With Halloween around the corner, Tyrannosaurus rex, aka Pvt. David Garcia, gives chase to Gumby (poor William Davis) during the Fort Meade Ghosts, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run that began Saturday morning at the Pavilion. For race results, see Page10. For information on post trick-or-treating safety, see Page 2. PHOTO BY NATE PESCE D D i i n n o o D D i i n n n n e e r r D D i i n n o o D D i i n n n n e e r r ´ PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF THE FORT MEADE COMMUNITY THURSDAY, OCT. 27, 2016 | 68th Year Number 42 FTMEADE.ARMY.MIL VOICE FOR OPPORTUNITY Disability advocate talks inclusion PAGE 3 Today, 4-6 p.m.: Joint Service Right Arm Night at Club Meade Monday, 6-8 p.m.: Hallelujah Festival at the Pavilion Monday, 6-8 p.m.: Trick-or-treating on post Wednesday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Veterans Job Fair at Club Meade UPCOMING EVENTS TAKING THE PLUNGE DINFOS prepares for Toilet Bowl PAGE 7 User: wawalker Time: 10-26-2016 17:57 Prod- uct: MITabloid PubDate: 10-27-2016 Zone: Tabloid Edi- tion: SoundOff Page: COVER Color:
Transcript
With Halloween around the corner, Tyrannosaurus rex, aka Pvt. David Garcia, gives chase to Gumby (poor William Davis) during the Fort Meade Ghosts, Ghoulsand Goblins 5K Run that began Saturday morning at the Pavilion. For race results, see Page 10. For information on post trick-or-treating safety, see Page 2.
PHOTO BY NATE PESCE
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!"#&$"%%!́PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF THE FORT MEADE COMMUNITY THURSDAY, OCT. 27, 2016 | 68th Year Number 42
FTMEADE.ARMY.MIL
VOICE FOR OPPORTUNITY
Disability advocatetalks inclusionPAGE 3
Today, 4-6 p.m.: Joint Service Right Arm Night at Club Meade
Monday, 6-8 p.m.: Hallelujah Festival at the PavilionMonday, 6-8 p.m.: Trick-or-treating on post
Wednesday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Veterans Job Fair at Club Meade
CIRCULATIONIf you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are experi-
encing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail [email protected] hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through Sun-
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personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday except the last Thursday of the yearin conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. Requests for publication mustreach 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, FortMeade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-5602; DSN: 622-5602.
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H alloween is fast ap-proaching and parentsand children alike are
looking forward to celebrating.Thisyear, therewill benumer-
ous opportunities on the in-stallation to celebrate this specialday in your own unique way.Some of those opportunities of-fered Monday from 6-8 p.m. aretrick-or-treatingonpost,enjoying“Candy with a Cop” at the FortMeadePavilionandattending theHallelujahFestivalat thePavilion,or passing out candy and treats atyour residence,
No matter which way youdecide to celebrate this holiday,please remember todo it safely.
Halloween is one of the deadliest timesfor pedestrian-involved traffic collisions.From impaired and distracted drivers tothe high volume of pedestrians and de-creased lighting conditions, this mixturehas made the day a magnet for pedestriandeaths.
Throughout the years, the NationalHighwayTraffic SafetyAdministration hasreportedthatHalloweenisconsistentlyoneof the top threedays for pedestrian injuriesand fatalities.
But I am happy to say that during thepast two years, our installation has not hadone serious injury or fatal traffic collisioninvolvingpedestrians onHalloween.
The Fort Meade Police Departmenttakes pride in providing the Fort Meadecommunity a safe environment to workand live. Keeping with the theme of trafficsafety is public safety.
Here are some tips to ensure yourexperience during this special night is safeandenjoyable:
Tips formotorists:♦Slow down and be alert in residential
areas andparking lots.♦Usecautionwhenenteringandexiting
driveways andalleys.♦Don’t drive distracted. Concentrate on
the road and your surroundings. Park thephonebefore youdrive!
♦Watch for children darting out be-tweenor in front of parked cars.
♦Obey traffic control signs anddevices.
Tips forpedestrians:♦Be bright at night: Wear
retro-reflective tape on costumesand improvevisibility tomotoristsand others by treating your candybagorbucketswithreflectivetape.
♦Carry a working flashlight orchemical light source. Put it inyour candy bag or bucket to keepyour hands free and light up thebag.
♦Never shine lights into theeyesofmotorists.
♦Wear disguises that don’tobstruct vision and avoid facemasks.
♦Avoid long, flowing costumesthat could cause difficulty in walking andbecome tripping hazards. Wear comfort-able shoes.
♦Stayonsidewalksandavoidwalking inthe streets.
♦Cross roadways at intersections; lookleft, right and left again before entering thestreetAFTERdeterminingit issafetocross.
♦DON’Tassumeadriver seesyouand isgoing to stop.
♦DON’T enter the road until the road isclear or the vehicles have stopped and thedriverhas acknowledgedyou.
♦DON’TwalkaloneandNEVERenterastranger’s home or get into a stranger’svehicle.
To help provide a safe holiday, the FortMeade Police Department is providingfocused patrolling throughout the housingareas and around the festival sites on FortMeade.
Ifyouseesomething that is suspiciousormay be a potential hazard, flag down apolice officer or contact the Fort MeadePolice at 301-677-6622. If it’s a life-threat-eningemergency situation, dial 911.
Enjoy yourselves but do so in a mannerthat issafeandcourteoustotheFortMeadecommunity. Whether you are walking,driving or staying at home, have a safeHalloween!
Visit the FortMeade Police Department’sFacebook page at www.facebook.com/FGGMP.
K eithNolanwas born deaf.However, he didn’t let his
disability hold him back fromtrying to follow his dream of enlisting inthemilitary.
As guest speaker at Fort Meade’sNational Disability Employment Aware-ness observance on Oct. 19, Nolan re-counted his experiences and his work asan advocate for the deaf, hard of hearingandhearing impaired.
The 90-minute event was held at ClubMeade and organized by Jose Flores, thedisability program manager for the FortMeade Equal Employment OpportunityOffice.
The theme for this year’s observancewas “Make InclusionACoreValue.”
“In today’smilitary,more servicemem-bers with disabilities are staying on activedutyandcanstill contribute to thenation,”Flores said. “This event was important tomake everyone aware of the capabilitiesindividuals with disabilities have andwhat they bring to any organization.”
Throughout his speech, Nolan signedas his interpreter ShawnMaldon spoke.
“Iwanted to join themilitary right afterhigh school,” Nolan signed. “The Navywas my first choice, but I couldn’t enlistbecause ofmydeafness.”
Instead of submitting to defeat, Nolanattended California State University,Northridge, where he joined the ArmyReserveOfficers’TrainingCorpsandusedinterpreters, lip reading and texting toparticipate in training.
“Iwas inthetop20percentofmyclass,”he signed. “I completed the first two levelsand was ready to move up to the thirdlevel. Before doing so, I needed to becontracted with the Army and I couldn’tdo that due to the Army’s policy ondeafness. Itwasanautomaticdisqualifica-tion.”
Nolan,who earned amaster’s degree indeaf education, teaches high school stu-dents at theMaryland School for theDeaffor the school’s CadetCorps.
He explained how disabilities can varyfromperson to person.
“Sometimes disability can be evidentsuch as blindness or a physical amputee,while sometimes it can be hidden, likedeafness,”he said. “Sometimespeople talkabout theirdisabilityandothersprefernotto do so.
“So, sometimespeoplehaveanassump-tion about a disability, some of whichmight be accurate and [some] maybe not.[This is] why it’s great to have anopportunity such as today to talk about itbecause there are still many thingsAmericans with disabilities can offer ourcountry.”
LegalRemediesNolan also spoke about service mem-
bers who had served with disabilities andBill H.R. 17722, which he has beenworking on for the past six years. The bill,also known as the Keith Nolan Air ForceDeaf Demonstration Act of 2015, calls fortheOffice of theSecretary of theAirForceto carry out a demonstration programwith 15 to 20 individuals who are deaf orhave a range of auditory impairments toassess whether it is feasible for them tobecomeofficers in theAir Force.
