SAFE HAVEN Teen Center provides youth room to grow PAGE 8 UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY, 7 P.M.: Latin Night - The Conference Center FEB. 14, 11:30 A.M.-1 P.M.: Black History Month Observance - McGill FEB. 15, 7-10 P.M.: Lounge Party - The Lanes FEB. 20, 11:30 A.M.: National Prayer Luncheon - The Conference Center FEB. 22, 4-6 P.M.: Right Arm Night - The Conference Center GROWING PAINS AWG breaks ground on $31M headquarters construction project PAGE 3 Sound off ! ´ VOL. 65 NO. 5 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community February 7, 2013 PHOTO BY TINA MILES Staff Sgt. Kirston Smith, 781st Military Intelligence Battalion, 780th MI Brigade, quickly retreats from the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay after taking the plunge at the 17th Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. Smith, along with another 781st MI NCO and family members, participated in the event to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland. For the story, see Page 12. THE BIG CHILL
Transcript
safe havenTeen Center provides youth room to grow
page 8
UPCOMInG evenTsfrIday, 7 P.M.: Latin Night - The Conference Centerfeb. 14, 11:30 a.M.-1 P.M.: Black History Month Observance - McGillfeb. 15, 7-10 P.M.: Lounge Party - The Lanesfeb. 20, 11:30 a.M.: National Prayer Luncheon - The Conference Centerfeb. 22, 4-6 P.M.: Right Arm Night - The Conference Center
GrOwInG PaInsAWG breaks ground on $31M headquarters construction project
page 3
Soundoff!́vol. 65 no. 5 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community February 7, 2013
photo by tina miles
Staff Sgt. Kirston Smith, 781st Military Intelligence Battalion, 780th MI Brigade, quickly retreats from the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay after taking the plunge at the 17th Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. Smith, along with another 781st MI nCo and family members, participated in the event to raise money for Special olympics Maryland. For the story, see Page 12.
THE BIG CHILL
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
Commander’s Column
Cont ent sNews............................. 3 Sports..................................13
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.
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: 301-677-5602; DSN: 622-5602.
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.
Soundoff!́Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
It was at the beginning of the fourth quarter when I said, “The Ravens could use a little help from Team Meade right about now.”
And just like that, the Ravens seemed to catch their second wind and closed out the game the way we all knew they were capable of doing. The end result was a 34-31 Super Bowl win over the San Francisco 49ers.
It was a much-deserved victory for head coach John Harbaugh, who has been a great supporter of our service members, the entire Ravens organization and the City of Baltimore.
Congratulations Ravens. You made us proud!For the record: “Thanks Team Meade.” I’m
sure the Ravens appreciated your support during the game. We certainly appreciate the support that service members at Fort Meade receive from the Ravens each year.
This week, I’m calling on Team Meade again. I want to remind everyone that we have a great Teen Center on the installation. I had a chance to visit the center last week and was surprised by the low number of teenagers who take advantage of the center and the resources it provides.
The Teen Center has more than 140 registered youths in ninth through 12th grades, but only serves 40 to 45 teens each day. I can’t help but think that there should be more youths there on a daily basis.
The Teen Center is located at 3102 MacArthur Road, less than 300 feet across from Meade High School. It is available to children of service members and DoD ID card holders who are registered with Child, Youth and School Services or sponsored by a registered teen.
The center encourages high schoolers to be the best they can be and challenges them to achieve this goal in a variety of ways.
Unfortunately, we live in an era where finding “safe havens” for our kids is a high priority for working parents.
The Teen Center is just that — a safe haven for our youth. Under the direction of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, the facility is managed by CYSS. The center is staffed by five CYSS personnel who all have a commitment to excellence.
Participants at the Teen Center are great kids.
They are well behaved, have supportive par-ents and have an opportunity to work with CYSS staffers who can help guide them toward a reward-ing future.
What I find most comforting about the center is that parents know their children are safe here. They are not being bullied. It’s a place where teens can feel comfortable being themselves in a environment where it’s OK to have dreams about succeeding in life and get the assistance of staffers who can help them make their dreams come true.
Most of the teens at the center are from Meade High, although teens also come from North County, Arundel, Old Mill and Annapolis high schools.
Activities offered include a book club, weight lift-ing, a computer lab, a cooking class, the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and 4-H.
The center is also organizing activities for youths with an interest in music and art. There also are BGCA activities geared specifically for boys and girls such as the Passport for Manhood Club and Smart Girls Club.
In addition, the center provides assistance in pre-paring for SAT and ACT subject tests while helping youths prepare for college.
There are even opportunities to perform commu-nity service such as volunteering at Sarah’s House or reading to younger children at one of Fort Meade’s Child Development Centers.
So parents, if you forgot your child was enrolled at the Teen Center, I ask that you revisit the facility and explore how it can be a positive force in your child’s life.
The center is teen friendly and teen driven. It’s a great place for high school kids to hang out, social-ize, play games, get their homework done and be an important part of our community.
Have a great week!
Ravens Super Victory; Teen Center underused
COL. Edward C. rOthstEin
Garrison Commander
Commander’s Open DoorGarrisonCommanderCol.EdwardC.Rothsteinhasanopendoorpolicy.All servicemembers, retirees,governmentemployees, familymembersandcommunitymembersage18
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! �
News
By Department of Veterans AffairsMore than 80,000 veterans living in
Anne Arundel and Howard counties now have access to VA health care ser-vices at the new Fort Meade VA Outpa-tient Clinic, which opened Jan. 14.
The new clinic, located at 2479 5th St. adjacent to Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center, will be the sixth commu-nity-based outpatient clinic throughout the state that is operated by the VA Maryland Health Care System.
Designed by Nutec Group of York, Pa., in collaboration with the Depart-ment of Defense, the 13,300-square-foot facility features 21 spacious exam
rooms, one audiology booth, comfort-able patient waiting areas and state-of-the-art medical technology.
Services include general outpatient medical care, preventive health and education services, various medical screenings, TeleHealth services, and referrals to specialized programs and inpatient services available throughout the VA Maryland Health Care System.
“Veterans in Anne Arundel and Howard counties can expect to receive exceptional health care services at the new clinic that are coordinated by experienced and compassionate clini-cians and support staff who specialize
in delivering personalized attention to meet the unique needs of veterans,” said Dennis H. Smith, director of the VA Maryland Health Care System.
“This clinic is an example of our ongoing commitment to making VA health care more accessible to veterans where they live and work.”
As the first VA outpatient clinic in the country to be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certified, the new facility has incorpo-rated sustainable building design ele-ments to meet federal green policy requirements.
With plenty of free parking and read-
ily available clinic appointments, veter-ans will find the new clinic convenient and accessible.
For more information about the new Fort Meade VA Outpatient Clinic or to schedule a primary care appointment, call 410-305-5300.
For information about VA health care eligibility and enrollment or how to apply for a VA medical care hard-ship to avoid future co-payments for VA health care, call the Enrollment Center for the VA Maryland Health Care Sys-tem on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1-800-463-6295, ext. 7324 or visit maryland.va.gov.
New veterans clinic opens at Fort Meade
Garrison Commander Col. Edward Rothstein; Col. Patrick J. Mahaney Jr., commander of the Asymmetric Warfare Group; Lt. Col. Brad Endres, deputy commander of Baltimore District Army Corps of Engineers; and Joe Tierney, project executive with Skanska USA Building construction company, break ground for the new AWG complex. The $31 million project will consist of a headquarters building, visitor control center, and vehicle maintenance and motor pool.
sory and solution-development sup-port globally to the Army and Joint Force Commanders to enhance Soldier survivability and combat effectiveness, and enable the defeat of current and emerging threats in support of Unified Land Operations.
