‘A DAY ON’ Local minister promotes need for service on MLK Day PAGE 3 UPCOMING EVENTS SUNDAY, 6:25 P.M.: Super Bowl Party - The Lanes FEB. 6, 7 A.M.: Monthly Prayer Breakfast - Club Meade FEB. 6, 4 P.M.: Right Arm Night - Club Meade FEB. 11, 9:30 A.M.: Kids’ Craft Club - Arts & Crafts Center FEB. 19, 11:30 A.M.: National Prayer Luncheon - Club Meade TEAMWORK Vietnam War POW credits strong faith as key to success PAGE 4 Sound off ! ´ VOL. 66 NO. 4 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community January 30, 2014 PHOTO BY NATE PESCE ‘A RAY OF SUNSHINE’ Miss America 2014, Nina Davuluri, talks with Pfc. Sergio Ramirez Romero (second from left), Pfc. Sara Graham (right) and other service members during her visit to the Fort Meade USO-Metro on Jan. 22. Davuluri was in the Washington-metro area to promote science, technology, engineering and math education. For the story, see Page 10.
Transcript
‘a day on’Local minister promotes need for service on MLK Day
page 3
UPCoMInG EVEnTSSUnday, 6:25 P.M.: Super Bowl Party - The LanesFEb. 6, 7 a.M.: Monthly Prayer Breakfast - Club MeadeFEb. 6, 4 P.M.: Right Arm Night - Club MeadeFEb. 11, 9:30 a.M.: Kids’ Craft Club - Arts & Crafts CenterFEb. 19, 11:30 a.M.: National Prayer Luncheon - Club Meade
TEaMworkVietnam War POW credits strong faith as key to success
page 4
Soundoff!́vol. 66 no. 4 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community January 30, 2014
photo by nate pesce
‘a ray of sunshine’Miss America 2014, nina Davuluri, talks with Pfc. Sergio Ramirez Romero (second from left), Pfc. Sara Graham (right) and other service members during her visit to the Fort Meade USo-Metro on Jan. 22. Davuluri was in the Washington-metro area to promote science, technology, engineering and math education. For the story, see Page 10.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! January 30, 2014
Commander’s Column
Cont ent sNews............................. 3 Sports..................................11
Editorial StaffGarrison Commander Col. Brian P. foleyGarrison 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 the Baltimore Sun Media Group
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 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.
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Printed by The Baltimore Sun Co., LLC, 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.
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As I look back on all the years I have dealt with safety issues, one lesson of history stands firm — we don’t learn the lessons of history.
The Greeks even recognized the fallibility of man: Cassandra was able to predict the future but was cursed by the gods because no one would believe her.
It took a whale to change the mind of the prophet Jonah since he felt a trip to Ninevah to outline their safety deficiencies was not worth the trip.
Life is very complex and unpredictable. Every day we are inundated with the require-ments and we don’t have enough time or money. This year, despite many warnings, many were unprepared for the extremes of cold.
Every year the Installation Safety Office has safety campaigns. This time of year we do winter safety.
In retrospect, we could have had winter safety campaign with possible updates:
• Unusual snow fall: 5-inch accumulation in 24 hours.
• Unusual cold: Sustained cold below 5 degrees and/or equivalent temperature with wind chill for more than three days.
This would possibly have alerted people that additional precautions are needed.
One individual who had just had his oil changed in December was concerned that when his windshield cleaner was topped off, it was with a summer mix that lacked any anti-freeze. He noticed it when it did not work in the extreme cold.
In the extreme cold, even indoors we are vulnerable in the event of a power failure.
One thought is to have a kerosene heater available for emergencies. Another is pur-chasing a generator. Of course, the car has a heater as a last resort.
Maintenance of tire pressure is a good way to think of safety. Regular checks of equip-ment is the best way to go.
If you check your tire pressure every month, then after the temperature goes down from 80 degrees to 60, one might add 4 pounds since air pressure in a tire typically goes down 1 to 2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change.
There are people who haven’t checked their tire pressure since the weather began turning colder: 32 at 60 degrees could become 20 at 0 degrees.
Maintaining proper air pressure is the single most important thing drivers can do for their tires to prevent increased tread wear on the shoulder area (outside edges) of the tire; excessive heat, which reduces tire durability;
and reduced fuel economy by increasing rolling resis-tance. Soft tires make the vehicle work harder.
Some tires have sensors that will signal the driver when pressure is low. But beware. The tire stems are aluminum and when cold, they are more brittle.
Don’t extend the air hose so that it pulls the stem because it could break and totally deflate the tire. This even happens in warmer weather.
A reminder on wind chill: A chart of the effects from temperature is located at www.nws.noaa.gov/os/windchill/index.shtml.
The chart indicates that 5 degrees with a wind of 30 knots, which we had recently, is the equivalent of -19 degrees. At that tem-perature, frostbite can occur in 30 minutes.
Inside the house, sustained cold can freeze pipes. For travels, be sure and leave the heat on.
In better weather, it is better to use plastic pipes since they bend instead of break. Water expands 1/11th of its size, creating the prob-lem when water in a pipe freezes.
The Weather Channel offers these tips on preventing frozen pipes:
“Surprisingly, ice forming in a pipe does not typically cause a break where the ice blockage occurs. It’s not the radial expansion of ice against the wall of the pipe that causes the break.
“Rather, following a complete ice block-age in a pipe, continued freezing and expan-sion inside the pipe causes water pressure to increase downstream between the ice block-age and a closed faucet at the end.
“It’s this increase in water pressure that leads to pipe failure. Usually the pipe bursts where little or no ice has formed.
“Upstream from the ice blockage, the water can always retreat back toward its source, so there is no pressure buildup to cause a break.
“Water has to freeze for ice blockages to occur. Pipes that are adequately protected along their entire length by placement within the building’s insulation, insulation on the pipe itself, or heating are safe.”
Keep these tips in mind. I hope I don’t have to do a message on too much snow!
