Fort Meade SoundOff for July 12, 2012

doggoneGood Samaritan helps locate lost firehouse mascot

page 7

UPCoMIng eVenTSToday, 7:30 P.M.: USO’s Movies on the Lawn: “Kung Fu Panda 2” - Burba LakeFrIday, 8 P.M.-2 a.M.: Latin Club Night - Club MeadeJUly 19, 7-10 P.M.: Karaoke Night - The Lanes’ 10th Frame LoungeJUly 25, noon-3 P.M.: Army Community Service Birthday - The LanesJUly 30, 8 a.M.-1 P.M.: Armed Forces Blood Drive - McGill Training Center

endUranCeArmy Cyber Soldier cycles in support of wounded warriors

page 13

Soundoffvol. 64 no. 28 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community July 12, 2012

photos by Anthony CAstellAno

An elaborate fireworks display lights up the sky over McGlachlin Parade Field, capping Fort Meade’s annual Fourth of July celebration to the delight of an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 residents and visitors. InSET: Two-year-old Kira lucas of Indian Head waves the flag as her mother, Staff Sgt. Wanda lucas, watches during the Independence Day activities that featured music, free children’s attractions, giveaways, and novelty and food vendors. For the story, see 0.

´

fabulous fourth

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! July 12, 2012

Commander’s Column

Cont ent sNews............................. 3 Sports..................................12

TroubleTicket............... 4 Movies.................................15

Community................... 8 Classified.............................16

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

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300

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I hope everyone had a safe and happy Fourth of July.

This week, I’m sharing a “thank you” to everyone that made our post celebration one of the most fun-filled and spectacular Fourth of July celebrations in the region.

Despite the stifling heat, it was good to see so many families enjoying an afternoon of free rides, games, music and food on the parade field before our annual fireworks show. Staffs from the Directorates of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, and Emergency Services did their part to make the day and night both enjoyable and safe.

The only disappointment for me occurred when I got word that Bo, the Fort Meade firedog, had bolted from the firehouse after being frightened during the fireworks. You might have read my post on Facebook asking everyone to keep an eye out for him.

Bo’s story does have a happy ending. (See story on Page 7.) A good Samaritan found Bo on a local high-way the next morning and, with the help of a Maryland state trooper, returned him to the firehouse. I’m not sure if she read my Facebook post about Bo being lost, but it was good to see him back at the firehouse.

One of the best things about Facebook is how eas-ily it allows us to communicate with others on and off post.

Speaking of Facebook, we will have another social media town hall later this summer. As many of you know, these social media town halls are a way for you to ask questions, voice concerns and provide Team Meade with feedback about all things Fort Meade.

Like many of us, I’m on Facebook all the time. I read your posts, look at photos and, sometimes, respond to comments and join the conversation.

There are other times, however, when I think Face-book or Twitter makes it too easy for some individuals to air their grievances.

It seems like more people are using social media — including the Fort Meade Facebook page — as their preferred method of communicating their frustration when other customer-service vehicles might be more appropriate.

Our recent power outage is a good example.I do not believe using social media as a communi-

cations vehicle for public humiliation aimed at service providers is the right thing to do when things don’t go as planned. I know our service providers work hard

to return service to normal. And sometimes, disrup-tions occur longer than any of us would like.

But there are other ways to let us know you have a power outage or a question about service. And before I step out too far on this subject, believe me I know that sometimes, the frustrations are understandable. I’m just voicing a little concern today and hoping we can try to avoid always venting our frustrations on Facebook.

There are other ways to report a problem, find a resolution to a problem or get the customer service we think we deserve.

I know we live in a world where we expect instant responses to our complaints. But sometimes, phone calls, emails, letters or face-to-face meetings make more sense.

On another note, we are nearing the mid-point of our “101 Critical Days of Summer” campaign. Our goal is to reduce or eliminate preventable mishaps this summer by keeping safety at the forefront, on and off duty.

This week, I am highlighting the National Weather Service summer campaign, “Beat the Heat, Check the Back Seat.” The campaign is a safety reminder about kids and the dangers of leaving children unattended in a hot vehicle.