The new complex will consist of a 75,000-square-foot headquarters building; 2,700-square-foot visitor control center; and a 7,000-square-foot maintenance facility and motor pool. New facilities will provide office space for operational support and staff sec-tions as well as conference rooms. The maintenance facility will have space to conduct vehicle maintenance and fabrication.
The contract was awarded on Oct. 30, 2012 to Skanska. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Baltimore District will manage the contract through its Bay Area Office in coordination with Fort Meade and AWG leaders.
The three buildings will join current facilities used for operational squad-rons, warehouse and logistic opera-tions, and a new 26,000-square-foot indoor firing range, which underwent construction last winter and is not yet completed.
Lumbaca said the new facilities will “ensure that the AWG continues to meet its rapidly deployable global mis-sion and solution-development mis-sion in support of Army and joint-force commanders.”
Story and photo by Brandon BieltzStaff Writer
Fort Meade continues to grow as the Asymmetric Warfare Group pre-pares for the construction of a three-building complex that will feature a headquarters facility, visitor control center, and a vehicle maintenance and motor pool.
Col. Patrick J. Mahaney Jr., com-mander of AWG, broke ground for the new complex during a ceremony on Jan. 29. He was joined by Garrison Com-mander Col. Edward C. Rothstein; Lt. Col. Brad Endres, deputy commander of Baltimore District Army Corps of Engineers; and Joe Tierney, project executive with Skanska USA Building construction company.
The $31 million project is scheduled to be completed in late 2015 to “replace or complement the current aging facili-ties,” said Lt. Col. Sonise Lumbaca, public affairs officer for AWG.
When the unit stood up on Fort Meade in 2006, AWG was moved into an old jail near Huber Road.
“It was very interesting moving the unit into an old jail, but it served our purpose,” Mahaney said.
Since then, the unit and mission has “grown by leaps and bounds,” Mah-aney said, making the construction of a new complex necessary.
“The facility is just simply too small,” he said.
AWG provides operational advi-
AWG breaks ground on three-building project
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
News
By Navy Seaman ApprenticeBlagoj B. PetkovskiDefense Information School
Navy Seaman Paul S. Coover, a student at the Defense Information School, took first place in a poetry contest that was part of the school’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance.
The event was hosted Jan. 29 by the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute at DINFOS.
During the observance, Coover was acknowledged by DINFOS Commandant Col. Jeremy Martin for his participation. He received a certificate of appreciation from Martin for his poem, “Memory of the Fight.”
The contest featured poems written by service members from different branches of the military. Poems submitted by fourth-grade students from a local elementary school were also read as part of the day’s events.
The poems were read aloud to a crowd of service members and civilians in the Hall of Heroes at DINFOS.
“It was an honor to win,” Coover said. “It ended up being a good experience having to
read it out loud.”Coover’s motivation to write the poem
came when fellow shipmate Mass Commu-nication Spc. Seaman Hansel Pintos, a for-mer DINFOS student, addressed his fellow sailors about the importance of the holiday on Jan. 18, before the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend.
Pintos wanted to remind people to reflect on King’s accomplishments.
After hearing Pintos speak, Coover thought about posters he had seen around the school advertising the 2013 Martin Luther King Jr. observance and decided to write a poem.
Coover has had a passion for writing and journalism from a young age.
“Writing was the only subject that I was any good at in school,” he said. “I wanted to be a journalist since I was in seventh grade.”
After earning a bachelor’s degree in jour-nalism from Indiana University and teach-ing in the public school system in California, Coover joined the Navy to become a mass communications specialist.
The whole course of events from writ-ing the poem, emailing it to the staff ser-
Sailor’s MLK poem wins DINFOS contest
PHOTO by NAVy MAss COMMuNiCATiON sPeCiAlisT seAMAN bRADley J. Gee
Defense Information School Commandant Col. Jeremy Martin presents a certificate of appreciation to Navy Seaman Paul S. Coover, a student at DINFOS, for his poem, “Memory of the Fight.” Coover’s poem won first place in a poetry contest for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance hosted Jan. 29 by the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute at DINFOS.
geant in charge of the event and actually reading the poem was unexpected, said Coover.
Nor did he expect to win the competi-tion. The poem — Coover’s first — was a way for him to keep his writing skills sharp
and provide a means of remembrance for King’s work and impact on society.
“It was not intended to be anything other than a writing exercise and a good way to sort of force myself to remember why we have a day off in January,” Coover said.
By West Virginia UniversityWest Virginia University President Jim
Clements and Defense Information School Commandant Col. Jeremy Martin signed a memorandum of understanding on Jan. 28, formally establishing a first-of-its kind aca-demic partnership between WVU’s P.I. Reed School of Journalism and the DINFOS.
The memorandum of understanding lays the foundation for a mutually beneficial aca-demic partnership between DINFOS and the School of Journalism to provide professional development and programming for both insti-tutions’ students, faculty and communications professionals.
Clements and Martin signed the memoran-dum during a 10 a.m. ceremony in Stewart Hall.
“The memorandum of understanding that we have signed is one way for us to continue to strive for excellence in our training mission with the help of an established and well-respected partner like the Perly Isaac Reed School of Journalism,” Martin said. “I believe
that such a partnership will help both schools share and benchmark best practices.
“We believe this is a potential starting point for us to work together in the near future in the areas of mutual interests,” Martin said. “By partnering with West Virginia University, we feel we have a partner who has a great history of working with military students and offers a wide variety of programs directly related to our programs of training.
“Of course, we are pleased that our stu-dents will be offered a chance to use their hard-earned credits to earn a degree at an accredited institution that offers both online and residency courses that meet the needs of these students — no matter where they may be stationed,” he said.
The alliance will include increasing the availability of high-quality online and tradi-tional educational opportunities for DINFOS graduates, offering convenient education access for military men and women, and facilitating the exchange of professional and scholarly knowledge between WVU and DINFOS.
“The partnership with DINFOS will pro-vide our students and faculty a unique insight into how the U.S. military tells its own story through multiple media and channels,” said School of Journalism Dean Maryanne Reed. “In addition, we look forward to having DINFOS students and graduates participate in our academic programs to further the exchange of ideas between communications professionals.”
The signing is a continuation of WVU’s commitment to students in the military and student veterans and their families.
WVU was recently ranked 18th in the Military Times’ Best for Vets list for 2013, and several major initiatives will be unveiled in the coming year.
WVU’s Mountaineer to Mentor program, which pairs new student veterans coming to WVU with other student vets who have suc-cessfully made the transition, was created last semester. It also will pair new student veterans with a faculty or staff member who will serve as a mentor.
To ease the financial burdens of prospec-tive veteran students, WVU has expanded its Yellow Ribbon Program to include graduate programs in the School of Public Health, the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, and the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.
The Yellow Ribbon program is an extension of the 9/11 GI Bill that pays all in-state tuition and fees at public colleges and universities for eligible students. WVU has taken part in the Yellow Ribbon program for undergraduate out-of-state students for years, but this is the first year that the university has offered it to graduate students.
The new initiatives are an expansion of previously established programs and policies that have helped WVU gain a national reputa-tion for accommodating veteran students and job-seekers in recent years.
More than 800 veterans, military personnel or their dependents are currently studying at WVU, including nearly 100 new student vets who were admitted this spring.
DINFOS, WVU sign academic partnership
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
News
By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer
From banners spread throughout the post to the large white letters above the finish line of the Fort Meade Run Series events, business sponsorship with the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation are prevalent throughout the installation.