Weathering the weather
KirK Fechter, director installation Safety office
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 30, 2014 SOUNDOFF! �
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Story and photos by Brandon BieltzStaff Writer
The first time Johnny Green saw Mar-tin Luther King Jr. was on his black and white television in his hometown of Thomasville, Ga.
Just 5 years old, he understood little of what was spoken at the March on Washington and King’s “I Have A Dream Speech” in 1963, but its impact still reso-nates for Green, the lead pastor of the Jessup-based Bethel Ministries.
Green reflected on King’s messages as guest speaker for Fort Meade’s annual “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance” held Jan. 23 at McGill Training Center.
“I didn’t understand or take in any-thing [King] said [at the March on Wash-ington],” recalled Green. “I just noticed here is a black man on this television. I don’t know what he said, but history tells me he said a lot.
“This speech lasted roughly 17 minutes and from what I understand, was an amazing speech. The same speech still stirs the hearts and challenges the minds of all of us each and every day, 50 years later.”
After Green spoke, Garrison Com-mander Col. Brian P. Foley presented him with a glass plaque and thanked him for “great words to inspire us all.”
The observance, which focused on the theme “Make it a day on, not a day off,” opened with a brief video. The video detailed the transformation of the Mar-tin Luther King Jr. holiday from what started out as a day to commemorate King’s work through observances and conferences, to a day of service — not just a day off work.
“Dr. King didn’t take a day off, he was always on,” Green said. “Fort Meade, are you taking a day off ? It’s not a day off. It’s a day on all the time when you seek justice.
“There’s too much work to do, no mat-ter who you are. There’s too much work to do, no matter your rank. There’s too much work to do, no matter what you do or what you’ve seen.
“Don’t take a day off. There are no days off. There are only days on.”
Green, an Air Force veteran who served 20 years, called King a “brilliant thinker” who led by example through nonviolent protests and campaigns.
‘A Day On’Fort Meade honors MLK Day
Johnny Green speaks during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance on Jan. 23 at McGill Training Center. Green is the lead pastor of the Jessup-based Bethel Ministries and Air Force veteran who served 20 years.
BELOW: Service members watch a brief video explaining the history of Martin Luther King Jr. Day during the installation’s annual MLK Day observance on Jan. 23 at McGill Training Center. Guest speaker Pastor Johnny Green, lead pastor of the Jessup-based Bethel Ministries, reflected on King’s messages in his presentation.
“He was quite a few things,” he said. “He was a father, a speaker, a leader, an advocate for civil rights, a man of change, a husband and an American.”
Recalling the story of when a young King became frightened after a bomb threat to his Alabama home, Green said that King was not unlike those who filled McGill.
“He was human like you and I are. ... It got rough for Dr. King sometimes, just like it will get rough for us. Still stand for the truth.” Green said. “It got rough for Dr. King in a time when he couldn’t help it and it wasn’t his fault. He still stood for the truth.”
Today, King is remembered “as an icon of faith who had courage to change a nation, he had tenacity to stand up to wrong,” Green said.
Although fearful at times, said Green, King never stopped working for equal-ity.
“It’s great to have a day off, it’s nice to sleep in every now and then, [and] just roll over,” he said. “But when injustice is happening and when somebody else is being put down, and the poor are get-ting poorer and the needy keep getting in more need, we’ve got to do something about it besides roll over.
“You can’t take a day off.”After the presentation, Staff Sgt. Dani-
lo Fernandez of the 241st Military Police Detachment said Green’s speech provided an important message for service mem-bers.
“He didn’t stray away from the point he wanted to get across,” Fernandez said.
‘There’s too much work to do, no matter what you do or what you’ve seen. Don’t take a day off. There are no days off. There are only days on.’
Johnny Green Lead Pastor, Bethel Ministries
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Story and photo by Airman 1st Class Samuel Daub70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
Retired Air Force Capt. Guy Gruters, a Vietnam War veteran and former pris-oner of war, shared his experiences with the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Airmen and Fort Meade service members on Jan. 22 at the Airman Leadership School and Friedman Auditorium.
During the presentation, Gruters recounted his survival of North Viet-namese prison camps and torture at the hands of communist fighters.
Gruters survived more than five years of imprisonment and was able to return home with honor. He credited his strength to carry on to a strong faith in his lead-ership and teamwork with his fellow captives.
He imparted the wisdom he gained under these circumstances to the future supervisors in his audience.
“To me, the most important message is to have a strong faith, and above every-thing else to try to do the right thing in every aspect of your career,” Gruters said. “I mean always, always, every day, try to do what you truly believe is the right thing, despite any consequence.
“That right thing involves real obedi-ence to your leadership and all your
procedures and everything that everybody is telling you to do above you, and real loyalty to your leadership and real loyalty and true loyalty to all the people you are responsible for — loyalty up and down the line.
“Don’t play any games with any selfish-ness. Truly try to be unselfish in every-thing and you’ll never regret it.”
Gruters’ talk accompanied a Power-Point presentation centered on team-work.
Gruters shared that the same force employed to help him return home in 1973 is the same that affects the success of today’s leaders and Airmen.
“If you’re a leader who really cares for your people, your people know it and will do anything for you,” he said. “You won’t have people doing just what they are sup-posed to do. They’ll go above and beyond for you, and the unit will be stronger because of it.”
Gruters urged participants to take responsibility for mistakes at every oppor-tunity to do so. When taking responsibil-ity, Airmen also receive the opportunity to correct the issue and be proactive in improving their work place.
“It looks like a stupid thing to do, but believe me, it’s the right thing to do,” he said. “The thing about it is, when you take the blame for the problem, people let you fix the problem. Because you’ve taken the
responsibility, everybody lets you lead the way out.”
Gruters was introduced by his nephew, Maj. Peter Gruters of the 34th Intel-ligence Squadron, who joined the Air Force shortly before Sept. 11. His grand-father served in World War II and his uncles, Terry and Guy Gruters, were both pilots in the Vietnam War.
“One of the reasons I got in was to continue that tradition as the next genera-
tion,” Maj. Peter Gruters said. “Bottom line goes back to the Air Force Creed: ‘I am faithful to a proud heritage, a tradi-tion of honor and a legacy of valor.’
