt. Sean K. harp

Flag detail commander Airman 1st Class Stephanie Englar, of the Defense Information School’s Air Force Student Detachment, departs the flagpole on McGlachlin Parade Field after completing Retreat. The flagstaff detail braved the rain and strong winds of Hurricane Sandy on Monday to accomplish their duty to retire the colors, signaling the end of the duty day. For more, see Page 3.

fort meade’s finest

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! November 1, 2012

Commander’s Column

Cont ent sNews............................. 3 Sports..................................14

TroubleTicket............... 4 Movies.................................19

Community................. 17 Classified.............................20

Editorial StaffGarrison Commander Col. Edward C. rothsteinGarrison Command Sgt. Maj. thomas J. latterPublic affairs officerChad t. Jones [email protected], Command informationPhilip H. Jones [email protected] Editor & Senior Writer rona S. Hirsch Staff Writer lisa r. rhodesStaff Writer Brandon Bieltzdesign Coordinator timothy davis Supplemental photography provided by Patuxent Publishing Co.

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300

allison thompson 410-332-6850 [email protected]

Michele Griesbauer 410-332-6381 [email protected]

If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361.

Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source.

Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army of the products or services advertised.

www.ftmeade.army.milYou can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd

and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil.

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Talk about weathering a storm.As Hurricane Sandy moved up the East Coast on

Sunday and forecasts about its impact in our region became more apparent, the area’s preparedness operations took steps to mitigate the storm’s impact on our local communities with a primary focus on the safety of residents and the area’s workforce.

Regional transit systems, schools, airlines, gov-ernment offices and places of business announced closures. There was a continued focus on planning for worst-case scenarios and taking proactive steps to do things that could make this difficult situation better.

These proactive steps included the decision to close Fort Meade on Monday and Tuesday, requir-ing only emergency/essential employees to report for work.

We did our best to keep the post community informed about weather conditions, closures and what to do in emergency situations.

I appreciate the responses posted on Fort Meade’s Facebook page from community members thank-ing staff for their hard work and efforts to keep everyone safe during this storm.

This is not the first time Fort Meade has had to react to severe weather. That said, I could not be more proud of the way many of you banded together during this difficult situation.

Fallen trees, disrupted power service and flooded roadways are inevitable when a storm as massive as Sandy hits our area.

But like other times when we have had to recover from what nature had dealt us, this community has found a way to come together.

I am very proud of our Directorates of Emergen-cy Services and Public Works, our first responders whenever we have bad weather, and in knowing my operations director is at the helm while our Public Affairs Office is ensuring the command messages are conveyed and the community is involved.

The storm is over, but you should note that they are still on the job today doing their part to make sure life as we know it at Fort Meade returns to normal.

Other post partners, such as Picerne Military Housing, also continue to coordinate efforts to repair damages and resume normal operations.

Each time there is a storm I am thankful we have such dedicated work crews and staff, who immedi-ately assess the damage and work tirelessly to return things to normal.

And even though the storm is over, we’re still in storm mode. Safety first! Our Emergency Operations Center is still up and running. We continue to access the damage and we are monitoring the weather

to ensure work-ers remain safe and are able to continue cleanup efforts.

Please keep in mind that just because the worst of the storm is behind us, there are still things to remember to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy.

• Do not drive through flooded roads. Cars can be swept away or break down.

• Continue to listen to announcements in local media and on our Facebook page to stay abreast of safety information.

• If you lost power, throw away any food that may be unsafe to eat.

• Be aware of possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards.

• If you do not know whether your water is safe, boil the water before you use it for anything, which includes brushing teeth, cooking, drinking or bathing.

And please take the time to access your emer-gency preparedness plan. Sit down as a family and talk about things you can do to improve your plan. If you used items from your emergency kit, now is the time to replace those items.

My thoughts are constantly centered on the safety and well-being of our community. I urge everyone to take ownership for their safety and well-being.

Every family should have a home emergency kit. Your kit should contain essential food, water and supplies to live on for at least three days. Keep your emergency kit in a designated location in your home and in an easy-to-carry container in case you need to evacuate.

Team Meade doesn’t just talk resiliency, we live it.

I know this storm presented many of you with stress. But I’m also convinced it inspired many of you to shine, despite the dark clouds.

Resiliency is the ability to work through adver-sity and challenges and find a way to glow in the dark.

Let’s all find ways to maintain our resiliency and be prepared to weather the next storm with all the light and power we need.

Have a great week!

Shining despite the dark storm clouds

COL. Edward C. rOthstEin

Garrison Commander

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil November 1, 2012 SOUNDOFF! �

News

22,844 in Anne Arundel County, while 264,056 customers had their power restored, including 80,782 in the county.

“Still, that was fewer than officials expected and under the number of outages caused by Hurricane Irene last year,” according to The Baltimore Sun.

Throughout the storm, Rothstein posted messages on Facebook, praising the commu-nity for its efforts in advance of the storm to minimize its impact:

“Everyone is working together and taking the appropriate precautions. ... Our partner organizations, garrison staff and most of all, community, have done great in preparation. Key to the continued success will be through communications and teamwork.”

Rothstein thanked residents Tuesday for staying off the roads during and immediately after the storm:

“I appreciate minimizing the traffic on our roads that allow us to focus our care on the community with minimal delays. ... Thanks again for all that you do in being a part of Team Meade.”

By Rona S. HirschStaff Writer

Like much of Maryland, Fort Meade was spared the brunt of Hurricane Sandy as the superstorm pounded the Northeast.

By the time the rains and winds tapered off on Tuesday, the installation was left with minor damage and a bridge closure.

“The only significant events overnight were a few trees down and limited power outages that have since been repaired,” Lt. Col. J. Dar-rell Sides, Fort Meade provost marshal and director of the Directorate of Emergency Services, said Tuesday.

Wednesday morning, residents in the 2900 and 3000 blocks of Potomac Place and Patriot Ridge were scheduled to lose power temporar-ily while crews removed some debris off of power lines.

At approximately 7:45 a.m. Tuesday, the DES, National Security Agency Police and state troopers made a joint decision on site to close Route 198 directly on post boundaries where the creek by the Wastewater Treatment Plant flows under a double bridge on 198, according to the DES.

“Racing water hit the side of one of the bridges with force, and slow-moving water covered the far bridge,” Sides said. “The state assumed control of the bridge closure, and the State Highway Administration placed barriers on both sides.”

There also was minor wind damage to signs and fences across the post that do not pose a threat to the community, said Sides.

“Other than the bridge, all operations are normal from the DES perspective,” Sides said.

In anticipation of the storm, the garrison collaborated with community leaders on and off post.

“Great teamwork and community response from our garrison staff, partners, and neigh-bors inside and outside the fence line,” Gar-rison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein posted on Fort Meade’s Facebook page.

As the storm intensified, many government offices and businesses and all state school sys-tems closed. Garrison leaders closed the post both Monday and Tuesday, requiring only emergency/essential personnel to report for work. Normal operations resumed Wednes-day.

“The area’s preparedness operations took steps to mitigate the storm’s impact on our local communities with a primary focus on the safety of residents and the area’s workforce,” Rothstein said.

According to the Baltimore Gas and Elec-tric Co., 85,710 utility customers were without power as of Wednesday morning including

Hurricane strikes post with minimal damage

photo by Col. jen buCkner

A group surveys the damage from a fallen tree in Heritage Park during Hurricane Sandy.

photo by Staff Sgt. Sean k. harp

Airmen from the Defense Information School’s Air Force Student Detachment reach up to secure the post flag during Retreat on Monday at McGlachlin Parade Field.


News

By Office of Personnel ManagementThe federal government has a long-stand-

ing policy of granting employees limited time off from work (excused absence) to vote in federal, state, county or munici-pal elections or in referendums on any civic matter in their com-munity.

Agencies have discretion-ary authority to grant excused absence to the extent that such time off does not seriously interfere with agency opera-tions.