The relationships with businesses, donors and volunteers off post help keep programs operational for service members and their families. Businesses also benefit from the relationship as they spread their name across Fort Meade.
“It’s a good way to build a partner-ship,” said Cara Masterson, marketing manager with FMWR.
In fiscal year 2012, FMWR generated $130,000, which has greatly impacted the quality of life on post, Masterson said.
Sponsorships are one way businesses and corporations off post help the Fort Meade community, while expanding their advertising and exposure to new clients.
“It’s a commercial venture,” Masterson said. “It’s more corporations, businesses that are trying to get exposure on Fort Meade. They can sponsor any of our events or they can have static advertising like banners at Gaffney [Fitness Cen-ter]. It helps us either underwrite some costs or maybe give something extra that we wouldn’t have been able to budget through our normal budgeting process.”
The defense company SAIC has been a three-year sponsor of the annual Run Series. The partnership between Fort Meade and SAIC allows FMWR to offer low-cost races because the company pays for the T-shirts and has helped purchase a timing system and timing chips.
In return, the SAIC logo is on T-shirts, flyers and even the inflatable finish-line arch.
“Sponsorship helps us break even,” Masterson said. “SAIC comes out and gets exposure to customers, introducing them to the company.”
Another way individuals or businesses help the installation is through gifts or donations, which can range from money for purchasing snacks for a party to the donation of tickets by the Baltimore Orioles.
“Gifts and donations can be either from personal individuals or corpora-tions [who] just want to give some-thing out of the goodness of their heart to benefit a program,” Masterson said. “They want to do something good for
Sponsorships benefit families, businesses
the military.”Through Army Community Service,
individuals or companies can sign up to volunteer to assist on Fort Meade. This can include interning at an office or help-ing to build a playground.
Volunteering on post, Masterson said, is a way to network and gain experience.
In many cases, volunteers bring ideas to FMWR.
“We’re totally open to finding ways to make our community better,” she said.
Masterson said FMWR is open to long-term relationships or working together on one-time events.
“Whether it’s large or small, we always
welcome support and we’re always open to form new partnerships,” she said. “With Fort Meade growing, we definitely want to connect with the outside more. It’s a good way to build a partnership.”
Editor’s note: For more information about sponsorship, donating or volunteer-ing, call 301-677-2988.
file photo
Runners cross the finish line of last year’s Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run, which was sponsored by SAIC defense company. Sponsors, donors and volunteers help the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation provide services for the Fort Meade community.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
News
Story and photo by Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
When Ashley Vega, a senior at Meade High School, talks about the Fort Meade Teen Center to her friends, many are unfamiliar with the facility.
“Every time I talk about the Teen Center, they say ‘What is that?’,” said Ashley, 16, the newly elected president of the center’s Keystone Club, its form of student government.
But the Teen Center’s five-member staff want to change all that.
Alonzo Coley, Middle School/Teen Center facility director, said he wants teens and their parents to know that the Teen Center is “a great place, a safe place, a fun place.”
High school students registered with Child, Youth and School Services are eligible to attend the Teen Center, which is open Mondays to Thursdays from 2 to 8 p.m. and Fridays from 2 to 10 p.m.
For those not registered with CYSS, youths must pay a $2 fee and be spon-sored by a registered teen.
The center serves about 40 to 45 teens daily, although more than 140 teens are registered for its programs.
Most of the teens attend Meade High, while others attend North County, Arundel, Old Mill and Annapolis high schools.
“We have great kids here,” Coley said. “They’re well-behaved kids. When their kids are here, [parents know] they are safe. They won’t come here and be bul-lied.”
Several of the center’s programs are sponsored by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and 4-H. The BGCA programs include the Keystone Club, which pro-motes youth leadership and community service; Passport to Manhood, a program that encourages character, leadership and positive behavior among adolescent boys; and the Smart Girls Club, which seeks to develop healthy attitudes and lifestyles among adolescent girls.
The facility also offers free tutoring and homework help including tutoring for standardized tests such as the SAT Prep and ACT Prep. Students can also use the computer lab for homework.
For recreation, there is a pool table and pingpong table, age-appropriate video games and music videos, a weight-lifting room, a library, a chess club and a cooking class.
Fort Meade’s SKIES program spon-sors a driver’s education class for students
Teen Center: A safe place, a fun place
Fourteen-year-old Edwin Rodriquez, (left), a freshman at Meade High School, and Chance Peterson, 16, a junior at the school, prepare a dish of sweet potatoes in the kitchen at the Teen Center on Monday afternoon to celebrate Black History Month.
eligible to receive a learner’s permit.Last summer, the center received a
$5,000 grant from Taco Bell that was used to fund a fall tour of three area colleges: Georgetown University, How-ard University and the University of Maryland.
In addition to the tour, the teens also attended a University of Maryland foot-ball game.
William Morris, a homework Child and Youth Program assistant, is current-ly organizing a college fair at the center. A trip to the Defense Media Activity is planned for March.
Darmont Russell, 16, a sophomore at Meade High, comes to the center every day after school to do his homework, lift weights, play video games and talk
with friends.“The people are really nice,” he said.Darmont also participates in Passport
to Manhood.“You learn how you can be a man
yourself and help others,” he said.The newly elected officers of the Key-
stone Club have proposed several volun-teer projects for the year including read-ing to children at the Child Development Centers and preparing meals at Sarah’s House, a transitional housing program.
As the club’s new president, Ashley said community service is important to young people.
“We’re kind of the future,” she said. “Sure, some people need to be indepen-dent, but a lot of people in the world need help and helping others is what’s
right.”The center also participates in the
Army Youth Leadership Forum, where Army youths meet with youths from other garrisons to discuss the most important issues for youths Armywide.
These issues may be incorporated into the Solider Family Action Plan process and presented to the Department of the Army. Youths from each installation also present their issues to their respective garrison commander.
Coley said the Teen Center is a viable option for parents who want their teens engaged in productive activities after school.
“Why not have them come here where they are supervised and with their friends?” he said.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
News
By Capt. William BiggersLegal Assistance Division
If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces who has served in a des-ignated combat zone, you can exclude certain pay from your income.
Enlisted personnel, warrant offi-cers and commissioned officers can exclude the following amounts from their income:
1. Active-duty pay earned in any month you served in a combat zone
2. Imminent danger/hostile fire pay3. A re-enlistment bonus if the volun-
tary extension or re-enlistment occurs in a month you served in a combat zone.
4. Pay for accrued leave earned in any month you served in a combat zone
The DoD must determine that the unused leave was earned during that period.
5. Pay received for duties as a mem-ber of the U.S. Armed Forces in clubs, messes, post and station theaters, and other nonappropriated fund activities
The pay must be earned in a month you served in a combat zone.
6. Awards for suggestions, inven-tions or scientific achievements you are entitled to because of a submission
you made in a month you served in a combat zone
7. Student loan repayments that are attributable to your period of service in a combat zone, provided that a full year’s service is performed to earn the repayment
You do not have to receive the pay while you are in a combat zone, are hospitalized, or in the same year you served in a combat zone.
However, your entitlement to the pay must have fully accrued in a month during which you served in the combat zone or were hospitalized as a result of wounds, disease or injury incurred while serving in the combat zone.
This also means that the days of leave you accrued during your service in the combat zone will be treated as tax free when you take that leave or cash it in, even if you do not use those leave days until the following tax year.
For more information about income exclusion or to schedule a tax appoint-ment, call the Fort Meade Tax Center at 301-677-9366.