“That really hits home for me — just to continue that legacy of family.”
After his talk, the elder Gruters joined the Airmen for lunch and answered an array of questions. He also spoke to a joint-service audience at the Friedman Auditorium later that day.
Vietnam POW talks teamwork
Retired Air Force Capt. Guy Gruters, a Vietnam War veteran and former prisoner of war for more than five years, answers an Airman’s question on Jan. 22 in the Airman Leadership School at Fort Meade. Gruters shared his experiences during a presentation for the 70th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Airmen and Fort Meade service members.
What you need to know about cervical cancerBy Health Net Federal Services
January is cervical cancer month. Here’s what you need to know about cervical cancer:
• Cervical cancer is almost completely preventable.
• Regular Pap smears (also known as a Pap test) can catch abnormal cells before they turn into cervical cancer.
• Cervical cancer is slow growing. On
average, it takes 10 years to develop.• Women in their 40s and 50s are at the
greatest risk.• If you have never had a Pap test or not
had one in a long time, it’s not too late.• Early stage cervical cancer can be
treated.• Almost all cervical cancer is caused by
HPV, a virus.• There’s a vaccine to protect you from
the most dangerous HPVs.• A Pap test is quick, easy and pain-
less.• There’s no cost to TRICARE benefi-
ciaries when they see a network provider. TRICARE covers Pap tests for women older than 18 years old from a network provider.
What is a Pap test and what does it do?
The Pap test can tell if you have an infection, abnormal (unhealthy) cervical cells or cervical cancer.
If unhealthy cervical cells are detect-ed, they can be treated before they turn into cancer.
Regular Pap tests also can detect cervical cancer early, when it’s the most treatable.
Cervical cancer screening guidelines
The United State Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for cervical cancer through Pap tests every
three years, beginning at age 21 and continuing until age 65.
It is also recommended for women ages 30 to 65 who want to lengthen the screening interval, screening with a com-bination of a Pap test and an HPV test every five years.
Cervical cancer vaccine for youthThe rate of cervical cancer can be
significantly reduced by protecting youngsters with the vaccine that pro-tects against the most dangerous forms of HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer.
The vaccine is available to adolescent girls and boys, beginning at age 11, as well as young adults through age 26.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! January 30, 2014
News
The amount you exclude may not exceed your monthly taxable retired military pay for any given month.
If your retired pay was reduced after the effective date of the award, you may exclude the retroactive portion when you file your annual federal income tax return.
Attach copies of the VA award letter(s), along with your Form 1099-R, to your tax return to substantiate your entitlement to the exclusion.
In addition, it may benefit you to file amended tax returns for any previous years in which retroactive disability pay was awarded. You can contact the IRS directly to determine which years you may file amended returns.
For more information, go to www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary or call DFAS at 800-321-1080.
You also may schedule an appointment at the Fort Meade Tax Center to have your taxes prepared at no charge. Center vol-unteers are specifically trained in military-unique tax issues.
The Tax Center serves active-duty service members, retirees and family dependents with valid military ID Cards.
The center, which is located at 4217 Rob-erts Ave., is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Appointments are limited. Call 301-677-9366.
By Capt. Iris YaoJoint Installation Tax Center
Are you receiving both Veterans Affairs disability compensation and retirement pay?
These two types of payments fall under IRS Ruling 78-161, also known as the “Strickland Decision.”
According to the Internal Revenue ruling, military retirees may receive the tax benefit that comes from retroactive awards of VA disability pay.
When a retiree receives an initial award, or a retroactive increase in disability pay from the VA, the retroactive portion of the pay may be excluded from the retiree’s taxable retired pay.
The portion of military retired pay that is reduced due to receiving the VA disability pay is called the “VA Waiver.”
For the first VA award, the retroactive portion is the disability pay entitlement from the effective date shown on the VA award letter through the day before the reduction of retired pay.
For increases in awards, the retroac-tive portion is the difference between the increased award and the amounts by which retired pay had been reduced. This includes payments from the effective date of the increased award, as shown on the VA award letter, through the day before the reduction of retired pay.
VA retroactive award may be a tax benefit
Jan. 16, Assault consummated by a battery: An investigation revealed that the subject and his daughter were involved in a verbal altercation that turned physical when he grabbed her by the neck and started choking her, leaving red marks and scratches on her neck.
Jan. 18, Shoplifting: AAFES loss prevention personnel stated that a shoplifter was observed via surveillance exiting the store without ren-dering proper payment for items she concealed on her person.
Jan. 18, Theft of private property: The Direc-torate of Emergency Services was notified of a theft from the 24-hour Shoppette. AAFES loss prevention personnel observed an AAFES employee performing an excessive amount of void, no sale, and price challenges on her cash register. Further investigation revealed that the subject was removing money from her cash register. When confronted, the subject admit-ted to the thefts.
Jan. 19, Larceny of private property: The victim stated that her iPad Mini was miss-ing. An investigation revealed that person(s) by unknown means had removed her Apple iPad Mini from her purse while she was at the Lanes.
CommunityCommunityCrime Watch
Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
For week of Jan. 20-26:• Moving violations: 34• Nonmoving violations: 3• Verbal warnings for traffic stops: 92• Traffic accidents: 8• Driving on suspended license: 3• Driving on suspended registration: 3• Driving without a license: 2
On the lookout
The Directorate of Emergency Servic-es is actively work-ing to keep neigh-borhoods safe.
Families resid-ing on post should remember to ensure that windows and doors to homes, cars and garages are locked at all times, regardless of time of day.
Although the crime rate in mili-tary housing is lower than off post, it is important to remember that Fort Meade is not immune to crime. To protect your family and belongings, remember to take an active role in deterring crime.
Remain aware of your sur-roundings and immediately report any suspicious activity to the Fort Meade Police at 301-677-6622 or 6623.
Flexible SchedulingOnline � Hybrid � Accelerated
Convenient LocationsColumbia � Gateway � Laurel � Mount Airy
Support ServicesCredit for Prior Learning � Military Assistance
Counseling and Career ServicesFinancial Aid
Career ProgrammingWorkforce Training
Certi cations � Degrees
Learning at home.Learning in the classroom.