Typically, polling places through-out the United States are open for extended periods of time. Therefore, excused absence should rarely be needed.

A number of questions have been received regarding excused absence for the purpose of voting in the presidential election on Tuesday.

In response, the following guidelines have been issued by the Office of Personnel Man-agement for agencies to consider when grant-ing excused absence for voting:

• Generally, the Office of Personnel Man-agement has advised agencies where the polls are not open at least three hours before or after an employee’s regular work hours.

The agency may grant a limited amount of excused absence that will permit the employee

to report for work three hours after the polls open or leave from work three hours before the polls close, whichever requires the lesser

amount of time off.An employee’s “regular work hours” should be determined by

reference to the time of day the employee normally arrives at and departs from work.

• If an employee’s voting place is beyond normal com-muting distance and vote by

absentee ballot is not permitted, the employing agency may grant

excused absence (not to exceed one day) to allow the employee to make the

trip to the voting place to cast a ballot.If more than one day is needed, the employ-

ee may request annual leave or leave without pay for the additional period of absence.

For general information on federal pay, leave and work-scheduling policies, visit opm.gov/oca/index.asp.

Since policies may differ from agency to agency, employees should contact their agency human resources office for information on their agency’s policy on excused absence for voting.

Agency field offices should contact their appropriate headquarters-level agency human resources office.

Guidelines on excused absence for voting

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

With Fort Meade being the largest employer in the state with more than 56,000 employees on post, about 450 people filled the auditorium of Arundel High School on Oct. 25 to learn what the installation’s agen-cies are looking for in new employees.

The Anne Arundel Workforce Develop-ment Corporation and Howard County Office of Workforce Development spon-sored the 90-minute employment town hall to detail employment opportunities on the installation.

Representatives from the National Secu-rity Agency, Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center, Civilian Personnel Advisory Center, Chugach Federal Solutions and Clearedjobs.net attended the meeting.

Agencies that were relocated to Fort Meade through the Base Realignment and

Closure, including the Defense Informa-tion Systems Agency and Defense Media Activity, also sent representatives to the town hall.

“Tonight we’re here to talk about BRAC and beyond,” said Kirkland Murray, presi-dent of AAWDC. “Now that BRAC is over, we want to make sure that we talk about the job opportunities that are coming to Fort Meade itself and the surrounding areas.”

Kirkland said that prior to last week’s event, more than 13,000 employment oppor-tunities were available in Anne Arundel County alone.

“As this economy gets a little bit better, there are definitely job opportunities out there,” he said.

Tim O’Ferrall, general manager of the Fort Meade Alliance, moderated the event. During his opening remarks, O’Ferrall said he hoped the evening would help combat

some of the frustrations in finding employ-ment.

“Tonight we’re going to spend some time with you and help educate you and help you learn more about what Fort Meade — the region not just inside the post but outside — has to offer,” he said.

Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein served as the guest speaker. In his brief remarks, Rothstein said that while he is not in the position to hire employees, it is his job to provide an “appropriate work environment” for the 95 tenant organizations on post.

“There is absolutely growth in this region, there is growth on Fort Meade,” he said. “I hope you take advantage and learn what you can from the partners on the installation and off the installation.”

Representatives from the Fort Meade-based agencies spent about 40 minutes dis-

cussing the missions of each organization, what they look for in employees and pos-sible employment opportunities. They also discussed topics such as the proper way to submit resumes for federal jobs, where to find job opportunities and the skills that organizations are seeking.

The meeting was opened up for questions about the hiring process and concerns over security clearances.

Eric Dow, who served in the Air Force for two years and now plans on pursuing a degree in computer information sciences, attended the town hall for information about jobs in the area.

The town hall, he said, cleared up many of the questions and struggles that he has encountered in his search.

“It’s hard to look online,” Dow said. “[But] when somebody tells you what to do and where to go, it’s much easier.”

Meade participates in employment town hall

Public NoticeNotice of Availability: Draft Environmental Assessment and Draft Finding of No Significant Impact

The U.S. Army has prepared a draft Environmental Assessment that considers the proposed construction of a reclaimed water delivery system on Fort Meade to provide the National Security Agency’s main and east campuses with nonpotable water for their cool-ing towers.

Components necessary for the reclaimed water delivery system include a flow-diversion structure on the existing Little Patuxent Water Reclamation Plant effluent line, a conveyance main, a water pumping station facility located near the existing Fort Meade Wastewater Treatment Plant, an elevated water storage tank, and all interconnecting pipework.

The proposed water storage tank site is located between main campus and east campus and is adjacent to existing water storage tanks operated by American Water.

Construction of the reclaimed water delivery system will require approximately 25.5 acres of land disturbance. The conveyance main will cross underneath Little Patuxent River and Route 32, using Horizontal Directional Drilling technology.

This draft EA has been prepared to evaluate the proposed action, the alternative sites for the proposed action and the no action alternative. Implementation of the proposed action is not expected to result in significant environmental impacts, indicating that a Finding of No Significant Impact would be appropriate.

An Environmental Impact Statement, therefore, is not necessary to implement the pro-posed action in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act.

Copies of the draft EA and draft FNSI are available for review and comment online at ftmeade.army.mil, at the Medal of Honor Memorial Library at 4418 Llewellyn Ave. and at West County Area Library in Odenton.

Comments on the draft EA and draft FNSI should be submitted to the NEPA Compli-ance Officer at 301-688-2970 or mailed to Whitman Requardt and Associates LLP, Attn: Amanda Baxter, 801 South Caroline St., Baltimore, MD 21231.

Requests for copies and/or comments may also be submitted by email to Amanda Baxter at [email protected].

Comments should be submitted no later than 30 days from today’s publication of this notice.


News

Defense Information Systems AgencyStrategic Communications

The Defense Information Systems Agen-cy was the recipient of two of this year’s Department of Defense Chief Information Officer Awards at a ceremony held Oct. 19 at the Pentagon.

Miyi Chung, the deputy commander and technical director at the DISA Pacific Korea Field Office, won the first-place award in the individual category.

The White House Communications Agen-cy Cyber Operations Team won second place in the team category.

The DoD CIO award is the DoD’s highest recognition for outstanding achievement in information management, information tech-nology, information resource management, information assurance and cyber security achievements by government civilian and military teams and individuals.

“This is the premier event from the DoD CIO perspective,” said Teri Takai, the DoD chief information officer.

Takai emphasized the growing importance of information technology and cyber security and expressed appreciation to all those work-ing in support of the warfighters.

“When talking about our warfighters, there is nothing more important than com-munications,” she said.

The DoD CIO received 102 nomina-tions from around the world, representing hundreds of professionals in DoD. Only 10 nominations were selected as finalists: five in the team category and five in the individual category.

Nominations were judged according to their information delivery and dissemination, management efficiency and effectiveness, cost avoidance and savings, a broad user base, processes, net-centricity and mission.

Chung, who won first place in the indi-vidual category, was selected for her work in supporting U.S. Forces Korea. Her work with USFK ensures warfighters have information dominance and superiority while operating in a secure and robust Global Information Grid and cyberspace environment.

Chung coordinated the first IA profes-sional development effort in a sub-unified command. In that role, she provided and sponsored more than 80 IA training classes for 1,500 students across all services, com-ponents and agencies. The effort resulted in a savings of more than $4.5 million in temporary-duty funding across the Western Pacific region.

Chung also was selected for being a team builder and collaborator. She established the USFK Infrastructure Working Group to

address Korea theater of operation infra-structure-related issues to ensure 99.99 per-cent reliable service. The USFK J6 recognizes the USFK Infrastructure Working Group as the most effective senior communicator forum focused on transport and Defense Information Systems Network services.

Additionally, Chung is credited for pio-neering new capabilities in the Western Pacif-ic region. She served as a catalyst to gain pro-gram management office and mission partner buy-in for the implementation of enterprise and net-centric solutions including the DoD Visitor Program, GIG Content Delivery Service, and DoD Enterprise Email.