Tax appointments are still available but are filling up quickly. A limit-ed number of evening and weekend appointments are still available.
Tax exclusion allowed on combat zone income
Jan. 30, Larceny of private property: The victim stated that when she arrived home from work she noticed her motor-cycle cover missing from her motorcycle, which was parked in the parking spot next to her residence.
Feb. 1, Larceny of private property: Unknown person(s) by unknown means removed $350 from an unsecured and unattended purse.
Feb. 3, Driving vehicle while impaired by alcohol, driv-ing while under the influence of alcohol, possession of open container in passenger area of motor vehicle, failure to stop at traffic light: While conducting mobile patrol, a unit observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed, stop and then proceed through a red traffic light. The unit initiated a traffic stop and smelled an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the vehicle. The unit administered a Standard-ized Field Sobriety Test, which the driver performed poorly, then refused to submit to a breath test.
CommunityCommunityCrime Watch
Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
By Tina MilesPublic Affairs Officer780th Military Intelligence Brigade
According to recent financial surveys, many Americans have never calculated for retirement, yet the many have hopes of being financially comfortable upon retirement.
The paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle is dan-gerous to many Americans, but service mem-bers face particularly difficult challenges.
Members of the military have been popu-lar targets for financial scams and unethical loan practices such as payday advance loans and auto loans.
Because of the young Soldiers’ steady income and strong desire for the latest and greatest cars and gadgets, financial sharks began swarming the perimeter of military posts, hoping for a taste of a service mem-ber’s LES (Leave and Earnings Statement).
The problem became so severe that some service members found themselves paying up to 800 percent interest on loans and jeopar-dizing their careers.
The FY 2007 Military Authorization Act made such unbalanced targeting of service members illegal. But the problem of poor financial decision-making and planning was often just as much the fault of the service members who signed up for the loans due to their lack of education or experience with finances.
There are, however, positive educational opportunities for Soldiers, military families and personnel, one of which the 780th Mili-tary Intelligence Brigade has discovered to be most successful.
The brigade is offering financial educa-tion to their Soldiers and civilians to ensure they have brighter, debt-free futures.
The 13-week course, spearheaded by Maj. Kenneth Harris, chaplain of the 780th MI, is a back-to-basics financial planning pro-gram, “Financial Peace (Military Edition),” designed for military personnel by money management expert Dave Ramsey.
“It’s a common-sense class about dollars and cents,” Harris said. “I took the course three years ago and have reduced my debt by about $45,000. It retrains us in how we look at money. It has taught me things I wish I had learned much earlier in life.”
Harris selected noncommissioned officers from within each of the brigade’s subordi-nate units’ companies and trained them to be course facilitators.
“The NCOs chosen had reputations for
780th MI course offers financial peace of mind
good finance handling and who would be good mentors to other Soldiers,” Harris said.
The current facilitator is Staff Sgt. Ryan Flore of the 781st MI Battalion.
“I started the program right after I got married in 2011,” said Flore, who has cut his debt in half since then. “I have been very successful using the lessons and encourage others to take the class.”
The facilitated video course is open to all brigade members, Soldiers and civilians alike, regardless of age or marital status.
Each participant receives a member kit that contains a “Financial Peace” work-book, audio library, budgeting guide forms and a cash management envelope system to help participants organize their money and stay on budget.
“It’s never too early or too late to start,” Harris said.
For more information about future train-ing, call Chaplain (Maj.) Kent Harris, 780th MI Brigade, at 301-677-4897 or email [email protected].
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 11
News
By Laura VasquezProgram EvaluatorU.S. Army Public Health Command
Every year, heart attacks claim thou-sands of lives during harsh winter weather.
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in the United States.
Winter weather and winter weather activities, particularly shoveling snow, increase a person’s risk of a heart attack due to overexertion. Cold weath-er, combined with a sudden change in physical activity, increases the heart’s workload.
February is American Heart Month and a good time to learn how to prevent or react to a heart attack, particularly during the winter months.
It’s important to know your risk fac-tors for a heart attack. The elderly and those with heart disease are at highest
risk. Being male or having a family his-tory of heart disease also puts you at a greater risk.
Some risk factors are within your control to change by adjusting your lifestyle or taking medications. These include quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling high blood pressure or cholesterol.
This winter, before heading out to shovel snow, consider your risk factors and take appropriate precautions. Tak-ing certain precautions can be the dif-ference between life and death.
Winter weather tips for the heart:• Take frequent breaks when shovel-
ing snow.• Use a small shovel or snow blow-
er.• Don’t eat a heavy meal prior to
shoveling to avoid the extra load on
your heart.• Don’t drink alcohol before or imme-
diately after shoveling.• Be aware of the dangers of hypo-
thermia.• Consult your doctor prior to exer-
cising in cold weather.• Learn CPR to increase a victim’s
chances of survival.• Learn heart attack warning signs.Warning signs of a heart attack are
often ignored or overlooked. Heart attacks often start slowly with mild symptoms. Many people do not know the warning signs and often wait too long before getting help.
Minutes matter during a heart attack; early treatment greatly increases the chances of survival. Learn the signs of a heart attack and you can help save a life.
Warning signs of a heart attack:• Chest pain or discomfort• Discomfort in upper body including
arms, back, neck, jaw or shoulder• Shortness of breath• Nausea, lightheadedness, cold sweatsIf these signs are present, call 911
immediately.This winter, make sure to take pre-
cautions to prevent a heart attack. Know your risk factors, check on your elderly neighbors and learn the warning signs of a heart attack.
Remember, prevention and early action save lives.
For more information and tips on preventing heart attacks, visit the fol-lowing websites:
• American Heart Association, http://www.heart.org
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/heart_attack.htm
Protect your heart during winter weather
and their families.Loans and grants can be issued for
a variety of reasons including funeral expenses, emergency transportation, rent
or car payments, and medical expenses. There is no cap on how much can be loaned.
Funds are distributed by AER officers,
who are empowered to make decisions on how and when to provide a loan or grant.
“Their motto is, ‘Find a way to say yes’,” Foley said. “We have the resources, we have the money, and what I’m trying to do is put the money in the hands of Soldiers who need it. They’ll know what to do with it.”
AER can also assist during the repay-ment of the loan by converting the loan to a grant or deferring payments.
Foley discussed the importance of pro-moting AER and the assistance it can pro-vide, as many Soldiers will turn to high-interest loans to raise the needed cash.
“Why should a Soldier go and pay 500 percent APR when they could come to AER and get free money?” Foley asked.
Fort Meade AER Officer Turner Wal-lace said while the campaign helps raise money for the greater fund, it also pro-motes awareness of the program and what is offers.
“It’s helping Soldiers, retirees and mili-tary families with emergency financial needs,” he said. “It provides an oppor-tunity for Soldiers to help their fellow Soldiers, and it also creates a great awareness and understanding of AER programs and benefits.”
Retired Lt. Gen. Robert F. Foley, director of Army Emergency Relief, talks to Fort Meade leaders on Jan. 31 at the Conference Center. Foley’s presentation officially kicked off the AER campaign, which runs from March 1 to May 25 with a fundraising goal of $90,000.
Story and photo by Brandon BieltzStaff Writer
Fort Meade kicked off its annual Army Emergency Relief campaign fundraiser with a visit from the organization’s direc-tor.
Retired Lt. Gen. Robert F. Foley was the guest speaker at the Partner Com-manders Luncheon, held Jan. 31 at the Conference Center, officially launching the 75-day campaign.
The fundraiser begins March 1 and ends May 15.