The biggest challenge Nolan has facedin passing the bill is a lack of support fromtheDepartment ofDefense.
“Despite the opportunities and poten-
tials of having the demonstration pro-gram, the DoD was not supportive,” hesigned. “It was rather unfortunate for meto learn that. So, the congressional billsnever made it out of the Senate and theHouseArmedServicesCommittees.”
Nolan used the Israeli Defense Force asan example of how qualified deaf peoplecan serve in the military. Using textmessages, emails and lip reading, deafpeople have had the opportunity to servein uniform for the IDF.Nolan interviewed10 deaf Israeli Soldiers to gather in-formation about their experience serving.
“I learned that they served in support-ing roles, rather than on the front line,”Nolan said of the deaf IDF Soldiers. “Twoof them said that they even worked withAmerican Soldiers. It just goes to show,much like what I was able to do with myROTC battalion, that deaf and hearingSoldiers canwork together.”
Nolan ended his speech by askingaudience members to help support pas-sage of his bill.
“Now, as I stand before you, I ask foryour help to push for the demonstration
program,” Nolan signed. “If there is anyway you can help, perhaps talking withothers about this presentation or reachingout to the DoD, it would be tremendouslyhelpful.”
LearningToPersevereAmong those in attendance was Tam-
ara Johnson, a youth administrator forChild, Youth and School Services, whowas unaware of the difference betweenenlisting Soldiers who come in withadditional needs and accommodatingSoldierswho are injured during combat.
“I didn’t realize there were barriersthere,” she said. “I thought that if you hadadditional needs, you stand the samechance of [serving in uniform] as some-bodywhowas injured during combat.”
For Johnson, Nolan’s speech was morethan just informative; itwas inspiring.
“I think that for everyonewho is sittinghere, I think what they heard was, nomatter how big the hurdle or the moun-tain is, don’t give up,” Johnson said. “Untilsomebody says something, until some-body fights for it, there isn’t going to be achange. [Nolan] didn’t give up and that iswhy he’s standing here today, advocatingfor Soldierswith disabilities.”
Lauri Meek, a human capital manage-ment specialist at the Consolidated Ad-judications Facility, chose to attend theobservance after learning the speakerwould beNolan.
“[Nolan] has an inspiring story,” Meeksaid. “What disappoints me is that allemployees on base are invited to attenddiversity program events. This is thesmallest event and it just disappoints mebecause it shows you there’s not a lot ofsupport.
“We’re not disabled, we’re ably differ-ent.”
Meek, who wears bilateral cochlearimplants, started to lose her hearing as ateenager andwent completely deaf in herearly 30s. When she was younger, Meekwanted to join theNationalGuardbutwasbarred due to her hearing loss.
“I’ve never really looked at myself asdisabled,” she said. “People have [worse]disabilities than mine. I let my deafnessholdmeback for a long time—avery longtime. But once I got my implant, my firstone, Iwas out the door, on andup.”
Editor’s note: For more information, callJose Flores at 301-677-3660.
Disability advocate discusses inclusionin military at annual Fort Meade eventByMaddie EckerStaff Writer
Keith Nolan, a teacher at the Maryland School for the Deaf, delivers the keynotespeech for Fort Meade’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month ob-servance through sign language.
T imothy Michel Jr. said he wasreading a book at home when heoverheard his parents talking
about the possibility of his father beingdeployed to theMiddle East for a year.
“It made me feel sad and a bunch ofdifferent feelings I can’t explain,” saidTimothy, a fifth-grader at Pershing HillElementary School.
His father, Navy Chief Petty OfficerTimothy Michel of Naval InformationOperations Command Maryland, willdeploy soon on a one-year unaccompa-nied tour.
“It’s hard to think about because itdoesn’t make feel me good,” the 10-year-oldsaid. “Itmakesmefeel sad that I’mnotgoing to see him for a year.”
Timothy is one of five boys who arepart of Camo-Kidz, a new after-schoolsupport group at Pershing Hill for mil-itary childrenwhose parent is deployed.
Anita Norris, a fourth-grade teacher atPershing Hill, established and facilitatesthe club.
“Our school is [mostly] all militarychildren,” Norris said. “We notice whenstudents have a parent who is deployed,grades suffer, peer relationships suffer.”
She said when a parent deploys,children have the sameworries and fears
asadult spouses, but theydon’tknowhowto express their feelings.
The goal of the club is to “support thesocial, academic andemotional success ofstudents whose parent is currently de-ployed orwill be deploying” prior toDec.1, according to the club flier.
The club began earlier this month andmeetsMondays from3 to 4 p.m.
PershingHill PrincipalKimberlyTerrysaid about 98 percent of the school’sstudents are dependents of active-dutyservicemembers.
Terry saidCamo-Kidz,which isnamedafter the military camouflage uniform, isan important addition to the school’sclubs.
“Students don’t have to feel alone andare able to share their feelings withsomeone other than their family,” she
said.Stephanie Stadel, wife of Sgt. 1st Class
Jason Stadel of the 2nd Infantry Divisionwho is currently on a one-year unaccom-panied tour inKorea, said shewantedher9-year-old son Jason to join the club soheknowshe’s not alone.
“I’m very happy they offer this club,”said Stadel, the secretary to Meade HighSchool Principal JohnYore. “I like that hecan do activities and if he wants, he can
talkabouthisdadbeinggone. Itmight feelgood to let it off his chest. Hemay ormaynot want to talk about it, but the option isthere.”
Jason said hemisses his father.“I feel really sad, so when my Mom
reminds me of him I get nauseous” thefourth-grader said. “I just think of usplaying catch in our backyard.”
Jason said he likes the club because it“helpsme by gettingmyDad offmymindand I can do fun things so Iwon’t be sad.”
Timothy said he likes being in the clubbecause it “gives me the courage toremember that I’malways going tohave alittle spot inmyheart formydad.”
Timothy’s6-year-oldbrotherGabriel isalso a member. Their mother LatishaMichel said shewantedher sons to join sothey “can understand there are other kidsthat are going through the same thing,that this is thenorm formilitary families.”
Michel, who is expecting a baby girl,plans to deliver just before her husband’sdeparture. The family also includes 3-year-old Lincoln.
Michel and the children plan to movein with family after the baby is born,whichmeans her sonswill be attending anew school.
“I thought itwouldbe good for them toget the support from other militarychildren while they have the opportunityto do so,”Michel said.
Norris said other military familiesshould consider the club.
Teachers and the school can helpprovide the support thatmilitary familiesneed when going through changes suchas a deployment, she said.
“Wearehere tohelp,”Norris said. “You
Camo-Kidz helps students face deploymentsBy Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
Anita Norris, a teacher at Pershing Hill Elementary, helps Camo-Kidz with an artsand crafts project. The club is for military children whose parents are deployed.
PHOTO BY LISA R. RHODES
‘Students don’t have tofeel alone and are able toshare their feelings withsomeone other than theirfamily.’Kimberly Terry, principal,Pershing Hill Elementary School
Repaving of Mapes Roadwestern sectionThe repaving of the westernhalf of Mapes Road continuesnightly, between 7 p.m. and 5a.m. as weather permits.Mapes will be open to trafficduring daytime.This phase includes repavingbetween the Route 32 gate toLeonard Wood Avenue and isexpected to be completed byTuesday, unless delayed bywet or cold weather.Temporary striping will beapplied after paving eachnight. Final striping will followin about two weeks.Traffic will be diverted ondetours around the workareas. Be alert and follow thesigns.Check out the FGGMFacebook page for periodicupdates atwww.facebook.com/FtMeade.