“[Winning] was unexpected,” Chung said. “It is an honor to be nominated, and even more so to make it as a finalist. It’s a pleas-ant surprise.”

The WHCA Cyber Operations Team, which won second place in the team category, led the DoD and the Presidential Com-munity of Interest in innovation, pushing the edge of technology to provide the best possible support to the president and the warfighter.

The WHCA Cyber Operations Team became the first DoD unit to develop and field a new, near real-time, mobile device intru-sion-detection system. The new approach gave the White House Military Office the ability to instantly detect anomalous activity on its BlackBerry handheld devices and pro-vide continuous global monitoring, regard-less of device location.

This capability eliminated manual scans with active monitoring, resulting in a reduc-tion of more than 3,200 man-hours of work per trip — totaling roughly 19,200 man-hours on travel missions. Implementa-tion marked the first-ever enterprise-wide network defense coverage for all BlackBerry devices in the WHCA inventory.

Additionally, the WHCA Cyber Opera-tions Team deployed more than 250 different applications, enabling significant collabora-tion across the PCI networks, including the development of a Common Operational Picture for use by the White House to directly support the military aides to the president and the president’s Emergency Operations Center.

WHCA’s Cyber Operations Team also takes credit for developing a robust manifest system for Air Force One. The system pro-vides WHMO with the ability to monitor — in real time — the seats available on the aircraft and obtain up-to-the-minute snap-shots of passengers onboard.

“It is an honor to get recognized,” said Navy Senior Chief Tanya Whitner, the

DISA wins first, second place at DoD CIO Awards

PHOTOs COURTEsY OF THE DEFENsE INFORMATION sYsTEMs AGENCY

Teri Takai, the DoD chief information officer, presents Miyi Chung, the deputy commander and technical director at the DISA Pacific Korea Field Office, with the first-place DoD CIO individual award. DISA Director Air Force Lt. Gen. Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr. (far left) and event keynote speaker Lt. Gen. Curtis M. Scaparrotti, director of the Joint Staff, were also on hand for the presentation of the award on Oct. 19 at the Pentagon.

The White House Communications Agency Cyber Operations Team receives the second-place Department of Defense Chief Information Officer team award at a ceremony held Oct. 19 at the Pentagon.

WHCA branch chief for J3 Cyber Network Compliance. “I appreciate that cyber security is becoming more commonplace and that it is being taken more seriously. It helps us move our cause along.”

DISA Director Air Force Lt. Gen. Ron-nie D. Hawkins attended the event to honor

and give recognition to the DISA and other DoD nominees.

Takai closed the ceremony with words of appreciation and thanks.

“These awards are a token of appreciation for all the work that all of you do,” Takai said.


News

By Drs. Anne Burnley and Beverly MalinerKimbrough Ambulatory Care Center

Undoubtedly, you have read or heard recent reports of persons developing men-ingitis related to contaminated steroid injec-tions.

The investigation is evolving and the numbers of people known to be affected is growing. As of Oct. 26, the Centers for Dis-ease Control and Prevention reported 328 cases in the country with 17 in Maryland.

Neither Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center nor any of its networked or TRI-CARE partners get medicine from the sup-plier of concern.

Fungal meningitis occurs when a fungus infects the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Fungal meningitis is rare and usually caused by the spread of a fungus through blood to the spinal cord.

This form of meningitis is not contagious. Those infected so far in this epidemic were inoculated when the fungus-contaminated medication was injected directly into their body, which bypassed their usual protective mechanisms.

Two types of fungi Exserohilum rostra-tumis and Aspergillus fumigatus that are common in the environment but rarely cause meningitis have since been associated

with this outbreak. Only one case so far is associated with Aspergillus. The rest of the cases are associated with Exserohilum.

Exserohilum rostratumis is a common mold found in soil and on plants, especially grasses, and thrives in warm and humid climates. Exserohilum rarely causes infec-tions in people.

Exserohilum infections most often occur in people with badly weakened immune systems. Even though Exserohilum has been called a black mold, it is very different than black molds that grow in buildings.

Exserohilum rostratum is distributed worldwide and is common on the grass family. Molds grow well in warm, moist environments and can survive extended periods of drought.

In general, molds present little serious health threat to immune competent people. However, some people are sensitive to molds and may experience symptoms such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing or skin irritation when exposed to molds.

Other people become very sick, usu-ally because of very large occupational exposures or because of underlying serious illness.

Current information regarding this par-ticular epidemic and its unfolding investiga-tion is available at cdc.gov.

Fungal infections source of meningitis outbreak

Beneficiaries enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select or TRICARE Retired Reserve could lose their coverage if they don’t take steps to switch from their monthly premiums by check.

They need to file an electronic form of pay-ment before Jan. 1, 2013.

Beginning Jan. 1, TRICARE will only accept monthly premium payments using recurring automatic payments by credit or debit card, or by recurring, electronic funds transfer from a linked bank account.

Beneficiaries can contact their regional con-tractor to set up automatic payments or obtain more information. Contact information for each region is available on the TRICARE contacts website at TRICARE.mil/contacts.

You also may use the following applicable link to visit your TRICARE region to learn more about TRR\TRS payment options:

• North Region:

hnfs.com/content/hnfs/home/tn/bene/enroll/fees/payments.html

• South Region:humana-military.com/south/bene/billing-

enrollment/PaymentOptions.asp • West Region:triwest.com/en/beneficiary/enrollmentben-

efits/epay/• Overseas:tricare-overseas.com/TRR.htmIt’s important that beneficiaries note that

they may be charged a fee of up to $20 for insufficient or unavailable funds.

Failure to pay premiums by the due date will result in termination of coverage effective the last day of the month last paid and a one-year purchase lockout.

For more information about TRS or TRR, visit the TRICARE Health Plan Costs web-page at http://tricare.mil/mybenefit/home/Costs/HealthPlanCosts/.

TRICARE to require only monthly electronic payments

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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil November 1, 2012 SOUNDOFF! �

News

Story and photo by Jonathan E. AgeeU.S. Army Field Band

Last month, the Jazz Ambassadors traveled to Alaska, where they performed a week of concerts and educational clinics throughout the state.

It was the first time in more than 30 years that the Jazz Ambassadors toured Alaska. The 19-member ensemble, which formed in 1969 as part of the U.S. Army Field Band, was eager to reach as many people as possible with their signature jazz sound.

Taking into consideration the nearly day-long flight into and out of the state, they had about five days to engage — and they made the most of every second.

Traveling more than 1,000 miles on tour, the band conducted five educational clinics, two educational assemblies and four concerts. For many residents, having the chance to see the Jazz Ambassadors perform was a rare treat.

“Last night I stood at the door as the community was leaving. Everyone thanked us for hosting,” said Amy Spargo, principal of Wasilla High School. “Some of the veterans were excited. They felt encouraged, validated and honored by having the group here. Many people said it is just hard to get that quality of music in rural Alaska.”

Chief Warrant Officer 4 William S. McCulloch, director of the Jazz Ambassadors, said the Army Field Band is tasked to carry the Army story to the grassroots of America,

and Alaska is a critical part of that mission.“It’s important we get out to all corners;

we don’t leave anyone out,” McCulloch said. “It’s very easy to play locally, and we do a lot local. But we don’t want the people of Alaska to think, ‘OK, they’re out there and they have sort of forgotten about us.’ ”

The Army Field Band also has an exten-sive educational outreach program, going into schools and providing instrument-specific instruction for students looking to improve their skills.

“As a principal, certainly I wanted my kids and their parents to see what the potential is,” said Trevan Walker, principal of Seward High School. “We’re building a music program here in Seward and I think the timing is absolutely perfect. I really do expect this to inspire the next generation of musicians from Seward, which was the reason I was so excited to host the Jazz Ambassadors here.”