The campaign raises money and aware-ness for the AER fund that helps active-duty Soldiers, National Guardsmen, Army Reservists, retirees and their families in financial emergencies by providing inter-est-free loans or grants.
“Our mission is basically providing financial assistance to Soldiers and fami-lies,” Foley said. “We have provided about $80 million a year for the last five years. We have provided over $700 million since 9/11. Ninety percent of what we do is inter-est-free loans, 10 percent [are] grants.”
This year’s campaign coordinators have set a goal of $90,000 after breaking last year’s goal of $85,000 by more than $25,000. For every dollar donated, 89 cents goes to the fund that helps Soldiers
AER campaign aims to raise awareness, funds
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil12 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
Cover Story
Story and photo by Tina MilesPublic Affairs Officer780th Military Intelligence Brigade
It may be hard to believe anyone in their right mind would voluntarily decide to take a dip in Maryland’s frosty January waters, let alone pay to do so.
But every year for the past 17 years, thousands of sane people do exactly that. This year, two brave Soldiers from the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade and their families were enticed to join the crowd.
The annual event that has become a winter-time tradition is the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge, held this year on Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis.
For $50 in pledges, participants plunged into the 35-degree waters of the Chesa-peake Bay to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland. The organization
offers year-round sport training and com-petition to individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge was established in 1997 when approximately 350 participants first plunged into the icy waters of the Chesa-peake Bay and raised $75,000 that year.
As of 2012, approximately 72,000 peo-ple have taken the plunge over the years and raised more than $20 million.
“Our numbers for 2013 so far are 13,000 Plungers and $2.1 million raised,” said Linda Ellingsworth, director of com-munications and marketing for Special Olympics Maryland. “We are still col-lecting and processing donations from [Jan. 26].”
Among the estimated 12,000 people who participated in one of the state’s larg-est fundraisers were first-time Plungers Sgt. 1st Class Jason Fischer, operations
noncommissioned officer for the 780th MI, his daughter Kireina and his sister-in-law Allyne Castillo.
“As this was my first experience, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I had a great time,” Fischer said. “It was a lot of fun supporting such a well-deserving cause along with a notably broad slice of society.”
Although Fischer said his family doesn’t actively support any particular charity, they have volunteered for other charities.
“It’s never hard to get involved in well coordinated and enjoyable fundraising events like the MSP Polar Plunge,” he said. “I would gladly take the plunge again, and thanks very much to all the family and friends who pledged their support.”
Despite the freezing temperature, Kireina was proud to be a participant
alongside her father.“It was cold,” she said, teeth chatter-
ing, “but I’m glad I supported something important.”
Also participating from a subordinate unit of the 780th MI was Staff Sgt. Kir-ston Smith, information management NCO for the 781st MI Battalion.
For her, it’s personal.“The Special Olympics hold a special
place in my heart because my brother has cerebral palsy,” Smith said.
This was Smith’s second year of plung-ing and she vowed to return again.
“I love doing things to support children and I will be there again next year plung-ing for the kids,” said Smith, a regular volunteer with the Fort Meade Partners in Education program within the brigade. “I love volunteering and supporting any-thing that can help anyone and give back to the community.”
780th MI NCOs take the Plunge
Sgt. 1st Class Jason Fischer, operations noncommissioned officer for the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade, his daughter Kireina and sister-in-law Allyne Castillo brave the cold as they plunge into the 35-degree waters of the Chesapeake Bay during the 17th Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. The charity event raised $2.1 million.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 13
SportS
By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer
With six lead changes in the final 10 min-utes of the first half of Monday’s intramural basketball game, 55th Combat Camera was neck-in-neck with U.S. Army Medical Activity at halftime.
But a 31-point second half powered by Combat Camera’s balanced offense attack pulled the team to a 64-54 victory over MED-DAC at Murphy Field House. Three Combat Camera players scored double digit points to help them overcome the game-high 26 points scored by MEDDAC’s Llewellyn Smalley.
Atiba Laroche led Combat Camera in scor-ing with 19, while John McMillan and Ernest Henderson each added an additional 15 points in the victory that improved the team’s record to 6-1.
“We’re feeling pretty good as a team,” Laroche said. “We’re very confident with our team.”
Combat Camera entered Monday’s game on a dominating four-game win streak, outscoring its opponents by a combined 56 points.
Coach Cain Bassett said the team still needs to focus on its on-court communication, but with strong shooters and fast tempo, players have been able to string together a series of wins.
Following a 101-65 defeat to the undefeated Surface Forces Logistic Center on Jan. 23, MEDDAC entered the game having regained its winning ways.
“They [SFLC] were a more experienced team, they play together all the time,” said Charles Jackson, coach of MEDDAC.
Since then, the team put together two straight victories by more than 20 points. Jackson said he sees his team advancing to the championship as players continue to com-municate and improve.
“We are coming together as a team,” Jackson said. “Right now we’re working on rebounds and pushing the ball.”
MEDDAC’s win streak appeared to be coming to an end early in Monday’s game, as Combat Camera opened on a fast 7-0 run using crisp and accurate passing. Despite suc-cess from the perimeter, MEDDAC continued to battle inside the paint with little luck.
MEDDAC fought back to take a 13-12 lead. The two teams then engaged in a back-and-forth battle, which included 10 lead chang-es before Combat Camera took a 33-31 lead into halftime.
Smalley’s 18-point half kept MEDDAC in the game, as Combat Camera spread the scor-ing around with Laroche’s 12, Henderson’s 8 and McMillan’s 7.
The point-for-point trade-off continued
55th Combat Camera overpowers MEDDAC
photo by sarah pastrana
Mikki Sprenkle and Atiba Laroche of 55th Combat Camera go after a rebound during Monday’s intramural basketball game against U.S. Army Medical Activity. Laroche’s 19 points led Combat Camera to a 64-54 victory.
at the start of the second half, but MED-DAC was never able to take an outright lead. Midway through the half, Combat Camera extended its lead by seven points.
A desperate MEDDAC team changed its strategy and began to force fouls, hoping to get the ball back with enough time for a comeback. But the team was unable to pull out a win as Combat Camera sealed its 64-54 victory.
Following the game, Laroche said his team was feeling confident in defeating the high-powered offense of MEDDAC. He credited the team’s defense for the success, but said they need to continue to improve in their own end.
“Defense is the key,” he said. “If we stop them, we score.”
www.quickscores.com/ftmeadesports.
• basketball• Football
• softball• soccer
Find schedules, scores, standings and upcoming seasons for
all-army athletics, new sports and special events at
And more, plus
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil14 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
SportS
Sports ShortsOld Joe Golf Tournament
The Fort Meade Officers’ Spouses Club is sponsoring the 8th Annual Old Joe Golf Tournament on April 12 at Eisenhower Golf Course, 1576 Generals Highway, Crownsville.
Shotgun start will be at 8:30 a.m.Cost is $70 for active-duty service members, retirees and family members,
and $75 for everyone else.Registration and payment are due by March 29.Registration includes green fees and cart, putting contest, continental
breakfast, barbecue lunch, two beverage tickets, door prizes, snacks and player goodie bags.
Proceeds benefit the Fort Meade OSC Scholarships and Welfare Programs.For more information, email Lorin Neslony at [email protected]
or visit fortmeadeosc.org.
EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member program is sponsoring its monthly bowling
event on Feb. 20 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Lanes.Exceptional family members will receive a free game and shoe rental. Other
family members will receive discounted games and shoe rental.To register, call 301-677-4473 or email [email protected].