B y 10:20 a.m., nurses from Kim-broughAmbulatoryCareCenterhad already administered 215 flu
vaccinations to retirees who had trav-eled to Fort Meade for the 41st annualRetireeAppreciationDay.Getting a flu shot was just one of the
many different services retirees couldpartake induring thedaylong event heldFriday atMcGill TrainingCenter.Tanya Chew, a public health nurse at
Kimbrough, said that getting thevaccineis one of the best ways to stay healthythiswinter, especially for retirees.“Retirees are more prone to serious
complications [with illnesses],” Chewsaid. “This event is a way for us toprovide retireeswithhealth informationin one area. It shows that we supportthem.”Betty Galloway, wife of Sgt. 1st Class
Richard Galloway, said she and herhusband have attended the event for thepast four years. For them, getting a flushot is one of themain draws.“It’s a good way to get an update on
everything [we need to know] and it’snice being around other retirees,” saidGalloway, who comes to Fort Meadewithher husband at least once aweek touse the commissary andpharmacy.“We’ve been enjoying today very
much and look forward to it every year,”she said.
Providing SupportAnna Taylor has been Fort Meade’s
retiree services officer for the past sixyears. She helps serve the 32,000retirees on Fort Meade, in addition toactive-duty servicemembers who applyto retire.“Each year [this event] gets better,”
Taylor said. “We have a couple of newvendors. The one that comes to mindright away is Girl Scouts of CentralAmerica. They’re here looking for retir-eeswhowant to volunteer their time.”JoiningKimbrough andGirl Scouts of
Central America were representativesfrom many other Fort Meade andcommunity organizations who an-swered questions about the services andprograms they provide for retirees.They included: American Military
Retirees Association, The Retired En-listed Association, Tricare Office, AnneArundel County Department of Aging
and Disabilities, Armed Forces Retire-ment Home, University of MarylandUniversity College and the CasualtyAssistanceCenter.Taylor said that sixyearsago theevent
was only bringing in an average of 200participants.However, Taylor usedmar-keting strategies to spread word of theevent. As a result, the number ofattendees doubled.Thisyear,643retireesandtheir family
members attended to take advantage offree medical screenings and learn aboutupdated health insurance policies.Next year, Taylor plans to add a new
element to the event.“We’re thinking about maybe doing a
retiree ball that Thursday evening [be-fore Retiree Appreciation Day],” Taylorsaid. “Then we’d have this event thefollowingmorning.”For Taylor, Retiree Appreciation Day
is just one way to provide care andsupport for retirees and their families.“Its important to be able to give back
to the men and women who served,”Taylor said. “This event fosters goodwillbetweenretirees andactive-duty servicemembers.”
GettingAnUpdateMidway through the event, partici-
pantsboardedshuttlebusses for lunchatthe Freedom InnDining Facility.They returned toMcGill to hear from
George W. Owings III, secretary for theMaryland Department of Veteran Af-fairs.Retired Col. Bert Rice, acting chair-
man of the Fort Meade Retiree Council,first spoke about the various publica-tions that retirees shouldread inorder tostay up-to-date on current information.He gave examples such as the Fort
Meade retiree newsletter, Echoes Armynewsletter and the “U.S. Army RetireeHandbook.”“We should be informed andwe need
to be informed,” Rice told the crowd.Lt. Col. Gittipong Paruchabutr wel-
comed retirees and recognized theiryears of service.“We are grateful for your tireless
service and willingness to share yourexperiences,” he said. “You are anintegral part of what makes Fort Meadea spectacular place. ... You have notstopped giving back to our nation, andwewill not stop giving back to you.”Paruchabutr then introducedOwings,
who gave examples of the variousVeteran Affairs programs available toMaryland retirees.Heexplained the importanceof filling
out a Certification of Release or Dis-
charge from Active Duty form, which isgenerally referred to as aDDForm214.“The hardest thing to tell a family is
that I can’t help them because theydidn’t have their 214,”Owings said.He asked participants to raise their
hands if they were in the MarylandVeteran Affairs system. The best way toget local information, Owings said, is tosign up online for the Maryland VA’sbiweekly newsletter.Healsourgedretirees tocheckout the
CharlotteHall VeteransHome, either asa volunteer or for assisted living place-ment.“It has had a rigorous VA inspection
and has come out with five stars,”Owings said. “If you are interested inparticipating in [something new], you’llfind it there.”Owings also discussed the Maryland
Veterans Trust Fund and explained thatit is available for veterans and retirees inneed of financial help.“What happens to warriors who
thought they’d be in for 20 years, but areoutbefore then?”heasked thecrowd. “Ifyou know of a veteran or if you have a[financial] situation currently, come for-ward for help.”A raffle for prizes followed Owing’s
remarks. Participants eagerly scannedtheir ticket as winning numbers werecalled out.“It’s been great,” said retired Master
Sgt. RalphLeGrande after the program.This was his third year attending
RetireeAppreciationDay.“I look forward to this event every
year,”hesaid. “Youneverknowwhatyoumightmiss [if you don’t attend.]”
Post shows its appreciation for retireesMaddie EckerStaff Writer
George W. Owings III, secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs,speaks about VA programs at Fort Meade’s Retiree Appreciation Day on Friday atMcGill Training Center. The event drew 643 retirees and their family members.
Ethel Horton, of Mitchellville, whoselate husband retired from the Army,holds Athena at a Fort Meade Veteri-nary Services information table.
T he first flag football pickupgameof the Toilet Bowl was played in1981 at Fort Benjamin Harrison
in IndianaSince then, the game has become an
annual morale event for Defense In-formation School faculty and staff.“It was basically a sandlot for adult
men,” saidBobJenkins, garrisondirectorof Public Affairs at Fort Campbell, Ky.,remembering the day the tradition wasborn.Jenkins was one of the originators of
at 9 a.m. Friday, outside Gaffney FitnessCenter.There is already a stir between the
teams due to the Air-Land team’s four-yearwinning streak.The Sea Services — Navy, Marine
Corps and Coast Guard — are underpressure to step up their game.Regardless of the hallway chatter and
trash talk, this event aims to bring thewhole DINFOS community together asone team.“Things like this help to bring us
together as a family,” 1st Sgt. RickMcNamara said. “It’s a blast. It ties ustogetherandbuildsuprealcamaraderie.”The Toilet Bowl is a day when
DINFOS instructors set aside theirschool obligations and join their re-spective services to either compete onthe field or cheer from the sidelines.Jim Gilbert, DINFOS deputy director
of training, recalled “it used tobe the talkof the school.”“People really got pumpedup about it.
The trash talk started a month before,and everyone knew the Toilet Bowl wascoming up.”Gilbert, who has attended 23 Toilet
Bowls, said that when the event firststarted, there was an old outhouse they
would use as a prop at the 50-yard line.“King John” would then come out
onto the field.According to tradition, King John,
ruler of the Kingdom of the Porta Potty,only leaves his palace once a year for thepregame ceremonial toss.He attends theevent in a crown and robe,while holdinga toilet plunger and using a toilet paperroll as his scroll.Gilbert said theouthousehasn’tbeena
prop for a while, but King John stillappears at some games.
“It’s like being at a professionalsporting event, but we all know theplayers,” Gilbert said. “We are out theresupporting our own people, and every-one has someone to cheer for. It can bethe biggest morale-boosting event forDINFOS all year.”McNamara said events like this re-
build morale and that’s what he wouldlike to see this year.“Give it a chance. Come hang out and
even laugh at us,” McNamara said.“We’ve got to embrace the good times.”
A Sea Services student quarterback receives the ball during the Defense Infor-mation School’s Toilet Bowl last year. The team beat the Air-Land team 20-6.
PHOTO BY JOSEPH COSLETT
Plunging inDINFOS ready for another attemptto take throne in annual Toilet BowlAir Force Staff Sgt. VeronicaMontesDefense Information School
A fter a six-month relocationprocess, the Fort Meade ArmyEducationCentercelebrated its
grand openingTuesday.The center moved to 2474 Ernie Pyle
St., near Kimbrough Ambulatory CareCenter.“I’m very happy,” said John W.
Anderson, education services specialistat the AEC. “It’s a good facility, and wewant everyone toknowwe’rehere sowecan serve the FortMeade community.”The Army Education Center primari-
ly serves active-duty servicemembersofall branches, Army Reservists and Na-tionalGuardsmen.AEC provides three key services:
testing, a multiuse learning facility andtuition assistance.