The Jazz Ambassadors also coordinated with local schools to arrange for outstanding young musicians to perform onstage with the Soldiers during the concert. For some students, the opportunity was the highlight of their young career.

“My daughter played the trombone with them. That was a really fun thing,” Spargo said. “She was just a chatterbox last night at home because she got a chance to hear what she said were ‘some of the best trombone play-ers in her life.’ ”

Jazz Ambassadors tour the last frontier

Chief Warrant Officer 4 William S. McCulloch, director of the Jazz Ambassadors, salutes service members and their loved ones while the band plays the Armed Services Medley on Sept. 21 at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

By Maj. Kerry S. GarthArmy Public Health Nursing

If you have not received a flu vaccine for the 2012-2013 season, here are some facts about flu prevention to help you make this important decision.

Flu season lasts until May. Yearly vacci-nation is necessary because the flu vaccine you received last season won’t protect you this current flu season.

Right now is an excellent time to get protected. Your immunity will be in place just in time for holiday travel and get-togethers.

Influenza is a serious disease that causes more than 25 million illnesses, more than 150,000 hospitalizations and more than 30,000 deaths every year in the United States.

Prevention is key. The single best preven-tion available is an annual flu vaccine for

everyone 6 months of age and older. Fre-quent hand-washing helps. Staying home and away from groups of people when ill with fever and cough or runny nose also reduces spread.

If you are an eligible beneficiary who is not yet vaccinated, options for free vacci-nation include getting it done while seeing your health care provider for another rea-son or getting it at pharmacies and other sites that accept TRICARE.

For more information about seasonal flu, talk to your health care provider or visit the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control’s flu website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/.

You may also go to Kimbrough Ambula-tory Care Center’s Allergy & Immunization Clinic on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and on Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Flu vaccine offers best protection

MUSICSUPERVISORS G. MARQ ROSWELL CARTER LITTLEBYRON MANN RZA RICK YUNE DAVID BAUTISTA JAMIE CHUNG MUSIC

BY RZA AND HOWARD DROSSIN EXECUTIVEPRODUCERS TOM KARNOWSKI THOMAS A. BLISS KRISTEL LAIBLIN

RUSSELL CROWE CUNG LE LUCY LIU“THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS”A STRIKE ENTERTAINMENT/ARCADE PICTURES PRODUCTION A FILM BY RZAQUENTIN TARANTINO PRESENTUNIVERSAL PICTURES AND

ERIC NEWMAN ELI ROTHMARC ABRAHAMPRODUCEDBY A UNIVERSAL RELEASE

© 2012 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! November 1, 2012

News

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

Last spring, when Georgia Bussink, then a junior at Meade High School, learned that farmers in a village in Thailand were experi-encing economic hardships, she decided to buy the village a cow.

Georgia, now a senior enrolled in the high school’s International Baccalaureate Diplo-ma Programme, raised money, traveled to Thailand, purchased the cow and delivered it to the village as part of the requirements for the IB program’s Creativity, Action and Service project.

All students in the IB Diploma Pro-gramme are required to complete a CAS project during their junior and senior years.

“The purpose of the CAS requirement is for students to enhance their personal and interpersonal development through expe-riential learning,” said Jennifer Quinn, IB Diploma Programme coordinator. “CAS is both challenging and rewarding.”

Georgia’s aunt, Cherlux Junsanit, is from the Ban Non village in Thailand. About 800 people live in Ban Non and make their living as rice farmers.

When Junsanit learned that a family in her village was struggling, she sent money to help them. She and Georgia then decided to visit Thailand in the summer. Before the visit, Georgia thought about purchasing a cow to help the family while meeting the requirements of her CAS project.

“Most [of the villagers] are very poor,”

said the 17-year-old who lives in Laurel. “They live in houses that rarely have four walls. They don’t have any running water or electricity. … A cow can completely change a family’s life. The milk proceeds will directly benefit the family, and the cow will be bred. Generations to come will be provided for.”

Georgia and her family hosted a fund-raising party at their home in May. They held a silent auction, provided games for children and served Thai food.

The event raised $1,084.“I figured since we were visiting Thailand,

I would try to get my community involved in direct global help,” Georgia said.

In late June, Georgia used her own money to pay half of the expenses for her round-trip plane ticket to Thailand, which cost $1,600. Her father, a professional printer, paid the remainder and covered her expenses.

When Georgia arrived in Thailand, she purchased a 3-year-old cow in Khon Kaen, a large city near the village, for $600. The cow was transported from the city to Ban Non in a trailer. She was named “Lulu,” Georgia’s nickname.

The remaining funds were donated to the village.

Georgia, who stayed with her aunt in Ban Non and at nearby hotels during their two-week visit, said the villagers appreciated the gift.

“I could not understand them very well, but they seemed very thankful,” Georgia recalled. “We participated in a ceremony where they blessed me and the cow.”

Got Milk?

Meade High student buys cow for village

Photo courtesy of GeorGia Bussink

Georgia Bussink, a student at Meade High School, stands with her uncle Mong Junsanit, and Lulu, a cow she purchased for farmers in the impoverished Ban Non village in Thailand. Georgia, who is enrolled in Meade High’s International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, purchased the cow as part of her Creativity, Action and Service project, a required IB course.

Georgia said the experience taught her a great deal about what is important in life.

“The people in Thailand seem content with their lives,” she said. “They seem gener-ally happier than most people in America, despite their terrible conditions. They love their life and accept it. … It was a great experience that made me appreciate luxuries and not depend on them so much.”

Georgia said she keeps in touch with

some of the villagers through Facebook. There is an Internet bar near the village.

After graduation next year, Georgia plans to study mountain recreation and resort management in college. She also aspires to a career in the U.S. Coast Guard.

“I really felt good about what I was doing,” Georgia said. “It was a big accom-plishment to be able to provide for the fam-ily for generations to come.”

Are you providing child care out of your home on Fort Meade?

Are you certified through the Child, Youth and School Services Family Child Care?

If you answered yes to the first question and no to the second, you could be in viola-tion of guidance for providing child care on an Army installation.

Those who provide child care out of their home on an Army installation for more than 10 hours per week on a regular basis must be certified through CYSS Family Child Care.

The FCC office is responsible for certifica-tion and monitoring of all family members

on the installation who wish to provide child care out of their home.

Care provided by family members with-out certification through the FCC office is considered to be unauthorized care if it exceeds the 10 hours per week guidance.

Each year, there are two months that are considered amnesty months in which anyone who is providing unauthorized care can voluntarily come forward and start the certification process.

As long as this individual actively pursues certification by turning in the application and attending the next scheduled training,

the person can continue to provide care to those families.

If the individual does not actively pursue certification and successfully complete the process, the child care must stop.

The next scheduled amnesty month is November.

Anyone wishing to pursue certifica-tion may attend a pre-orientation briefing Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. During this briefing, the certification process will be explained and the application packet dis-tributed.

The next scheduled training is later this

month. The dates will be given to those attending the pre-orientation briefing.

To sign up for the pre-orientation briefing, call the FCC office at 301-677-1160.

Certified homes can be recognized by a sign displayed in the front or side window.

If this sign is not displayed in a window that can be seen from the street or parking area and children are being dropped off regularly, it is possible the resident is provid-ing unauthorized care.

Providing unauthorized care can jeop-ardize eligibility for housing as well as the military career of the sponsor.

Child care providers must be authorized

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil November 1, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

News

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

Debbie Fink and her daughter, Jen-nifer, authors of a new children’s book about military children, spoke at Manor View Elementary School on Friday.

Their visit was part of a national book promotion tour sponsored by the USO.

The book, entitled “The Little Champs: Child Heroes Attached to Mili-tary Personnel,” follows the children of five service members from each branch of the military coping with deployments; saying goodbye; and dealing with a wounded parent.

The book also includes lyrics from the song, “The Little Champ,” co-written by Jennifer Fink.