Spring sports registrationRegistration for spring sports is under way at Parent Central Services, 1900
Reece Road.Spring sports include soccer, T-ball, baseball, softball, track, indoor football
and basketball.For more information, call 301-677-1149 or 1156.
photo by noah Scialom
SUPER bowl PARTYService members watch Super Bowl XLVII on Sunday at the USO-Metro Fort Meade Center. Approximately 145 members from all service branches attended the free Super Bowl party, which featured a festively decorated center, 300 slices of pizza, 400 chicken wings, nachos and beverages throughout the game. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers 34-31.
UlTimATE fighTER
Ultimate Fighting Championship mixed martial arts fighter Jay
Dee “B.J.” Penn signs an auto-graph for Capt. William Montoya, commander of U.S. Army Signal
School Detachment, during a “meet and great” Monday at the USO-Metro Fort Meade Center. Penn, a winner of the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in the black belt category, is a former UFC
Lightweight Champion and UFC Welterweight Champion.
photo by Sgt. walter reeveS
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 15
SportS
OK, Fort Meade Facebook fan Jona-than Ferguson, we’ve got beef.
I’m sure you’re a great guy, Jon. Your profile picture makes me believe you are an outstanding father. The fact you are studying law enforcement makes me think you have a servant’s heart. And since you are following the page, I can only assume you have decent taste in your online com-munication venues.
However, it’s your most recent post I have issue with.
On Monday morning, Fort Meade posted a congratulatory note to the Balti-more Ravens for winning the Super Bowl. In particular, the post pointed out Coach John Harbaugh for winning since he was a “big supporter of the military.”
Your response: “He barely won.”I’m not even sure what that means, Mr.
Ferguson. It’s professional football, so there is no barely winning.
The fact is, it doesn’t matter whether Baltimore won by 3 or 33, they still had a victory parade on Tuesday, youtube.com/watch?v=Knlhbd27i7Q, and Mr. Lombardi’s trophy will be chilling in “The Castle” this year.
Now, upon further review of your profile, Jon, I guess I could chalk up your comment to the fact that you are from Pittsburgh, and as we all know from Doug Wise, Steelers fans are particularly bitter toward every other thing not related to the Steel City.
Case in point, your fellow FGGM Facebook follower, Christopher Brett, followed your post by writing, “Steelers still have a better average on Super Bowl victories!”
Of course, this is untrue: Steelers are 6-2 (.750 winning percentage), the Ravens are 2-0 (1.000 winning percentage). Appar-ently, Steelers fans aren’t real good at math either, so we’ll give Chris a pass.
Jon doesn’t get that luxury.That’s because his comment isn’t just
hateful, it’s also illogical. Hello, you play to win the game. At least that’s what Herman Edwards said: youtube.com/watch?v=6uTLtBGgSAM.
When Vince Lombardi said, “Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing,” he didn’t caveat that by including a margin of victory.
Similarly, “Iron” Mike Singletary didn’t want triers or good guys, he
wanted winners. yo u t u b e. c o m /watch?v=EB5-yJM3vJc
In fairness to Jon, he is not the only person in my life who believes in bare-ly winning. Our Command Infor-mation Chief Philip Jones started spewing similar nonsense on Wednesday when describing Michigan’s victory over Ohio on Tuesday.
I think his rant went something like “Bladdy, bladdy, blah, Aaron Craft was fouled. Bladdy, bladdy, Michigan barely won.”
You barely whiners (I mean winners) need to learn to take your lumps with some dignity and stop appeasing your dis-appointment with false hope and fiction.
When your team loses, say that they lost, and then hope they do better next time.
This column may seem a bit harsh about the concept of disparaging close victory, especially since everyone com-ments about how close games are. Plus, if Baltimore would have given up the 22-point lead, this column probably would be about choking as opposed to Jon and Phil’s misguided attitude.
However, Baltimore didn’t give up their lead, and as a society, it’s important we learn to recognize barely winning as winning. Because if we don’t, it won’t be long before criticizing barely winning becomes praising barely losing, which then becomes praising effort, regardless of consequence or outcome.
And that is not how we do things in Jabber Nation.
If you have comments on this or any-thing to do with sports, contact me at [email protected].
‘I want winners’
Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs
Officer
Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn
Follow Fort Meade on Twitter.com/ftmeademd
10760 Hickory Ridge Rd Unit 121Columbia, MD 21044
410-772-2274www.atlanticcashandtaxservices.com
$30 OFFReceive $30 off your tax preparation with this coupon
only. One coupon per person.
$55 OFFBring a friend and receive $30 off your tax preparation
and a $25 referral bonus. One coupon per person.
Will review your prior 3 returns for errors or missed money!
• Individual and Business Tax Preparation
• Walk in, Appointments or Drop Off Available
• Fast, Accurate and Affordable
• E File, Wire Transfer, Debit Card or Checks available
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 17
Community news & notes
The deadline for Soundoff! community “News and Notes” is Friday at noon. All submissions are posted at the editor’s discretion 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.
National Prayer LuncheonThe Fort Meade Annual National
Prayer Luncheon will be held Feb. 20 at 11:30 a.m. at the Conference Center, 6800 Taylor Ave.
The guest speaker is retired Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Matthew A. Zimmerman, who served as the 18th Army chief of chaplains from 1990 to 1994.
Seating is limited to 200 people.Suggested donation is $10 for civilians
and service members E6 and above.Tickets are available at the Main
Post Chapel, 4419 Llewellyn Ave. or by contacting the Religious Support Office at 301-677-6703 or at [email protected].
Latin NightEnjoy a night of Latin dancing at the
next Latin Night on Friday and March 8 at 7 p.m. at the Conference Center.
The event is free.For more information, visit
ftmeademwr.com.
Parents Night OutThe next Parents Night Out will be
held Feb. 15 from 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Registration is required by Friday.Leave children ages 6 weeks to 12
years old with trained staffers.Cost is $10 for the first child and $5
for each additional child.All youths must be registered with
Child, Youth and School Services.For more information, call Parent
Central Services at 301-677-1149.
OSC scholarshipsThe Fort Meade Officers’ Spouses’
Club has posted its 2013 scholarship applications on its website.
College-bound, high school seniors and dependent children currently enrolled in college can apply for the Merit Scholarship.
High school seniors with an outstanding academic record also will be considered for the Etta Baker Memorial Scholarship.
The Fort Meade OSC also will award a JROTC Scholarship as well as a Military Spouse Scholarship.
Application forms with eligibility requirements are available at fortmeadeosc.org. Completed applications must be postmarked by April 1 to be considered.
Graduate School on Fort Meade offers a Master of Science in Administration degree program.
The program is designed for the
NEWS & EVENTS
file photo
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATIONFort Meade’s annual Black History Month observance will be held Feb. 14
from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McGill Training Center.Admission is free and open to the public.The event is hosted by Navy Information Operations Command Maryland.The speaker is Navy Rear Adm. James Crawford III, deputy judge advocate
general and commander of Naval Legal Service Command.Entertainment will feature the Morgan State University Performance Arts
Department.Food samplings will be provided.All Fort Meade service members and civilian employees are encouraged
to attend with supervisory approval and without charge to annual leave. Administrative leave is authorized.
For more information, call Navy Chief Edward T. Brown at 301-688-6373 or Sgt. 1st Class Torey Palmore at Equal Opportunity at 301-677-6687.CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
EDUCATION
For All of Your Personal Banking Needs...You Belong Here!At The Washington Savings Bank our Premium Checking is FREE!And it comes with all the features to make your life easier!• On-Line Banking with Bill Pay• Premium Mobile Banking with a TWSB APP• Text Message Banking with Text Alerts• Free Debit Card with Purchase Rewards• Surcharge Free Access to over 2,000 ATMs• Finance Works™ - The latest banking
tool that puts money management at your fingertips and yourfinancial goals within reach!