The center also services family mem-bers,DoDcivilians, retireesandveteranson awalk-in basis. Last year, about 1,500peoplewere served at the facility.Anderson said the site is temporary
until the AEC relocates to KuhnHall onLlewellynAvenue.“We are planning to create a brand
neweducationcenter,”he said. “This is atemporary move until the new center iscreated in Kuhn Hall. Until then, weneeded a good facility to support thecommunity with its education pro-grams. This location fits that need.”The move to Kuhn Hall may take
three to five years, according to An-derson. The relocation to Ernie Pylebegan in March and was completed inJuly.After acclimating to the new facility,
AECstaff thought itwas timeto formally
welcome the FortMeade community.Representatives from Anne Arundel
Community College, University ofMaryland University College and Cen-tral Michigan University who work atthe center have provided service mem-bers with information about their cer-tificate and academic degree programsfor 25 years.Farrah Sarvandani, assistant director
for UMUC, said the move was achallenge butworth it.“It’s a new location, and change is
always good,” she said.The staff of two Army civilians and
four contractors prepared chili andprovided beverages at the opening.“We’re pleased to announce that
we’re here,” Anderson said.Editor’s note: The Army Education
Center is open Monday to Friday from 8a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call
Army Education Center opens at new siteBy Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
Army Education Center Services:• Testing: A wide range of tests are
offered, from certification examsand college credit by examinationprograms to language aptitude andmilitary classification tests. Testsare administered by appointmentonly. Call 301-677-6424.• Multiuse Learning Facility: Service
members, family members andauthorized civilians can use thefacility’s computers for collegeclasses, Army projects andcommunication with familymembers. Printers, fax machinesand scanners also are available.• GoArmyEd & Tuition Assistance:
GoArmyEd is a virtual gateway foractive-duty Soldiers to requesttuition assistance online. All TAenrollments are requested throughthe GAE portal at GoArmyEd.com.
•Mandu •Jjajangmyun •Jjampong•Tangsooyuk •Kanpungki and more
Authentic Korean Food
Authentic Korean/Chinese Food
TheServicemembersCivilReliefAct, orSCRA, provides a wide range of protec-tions for individuals who enter the active-duty military or are called to active dutyfromaReserve orNational Guard status.
The SCRA addresses such matters asearly termination of residential leases,security deposits, evictions, credit cardand mortgage interest rates, mortgageforeclosures, civil judicial proceedings,motor vehicle leases and income taxliability.
Below is an overview of the three mostwidely utilized SCRAprovisions.
♦Interest Rate Limit: The SCRAplacesa6percent limiton interest rates fordebts incurred by service members priorto entering active duty. This provisionapplies to all financial obligations in-cludinghomemortgages, credit carddebtsandmotor vehicle loans.
Asanexample:Mr. Smithmaypurchasea flat-screen television set using his creditcard and carry a balance forward at aninterest rate of 14 percent, which wasestablishedwhen he applied for the creditcard. If Mr. Smith then enters theactive-duty military, he may request that
his interest rate be reduced from 14percent to 6 percent for the pre-servicedebt.
♦Stay of Civil Proceedings: TheSCRAprovides that acourtmay temporar-ily stay or postpone a civil action orproceeding against a defendant for theperiod of the defendant’s active-dutyservice plus 90 days after the date ofrelease fromactive duty.
The defendant service member mustprovide a letter that states how his/hercurrent military-duty requirements ma-terially affect the service member’s abilityto appear in court.
♦Residential Lease Termination:TheSCRAallowsa servicememberwho isthe tenant on a residential lease toterminate the lease if the contract wasexecuted after he/she entered active dutyor if the lease was executed while theservicememberwasalreadyonactivedutyand subsequently received orders to PCSor deploy formore than 90days.
Formore information regarding federallaws that protect the civil rights of servicemembers, visit the U.S. Department ofJustice online at servicemembers.gov.
To schedule an appointment tomeetwithaFortMeadeLegalAssistanceattorney, call301-677-9504 or 301-677-9536.
Federal law protectsservice membersBy JaneM.WinandChief, Legal Assistance Division
PublicCommentPeriod
Notice of AvailabilityThe175thNetworkWarfareSquadron,MarylandAirNationalGuardproposes to
construct and operate a new facility, properly designed and configured to supporttrainingmissions of the175thNWSat FortMeade.
The proposed action is needed because the unit lacks suitable space to organize,train and store equipment. The results, as found in the Environmental Assessment(EA), showthat theproposedactionwouldnothavea significant adverse impact onthe environment.
At theconclusionof thepublic commentperiod, it is anticipated that aFindingofNo Significant Impact (FNSI) would be appropriate and would be signed for theproposed action.
An Environmental Impact Statement, therefore, would not be necessary toimplement the proposed action.
Copies of the draft final EA and draft final FNSI are available online atwww.ftmeade.army.mil by clicking on the “Environmental Programs” tab under“PublicNotices.”
The documents also can be found at the following locations: Medal of HonorMemorial Library at 4418LlewellynAve. on FortMeade and theOdentonRegionalLibrary, 1325Annapolis Road.
Inaddition, copies canbeobtainedbycontactingSuzanneTeague,DirectorateofPublic Works, Environmental Division, 4216 Roberts Ave., Suite 5115, Fort Meade,MD20755;byphoneat301-677-9185;orbyemail at [email protected].
Commentson thedraft finalEAanddraft finalFNSImaybesubmitted toTeagueno later than 30 days from the publication of this notice.
B atman and his dog sidekick Robinwere among the winners of thisyear’sHalloween Pet CostumeCon-
test hosted by the Family Pet CareCenter.1stLt.DanielSyringof the7thIntelligence
SquadronandhispetKenodressedupas thedynamic duo for the annual event, whichwas held Saturdaymorning at the Pavilion.
“I think the costumeswentwith thedogs.It was really cool,” said Kim Gunderman,business manager at the Pet Care Center.“The costumes really fit their personality.”
SyringandKenowontheBestOwnerPairprize.
About six pet owners and seven dogsparticipated in the annual contest. Dogs andsome owners donned Halloween costumes
and were judged for the most creative andmost original by a panel of judges.
Costumes included a mummy, a “TopGun” ace pilot and a ballerina.
The contest originated about nine yearsago to draw the interest of pet owners whoparticipate in theannualGhosts,Ghouls andGoblins 5K Run and 1-Mile Fun Walk withtheir dogs.
“We had so many great costumes,”Gunderman said.
Thewinner of themost creative costumewas Cooper, a dog sporting a Germanlederhosen outfit.
The most original costume winner wasJai J, a dog dressed as a pumpkin.
Ownersof thewinningpets receiveda$15gift certificate to theFamilyPetCareCenter.The dogswonpet toys.
Picture-Perfect PoochesPets, owners showcase best Halloween outfits —and Oktoberfest — at annual costume contestBy Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer
Ranger, owned by Martha McClary, chief of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recre-ation, shows off a Batman costume Saturday at the annual Pet Costume Contest.
PHOTOS BY NATE PESCE
Cajun dresses as a “Top Gun” ace pilot as apreview for upcoming Halloween festivities.
First Lt. Daniel Syring is Batman andhis dog Keno is his sidekick Robin.
Cooper, a miniature pinscher owned by Stacy De La Hoz, dresses up inGerman lederhosen in celebration of Oktoberfest and Halloween.
10 COVER STORY THURSDAY, OCT. 27, 2016 | SOUNDOFF! SOUNDOFF! | THURSDAY, OCT. 27, 2016 COVER STORY 11
T he start of Halloween festivities atFort Meade focused on the annualGhosts,GhoulsandGoblins5KRun
on Saturday.The Directorate of Family and Morale,
Welfare and Recreation sponsored theseasonal event, which drew about 200people and began at 8 a.m. at the Pavilion.
For the third year, the installation’sFamily Advocacy Program held its annual
Domestic Violence Awareness Walk inpartnershipwith the themed run..
About 45 people attended the 1-milewalk, which was held to support thevictims of domestic violence.