“The USO recognizes our nation’s little heroes are often those who need us the most,” said Susan Thomas, vice president of USO Warrior and Family Care. “With the release of ‘The Little Champs,’ we hope to grant wishes for these future leaders by acknowledging their sacrifice and raising awareness for the challenges they face.”

The USO is supporting the release of “The Little Champs” as part of the Grant a Wish for Our Heroes campaign to honor those who have exemplified service, sacrifice and strength for the nation. The organization will provide 6,000 copies of the book for USO centers around the world.

Debbie Fink, an educator and per-former who has written other books, will visit USO centers and military schools to read the book, teach the song and discuss what makes military children “champs.”

Earlier in the week, all Manor View students were given a copy of the book, which they read with their teachers in the classroom.

At the assembly, students were greeted by Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein.

“I read this book from cover to cover,” he said. “Aren’t the pictures pretty cool?”

Rothstein said what is important about the book are the stories it tells about military children.

“You are all the heroes,” he said.During the assembly, the Finks pre-

sented a brief video featuring photo-graphs of military children with their families. The authors then discussed the book’s characters and their different tal-ents and hobbies.

‘Little Champs’ authors visit Manor View students

PHOTO COURTESY OF USO

Debbie Fink (center), and her daughter, Jennifer (far right), authors of the book “The Little Champs: Child Heroes Attached to Military Personnel,” discuss the characters with students at Manor View Elementary School on Friday. The visit was part of a promotional tour sponsored by the USO.

The Finks then led the children in singing “The Little Champ” song and “The Star-Spangled Banner” as Debbie Fink played the violin.

Donna O’Shea, principal of Manor View, later presented each of the authors with a Commander’s Coin of Excellence on behalf of Rothstein.

At the assembly’s conclusion, the chil-dren were treated to ice cream provided by the USO.

In an interview after the assembly, Jen-nifer Fink, who is studying Public Health & Military Studies at the University of Maryland, said she asked her mother to work with her on the book project after she met a young girl last summer whose father was a Marine and triple

amputee.The girl said her father was lucky

because he had one arm.“That was her perspective. It is her new

normal,” said Jennifer Fink, a volunteer for Operation Homefront, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial aid and other assistance to mili-tary families and wounded warriors.

She explained that the girl reminded her of the sacrifices of military children and the coping mechanisms they develop to deal with the challenges in their lives.

The Finks, who reside in Bethesda, decided to write the book as part of a public health initiative to provide chil-dren with the tools to deal with military life and to help civilian children under-

stand their military-connected peers.Debbie Fink said she hopes the mili-

tary children who read the book recog-nize how much they are appreciated.

Grace Liston, a fourth-grader at Manor View, said she liked the book and understood how characters in the book felt when their parents were deployed.

“My dad’s in Arizona taking classes,” the 9-year-old said. “I miss him, but we call him sometimes.”

Fourth-grader Jaylen Dillard said the book was great and like a character in the book, he had to say goodbye to his friends on his school football team when his father, a Soldier, was reassigned.

“I think it’s cool to have a book about us kids,” the 10-year-old said.


News

PHOTOS BY NOAH SCIALOM

TOP: “The Amazing Stanley” performs his magic for the crowd attending the Harvest Festival on Saturday afternoon at McGill Training Center.BOTTOM LEFT: Six-year-old Hannah Rosine jumps in the moon bounce as she tries to get the attention of her mother, Christa Rosine.BOTTOM RIGHT: Iris Yoho, 10, who dressed as Cleopatra, has her arm painted at the Harvest Festival sponsored by the USO-Metro.

Soundoff! StaffThe ghouls, goblins and all things that

go bump in the night came out early on Fort Meade this year, alongside story-book characters and superheroes.

In the days leading up to All Hal-low’s Eve, the installation celebrated the spookiest day of the year with several events for children and adults alike.

Early Saturday morning, runners donned costumes as they ran in the Ghost, Ghoul and Goblin 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk at the Pavilion. While cos-tumes weren’t required, several partici-pants showed up dressed as superheroes, monsters and Gumby. Several dogs dressed for the run as well.

Saturday afternoon, the USO-Metro sponsored a Harvest Festival at McGill Training Center. The family event included a pumpkin patch, moon bounce, crafts, games, bike giveaways and a costume contest featuring prin-cesses, Rapunzel, Buzz Lightyear and a sultry Cleopatra.

Participants also enjoyed cotton candy and the magic of “The Amazing Stanley.”

Ghosts, ghouls and a Goblin 5K


News

LEFT: Runners bolt from the starting line at the beginning of the Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk on Saturday morning at the Pavilion.

BELOW: In costume, Cheryl and Bill Thomas wait to register for the Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk at the Pavilion. Saturday’s run was the fifth event in the annual Run Series.

BELOW LEFT: A dog wearing a Captain America suit waits patiently for the 5K run at the Pavilion. Several owners dressed up their pets for the Saturday morning run.

PHOTOS BY NATe PeSCe


SportS

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

After working a full day with the 742nd Military Intelligence Battalion — and when most people head home for the night — Staff Sgt. Andre Ward starts to warm up.

Following a short drive to Laurel, Ward changes from his Army uniform into workout gear much like any other Soldier for physical training. Only he adds one final touch — boxing gloves.

While Ward serves as an active-duty Soldier with the Fort Meade-based mili-tary intelligence unit, the 32-year-old also trains as a professional boxer with the Young Titans Boxing Club in the evenings.

His training hit a climax Saturday night as Ward fought in his fourth professional bout at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va. Ward’s cruiserweight fight against Mario Flores ended in a majority draw, bringing his professional record to 1-2-1.

“It would have been nicer to win,” Ward said. “I’ll give him the last round, and maybe some of the third. But I think I won the first two, if not the three. I think I did enough to win.”

Training started two months ago as Ward embarked on the long and rigor-ous buildup to the fight. The young boxer’s preparation was led by trainer and manager Lorenzo Whitehead, who began working with Ward in 2008.

When Ward first started training with Whitehead, he said he was beginning from square one, with little skill and experience.

“I couldn’t throw a punch properly,” Ward said of his early boxing days. “I couldn’t even jump rope for two or three minutes.”

Now, Ward’s daily routine consists of hourlong jump-rope sessions and bag work for six, four-minute rounds. Whitehead said that Ward has become a solid boxer despite his early struggles.

“Andre has come a very long way,” he said. “He’s very dedicated. He’s a workaholic.”

Ward credits his improvement and success to his dedication to the sport, giving up time with friends and family to spend three hours in a gym, six days a week.

“I’ve sacrificed so much and I’m not even anywhere in the sport,” he said. “There’s so much you have to give up to do this. ... If something’s really impor-

Fort Meade Soldier battles in the ring

photo by brandon bieltz

Lorenzo Whitehead talks with Andre Ward between rounds of Ward’s professional bout on Saturday night at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va. Ward’s fight against Mario Flores ended in a majority draw, bringing the staff sergeant’s record to 1-2-1.

tant to you, you’ll find a way to do it.”In preparation for Saturday’s fight,

Ward’s routine consisted of jump rop-ing, bag work, shadow boxing and sparring two or three times a week. But because not many boxers are in Ward’s weight class, he and Whitehead had to travel to find sparring partners.

“We’ve had to go out to get spar-ring, but we’ve got some good work,” Whitehead said.

In addition to the physical regiment, Ward also changed his diet heading into the fight by cutting out sugars. Sugar, he said, slows down fast-twitch muscles, which help generate short bursts of strength or speed such as punching or running.

In the week leading up to the fight, Ward cut back on the heavy workouts and focused on hand-eye coordination

on the speed bag and endurance with the jump rope.

At the weigh-in Friday night, the 6-foot-2 Ward was weighed at 195 pounds. After the weigh-in, he was able to eat carbohydrates and some sugar again in preparation for the four-round bout.

Heading into the fight, Ward hoped to bounce back after a loss in his last bout and return to his winning ways.