Learning for success.
If you want to maintain, stay competitive,or advance in your career,
choose Howard Community Collegefor learning that works for you!
Visit hcclearningworks.comto take the next step.
Spring semester begins January 25
Noncredit classes are ongoing
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By DISA Strategic CommunicationsThe Defense Information Systems
Agency hosted a Financial Wellness Expo on Jan. 16.
The event, open to all military and civilian employees of the agency, featured a variety of financial services exhibi-tors ranging from the Consumer Finan-cial Protection Bureau to the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Maryland and Delaware.
The theme was “Exercises to Shape Up Your Spending.” The focus was on finan-cial wellness through education.
“Maintaining a balance in your finan-cial wellness leads to an overall decrease in stress levels, which is beneficial to your health,” said Helena Jenkins, who manned a table for Federal Occupational Health that featured a free blood pressure check.
Exhibitors included banks, credit unions, financial planners, credit coun-selors and insurance agents.
“The expo was extremely well laid out, logistically and aesthetically speaking,” said Jennifer Augustine, deputy director of the DISA Manpower, Personnel, and Security Directorate.
Employees received a variety of infor-mation including how to balance a bud-get, get out of debt, prevent identity theft, and avoid bankruptcy. Many exhibitors provided brochures and other collateral materials to take home.
Exhibits such as the Thrift Savings Pro-gram and National Association of Retired Federal Employees provided information to help employees work proactively to secure their future financial well-being.
Federal Trade Commission representa-tives shared information such as what to do if you are a victim of identity theft, how to receive a free credit report, and how to deal with debt.
Other exhibits highlighted ways that individuals with financial problems can seek help.
“The aim of the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling is to offer counseling and help for anyone with a gambling addiction, which can lead to financial ruin,” said Carl Robertson, who represented the organization at the expo and handed out literature featuring its 24-hour help hotline.
The expo also featured charitable and nonprofit organizations, providing infor-mation for those who need assistance as well as those interested in giving.
They included the National Military
DISA employees learn about financial wellness at expo
PHOTO COURTESY OF DISA
A representative from Fort Meade’s Army Community Service explains the organization’s mission and provides an overview of services offered to a Defense Information Systems Agency employee at the agency’s Financial Wellness Expo held Jan. 16. The exhibitors included banks, credit unions, financial planners, credit counselors and insurance agents to help DISA employees secure their financial well-being.
Family Association, which advocates for military benefits and manages programs that include scholarships; summer camps for children whose parents are deployed; and support for the caregivers of wound-ed warriors and the Manna Food Cen-ter, a nonprofit organization working to eliminate hunger in Montgomery County through food distribution, education and advocacy.
“Ten Thousand Villages is the gift that gives twice” said Melba Leopardi, point-ing out that the hand-made textiles, jew-elry and art featured in her exhibit were made from sustainable natural resources and recycled materials.
Leopardi said the nonprofit organiza-tion works to improve the livelihood of disadvantaged artisans in 38 countries.
Michele Rackey, executive director of Government Employees’ Benefits Asso-ciation, praised event organizers.
“I’ve been a vendor at many of these events over the years, and this was by far the most well-organized expo I’ve ever had the pleasure of attending,” she said.
FInD the Fort MeADerelIgIouS ScheDule
atwww.ftmeade.army.mil.
Look for the “Community” tab then click on “Religious Services” for
schedules, events and contact information.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 30, 2014 SOUNDOFF! �
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Story and photo by Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
Twelve years ago, Chaplain (Maj.) James Covey counseled a Solider who did not want to admit she was having suicidal thoughts.
At the time, Covey was a battalion chap-lain at the 204th Forward Support Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas.
“Just being there with her let her know that people cared,” said Covey, the garrison’s new chaplain at the Family Life Ministry Center located at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.
After a few hours of talking with the Sol-dier, Covey convinced her to come with him to the Behavioral Health Clinic, where she was assessed and not found to be at risk.
“The last time I knew, she was OK, “Covey said. “Every chaplain in the Army has a story like that.”
Covey said this form of counseling is called “ministry of presence.” He practices it regularly, along with the two pastoral coun-seling interns who work at the Family Life Ministry Center.
The center provides pastoral counseling to all branches of the military, DoD civilian employees and family members in the Fort Meade community.
Its mission is to “provide professional and compassionate care to the whole person,” according to the garrison’s Religious Support Office website.
The Pastoral Counseling Program at Loyola University Maryland in Columbia has a partnership with Fort Meade to pro-vide internships at the Family Life Ministry Center for students pursuing their graduate or doctoral degrees.
Michelle Adams and Carol Stewart are currently interning under Covey’s supervi-sion and the supervision of their instructors at Loyola.
Covey said that he, Adams and Stewart are professional counselors who integrate theology and psychology in their practice.
“It’s not about imposing our religious or spiritual ideas on others,” he said, noting that the center encourages clients to share their religious faith in counseling. “We meet them where they are, and walk alongside them to be the source of care.”
Covey and the interns handle a wide range of issues: grief, anger, stress, child therapy, marital, parenting, divorce, addictions, post-traumatic stress and spirituality.
Clients are guaranteed privileged com-munication. All matters discussed are kept confidential, unless clients sign a release-of-information form.
Because pastoral counseling is provided by
New chaplain takes over Family Life Ministry Center
a chaplain, Covey said, “there is a sense of safety that is unique.”
Clients do not have to worry that their counseling sessions will be shared with their chain of command or anyone else.
“It’s like a vault, “Covey said “Informa-tion goes in. Nothing goes out.”
Soon after his arrival on Fort Meade last September, Covey gave the invocation at the opening of the new Army Wellness Center.
Covey also is minister of the traditional Protestant service held Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at the Main Post Chapel.
Prior to enlisting in May 2002, Covey was ordained a Baptist minister. He pastored at the University Park Baptist Church in San Antonio and the Westwood Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas.
His decision to become an Army chaplain was “providential,” he said.
Covey said that the week before 9/11, he read an article in a Baptist publication about the dearth of Army chaplains.