Five Convenient Locations to Serve You!
ODENTON410-551-88001161 Annapolis Rd.
BOWIE301-352-3100
4201 Mitchellville Rd.MILLERSVILLE410-987-1515676 Old Mill Road
CROFTON410-721-8867
1669 Crofton Centre
WALDORF301-843-7200
3225 Crain HighwayFor more information visit us
@ www.twsb.comMEMBER
FDIC
http://www.facebook.com/TWSBank
or Scan the QR Code with your Smart Phone
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil18 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
Community news & notes
working adult; courses are offered in an accelerated weekend format.
Military and DoD discounted tuition rates are available.
Registration for the Spring II and III terms is in progress.
For more information, call Linda Zedan at 301-621-9796 or visit cmich.edu/globalcampus.
Financial Readiness classesArmy Community Service is offering
the following Financial Readiness classes at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.
Classes are open 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.• Credit Clinic meets every Wednesday
from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Use the new online appointment
system to schedule for the Credit Clinic and regular appointments with a financial counselor at fortmeadeacs.checkappointments.com.
• Thrift Savings Plan: Tuesday, 9 to 11 a.m.
• Car Buying: Feb. 14, 1 to 3 p.m.• Liquidating Your Debts: Feb. 19, 9
to 11 a.m.• Money Management: Feb. 21, 1 to
3 p.m.• First Term Financial Readiness
(online class): Feb. 26, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.• Military Saves Day of Financial
Fitness: Feb. 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.To register for classes, call 301-677-
5590 or 301-677-9014. To schedule an appointment, visit fortmeadeacs.checkappointments.com.
Career, financial classesThe Fleet and Family Support Center
offers the following free classes at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.:
• Federal Employment: Tuesday, 9 a.m. to noon
• Thrift Savings Plan overview: Tuesday, 9 to 11 a.m.
• Hearts Apart: Tuesday, 5 to 8 p.m., Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. It’s Mardi Gras! Join the group for New Orleans-style food, children’s crafts and piñatas.
• Stress Management: Feb. 14, 9 to 11 a.m.
• Spouses Meet and Greet: Feb. 14, 10 a.m. to noon
This is an opportunity for Navy spouses to come out to the FFSC, meet the staff and learn about the resources available. Light refreshments will be served. There also will be prizes and drawings.
Registration is required for all programs. For more information, call 301-677-9014.
UMUC info sessionLearn all about University of
Maryland University College at an information session on Feb. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Army Education Center, 8601 Zimborski Ave.
Advisors will be available to discuss transfer credit and help you put together a degree plan. Bring transcripts.
You can apply, register for classes and find out how to maximize your education benefits.
The $50 application fee will be waived if you apply at the event. (The $100 appli-cation fee for Doctor of Management is not.)
For more information, call 301-621-9882.
Discussion on marriageThe Exceptional Family Member
Program is sponsoring “Let’s Talk About Marriage: A Discussion” on Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.
The discussion will focus on what is needed for a strong and healthy marriage.
The event is open to the community. Registration is required.
To register or for more information, call 301-677-4473 or email [email protected].
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.
• Today: “Noisiest Story Time Ever” - Stories about noise
• Feb. 14: “Love is in the Air” - A Valentine’s Day celebration
• Feb. 28: “Smile! Dental Health Month” - Special guest demonstrates dental care.
For more information, call 301-677-5522 or 301-677-4509 or visit ftmeademwr.com.
Dance, grillingChild, Youth and School Services will
sponsor the following events for grades six to eight at the Youth Center:
• Valentine’s Dance: Feb. 15, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Cost is $2. The event will feature music, prizes and snack bar.
• Grilling & Chilling, Feb. 22, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Food cost is $5. Games are free.For more information, call 301-677-
1437.
Out & About• Motor Trend International Auto
Show will be held today through Sunday at the Baltimore Convention Center, 1 West Pratt St. Hours are: today, noon to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults; $6 for seniors (age 62 and older) on Thursday and Friday and $8 on Sunday; $6 for service members with DoD ID; and $4 for ages 7 to 12. Family Day is Sunday when children ages 12 and younger will be admitted free with paying adult.
For more information, call 410-649-7000 or visit motortrendautoshows.com/baltimore.
• The Retired Officers’ Wives’ Club of Fort Meade is sponsoring a bus trip to George Washington University in Washington, D.C., for a free concert for Veterans’ Appreciation Day co-sponsors, family members and friends on Feb. 17 from 3 to 5:30 p.m.
The concert, VETStravaganza, will feature the West Point Cadet Glee Club, the West Point Alumni Glee Club, veteran quartet Homefire, and two country western singers from Nashville, Mark Wills and David Kroll.
Bus cost is $22. The bus will depart at 1:45 p.m. from Ridgeview Shopping Center. The concert is free but tickets are required. For more information or reservations, call Althea Freeman at 410-451-9097 or Joan Fiscus at 410-465-0492.
• Glen Mar United Methodist Church in Ellicott City will sponsor a Family 5K Run/Walk on April 20
at 9 a.m. The course will cover streets surrounding the church. The event will benefit the Howard County Food Bank. Participants are asked to bring nonperishable foods to the event.
Registration is limited to 350 people. To register, visit glenmarumc.org. For more information, contact Connie Ballenger at [email protected] or 410-796-0290.
• The Meade Area Garden Club is sponsoring a bus trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show on March 4 from 8:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “Brilliant,” showcasing the culture and plants of Great Britain.
Cost, which includes bus fee and admis-sion, is $60 for members and $65 for non-members.
Reservations are required; payment must accompany the reservation. There are no refunds of the bus fee after Feb. 20.
Make your reservation with Bever-ly Durana at 7676 Ridge Chapel Road, Hanover, MD 21076, or call her at 410-551-2263.
• The Laurel Museum will feature the exhibit, “Stationed in Laurel: Our Civil War Story,” beginning Sunday until Dec. 22. Hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. at 817 Main St. in Laurel.
The exhibit focus is on the Northern units serving at Laurel Station, an area that included the only rail line between Washing-ton, D.C., and the Northern states, and the war’s affect on the town.
For more information visit laurelhis-toricalsociety.org or contact the Laurel Museum at [email protected] or 301-725-7975.
• U.S. Naval Academy Wind Ensemble Concert Band will perform a free concert today at 7 p.m. on the Severn campus of Annapolis Christian School at the Kerr Center for the Arts, 101 Buchanan Road. For more information, call 410-293-1262 or visit usna.edu/USNABand or facebook.com/USNABand.
• Celebrate Babe’s Birthday Bash, the 118th anniversary of the birth of Babe Ruth in Baltimore, on Friday and Saturday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Sports Legends Museum at Camden Yards, 301 W. Camden St., Baltimore.
Tickets cost $55 and are available by calling Whitney Edmonds at 410-727-1539 ext. 3033 or online at http://baberuthbash2013.ticketleap.com/buytickets/.
• Celebrate the Chinese New Year on Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. at the Walters Art Museum 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore. In celebration of the Year of the Snake, events include a tour of snake
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17
EDUCATION
YOUTH
RECREATION
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 19
Community news & notes
attributes as seen in works of art at noon and 2:30 p.m.; a performance by the Baltimore Chinese School at 12:30 and 1:30 p.m.; and a presentation by the Johns Hopkins University Lion Dance Troupe at 1 and 2 p.m.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 410-547-9000 ext. 323.