In Ward’s first professional fight, the bout was ruled a draw. Ward called it a “moral victory” having gone punch for punch with an 8-0 fighter. The fol-lowing fight, Ward took advantage of a weaker opponent and sealed the victory by knockout.

But following the win, Ward said he entered the next contest overconfident and without a game plan and was defeated. He planned to learn from his

mistakes for Saturday’s bout.“I’m going to go in there seeing a full

scope, being able to apply what I learned from last time,” he said.

On fight night, Ward’s bout was the second of the evening. While physical harm is part of the sport, Ward said his biggest concern or fear heading into the ring is embarrassing himself in front of the crowd. The contact isn’t even a thought.

“Everybody gets nervous,” he said. “You don’t think about it, you know you’re going to get hit. Floyd May-weather [a five-division world champion who has won eight world titles] gets hit and he’s the best.”

Early on in Saturday’s fight Ward took control, dominating the first two rounds. But Flores battled back in the middle of the third round and took


SportS

photos by jen rynda

Trainer and manager Lorenzo Whitehead ties Andre Ward’s boxing gloves during a training session at the Young Titans Boxing Club in Laurel. Ward has been working with Whitehead since 2008.

control of the fourth round.The fight was ruled a majority draw,

with two of the three judges ruling a 38-38 split.

“It was hard,” Ward said. “You know what you’re doing in the gym and what you execute in the gym. You have such high expectations from what you put in the training, then go out and not win.”

Ward said that he didn’t implement all his skills in the fight and needed to run harder and faster. Even though it wasn’t a loss, he said it still felt similar to a loss.

“Maybe I should have thrown a cou-ple more,” Ward said after the bout. “I feel like I did enough to squeak out a win. I may not have won by a large mar-gin, but I think I did enough to win.”

BELOW: Andre Ward, a staff sergeant with the 742nd Military Intelligence Battalion, shadow boxes during training at the Young Titans Boxing Club in Laurel. For the past two months, Ward has been training for his fourth fight as a professional boxer.

BELOW RIGHT: Andre Ward begins his bag-work routine during a workout on Oct. 19 in Laurel. In preparation for his fight, Ward went for six, four-minute rounds with the bag during his daily training.


SportS

Sports ShortsIntramural basketball meeting

A coaches meeting will be held Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. at Murphy Field House for those interested in forming an intramural basketball team for the winter.

Each team is asked to send a representative to the meeting. The league will begin Jan. 19.

For more information, call 301-677-3318.

Turkey Trot 5K Run and 1-Mile WalkThe installation’s annual Run Series continues with the Turkey Trot 5K Run

and 1-Mile Walk on Nov. 17 at 8 a.m. at Murphy Field House.The pre-registration cost for individuals is $15. Cost on the day of the run

is $25.The pre-registration cost for groups of seven to 10 is $85.The pre-registration cost is $40 for a family of three to six people. On the

day of the event, the cost is $60 per family.All pre-registered runners will receive a T-shirt.The next run will be the Reindeer 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk on Dec. 15 at

Murphy Field House.For more information, call 301-677-7916.

Ski clubThe Sun, Snow, Surf Ski Club at Fort Meade is seeking new members for

its 2013 trips.The club, which organizes a variety of athletic activities including ski trips,

bicycling, hiking and social activities, travels across the country and Europe.The club also sponsors activities in the area.For more information or to join, call Bill Bishop at 301-604-2113 or email

[email protected].

EFMP BowlingThe Exceptional Family Member Program is sponsoring its monthly

bowling event on Nov. 19 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Lanes.Bowlers up to age 18 will receive a free shoe rental and one game. Older

family members will receive discounted games and shoe rentals.Registration is required by Nov. 16.EFMP Bowling events are the third Wednesday of each month.For more information, call 301-677-7836.

NFL SundayThe Lanes’ lounge is a showing venue for NFL games this football season,

with the exception of local blackouts, on eight, 42-inch high-definition flat-screen televisions. Food service and full bar are available.


Texas Hold ‘emTexas Hold ‘em no buy-in games are played Mondays at 7 p.m. at the Lanes.Games are free and open to the public.For more information, call 301-677-5541.

Dollar DaysThe Lanes offers Dollar Days every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Bowlers receive a game of bowling, shoe rental, a hot dog, hamburger,

small fries, pizza slice or small soda for $1 each.For more information, call 301-677-5541.

There will be no videos linked this week or anything witty quipped or any-thing remotely funny mentioned. I’m just too down in the doldrums to be cute or sassy or even mildly amusing.

If there is anything remotely posi-tive about my outlook on life right now it’s that Mike from the bowling alley dressed up as me for Halloween, and the family — like most of Fort Meade — thankfully survived Sandy unscathed.

My sump pump did run for 36 hours straight, but that is way better than my basement flooding. Plus, the power never went out. So while Sandy was bearing down on my home, I was able to watch a “Friday the 13th” mara-thon.

However, despite all that goodness and things to be grateful for, I’m hav-ing a very hard time turning my frown upside down.

That’s because Sandy’s hurricane-force winds couldn’t even blow over the fact that I’m recuperating from the worst sports weekend of my life.

It actually started Oct. 24 when the Tigers lost Game 1 of the World Series to San Francisco and then kept moving downhill on Oct. 25 when they were shut out in Game 2.

The in-laws came in from Canada for Eid, so Friday went well. And after dominating the games at Chuck E. Cheese, and introducing my 13-year-old nephew, “Bilal the Impaler” to the greatness that is Michael Myers on Fri-day night, things were looking up.

But then came Saturday.I woke up ready to go to a much-

talked-about Halloween party when all of a sudden, it hit me.

“I’m not going to that party, fool,” I told myself in my best Mr. T. voice huff.to/Y0hfA6. (OK, so I lied about not showing a video clip. But these lines flow pretty freely on Wednesdays, and I’m bound to the rule that any mention of Mr. T will be accompanied by a video of Mr. T. It is the least I can do to pay respects to the man who inspired the name for this column.)

Anyway, I told myself that because I realized that watching Game 3 in Comerica Park was more important than any party, function, birth or task

— ever. So I spent the rest of the day get-ting pumped for the game. I then watched the game.

Bilal summed up the experi-ence like this: “I didn’t think you knew those kind of words, Uncle Chad. I like how you use them.”

Unfortunately, the Tigers offense wasn’t the only team in the state that was struggling. During commercials, I switched over to the Michigan vs. Nebraska game and was fortunate enough to see Denard “Shoelace” Rob-inson get injured and Michigan lose.

Then came Sunday.What else can I say about the Dal-

las Cowboys other than I wasn’t sur-prised?

I wasn’t surprised that they fell behind 23-0. I wasn’t surprised when they came back to take the lead, or when the Giants took it back. But mostly, I wasn’t surprised when Dallas tried to pass the ball three times in a row during a potential game-winning drive when all they needed was one yard for a first down.

Now this may be the sports depres-sion talking, but I honestly do not know if I can follow the Cowboys anymore. Seriously, I’m on the verge of tossing away 30 years of fandom and moving on to something new — maybe the Ravens.

But, trust me. If I do make the switch, it won’t be because of the losses. It will be because of the stupid-ity and the fact that my ulcers just can’t take the Jerrycoaster anymore.

Of course, the Tigers finished off their collapse and my weekend. And just like that, it was on to worrying about Sandy.

Since things can only get better, I expect a more upbeat Jibber next week.

But until then, if you have comments on this or anything to do with sports, contact me at [email protected].

Disappointed Jones

Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs

Officer

Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn


Community news & notes

The deadline for Soundoff! community “News and Notes” is Friday at noon. All submissions are posted at the editor’s dis-cretion and may be edited for space and grammar. Look for additional community events on the Fort Meade website at www.ftmeade.army.mil and the Fort Meade Facebook page at facebook.com/ftmeade.

For more information or to submit an announcement, email Philip Jones at [email protected] or call 301-677-5602.