After the attack, serving in the Army felt like the right thing to do, he said.
“I prayed about it, and the Lord opened the doors,” Covey said.
Covey attended basic training at the U.S.
Army Chaplain Center and School at Fort Jackson, S.C., and is a graduate of the Chaplain Captain Career Course and the Chaplaincy Resources Manager Course.
He earned a Bachelor of Science in edu-cation from the University of Texas at Aus-tin in 1990; a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas, in 1997; and a Master of Science in community counseling from Columbus State University, Columbus, Ga., in 2013.
Covey is currently pursuing licensure as a marriage and family therapist from the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy.
In addition to providing individual, mar-riage and family counseling, Covey also pro-vides suicide awareness, stress management and resiliency training to garrison units that request it.
“I once heard someone say that if you find a job you love, you’ll never have to work a day in your life,” Covey said. “That’s certainly the way I feel as I think about God’s provi-sion and calling in my life to offer pastoral care for service members, their families and our civilian co-workers in the Fort Meade community.”
For an appointment at the Family Life Ministry Center, call 301-677-6035 or 301-677-7959.
Chaplain (Maj.) James Covey, who arrived on Fort Meade in September, is the chaplain of the Family Life Ministry Center located at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. Covey and two pastoral counseling interns provide free, confidential counseling to all service members, their families and DoD civilian employees.
Chaplain’s WordHOPE
“We must accept finite disappointment,but we must never lose infinite hope.”
— Martin Luther King Jr.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! January 30, 2014
Cover Story
By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
Despite a morning of frigid temperatures, Miss America 2014 took time out of her busy schedule to chat with service members at Fort Meade’s USO-Metro on Jan. 23.
“It was outstanding,” said Laura Dexter-Moody, Fort Meade’s USO-Metro coordi-nator. “She brought a lot of warmth and sunshine on a very cold day.”
Miss America — Nina Davuluri — greeted service members, signed autographs, posed for pictures and shared a bit of laughter.
Davuluri was in the area to promote science, technology, engineering and math education. The day before, she visited the offices of Google in Washington, D.C.
After leaving Fort Meade, Davuluri vis-ited the USO-Metro at Fort Myer, Va.
The Miss America organization, which is based in Linwood, N.J., has had an ongoing
relationship with USO-Metropolitan Wash-ington for more than 20 years, according to Karen Nocella, business manager of the Miss America organization.
“We have a real nice relationship with USO-Metro,” Nocella said. “Miss America goes at least once a year to a military instal-lation. We give USO-Metro a heads-up when Miss America is in the area.”
Davuluri said that Miss America has always been a patriotic symbol for the nation.
“It’s always a pleasure to be able to work with the USO and visit with members of our military,” she said. “[I want to give] a genu-ine, heartfelt thank you for their service.
“Words simply can’t express my gratitude, but I’m so thankful to them for keeping us safe and allowing our nation the freedom and safety we may sometimes take for granted.”
Miss America brings ‘sunshine’ to USO-Metro
Air Force Staff Sgt. Anthony Nelson Jr. takes a picture on his cell phone with the reigning Miss America, Nina Dauvuluri, at the Fort Meade USO-Metro. Dauvuluri signed autographs, posed for pictures and greeted service members from different military branches.
BELOW: Miss America, wearing a tiara, shares a laugh with service members during her visit on Jan. 23 at the Fort Meade USO-Metro.
photos by nate pesce
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 30, 2014 SOUNDOFF! 11
SportS
By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer
With some assistance from coaches — from both the sideline and the bleachers — a group of five youngsters slowly moved from one end of the court to the other.
Sometimes, the ball gets away from the dribbler and a pack of children chases after it. Occasionally, the ball is heaved in the general direction of the hoop only to land in the possession of the other team. At other times, a score is met with smiles and a loud cheer.
Through the Child, Youth and School Services Youth Sports basket-ball program, the young athletes are developing the fundamental skills of the sport, while also learning to enjoy the game.
“If they don’t have the fundamen-tals, progression will be difficult later,” said coach Nikki Pruitt. “Fun is defi-nitely key.”
The winter sports program features clinics, intramural leagues and county teams.
The youth basketball program offers twos clinics: one program is for ages 3 and 4; the second is for ages 5 and 6. The clinics help teach youngsters the “basic fundamentals — dribbling, pass-ing, shooting,” said Jesse Miller, acting Youth Sports director.
With the younger group, parents are able to get on the court and help teach.
“It’s a parent-child participation program where the coach shows them drills and the parents works with their child on that,” Miller said. “They [the parents] love it.”
In the older age group, however, the children work with a coach who runs the young athletes through drills.
In addition to two county Cougar teams that compete against other local organizations, the youth basketball program also features instructional intramural leagues for athletes ages 6 to 8.
The intramural leagues, which meet
Youth basketball, clinics tip off
photos by noah scialom
Amelia Williams looks for an open teammate as she is defended by Colin Carlton during Saturday’s intramural basketball game at the Youth Center. Child, Youth and School Services’ youth basketball program tipped off last weekend with clinics, intramural teams and county teams.
Saturday mornings, consist of two age groups with about 10 players per team.
Seven-year-old Xavier Roach, who is in his first year of playing basketball, said the best part of the games is when he “gets to steal the ball.”
Miller said that although the pur-pose of the clinics and leagues is to help the young athletes experience the sport in order to develop as players, the main focus is having a good time.
“I want them to have fun and want to come back and play,” Miller said.
Spring, summer, fall or winter...Get involved with Youth Sports on Fort Meade, call
301-677-1105/1146/1156/1179.
Tyler Ricks shoots during Saturday’s basketball game at the Youth Center. The Youth Sports program aims to teach young athletes the fundamental skills of basketball.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil12 SOUNDOFF! January 30, 2014
SportS
My Two Cents
Who will win Super Bowl XLVIII?
“I’m a huge believer in defense. I think defense will prevail over
offense, so I’m taking the Seahawks.”