Katherine Lamourt, a domestic abusevictim advocate, said the walk is an effortto“walk in theshoesof someonewhodealswith domestic violence.”
Participants wore purple and whiterunner’s bibs to show their dedication tothe cause.
Purple isworn tosymbolize the“bruisesfromdomestic violence,” said Lamourt.
Ghostly good timeAnnual Ghosts, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run forms partnershipwith Domestic Violence Awareness Walk to put spotlight on issue
Retired Air Force Maj. Scott Spiller, (left) and his 4-year-old daughter Naboon join Chief Warrant Officer 3 Kent Frye and his sonSebastin during the Domestic Violence Awareness 1-Mile Walk on Saturday morning.
Capt. Ray Vetter of the Asymmetric Warfare Group comes in as the overall winnerand first-place male runner titles at the Ghosts, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run.
Shelby Keuper, Noe Moreno (dressed as Spiderman) and Sean Farnar of the Director-ate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, man a sign-in table at the Ghosts,Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run.
Sebastin Frye, 4, wears an Ironman maskduring the 1-mile walk.
Angie Spiller points to her son Alex while manning the Domestic Violence Awareness Walk booth at the Pavilion alongside do-mestic abuse victim advocates Samantha Herring (center) and Katherine Lamourt on Saturday morning.
Runners and walkers take off from the starting line at the Ghosts, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run and Domestic Violence Awareness1-Mile Walk at the Pavilion. About 200 people participated in the dual events.
Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Results:Best overall male runner - Ray Vetter at 18:58Best overall female runner – Alex Szkotnicki at 23:17Second-place male runner - Andrew Sowinski at 19:24Second-place female runner – Nikki Pruett at 23:30Third-place male runner - Hunter Steinau at 20:59Third-place female runner – Beth Tousley at 23:31
Big Sean — or Shawn — hadme doing things with kettlebells and pushups and ropesthat hadmewanting to call himsomething else.Or is that the 2 Chainz
coming through my speakersthat’s making me want to cussas Iwrite this? “WatchOut!”Eitherway, twodays after the
hourlong workout my chest is stillscreaming, which is a consequence oftaking so much time off between work-outs— years.Time is a popular topic right now,
especially when it comes to the WorldSeries,whereboth theChicagoCubsandCleveland Indians are looking for theirfirst championship in decades.For the Cubs, it’s actually more than a
century.Seriously, the last time the Cubs won
theWorld Series (1908),Teddy Rooseveltwas speaking softly and carrying a bigstick as president and sliced bread stillwasn’t cool, or even invented.The Indians have only gone ringless
since1948. Sliced breadhadbeen aroundfor 20 years, radioswere as big as housesand Bob Feller was the hardest throwerin the league. Or at least he threw so fastthat his fastball beat a motorcycle in arace. http://bit.ly/2eaNXf5In spite of that history and time, I’m
still having a hard time rooting for eitherteam. It reminds me of the phrase thathas been popping up in our recentpolitical discourse: The lesser of twoevils is still evil.My disdain for all things Ohio has
been well documented, so there isn’tmuch explanation needed for the Indi-ans.But everybody loves the Cubs, right?
Wrong!It’s true, you’ll never find a bigger
HarryCaray fan than I—both in real lifehttp://bit.ly/2eLMxltf and parody.http://bit.ly/1EUQbJ5Plus,my favorite single baseballmem-
ory (pre-children)was when I tumbled
down a flight of Wrigley Field’scement steps — warm brew inhand — but gracefully recov-ered in time to hoistmy brew inthe air and sing, “Root, root,root for the Cubbies” withHarry.Even with that, I can’t stand
the Cubs. My disdain goes allthe way back to 1984 — awonderful year when Reaganwas running things; the U.S.dominated the Summer Olym-
pics; and the Detroit Tigers, led by AlanTrammell, Lou Whitaker, Jack Morrisand Sparky Anderson, won the WorldSeries.However, growing up in Southwest
Michigan, I was stuck listening to Harryand Steve Stone’s constant braggingabout the Cubs, whowere also good thatyear.Of course, they weren’t Tigers-good,
but the fans’ constantattacksandslanderabout how Cubs second baseman RyneSandberg was better than Sweet LouWhitaker, Cubs Ace Rick Sutcliffe wasbetter than Morris, and all the othernonsense thoseOldStyledrinking, deep-dish, pizza-eating Cub fans spewed hasstuckwithme.SohereIam,32years later,wishing for
the first-everWorld Series tie.Strictlyspeaking, this shouldbeagreat
series. They are the most talented,best-managed teams in the league. Thematchup between the Indians bullpenand Chicago’s bats should lead to someexciting moments. Plus, the history isenticing.So if you stuck a pie in front ofmy face
and forcedme to choose, I guess I’d haveto root for the Cubs. Cub fans onlybragged about being great, whereasCleveland was responsible for setting aGreat Lake on fire.Not to mention, there is a certain
softness that comes with age — not justthe kindBig Sean tried towork off—and1908 is a long penance.
So, with a soft smile, I’ll give ahalf-hearted cheer for theCubs.If you have comments on this or
anything to do with sports, contact me [email protected] or hit me up on
JIBBER JABBER - OPINION
Halfheartedly rootingfor the lesser of two evils
Chad T.JonesPUBLIC AFFAIRSOFFICER
Armyvs.NavyFlagFootball
Fort Meade’s annual Army vs. NavyFlag Football gamewill be heldNov. 8 at 4p.m. atMullins Field.
The tailgating party begins at 3 p.m.with free food, beverages, moon bounce,giveaways and prize drawings.
Come out and support your favoriteteam.
Formore information, call 301-677-3318.
EFMPBowlingThe Exceptional Family Member Pro-
gram offers bowling for exceptional fami-lies on the third Wednesday of everymonth from5:30-7 p.m. at TheLanes.
The next event isNov.16.Exceptional family members can bowl
one free gamewith free shoe rental.Discounted games and shoes are avail-
able for $2 each to other familymembers.To register, call Sonya Zoller at 301-677-
4779.
HalloweenZumbathonThe Halloween Zumbathon is Friday
from 5-7 p.m. at Gaffney Fitness Center,6330Broadfoot Road.
Big Sean — or Shawn — hadme doing things with kettlebells and pushups and ropesthat hadmewanting to call himsomething else.Or is that the 2 Chainz
coming through my speakersthat’s making me want to cussas Iwrite this? “WatchOut!”Eitherway, twodays after the
hourlong workout my chest is stillscreaming, which is a consequence oftaking so much time off between work-outs— years.Time is a popular topic right now,
especially when it comes to the WorldSeries,whereboth theChicagoCubsandCleveland Indians are looking for theirfirst championship in decades.For the Cubs, it’s actually more than a
century.Seriously, the last time the Cubs won
theWorld Series (1908),Teddy Rooseveltwas speaking softly and carrying a bigstick as president and sliced bread stillwasn’t cool, or even invented.The Indians have only gone ringless
since1948. Sliced breadhadbeen aroundfor 20 years, radioswere as big as housesand Bob Feller was the hardest throwerin the league. Or at least he threw so fastthat his fastball beat a motorcycle in arace. http://bit.ly/2eaNXf5In spite of that history and time, I’m
still having a hard time rooting for eitherteam. It reminds me of the phrase thathas been popping up in our recentpolitical discourse: The lesser of twoevils is still evil.My disdain for all things Ohio has
been well documented, so there isn’tmuch explanation needed for the Indi-ans.But everybody loves the Cubs, right?