Tax Center volunteers needed

The Fort Meade Tax Center at 4217 Roberts Ave. is in need of volunteers to help provide free tax assistance and electronic filing for Soldiers, retirees and their families.

Both tax preparer and administrative assistance positions are currently available.

No tax experience is required. All training and certifications are provided.

Training starts in January. The tax center is open until the end of April.

To volunteer or for more information, call Capt. William Biggers at 301-677-9086.

Exchange fee-free layaway The Army & Air Force Exchange

Service’s Holiday Layaway program is now fee-free.

Shoppers simply select their gifts for layaway and stop by customer service to complete the layaway process.

“Fee-free” means that while the Fort Meade Exchange collects an initial $3 processing fee for new layaways, that amount is returned to customers, via an Exchange Merchandise Gift Card, upon final payment and pickup of their items.

In addition, toy layaways will be extended through Dec. 23.

Also, today through Dec. 16, Fort Meade shoppers can place computers, laptops, iPads and netbooks on layaway.

A deposit of 15 percent is required when starting the layaway process. See customer service for program details and eligibility.

Veterans Day luncheonThe Retired Officers’ Wives’ Club and

co-sponsors are sponsoring the Veterans Appreciation Day Luncheon on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at Club Meade.

Socializing will be from 9:45 to 10:20

a.m.This event is for all military ranks,

personnel, veterans, their families and friends, and the civilian community.

The keynote speaker will be retired Brig. Gen. George G. Price. The West Point Alumni Glee Club will perform a patriotic musical tribute.

Cost is $25 per person. Tables seat 10 and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, call co-chairpersons Lianne Roberts at 301-464-5498 or Althea Freeman at 410-451-9709.

Harvest Fest RevivalThe Missionary Ministry of the

Argonne Hills Gospel Service invites the community to its “Harvest Fest Revival 2012” on Nov. 14, 15 and 16 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center, 7100 Rockenbach Road and Grandea Avenue.

For more information, call Michael Eaton at 410-446-5307.

Car seat checkThe Fort Meade Fire Department and

state of Maryland will host a free car seat check on Nov. 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Demps Visitor Control Center parking lot at the intersection of Route 175 and Reece Road.

No appointment necessary.To ensure proper fit, bring the vehicle

and car seat owner’s manuals and the child who will be using the seat.


Cutest Kiddo ContestThe 3rd Annual Facebook Cutest

Kiddo Contest for Exchange Facebook fans will be held through Dec. 6.

The grand prize is a Disney cruise trip for four to the Bahamas, plus a $500 Exchange gift card,

The first-place prize is a $2,000 Exchange gift card. The second-place prize is a $1,000 Exchange gift card.

Each of the five third-place winners will receive a $500 Exchange gift card.

To enter, fans should submit their cutest kiddo photo and complete an online entry form at facebook.com/AAFES.BX.PX.

Fans will vote on which photos should win.

The photo submission period runs to Nov. 8. Fan voting period is from Nov. 9 to Dec. 6.

All eight winners will be announced

file photo

‘Bowl for the goal’Fort Meade’s Combined Federal Campaign Team will host “Bowl for the Goal” on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lanes.Enter your four-member team to compete for unit, team and individual prizes.To enter, each team will donate $50 in support of Fort Meade’s CFC drive. Entry fees will be collected at the event by a CFC representative.Teams are not required to stay for the entire six-hour session. Each team will bowl three games and then may leave.Awardees will be announced later. To enter your team, visit signupge-nius.com/go/60B0D48ABA728A31-november.

NEWS & EVENTS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18



Dec. 12.Full contest rules can be found on the

Exchange Facebook page.

Donate to Ticketline Program

Donate your unused tickets to USO-Metro’s Ticketline Program.

Support our troops by donating tickets to sporting and entertainment events in the Washington-Baltimore region for local service members to attend in your place.

Tickets are redistributed to active-duty service members and their families at no cost.

All ticket donations are considered in-kind donations.

To donate tickets or for more information, email [email protected] or call 703-881-8490.

Family Life CenterThe Chaplain Family Life Center

at Argonne Hills Chapel Center offers services covering every area of life including personal, marital, children, family, divorce, grief and relationships.

Services are provided with complete confidentiality at no cost.

Chaplain (Maj.) Mark J. Jacobs serves as director of the Chaplain Family Life Center, which is located at 7100 Rocken-bach Road and Grandea Avenue.

Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To schedule an appointment, call 301-677-3784 or 301-677-3785.

Latin Club NightEnjoy a nightclub atmosphere at

Latin Club Night on Friday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Club Meade.

There is no cover charge. Cash bar is available.


OSC holiday bazaarThe Officers’ Spouses’ Club will

host its 13th Annual Holiday Bazaar on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at McGill Training Center, 8452 Zimborski Ave.

The free event is open to the public and will feature regional and local artisans, a visit by Santa, food, raffles

and entertainment for all ages.Vendors for Fort Meade and National

Security Agency family readiness groups may set up at no charge.

Applications are being accepted from regional and local crafters to participate in the event.

The fee for a 10-by-8 weekend booth is $75.

Proceeds will go to the OSC Scholarship and Welfare Fund to benefit the Fort Meade community.

For more information, email Dawn at [email protected] or visit http://fmoscholidaybazaar.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/FtMeadeOscHolidayBazaar.

Karaoke NightThe next Karaoke Night will be Nov.

15 from 7 to 10 p.m. in the 11th Frame Lounge at the Lanes.

The event is held the third Thursday of the month.

For more information, call 301-677-5541 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

Army Education WeekThe Fort Meade Army Education

Center will celebrate “American Education Week” from Nov. 13 to 16.

An information briefing on how to achieve certification while pursuing a degree will be held Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 55th Combat Camera, 831 Chisholm Ave.

Representatives from the following school will provide an overview of their certificate programs and answer questions: University of Maryland, University College; Webster University; Central Michigan University; Stratford College; Trident University; and Anne Arundel Community College.

Seating is limited.For more information, email john.

[email protected] or call 301-677-6421.

Bible studyA six-week, no-homework Bible

study program will be held Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

Remaining sessions will be Nov. 8, 15 and 29, and Dec. 6 and 13.

Find hope and inspiration as the class studies “Living Victoriously in Difficult

Times” by Kay Arthur.To register, call 301-677-3785.

Couples evening studyProtestant Women of the Chapel is

offering to couples a free evening study of the book, “The Marriage You’ve Always Wanted,” on Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. through Dec. 20 at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

Free child care is provided. For more information, call 301-677-

6035 or email [email protected] or visit ftmeadepwoc.org.

Auto care coursesThe Automotive Skills Center at 6530

Taylor Ave. offers monthly courses from 1 to 3 p.m.

Cost is $10 per class.Active-duty service members, DoD

civilians, retired and Reserve personnel and their family members are eligible.

An FMWR card is required to use the center. New patrons must first view a 20-minute safety video, then attend a 10-minute briefing.

The following courses are offered:• Nov. 18: Basic Welding 101• Dec. 2: Proper procedures for

replacing timing beltsFor more information, call 301-677-

5542.

Career, financial classesArmy Community Service and the Fleet

and Family Support Center offer free classes at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave., to DoD identification cardholders, including active-duty service members, retirees and their family members, DoD civilian employees and contractors.

Registration is required for each class.• Effective Communication: Today, 9

to 11 a.m.• Resume Writing: Tuesday, 9 a.m. to

noon. This workshop will provide tips on winning resume styles, the importance of cover letters and tips on following up on your resume.

• Dollars and Sense: Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m. Topics include: Basic Budgeting, Financial Goals and Priorities, Saving and Investing, and Managing Your Credit.

• Medical records review: Have your medical records reviewed by Mr. Thornton of AMVETS. Appointment required at 301-677-9017.

For more information, call ACS at 301-677-5590 or the Fleet Center at 301-677-9017.