Staff Sgt. Kenneth amaro Vega, 70th IntellIgence,
SurVeIllance and reconnaISSance WIng
“Broncos. I’m not going against Peyton Manning. They say defense
wins championships, but when Peyton Manning is on the offensive
side of the ball, I don’t believe in that.”
aIrman robert VolIo, PhotojournalISm Student
at the defenSe InformatIon School
“Seattle. You don’t bet against Peyton Manning until deep in the playoffs. Deep in the season is when he typically screws up.”
Sgt. 1St claSS clIfford tImPSon, u.S. cyber command
“Denver. I think it’s Peyton’s year to go out on top. ”
beth doWnS, SPortS SPecIalISt WIth dIrectorate of
famIly and morale, Welfare and recreatIon
“Seattle. Defense wins champi-onships, and the one-two punch of Russell Wilson and Marshawn
Lynch.”SenIor aIrman jay Pemberton,
68th netWorK Warfare Squadron
“I’d like to see the Broncos win. I’ve always been a huge Peyton
Manning fan. The Denver Broncos are just a great team.
They have offense and defense.”chaPlaIn (caPt.) chrIS WeInrIch, 447th SIgnal battalIon
BasketballAfter losses to Old Mill on Jan. 17, both
of Meade’s basketball teams bounced back with wins at home over North County on Friday night.
The girls team jumped out to a fast 13-0 lead and didn’t slow down on its way to a 73-54 win to improve to 10-5.
“I really wanted us to work on offense today, but we still gave up too many points,” said head coach Reggie Leach. “We scored in transition, which was important to us, especially coming back from that Old Mill loss.”
Bria Gates led the Mustangs in scoring with 19 points, while Alexis Jackson added 16 and Jatarrikah Settles contributed 12.
The team will play at Glen Burnie (6-9) on Friday. When the two teams met in December, Meade won 50-34. The Mustangs will then play at Severn School (14-2) on Monday and Severna Park (13-2) on Tuesday.
Unlike the girls, the boys team fought off a slow start to battle back for a 79-77 win to give Meade its 11th win of the
season.“We did a great job and I’m proud of
my guys,” said head coach Pete Corriero. “We were down big and we fought back. That’s a good thing. I’m proud of my guys.”
On Saturday, the Mustangs defeated Harford Christian School on the road as Tristan Easton’s 25 points led the team to a 66-59 victory.
The team will play at Glen Burnie (9-5) on Friday, as the Mustangs aim to beat the Falcons for a second time after a 75-67 win on Dec. 19. Meade will then play Severna Park (13-2) on Tuesday.
WrestlingThe Meade wrestling team will host
South River on Friday, then travel to Suit-land on Saturday for another meet.
For more coverage of Meade High School sports, including complete summaries of last week’s games against North County, go to ftmeadesoundoff.com/sports.
Standings are as of press time on Jan. 29.
Meade Mustangs weekly roundup
Photo by brandon bIeltz
Jerry Washington looks for a teammate to pass to during Friday’s game against North County. Meade won 79-77 for their 11th win of the season.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 30, 2014 SOUNDOFF! 13
SportS
Most of you who read this know the one glaring chink in Team Jones’ armor is that we are half Canadian. That’s because my wife is full Canuck: Born in St. Catharines, Ontario, educated in Toronto, and yet surprisingly unable to deal with the cold.
Despite all the issues that comes with being married to a Canadian — aloofness; the word “eh” being thrown around like the Army uses “hooah”; and American envy — being married to my particular Cana-dian has some advantages. The list includes homemade Indian food (Super Bowl recipes to follow); our kids are cute; poutine; and of course, my in-laws.
Today, I’ll mention my little cousin Riyad. He’s great with kids, thin as a rail and loves football. In fact, he along with our other cousin Zayd (Think Desi elf) watched the Cowboys lose to the Eagles on the final game of the season.
We were also together the last time Peyton Manning was in the Super Bowl (Super Bowl XLIV). Before that game kicked off four years ago, Z, or maybe it was my other short, Cana-dian cousin, Saoud, asked me if Manning was the greatest quarterback ever.
From that moment on, I knew that regard-less of how much my Canadian cousins may watch and appreciate football, their Cana-dianess would always keep them from fully grasping the game.
That’s why it is my responsibility to spend
a few graphs providing a proper breakdown for Sunday’s game.
Matchups:Since this is a battle between the NFL’s top
offense (Denver) and defense (Seattle), it is silly to do a position-by-position breakdown. However, there are two matchups that will be key to either team winning.
1. Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch versus Broncos defensive tackles Sylvester Wil-liams and Terrance Knighton:
We all know Marshawn Lynch and what Beast Mode can do. bit.ly/1fxdecy But if Denver’s two defensive tackles can stay strong in the middle, they will be able to keep Lynch in check.
And if Lynch goes, you can also say goodbye to Seattle’s play-action passing game, which should make things a lot easier for Denver’s D. However, if Lynch is able to run, Denver’s D probably will not get off the field, which means Peyton will not get on it.
2. Seattle’s Legion of Boom versus Denver’s receivers:
It will not matter if Peyton is bothered by the wind or not if Seattle’s secondary bit.ly/1f9JRO5 is able to contain Denver’s receiv-ers. bit.ly/1nfnexI
A lot of attention has been paid to the LOB and Peyton Manning, but Denver’s receivers, Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker, Wes Welker and TE Julius Thomas, are an all-time great receiving corps.
Difference Makers:Seattle’s wide receiver Percy HarvinIt’s an understatement to say that Harvin
has been a disappointment this year. However, there is no denying his versatility and skills.
Denver’s best option is to try and knock him out of the game. But if that doesn’t hap-pen, Denver will have to account for him, which will make it harder to focus on Lynch.
The Referees: In spite of complaints about refs calling games too close, there have been only seven pass-interference penalties called so far during the playoffs (10 games). If that trend continues, it will be a huge advantage for Seattle.
Denver running back Knowshon Moreno: If Denver is going to win the game, Moreno, and not Peyton Manning, will be the game’s MVP.
Seattle’s defense is good, but they are by no means the 1985 Chicago Bears or Dallas’ Doomsday Defense. That’s because Seattle is vulnerable on the ground.