Wrong!It’s true, you’ll never find a bigger
HarryCaray fan than I—both in real lifehttp://bit.ly/2eLMxltf and parody.http://bit.ly/1EUQbJ5Plus,my favorite single baseballmem-
ory (pre-children)was when I tumbled
down a flight of Wrigley Field’scement steps — warm brew inhand — but gracefully recov-ered in time to hoistmy brew inthe air and sing, “Root, root,root for the Cubbies” withHarry.Even with that, I can’t stand
the Cubs. My disdain goes allthe way back to 1984 — awonderful year when Reaganwas running things; the U.S.dominated the Summer Olym-
pics; and the Detroit Tigers, led by AlanTrammell, Lou Whitaker, Jack Morrisand Sparky Anderson, won the WorldSeries.However, growing up in Southwest
Michigan, I was stuck listening to Harryand Steve Stone’s constant braggingabout the Cubs, whowere also good thatyear.Of course, they weren’t Tigers-good,
but the fans’ constantattacksandslanderabout how Cubs second baseman RyneSandberg was better than Sweet LouWhitaker, Cubs Ace Rick Sutcliffe wasbetter than Morris, and all the othernonsense thoseOldStyledrinking, deep-dish, pizza-eating Cub fans spewed hasstuckwithme.SohereIam,32years later,wishing for
the first-everWorld Series tie.Strictlyspeaking, this shouldbeagreat
series. They are the most talented,best-managed teams in the league. Thematchup between the Indians bullpenand Chicago’s bats should lead to someexciting moments. Plus, the history isenticing.So if you stuck a pie in front ofmy face
and forcedme to choose, I guess I’d haveto root for the Cubs. Cub fans onlybragged about being great, whereasCleveland was responsible for setting aGreat Lake on fire.Not to mention, there is a certain
softness that comes with age — not justthe kindBig Sean tried towork off—and1908 is a long penance.
So, with a soft smile, I’ll give ahalf-hearted cheer for theCubs.If you have comments on this or
anything to do with sports, contact me [email protected] or hit me up on
JIBBER JABBER - OPINION
Halfheartedly rootingfor the lesser of two evils
Chad T.JonesPUBLIC AFFAIRSOFFICER
Armyvs.NavyFlagFootball
Fort Meade’s annual Army vs. NavyFlag Football gamewill be heldNov. 8 at 4p.m. atMullins Field.
The tailgating party begins at 3 p.m.with free food, beverages, moon bounce,giveaways and prize drawings.
Come out and support your favoriteteam.
Formore information, call 301-677-3318.
EFMPBowlingThe Exceptional Family Member Pro-
gram offers bowling for exceptional fami-lies on the third Wednesday of everymonth from5:30-7 p.m. at TheLanes.
The next event isNov.16.Exceptional family members can bowl
one free gamewith free shoe rental.Discounted games and shoes are avail-
able for $2 each to other familymembers.To register, call Sonya Zoller at 301-677-
4779.
HalloweenZumbathonThe Halloween Zumbathon is Friday
from 5-7 p.m. at Gaffney Fitness Center,6330Broadfoot Road.
The deadline for Soundoff! community“News and Notes” is Friday at noon. Allsubmissions are posted at the editor’sdiscretion and may be edited for space andgrammar. Look for additional communityevents on the Fort Meade website atftmeade.army.mil and the Fort MeadeFacebook page at facebook.com/ftmeade.
How to submit announcementsCommunity members can advertise
their upcoming event, meeting or class onthe Soundoff! community announce-ments page by visiting ftmeade.army.miland clicking on the Press Center tab.
Once you are in the Fort Meade PressCenter, click on PA services, story or pro-motion request and electronic inquiryform.
Inquiry forms should be submitted atleast two weeks before the date of theevent, meeting or class.
NEWS & EVENTS
NEW VCC hoursOperating hours at the Demps Visitor
Control Center are Monday to Friday from7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The VCC is closedweekends.
All individuals who do not have a DoD-issued identification card must go to theVCC for a day pass.
Visit the VCC at least 10 business daysin advance to apply for a long-term ac-cess pass.
Visitors who arrive on post when theVCC is closed must be escorted on postby an authorized DoD cardholder. Thisincludes weekends and federal holidays.
For more information, call the VCC at301-677-1064 or visit the Fort MeadeFacebook page for announcements ontemporary changes to operating hours.
To find out how to preregister, go togoo.gl/xyTzhg.
USO Spouse Break-FastThe Fort Meade USO will provide
breakfast for military spouses on Fridayfrom 9-10:30 a.m. at the USO on 6thArmored Cavalry Road.
The menu includes pancakes withVermont syrup and honey, sausage andfruit salad.
The Spouse Break-Fast is only open tospouses of active-duty service members,and members of the National Guard andReserve.
The Spouse Break-Fast is generally heldthe third Friday of every month.
Veterans Job FairThe Fort Meade Veterans Job Fair will
be held Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.at Club Meade, 6600 Mapes Road.
The job fair is open to the public and alljob seekers.
A free resume evaluation and prepara-tion assistance service will be available.
Anticipate lines at the installation’saccess control point and at the fair.
A free shuttle will transport job seekersfrom the Visitor Control Center to ClubMeade.
If you do not have a DoD identificationcard, you must go to the Visitor ControlCenter on Reece Road and present aphoto ID card or driver’s license.
The event is hosted by the Fort MeadeDirectorate of Family and Morale, Welfareand Recreation; DLLR/American JobCenter; Anne Arundel Workforce Devel-opment Corporation; Army CommunityService; Navy Fleet and Family SupportCenter; and Soldier For Life-TransitionAssistance Program.
For a list of all attending employers,visit meade.armymwr.com.
Right Arm NightBring your right arm service member,
co-worker or employee to Club Meade fora fun evening of free food, music, dancingand camaraderie tonight from 4-6 p.m.
The free event is open to all ranks andservices, military and civilians.
Reserve a table at 301-677-6969.
Latin NightEnjoy an evening of dancing at Latin
Night on Friday night from 7 p.m. to mid-night at Club Meade.
A variety of music will be playing in-cluding salsa, bachata, merengue, cum-bia, house and reggaetown.
The event includes food and beveragespecials. There is no cover charge.
Latin Night is celebrated the last Fridayof each month.
For more information, call 301-677-6969.
STEM FestThe National Cryptologic Association
on Seven Colony Road is sponsoring aSTEM Fest on Nov. 10 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
The free event will feature activitiesand challenges for ages 10 and older.
Mathematicians will challenging skillsto solve a mystery while others jugglewith math.
Engineers will make computer chips.Data scientists will find patterns in
chaos and analyze test messages.Analysts will challenge participants
with a cryptic puzzle to stop a “terrorist”
attack, analyze websites with Wireshark,and show how to find “bad guys” in radiocommunications.
Engineers will demonstrate ciphers,error-correcting and detection codes, andencrypt messages on an Enigma andconstruct bar codes.
Other activities will include cryptologicpuzzles, prizes, guides tours and informa-tion on cryptologic careers.
For more information, call Jen Wilcox orLou Leto at 301-688-5849.
Thrift Shop’s new locationThe Post Thrift Shop is now located at
392 Llewellyn Ave.Hours are: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and
Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and thefirst Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to1 p.m.
Consignments are taken by appoint-ment only.
For more information, call 410-672-3575.
Child care providers neededFamily Child Care is in need of provid-
ers.Providers will receive valuable training
including: activity organization, USDA-approved meal planning, designing learn-ing environments, child development, andbecoming infant/child/adult first aid andCPR certified.
For more information, call the FamilyChild Care office at 301-677-1160.
Vehicle Resale LotSell or buy all types of vehicles at the
resale lot on Rock Avenue.To place a vehicle on the lot, stop by
Outdoor Recreation at 2300 Wilson St.For more information, call 301-677-
3810.
Freedom Inn open to postemployees
The Freedom Inn Dining Facility, lo-cated at 8502 Simonds St., is now opento all active-duty service members, mil-itary retirees, DoD civilians, contractors,and Department of the Army securityguards and firefighters on Mondaythrough Friday.
Active-duty service members on BasicAllowance for Subsistence are also au-thorized for meals on the weekend. Familymembers of military personnel may pur-chase meals on weekdays if they areaccompanied by the service member.
All other categories of customers maypurchase meals as the garrison com-mander deems appropriate. These cate-gories include youth groups, MEPS candi-dates, civilian dignitaries, guests andother visitors.
Service members with a meal card willcontinue to have priority over cash-payingcustomers.
For more information, call 301-677-
5503.
Flu shotsThe Anne Arundel County Department
of Health is providing seasonal flu vacci-nations at walk-in clinics.