Story TimeThe Medal of Honor Memorial

Library offers pre-kindergarten Story Time on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10 a.m. or 10:30 to 11 a.m.

For more information, call 301-677-5522 or 301-677-4509 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

Out & About• Maryland Irish Festival will be

held Nov. 9 from 6 to 11 p.m., Nov. 10 from noon to 11 p.m. and Nov. 11 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium. General admission for ages 18 to 62 is $15. Tickets for seniors age 62 and older are $10. Cost for youths ages 12 to 17 is $5. Children under 12 attend free. There is no charge for active-duty service members with ID card.

This annual celebration of Irish culture features local, regional and international Irish music and dance; traditional cuisine; cultural exhibits and workshops; and a variety of quality vendors of Irish goods. A children’s play area features bouncy castles, activities and games.

For more information, visit irishfestival.com.

• Leisure Travel Services is offering its next monthly bus trip to New York City on Nov. 10, with discounts to attractions. Bus cost is $55. For more information, call 301-677-7354 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

• Monthly Prayer Breakfast, hosted by the Garrison Chaplain’s Office, is held the first Thursday of every month at 7 a.m. at Club Meade. The next prayer breakfast is today. The guest speaker will be Kirk Fechter, director of the Installation Safety Office.

All Fort Meade employees, family members, and civilian and military personnel are invited. There is no cost for the buffet; donations are optional. For more information, call 301-677-6703 or email [email protected]

• Meade Rod and Gun Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at Perry’s Restaurant and Odie’s Pub at 1210 Annapolis Road, Odenton. The next meeting

NEWS & EVENTS

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EDUCATION

YOUTH

RECREATION

MEETINGS



is tonight in the banquet hall in back of the building. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. For more information, call 410-674-4000.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness of Anne Arundel County conducts a free support group for families with a loved one suffering from mental illness on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Odenton (West County) Library, 1325 Annapolis Road. The next meeting is tonight. For more information, visit namiaac.org.

• Retired Officers’ Wives’ Club will hold its next monthly luncheon on Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Club Meade. Cost is $15. Reservations are required by today.

ROWC members will model jewelry. Bring friends and family, and your checkbook to begin your holiday shopping. For reservations, call your area representative or Betty Wade at 410-551-7082.

For more information, call Lianne Roberts, president of the ROWC, at 301-464-5498.

• Families Dealing with Deployment meets the first and third Monday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Meuse Forest Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Monday. For more information, call Rikki Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or email [email protected].

• Families Helping Families Support Group will meet Nov. 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Army Community Service, 830 Chisholm Ave. Registration is required by Nov. 12. Learn how to become a better advocate for your child.

Reneé Yniguez Cotton, the military family navigator from the Military Coalition of Families for Children’s Mental Health, will be available to hear your concerns. Cotton also will give a presentation on the Family Leadership Institute, a free service that trains parents to be better advocates for their children. For more information, call 301-677-4473 or email [email protected].

• Fort Meade E9 Association meets the second Friday of every month at 7 a.m. in the Pin Deck Cafe at the Lanes. The next meeting is Nov. 9. The association is open to active, retired, Reserve and National

Guard E9s of any uniformed service. All E9s in this area are invited to attend a breakfast and meet the membership. For more information, visit e9association.org or call 410-551-7953.

• Officers’ Spouses’ Club will conduct its November luncheon on Nov. 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Main Post Chapel, 4419 Llewellyn Ave.

The theme is, “Make It, Bake It, Fake It.” Bring an item you have made, baked or faked to make or bake to be auctioned during the luncheon.

Lunch will be catered by Boston Market. Cost is $15. No walk-ins. RSVP by Nov. 10 at fortmeadeosc.org.

• Protestant Women of the Chapel meets Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. There are eight different Bible studies to choose from. This year’s theme is Generation 2 Generation. Free child care is provided. For more information, call 301-677-6035 or email [email protected] or visit ftmeadepwoc.org.

• Spouse PTSD Support Group meets Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Soldier and Family Assistance Center, 2462 85th Medical Battalion Ave.

The support group, sponsored by Behav-ioral Health Care Service, the Religious Support Office and the Army Substance Abuse Program, is for spouses whose loved ones are exhibiting symptoms of PTSD. Learn valuable tools and resources to understand PTSD and how to cope.

To join or for more information, call 301-677-8870.

• Military Council for Catholic Women is open to all women ages 18 and older for prayer, faith, fellowship and service at the Main Post Chapel.

Mother’s Prayer & Apologetics meets Tuesdays from 9:45 a.m. to noon when Anne Arundel County schools are in ses-sion. Monthly programs are held Mondays from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

For more information, email Beth Wright, president, at [email protected] or call 305-240-1559.

• Fort Meade Homeschool Co-op meets Fridays at 9:30 a.m. at 1900 Reece Road. For more information, call Kelli Stricker

Chaplain’s WordDO IT NOW

“I expect to pass through life but once. If, therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect

it, as I shall not pass this way again.” — William Penn

movies

The movie schedule is subject to change. For a recorded announcement of showings, call 301-677-5324. Further listings are available on the Army and Air Force Exchange Service website at www.aafes.com.

Movies start Wednesdays to Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. NEW PRICES: Tickets are $5 for adults (12 and older) and $2.50 for children.

Today through Nov. 16

Today: “The Odd Life of Timothy Green” (PG). A young boy who appears mysteriously brings magic into the lives of a husband and wife. With CJ Adams, Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, Dianne Wiest Leary.

Friday-Sunday & Nov. 8: “Trouble With The Curve” (PG-13). An aging baseball scout takes his daughter on a road trip. With Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams, Justin Timberlake.

Nov. 7: “Lawless” (R). In the 1930s, three broth-ers in rural Virginia run a bootlegging business. With Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, Jason Clarke, Guy Pearce, Jessica Chastain.

Nov. 9, 11, 15: “The Possession” (PG-13). Parents become a bit concerned with their daughter’s obsession with an antique wooden box that may carry a dark secret. With Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Kyra Sedgwick, Natasha Calis.

Nov. 10, 14, 16: “Premium Rush” (PG-13). In Manhattan, a bike messenger picks up an enve-lope that attracts the interest of a dirty cop, who pursues the cyclist throughout the city. With Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Michael Shannon, Dania Ramirez.

at 410-674-0297 or email [email protected].

• Cub Scout Pack 377 invites boys in first through fifth grades,, or ages 7 to 10, to attend its weekly Monday meetings at 6 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

For more information, email Cubmaster Tom Johnston at [email protected] or Committee Chairperson Elizabeth Johnston at [email protected].

• Boy Scout Troop 379 meets Mondays at 7 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center on Rockenbach Road. The troop is actively recruiting boys age 11 to 18. For more information, email Lisa Yetman, at [email protected] or Wendall Lawrence, Scoutmaster, at [email protected].

• American Legion Post 276 is open to veterans and active-duty service members at 8068 Quarterfield Road in Severn. Breakfast may be purchased beginning at 9 a.m. Lunches may be purchased from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Happy Hour is from 4 to 6 p.m. Dinner may be purchased at 6 p.m. on Fridays and the fourth Sunday of every month.

Membership discounts are offered for active-duty military. For more information, call 410-969-8028 or visit americanlegionpost276.org.

• Single Parent Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at School Age Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next meeting is Nov. 12. Free child care will be provided on site.

For more information, call Rikki Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or email [email protected].

• Enlisted Spouses Club meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Nov. 12. For more information, visit ftmeadeesc.org or email [email protected].

• Spouse Connection meets the second Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood, 4998 Second Corps Blvd. The next meeting is Nov. 13. The program provides an opportunity for all spouses in the Fort Meade community and surrounding area to meet and get connected. For more information, call 301-677-4110 or email [email protected].

• Bridging the Gap deployment support group, sponsored by Army Community Service, meets the second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Nov. 13. For more information, call Sharon Collins at 301-667-4116 or email [email protected].

Documents

Ft Meade Soundoff Nov 1, 2012