The Seahawks’ run defense gave up more than 100 yards per game this season, and they are giving up nearly 135 yards per game during the playoffs.
Conversely, Moreno and his running mate, Montee Ball, combined for nearly 1,600 yards and 14 touchdowns this season.
Who wins and why:Seattle is going to win 20-17 because Mar-
shawn Lynch is going to get at least 25
touches, 100 yards, two touchdowns, and be the game’s MVP. Harvin is going to get anoth-er 15 touches, which means Seat-tle is going to run at least 60 plays and keep Peyton off the field.
The refs will call the game close, but Seattle’s defense will keep being physical, and Denver’s receivers will not adjust.
Additionally, the LOB will man up on Manning’s receivers, which will allow the rest of the defense to pressure Peyton.
The weather will be what everyone talks about, but the people in Peyton’s face will be a much bigger factor than the wind blowing in it.
Enjoy the game and more importantly, enjoy Olivia Locher’s sliders (recipe below). I know I will. You can find this and more Super Bowl recipes on the Fort Meade Facebook page.
Of course, if you have comments on this or anything to do with sports, contact me at [email protected] or hit me up on Twitter @ctjibber.
Super Bowl XLVIII
Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs
Officer
Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn
Ingredients:• 2 pounds of ground beef
(more depending on size of crowd)
• 1 packet of French onion soup mix
• 1 block of cheddar cheese• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise• 1-2 packs of Hawaiian sweet
rolls or slider buns (depending on crowd size)
Preparation:Preheat oven to 350.1. Shred one cup of the
cheddar cheese and sit the rest of the block off to the side.
2. Mix the hamburger, shredded cheese, soup mix and mayo together until completely
mixed.3. Spread the mixture into
the bottom of a large casserole pan (it will shrink as it bakes, so make more than you expect) and bake until fully cooked.
4. While mixture is baking, slice up leftover cheese to use on sliders and slice the rolls in half to use as buns.
5. Once the meat is finished baking, cut it into small squares to fit onto buns. Place the meat and a slice of cheese onto each bun.
6. Place each slider onto a cookie sheet. Once all of the sliders are made, cover the top with tin foil and bake them until cheese is melted (5-10 minutes).
Sliders by Olivia LocherSports ShortsRunning Clinic
Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center Physical Therapy, the Community Health Promotion Council, and the Army Wellness Center will host a running clinic on Friday from 8 to 10:30 a.m. at the Fort Meade Army Wellness Center, 4418 Llewellyn Ave.
The free program is open active-duty service members, retirees, family members and DoD civilians of all running ability levels.
The clinic will include a health care screening, skills and drills to improve running techniques as well as demonstrations.
Space is limited. Registration is required.For more information or to register, call 301-677-2006.
Spring SportsRegistration for spring sports is underway at Parent Central Services, 1900
Reece Road.Spring sports include soccer, swimming, baseball, softball, track, flag football
and basketball.Participants can register at the CYSS Central Registration Office at 1900 Reece
Road or online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/meadecyms.html.For more information, call 301-677-1149 or 1156.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil14 SOUNDOFF! January 30, 2014
Community news & notes
Photo by Sgt. Chatonna Powell
Wreaths across america cleanupSgt. 1st Class Jennifer Milledge, 780th Miltary Intelligence Brigade, removes a wreath from a gravesite Saturday at Arlington National Cem-etery. About a dozen volunteers representing the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, or BOSS, participated in the annual holiday wreath cleanup. The event is sponsored by Wreaths Across America, which places tens of thousands of remembrance wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery each year to honor fallen troops and veterans over the winter holidays.
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 observance of the
National Prayer Luncheon will be held Feb. 19 at 11:30 a.m. at Club Meade, 6600 Mapes Road.
The guest speaker is Dave Roever, a Vietnam veteran.
Commanders, directors and supervisors are asked to attend and be a part of this meaningful tradition.
Civilians may attend this observance without charge to annual leave.
Seating is limited to 300 people.The suggested donation is $10 for
civilians and service members E-6 and above.
Tickets can be obtained through unit chaplains or the Garrison Chaplain’s Office.
For more information, call Lynn Durner at the Garrison Chaplain’s Office at 301-677-6703.
EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member
program is sponsoring its monthly bowling event on Feb. 19 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Lanes.
Participants may bowl one free game with free shoe rental.
Discounted games and shoe rentals are offered to family members.
To register, call LaToya Travis at 301-677-4473 or email [email protected].
Support group presentationThe Prostate Cancer Support Group is
sponsoring a presentation on “Hormone Therapy 101 for Prostate Cancer Patients” by Dr. Michelle Ojemuyiwa on Feb. 6 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the River Conference Room, third floor of the America Building, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Spouses/partners are invited. Military identification is required for base access at
Walter Reed.Those without a military ID should call
the Prostate Center at least two days prior to the event for base access at 301-319-2900.
For more information, call retired Col. Jane Hudak at 301-319-2918 or email [email protected].
Fly fishing A new program at the Soldiers and
Family Assistance Center is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of wounded warriors and veterans through fly fishing, fly tying and outings.
Meetings are held Thursday evenings from 6-8 p.m. at SFAC, 2462 85th Medical Battalion Ave..
For more information, call Larry Vawter, program leader, at 443-535-5074 or email [email protected].
OSC scholarship applications
The Fort Meade Officers’ Spouses’ Club has posted its 2014 scholarship applications on its website at http://www.fortmeadeosc.org/scholarships.
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.
A Military Spouse Scholarship is also available.
Applications must be postmarked by April 1.
Read the eligibility requirements carefully before applying.
For more information, email the OSC Scholarship Chair at [email protected].
Free classesThe Navy Fleet and Family Support
Center offers a variety of classes at its new facility at 2212 Chisholm Ave.
The free 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.• Pre-deployment Brief: Feb. 13, 10-
11:30 a.m.
NEWS & EVENTS
EDUCATION
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 30, 2014 SOUNDOFF! 15
Community news & notes 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.
PRICES: Tickets are $5.50 for adults (12 and older) and $3 for children. 3D Movies: $7.50 adults, $5 children.