The injectable vaccine for ages 6months and older and the high-dose flushot for ages 65 and older will be avail-able. No appointment is required.
Although immunizations are free, thedepartment appreciates donations tohelp pay the cost of administering thevaccines.
The clinic is providing vaccinations onthe following dates:
• Tuesday, 1-7 p.m.Glen Burnie Health Center, 416 A Street
S.W., Glen Burnie• Nov. 10, 1-7 p.m.
Health Services Building, 3 Harry S.Truman Parkway, Annapolis
For more information, go to aahealth-.org or call the Flu Information Line at410-222-7343.
Financial, Job ReadinessJoint Services offers workshops and
briefings by Army Community Service atthe Community Readiness Center, 830Chisholm Ave., and the Navy Fleet andFamily Support Center at 2212 ChisholmAve., unless otherwise noted.
The free classes are open to active-duty service members and family mem-bers, DoD civilian employees and retirees.
Registration is required for each class.Military• Pre-Separation Brief: Today, 9-11:30
To register, call FFSC at 301-677-9017or ACS at 301-677-5590, or visit fortmea-deacs.checkappointments.com.
Homeschool GroupThe Fort Meade Homeschool Group
meets throughout the year for field tripsand social outings.
For information on upcoming events,visit the “Fort Meade Homeschool Group”on Facebook. Go to facebook.com/groups/FortMeadeHomeschoolGroup.
YOUTH
Hallelujah FestivalThe Hallelujah Festival family event will
be celebrated Monday from 6-8 p.m. atthe Pavilion.
The free event is open to the communi-ty and will feature snacks, games, prizesand plenty of candy for every child.
Please, no monster, witches, ghosts,clowns or other scary costumes.
Volunteers are needed.For more information, call Marcia East-
land at 301-677-0386 or Connie Robinsonat 410-458-9481.
Baby Sitter’s CertificationCourse
A Baby Sitter’s Certification Course willbe offered Nov. 21-22 from 9 a.m. to 4p.m. at the School Age Center.
Participants will learn skills and tech-niques needed to be a confident babysitter.
The free course also will provide firstaid and CPR certification.
Registration required by Nov. 11. Spaceis limited.
To register or for more information, call301-677-1156 or 301-677-1149.
RECREATION
Out & About• BOSS Field of Screams excursion in
Olney, sponsored by Better Opportunitiesfor Single Service Members, is Friday. Busleaves Fort Meade at 6 p.m. Cost is $25and includes transportation. Spaces arelimited.
• Adventure Park USA will host itsNot-So-Scary Halloween Party on Sat-urday from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Monrovia,Md.
The park will be transformed into ahome for happy haunts. Both indoor andoutdoor attractions will be open. Family-favorite cartoon characters will wanderthe park meeting guests.
Guests are welcome to dress in cos-tume for this “not-so-scary” occasion.Children can trick-or-treat at 9 p.m.
All-inclusive tickets are available onlinefor $25 or at the door for $33.
All-inclusive tickets include a lightmeal, fountain beverages and videogames. There is a $15 charge for chaper-ones, which will include a light meal andvideo games only.
For more information, visit adventure-parkusa.com.
• Antique and Collectibles Market isSaturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in theHome Arts Building at the Maryland StateFairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium.Admission is $5. The event will featuremore than 100 dealers of vintage andestate jewelry; silver, china and porcelain;collectible books; and furniture. For moreinformation, call 443-841-8022 or visit
marylandstatefair.com.• BOSS Medieval Times trip, spon-
sored by Better Opportunities for SingleService Members, will be held Nov. 4 at 7p.m. Cost is $25. Limited spaces are avail-able.
For reservations or more information,see your BOSS representative or [email protected] or call Spc.Derek Young at 301-677-6868.
• Leisure Travel Services will offer itsnext monthly bus trips to New York Cityon Nov. 12 and Dec. 24 from 7 a.m. to 11p.m. Cost is $60. Discounted tickets toattractions will be provided. For moreinformation, call 301-677-7354.
MEETINGS• Fort Meade Chapter of the Military
Officers Association of America willconduct a dinner meeting on Nov. 3 at 7p.m. at Club Meade.
Social hour begins 6:30 p.m.The guest speaker will discuss long-
term care insurance.RSVP by Sunday to Rebecca Conover
• Monthly Prayer Breakfast, hostedby the Religious Support Office, is heldthe first Thursday of every month at 7a.m. at Club Meade. The next prayerbreakfast is Nov. 3. There is no cost forthe buffet. Donations are optional.
Menu features eggs, bacon, sausage,biscuits, gravy, grits, Danish pastries andfruit.
All Fort Meade employees, civilian andmilitary personnel, and family members
are invited. For more information, call301-677-6703.
• “Sip and Share,” hosted by the Ex-ceptional Family Member Program, meetsthe first Thursday of every month from9:30-10:30 a.m. at its new location at theFort Meade USO, 8612 6th Armored Cav-alry Road. The next get-together is Nov. 3.
Share stories to encourage and informeach other about resources available inthe local community.
For more information or to register, call301-677-4779.
• Fort Meade First Class Petty Offi-cer Association meets the first Thursdayof every month at 3 p.m. at The Lanes.The next meeting is Nov. 3. All first classpetty officers are invited. For more in-formation, call PO1 Jennifer Wonch at410-854-2763.
• Meade Rod and Gun Club meets thefirst Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. atPerry’s Restaurant and Odie’s Pub at 1210Annapolis Road, Odenton, in the banquethall in back of the building. The nextmeeting is Nov. 3. Dinner is served at 6p.m. For more information, call CharismaWooten at 240-568-6055.
• Moms of Multiples Group meetsevery first and third Thursday of themonth from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the FamilyAdvocacy Program, 2462 85th MedicalBattalion Ave. The next meeting is Nov. 3.For more information, call 301-677-7823.
• National Alliance on Mental Illnessof Anne Arundel County offers a freesupport group for families with a lovedone suffering from mental illness on thefirst Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. atthe Odenton (West County) Library, 1325Annapolis Road. The next meeting is Nov.3. For more information, visit namiaa-c.org.
• Families Dealing with Deploymentmeets the first and third Monday of everymonth from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the FamilyAdvocacy Program, 2462 85th MedicalBattalion Ave. Children welcome. The nextmeeting is Nov. 7.
The group is for families experiencingan upcoming or current deployment, orthe service members who have recentlyreturned from deployment. For moreinformation, call 301-677-7823.
• Daddy & Me interactive playgroupfor fathers with children ages 2-4 meetsthe first and third Monday of every monthfrom 5-6 p.m. at the Family AdvocacyProgram, 2462 85th Medical BattalionAve. The next meeting is Nov. 7.
Children and their dads engage in ac-tivities conducive to improving socialinteraction, and cognitive and motorskills.
Space is limited. Registration is re-quired for each session. For more in-formation, call 301-677-4118.
• Kritikos Toastmasters Club meetson the first three Mondays of everymonth at 6:15 p.m. at Perry’s Restaurant,1210 Annapolis Road, Odenton. The next
NEWS & NOTES, From page 13
Baltimore retiree George Reed receives an eye exam from Spc. Tuo Lin, of the FortMeade Medical Activity, during Fort Meade’s annual Retiree Appreciation Day onFriday. For more on Retiree Appreciation Day, go to Page 6.
meeting is Nov. 7.The club offers an opportunity to serv-
ice members and civilian residents in theFort Meade community to improve theirpublic speaking skills in a supportiveenvironment.
For more information, go to 1686.toast-mastersclubs.org or call 410-305-9190.
• Fort Meade E9 Association meetsthe second Friday of every month at 7a.m. in the Pin Deck Cafe at the Lanes.The next meeting is Nov. 11.
The association is open to active, re-tired, Reserve and National Guard E9s ofany uniformed service. All E9s in this areaare invited to attend a breakfast andmeet the membership. For more informa-tion, go to e9association.org.
• Meade Branch 212 of the FleetReserve Association meets the secondSaturday of each month at 10 a.m. atVFW Post 160, 2597 Dorsey Road, GlenBurnie. The next meeting is Nov. 12. Ac-tive-duty, Reserve and retired membersof the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and CoastGuard are invited. For more information,call 443-604-2474 or 410-768-6288.