According to the Department of Geosciences, San Francisco State University, there have been 10 deaths of children due to hyperthermia (heat stroke) after being left in hot cars, trucks, vans and SUVs. In 2011, there were at least 33 juvenile vehicular-hyperthermia fatalities.

It goes without saying, these are needless tragedies. Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, not even for a minute! If you see a child unattended in a hot vehicle, call 911.

Let’s continue to make good decisions this summer. Stay focused on safety.

Have a great week!

A fun-filled Fourth and Facebook frustrations

COL. Edward C. rOthstEin

Garrison Commander

Commander’s Open DoorGarrisonCommanderCol.EdwardC.Rothsteinhasanopendoorpolicy.Allservicemembers,retirees,

governmentemployees,familymembersandcommunitymembersage18orolderareinvitedtoaddressissuesorconcernstothecommanderdirectlybyvisitingRothstein’sofficeonMondaysfrom4to6p.m.atgarrisonheadquartersinHodgesHall,Bldg.4551,LlewellynAvenue.Visitorsareseenonafirst-come,first-servedbasis.Noappointmentisnecessary.Formoreinformation,call301-677-4844.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 12, 2012 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Army Community ServiceA casualty is a tragedy.For any family, the death of a loved

one can be among the most difficult chal-lenges they can face. It also can be a very stressful and draining ordeal.

One of the great things about the Army is a strong desire among Soldiers and their families to help others. Per-haps this impulse comes naturally to an organization of volunteers dedicated to selfless service.

It is also why a loss to any military family is really a loss to us all, and why there is no one more deserving of our care and support.

Fort Meade’s Mobilization and Deploy-ment Office at Army Community Service is establishing a Casualty Response Team of volunteers to help our military fami-lies in times of crisis.

The National Capital Region will now have coverage through two CARE Teams between Fort Belvoir, Va., and Fort Meade.

The CARE team is responsible for helping families deal with a death, serious illness or injury, or other tragic event by assisting with simple, ordinary tasks that may become an afterthought during a time of crisis.

The CARE Team exists as another family resource to the established ser-vices that include casualty assistance, chaplain services and Survivor Outreach Services. At no time does the CARE team duplicate or replace any part of these services.

In addition, a family always has the option to accept or to decline a CARE

Team’s services.Some examples of what a CARE Team

does includes:• Answering phones, screening calls

and visitors• Arranging help with household mat-

ters, rescheduling appointments, running errands and providing meal support

• Baby-sitting or making temporary

child care arrangements• Maintaining a log of questions for the

casualty assistance officer or unit com-mander/rear detachment commander

• Assisting visiting family members and friends with installation access and/or lodging

The time frame for the CARE Team is very specific, 24 to 72 hours.

Garrison stands up Casualty Response (CARE) Team

photo by Marine pvt. Coby SMith

Family Life Chaplain (Maj.) Mark Jacobs speaks with participants at the garrison’s Casualty Response Team training. The Fort Meade Mobilization and Deployment Office at Army Community Service established the CARE team of volunteers to help military families deal with death, serious illness, injury or other tragic events by assisting with ordinary tasks that may become an afterthought during a time of crisis.

A CARE Team does not make funeral arrangements or provide information about benefits/entitlements or offer any type of counseling.

CARE Team volunteers are not trained as grief counselors, but rather to provide assistance and comfort.

CARE Team services are available to active-duty service members and their families on Fort Meade and within a 25-mile radius outside the gate, and to deployed DoD civilians and their families, as well as the family members of service members.

Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein reserves the right to make exceptions to the existing parameters of the Fort Meade CARE Team.

Volunteer recruitment and training are conducted by Army Community Service.

Pia Morales, Mobilization and Deploy-ment Program manager, is the point of contact for the Fort Meade CARE Team.

Volunteers undergo a day of training to prepare them for dealing with a crisis. The team will meet regularly for work-shops and to expand its training.

Units or organizations that would like to put an in-house CARE Team in place, should contact Morales to discuss their needs.

Applications for the CARE Team are now being accepted.

If you have similar experience in crisis support or would like to be trained as a part of the Fort Meade CARE Team, email Pia Morales at [email protected] or call her at 301-677-4110.

By TJ SinghDirectorate of Public Works

Power on Fort Meade is unique.Depending on whether the electric

power has been privatized or not, service responsibility could belong to the Balti-more Gas and Electric Co. or the Director-ate of Public Works.