Today through Feb. 15
Today & Friday: “American Hustle” (R). A con man, along with his seductive British partner, is forced to work for a wild FBI agent who pushes them into a world of Jersey powerbrokers and mafia. With Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Jennifer Lawrence.
Saturday: “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues” (R). With the 1970s behind him, San Diego’s top rated newsman, Ron Burgundy, returns to take New York’s first 24-hour news channel by storm. With Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell.
Sunday & Feb. 9: “Walking With Dinosaurs” (PG). See and feel what it was like when dino-saurs ruled the Earth, in a story where an under-dog dino triumphs to become a hero for the ages. With the voices of Charlie Rowe, Karl Urban, Angourie Rice. (3D Feb. 9)
Wednesday: “Grudge Match” (PG-13). A pair of aging boxing rivals are coaxed out of retirement to fight one final bout -- 30 years after their last match. With Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Kevin Hart.
Feb. 6, 7: “47 Ronin” (PG-13). A band of samurai set out to avenge the death and dishonor of their master at the hands of a ruthless shogun. With Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Ko Shibasaki.
Feb. 8: Studio Appreciation FREE screening. Tickets available at the Exchange food court. Seating open to non-ticket holders 30 minutes prior to showtime.
Feb. 12, 15: “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (PG). A daydreamer escapes his anonymous life by disappearing into a world of fantasies filled with heroism, romance and action. With Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Sean Penn.
• Car buying: Feb. 18, 9-11 a.m.Develop skills to conduct adequate
research on a new car purchase, determine how much you can afford to spend, and negotiate effectively.
• Medical Record Review: Have your medical records reviewed by Ms. Johnson of AMVETS. Appointment required.
• Financial counseling appointments are available every Monday.
Transition: Pre-separation Brief: Pre-separation counseling is mandatory for all service members who are separating or retiring from the service and must be completed prior to attending the Transition GPS workshop.
Your Pre-separation Counseling Checklist, DD2648 form, will be completed and signed during the brief.
To register or for more information, call 301-677-9017 or 301-677-9018.
Story TimeThe Children’s Library at Kuhn Hall
offers pre-kindergarten Story Time on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
The free event features stories, songs or a finger-puppet theme.
• Today: “Ice is Nice” — focusing on penguins and polar bears
For more information, call 301-677-5522.
Grilling & ChillingGrilling & Chilling for grades six to
eight will be held Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the Youth Center.
Fore more information, call 301-677-1437.
Teen Center eventsThe Fort Meade Teen Center is featuring
a checkers tournament on Friday from 3-5 p.m.
Teens will play a freestyle/unrestricted tournament.
For more information, call 301-677-6054.
Kids Craft ClubThe Kids Craft Club for toddlers and
preschoolers will meet Feb. 11 at 9:30 a.m. at the Arts and Crafts Center.
Remaining sessions are: March 11, April 15 and May 6.
Fee is $5 per session. Cost includes a craft, snack and juice.
Space is limited. Registration is required.
To register or for more information, call 301-677-7809.
Out & About• The Naval Academy Band will perform
Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Kerr Center for the Arts at the Annapolis Area Christian School, 109 Burns Crossing Road, Severn.
Led by Lt. Cmdr. Bruce McDonald, the ensemble performs a year-round public concert series featuring varied programs of marches, orchestral transcriptions, patriotic music, and classic wind band repertoire.
Concerts are free and open to the public with no tickets required. For more information, visit the band’s website or Facebook page, or call 410-293-1262.
• “Sci-Fi Spectacular” will be performed by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra on Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. at Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore. Hosted by George Takei, the event features selections from “Star Trek” and the best of John Williams including “E.T.,” “Somewhere in Time,” and “Star Wars.”
For more information, go to bsomusic.org or call 410-783-8000.
• Fort Meade Homeschool Co-op will meet Friday at 10:30 a.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. For more information, go to its Facebook page at Fort Meade Homeschool Group and Co-op.
• Families Dealing with Deployment, Unac-companied Permanent Change of Station, Temporary Duty meets the first and third Monday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Meuse Forest Neighborhood Cen-ter. The next meeting is Monday. For more information, email [email protected].
• Retired Officers’ Wives’ Club will sponsor its February luncheon on Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Club Meade.
The topic is “Health and Wellness Options” presented by the Johns Hopkins US Family Health Plan.
Cost of the luncheon is $18. Reservations are required by today. Call your area repre-sentative or Betty Wade at 410-551-7082.
Membership dues are $25 per year, but you may join from February through May now for half price. Members may bring guests at any time to the luncheons, which are held on the first Tuesday of each month, except in June, July, August and January.
For more information, call Genny Bellinger, president of the ROWC, at 410-674-2550.
• 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 Feb. 6.There is no cost for the buffet; donations
are optional. All Fort Meade employees, fam-ily members, and civilian and military person-nel are invited.
For more information, call Diana Durner at 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, in the banquet hall in back of the building. The next meeting is Feb. 6. Din-ner is served at 6 p.m. For more information, call 410-674-4000.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness of Anne Arundel County offers 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 Feb. 6. For more information, visit namiaac.org.
• Single Parent Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at School Age Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next meeting is Feb. 10. Free child care will be provided on site.
• Bully Proofing Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 4 to 5 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Feb. 10. The group is geared for school-age children and parents. For more information, email [email protected].
• Marriage Enrichment Group, sponsored by Army Community Service, meets the second and fourth Monday of every month from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. The next meeting is Feb. 10. For more information, call Celena Flowers or Jessica Hobgood at 301-677-5590.
• Meade Branch 212 of the Fleet Reserve Association meets the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at VFW Post 160, 2597 Dorsey Road, Glen Burnie. The next meeting is Feb. 8. Active-duty, Reserve and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are invited.
For more information, call 443-604-2474 or 410-768-6288.
• New Spouse Connection meets the second Monday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. The next meeting is Feb. 10. The program provides an opportunity for all spouses new to the military or to Fort Meade to meet and get connected. For more information, contact Pia Morales at [email protected] or 301-677-4110.