• Leisure Travel Services is offering monthly bus trips to New York City on Saturday and March 23, 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 The Conference Center. The next prayer breakfast is today.
The guest speaker is retired Lt. Col. Richard H. Barnes, Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching, and Service staff member for Eastern and Central Europe.
There is no cost for the buffet; dona-tions are optional. For more informa-tion, 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 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.
• 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 Friday. 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.
• Enlisted Spouses Club meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Monday. For more
• 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 Monday. 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].
• NARFE Chapter 1519 will meet Tuesday at 1 p.m. at Holy Trinity Parish Hall at 7436 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd., Glen Burnie. If the schools are closed, there will be no meeting. If the schools are delayed two hours, the meeting will be held as usual.
Guest speaker is CPA Jack Czarnecki, who will address issues concerning income tax filing for the year. The free event is open to family members and those contemplating membership.
For more information or to join, call Diane Shreves, publicity chairman, at 410-760-3750.
• 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 Tuesday. For more information, call Sharon Collins at 301-667-4116 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 Tuesday. 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].
• Marriage Enrichment Group, sponsored by Army Community Service, meets the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. The next meeting is Wednesday. For more information, call Celena Flowers or Jessica Hobgood at 301-677-5590.
• Fort Meade TOP III Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at
3 p.m. at the Courses. The next meeting is Wednesday. The association is open to all Air Force active-duty and retired senior noncommissioned officers. For more information, call Master Sgt. Jonathan Jacob at 443-479-0616 or email [email protected].
• Meade Branch 212 of the Fleet Reserve Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at VFW Post 160 on Route 170 in Glen Burnie. The next meeting is Wednesday. Active-duty, Reserve and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are invited. For more information, call 410-761-7046 or 301-262-6556.
• Women’s Empowerment Group meets every Wednesday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. to provide a safe, confidential arena for the support, education and empowerment of women who have experienced past or present family violence.
Location is only disclosed to participants. To register, call Tina Gauth, victim advocate, at 301-677-4117 or Samantha Herring, victim advocate, at 301-677-4124.
• Meade Area Garden Club will meet Feb. 15 at 10 a.m. at the Jessup Community Hall at the corner of Route 175 and Wigley Avenue.
Master gardener and floral designer Anne Brooks will present the program “From Garden to Vase” on using and maintaining a cutting garden.
Meetings are canceled if Anne Arundel County public schools are closed or open late due to inclement weather.
For more information, call Pat Loosarian, membership chairman, at 410-519-6443 or Sharon Durney, club president, at 410-761-5019.
• 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 session. 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.
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 March 3
Today & Friday: “This Is 40” (R). A husband and wife pursue ways to deal with their approaching middle age. With Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, John Lithgow.
Saturday & Sunday: “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” (PG-13). Bilbo Baggins begins a jour-ney to reclaim a stolen treasure. With Ian McKel-len, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage.
Wednesday & Feb. 16, 17: “Rise of the Guardians” (PG). An evil spirit schemes against the immortal Guardians (Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman). Voices of Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Jude Law.
Feb. 14, 20: “The Guilt Trip” (PG-13). An inven-tor and his mom hit the road together so he can sell his latest creation. With Barbra Streisand, Seth Rogen, Brett Cullen.
Feb. 15, 21: “Jack Reacher” (PG-13). An investiga-tor (Tom Cruise) probes a random sniper attack. With Rosamund Pike and Robert Duvall.
Feb. 22, 23, 24: “Gangster Squad” (R). A chroni-cle of the Los Angeles Police Department’s fight to keep the East Coast mafia out of their area in the 1940s and 1950s. With Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Nick Nolte.
Feb. 27, March 2, 3: “Les Misérables” (PG-13). An adaptation of the stage musical based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel. With Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe and Anne Hathaway.
MEETINGS
Chaplain’s WordGET UP AND LEAD
“Leadership is a combination of strategy and character.If you must be without one, be without the strategy.”
— H. Norman Schwarzkopf
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil16 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013
Education
Story and photo by Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
Phylesia Fralin said she is proud to be a semifinalist for a National Achieve-ment Scholarship, which is awarded to exceptional black high school students, and is aware that previous generations of accomplished black students did not have the same opportunities.
“I think it’s very exciting that they have this scholarship,” said the 17-year-old senior at Meade High School. “I work as hard and as much as anybody else. I know my grandmother and great-grandmother would not [have been] recognized even if they had good grades.”
Phylesia is enrolled in Meade High’s International Baccalaureate Programme and has a 4.541 G.P.A.
The National Achievement Scholar-ship Program is an academic competition established in 1964 to provide recogni-tion for outstanding black high school students and is conducted concurrently with the National Merit Scholarship Pro-gram.
The two scholarships are administered by the National Merit Scholarship Cor-poration, which recognizes academical-ly talented students across the United States.
According to the organization’s web-site, black students may enter both the National Achievement Program and the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Schol-arship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) and meeting other requirements for par-ticipation. The two annual programs are operated and funded separately.
A student’s standing is determined independently in each program. Black stu-dents can qualify for recognition and be honored as scholars in both the National Merit Program and the National Achieve-ment Program, but can receive only one monetary award from NMSC.
About 1,600 National Achievement Scholarship semifinalists throughout the country compete for a $2,500 single pay-ment scholarship, which is awarded on a regional basis.
Phylesia qualified as a semifinalist based on her scores on the PSAT exam, which she took in her junior year. She was notified of her status as a semifinalist last September.
Semifinalists are the highest-scoring participants in their state. They advance to finalist standing by meeting high aca-demic standards and other requirements.
Meade High senior vies for prestigious scholarship
Phylesia Fralin, 17, a senior at Meade High School, is a semifinalist for the National Achievement Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding black high school students nationwide.
About 1,300 finalists are expected to be announced shortly. Eight hundred win-ners will be notified later this month.
Jonathan Putt, chair of Meade High’s Guidance Department, said the last stu-dent to be recognized as a National Merit semifinalist was three to four years ago. The last National Merit finalist dates back seven years.
Putt said he feels a great deal of pride
about Phylesia’s selection as a semifinal-ist.
“My role as a school counselor is to stay off camera and allow the student to shine,” Putt said.
In addition to her status as a semifinal-ist, Phylesia was offered a scholarship to Florida A&M University in Tallahassee through the National Achievement Schol-arship Program, which refers participants
to about 1,500 four-year colleges and universities.
Phylesia, who is a member of the National Honor Society and aspires to become an accountant, also is consider-ing the University of Pennsylvania and Howard University.
She visited Florida A&M University two weeks ago with her family.
“I really liked it,” Phylesia said, noting that she has applied for admission. “I’m seriously considering it.”
Phylesia commended the university’s “sense of community.”
At Meade High, Phylesia plays the vio-lin and vibraphone. She has been a mem-ber of the school orchestra and marching band for four years. She most recently was the section leader of the marching band’s front ensemble.
“She is a talented young lady who works very hard. She is reliable and always per-severes,” said Eric Kilby, a music teacher and faculty adviser to the orchestra and marching band. “I have a lot of respect and admiration for Phylesia.”
This year, Phylesia was elected vice president of the school’s Model United Nations Club, an international issues club that debates solutions to transnational problems.
Masami Stratton, a social studies teacher who instructs senior IB students, is a club adviser.
“Phylesia is a model student and a great person,” Stratton said. “She is dili-gent and hard-working, on top of being bright and enthusiastic — truly a winning combination.”
Phylesia said she hopes she is selected as a finalist for the scholarship
“I think I turned in a strong applica-tion,” she said. “I do hope I can get it.”