• Marriage Enrichment Group, spon-sored by Army Community Service, meetsthe second and fourth Monday of everymonth from 3-4 p.m. at the CommunityReadiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. Thenext meeting is Nov. 14. For more in-formation, call Celena Flowers or JessicaHobgood at 301-677-5590.
• Single Parent Support Groupmeets every second and fourth Mondayof the month from 5:30-7 p.m. at SchoolAge Services, 1900 Reece Road. Childrenwelcome. The next meeting is Nov. 14. Formore information, call 301-677-7823.
• The Retired Enlisted Association(TREA) meets the third Tuesday of eachmonth from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at the Poto-mac Place Neighborhood Center, 49982nd Corps Blvd. The next meeting is Nov.15.
For more information, visit trea.org orcall Charles Green, the local chapterpresident, at 443-610-4252 or Otis Whit-aker Sr., chapter secretary, at 443-306-1104.
• Society of Military Widows meetsfor brunch the third Tuesday of themonth at 11 a.m. at Club Meade. The nextmeeting is Nov. 15. For more information,call Betty Jones at 410-992-1123.
• Military District of WashingtonSergeant Audie Murphy Club meets thethird Wednesday of each month. The nextmeeting is Nov. 16. For more information,email Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Barfield, clubvice president, at [email protected].
• Air Force Sergeants AssociationChapter 254 meets the third Wednesdayof every month from 3-4 p.m. in the audi-torium of the Airman Leadership School,8470 Zimborski Ave. The next meeting isNov. 16. For more information, call 831-521-9251 or go to AFSA254.org.
• Prostate Cancer Support Groupmeets at Walter Reed National MilitaryMedical Center in Bethesda on the thirdThursday of every month. The next meet-ing is Nov. 17 from 1-2 p.m. and 6:30-7:30p.m. in the America Building, River Confer-ence Room (next to the Prostate Center),third floor.
Spouses/partners are invited. MilitaryID is required for base access. Men with-out a military ID should call the ProstateCenter at 301-319-2900 at least fourbusiness days prior to the event for baseaccess.
For more information, call retired Col.Jane Hudak at 301-319-2918 or [email protected].
• Enlisted Spouses’ Club meets thethird Thursday of each month at 6:30p.m. at Potomac Place Community Cen-ter, 4998 Second Corps Blvd. Locationand time subject to change. The nextmeeting is Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m.
The Fort Meade ESC is a diverse groupof spouses from all branches and phasesof life. The organization strives to supportone another, and support and give backto the community.
For child care during ESC functions,email [email protected] andask for more information on how ESC canhelp.
For more information, call 301-908-3773.
• Project Healing Waters meetsThursdays at Burba Lake area No. 3 in thesummer. Grilling begins at 5 p.m.
In the winter, the group meets at theRascon Building, 2481 Llewellyn Ave.
The project is dedicated to the physicaland emotional rehabilitation of woundedwarriors and veterans through fly fishing,fly tying and outings.
For more information, call Larry Vawter,program leader, at 443-535-5074 or [email protected].
• Moms Walking Group, sponsored byParent Support, meets Thursdays from8:30-9:15 a.m. at the Family AdvocacyProgram, 2462 85th Medical BattalionAve. To register, call 301-677-3617.
• Dancing with the Heroes, free ball-room dance lessons for the Warrior Tran-sition Unit, meets Thursdays at 6 p.m. atArgonne Hills Chapel Center in the semi-nar room.
Participants should wear loose cloth-ing, comfortable shoes with leather soles.No super high heels or flip-flops.
• Moms Support Group meets Thurs-days from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the FamilyAdvocacy Center, 2462 85th MedicalBattalion Ave. The group is for mothers ofyoung children up to age 3. Mini playgroupincluded.
Topics include potty training, stagesand development. Children are welcome.Registration is required. For more in-formation, call 301-677-4118 or or [email protected].
• Couples Communication meets
every Monday from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at theFamily Advocacy Program Center, 246285th Medical Battalion Ave.
The session is aimed at helping couplesdevelop tools to enhance their relation-ship, gain problem-solving strategies, andcreate a long-lasting relationship. Formore information, call 301-677-4118.
• Cub Scout Pack 377 invites boys infirst through fifth grades, or ages 7 to 10,to attend its weekly Monday meetings at6 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.
For more information, email Cubmas-ter Christopher Lassiter or CommitteeChairperson Marco Cilibert [email protected].
• Boy Scout Troop 377 meets Mon-days at 6:30 p.m. at Argonne Hills ChapelCenter on Rockenbach Road. For moreinformation, refer to the troop’s Facebookpage www.facebook.com/bsa377 or con-tact Scoutmaster Eddie Smith at 443-542-0545 or [email protected], orWendall Lawrence, the troop’s committeechair, at 410-969-5308 or [email protected].
• Catholic Women of the Chapelmeets every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. and6:30 p.m. for fellowship, prayer and Biblestudy in the Main Post Chapel, 4419 Llew-ellyn Ave.
The CWOC is open to all women in thecommunity ages 18 and older. For moreinformation, email Jen Bosko, CWOCpresident, at [email protected].
• Women’s Empowerment Groupmeets Wednesdays from 2-3:30 p.m. toprovide a safe, confidential arena for thesupport, education and empowerment ofwomen who have experienced past orpresent family violence.
Location is only disclosed to partici-pants. To register, call Samantha Herring,victim advocate, at 301-677-4124 or Kath-erine Lamourt, victim advocate, at 301-677-4117.
• American Legion Post 276 is opento veterans and active-duty service mem-bers at 8068 Quarterfield Road in Severn.Breakfast may be purchased beginning at9 a.m. Lunches may be purchased from11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Happy Hour is 4-6p.m. Dinner may be purchased at 6 p.m.on Fridays and the fourth Sunday of everymonth.
Membership discounts are offered foractive-duty military. For more informa-tion, call 410-969-8028 or visit ameri-canlegionpost276.org.
• Odenton Masonic Center, locatedat 1206 Stehlik Drive, invites the commu-nity, local military, fire/emergency serv-ices and local businesses to enjoy itsbreakfast and specialty dinners.
The center offers an “all-you-can-eat”breakfast every second Sunday from 7-11a.m.
Specialty dinners are held the thirdFriday of the month from 5-7 p.m.
Menus can be found at odenton-lodge209.net.
The movie schedule is subject to change.For a recorded announcement of showings,call 301-677-5324. Further listings are avail-able on the Army and Air Force ExchangeServicewebsite atwww.aafes.com.
Movies start Fridays at 6:30 p.m, Sat-urdays at 6 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.PRICES: Tickets are $6 for adults (12 andolder)and$3.50 forchildren. 3-DMovies:$8adults, $5.50 children.
Today throughNov. 6
Friday: “The Magnificent Seven”(PG-13). Seven gunmen in the old westgradually come together to help a poorvillageagainst savage thieves.WithDenzelWashington, Chris Pratt, EthanHawke.
Saturday: FREE SCREENING(PG-13).Tickets available at the ExchangeFood Court. Seating open to non-ticketholders 30minutes prior to showtime.
Sunday: “Miss Peregrine’s Home forPeculiar Children” (PG-13).When a boydiscovers clues to a mystery that stretchesacross time, he finds Miss Peregrine’sHome for Peculiar Children. But thedanger deepens after he gets to know theresidents and learns about their specialpowers. With Eva Green, Asa Butterfield,Samuel L. Jackson.
Nov. 4 & 6: “Deepwater Horizon”(PG-13).A dramatization of the April 2010disaster when the offshore drilling rig,DeepwaterHorizon,explodedandcreatedthe worst oil spill in U.S. history. WithMark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, John Mal-kovich.
Nov. 5: “TheGirl on theTrain” (R).Adivorcee becomes entangled in a missing-persons investigation that promises tosend shockwaves throughout her life.WithEmilyBlunt,HaleyBennett,RebeccaFerguson.