All residents and tenants are not aware of who maintains responsibility for their power and how outages should be report-ed.

Picerne Military Housing residents should call the following numbers with

the neighborhood, street name and house or pole number (if available):

Heritage Park and Normandy Bluffs• 1-866-882-8418 (on-call emergency

maintenance)• 410-672-2000 (main)

Midway Commons• 1-866-882-8418 (on-call emergency


Meuse Forest• 1-866-882-8418 (on-call emergency


Patriot Ridge• 1-866-882-8418 (on-call emergency


Potomac Place• 1-866-882-8418 (on-call emergency


Service members residing in barracks should call the barracks management staff at Bldg. 6405 at 301-677-2174 or the DPW Work Order Desk at 301-677-1629. After normal duty hours, call 301-310-4446.

All other facilities should call the DPW Work Order Desk during normal duty hours at 301-677-1661, 301-677-1662 or 301-677-1629. After duty hours, call 301-310-4446.

This report should include street name and pole number (if available). The more information provided, the quicker the response will be.

Know what to do when the lights go out


News

July 4, Driving while impaired by alcohol, driving under the influ-ence of alcohol, failure to drive vehicle on right half of roadway: The Directorate of Emergency Services was notified of a traffic stop in which the motorist was not driving right of the center of the roadway. An investigation revealed that the driver was possibly intoxicated. Standardized field sobriety tests were administered, which the driver performed poorly. He was apprehended and trans-ported to the DES, were he submitted to a breath test that resulted in a blood alcohol content of .12 percent.

July 5, Larceny of private property: The victim stated person(s) unknown removed his wallet from an unsecured locker at Gaffney Fitness Center.

July 6, Larceny of private proper-ty: Person(s) unknown removed an unsecured and unattended Samsung tablet from an office desk drawer.

July 6, Spouse abuse: The victim stated she was involved in a ver-

bal altercation with her husband, which turned physical when he pushed her into the stairwell, causing bruises on her arms, legs, chest, back and neck areas.

July 7, Assault: The Directorate of Emer-gency Services was notified of a possible drunk and disorderly person. An inves-tigation revealed that the subject and victim entered into a verbal altercation, which turned physical when the subject pushed the victim against a wall twice.

CommunityCommunityCrime Watch

Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services

Chaplain’s Word: STAY YOUNG“You’ll always stay young if you live honestly, eat

slowly, sleep sufficiently, work industriously and

worship faithfully.” — Unknown

Trouble Ticket

Youth Services Sports Complex needs renovations

Renovate the Youth Services Sports Complex

Actual use of fields is expected to be this fall after the grass matures

Have you noticed an issue on post and wondered if anything is being done to fix it? Email concerns and

issues to [email protected]. Each week, Soundoff! will

address issues identified on post and describe what is being done to

solve them.

Issue: Plan: Status:

McGill Training Center HVAC is inoperative

(except in the ballroom)

Install a new HVAC Survey work has begun; full install set for completion

September 2012; portable A/C units being used in classrooms

On the lookout for theftThe Directorate of Emergency Services is actively working to

keep neighborhoods safe.Families residing 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 military 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 surroundings and immediately report any suspicious activity to the Fort Meade Police at 301-677-6622 or 6623.

Follow Fort Meadeat Twitter.com/ftmeademd

By Department of Defense The DoD’s 60th Anniversary of the Korean

War Commemoration Committee announced July 9 its efforts to reach out to Korean War veterans and their families across the country and encourage them to join a commemorative program celebrating the 59th anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice.

The program, Heroes Remembered, is open to the public and will take place July 27 at 9 a.m. at the Arlington National Cemetery, Va.

Featuring a wreath-laying ceremony at Arling-ton National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknowns, the program will include official remarks in the Arlington National Cemetery’s Amphitheatre with high-ranking Defense Department officials and other senior government representatives. The event also will include activities for Korean War veterans and their families.

“Our committee seeks to educate the Ameri-can people on Korean War veterans’ stories and strives to make their sacrifices known to the next generation of Americans,” said Col. David J. Clark, committee executive director. “Their fight for the freedom and prosperity we enjoy today must be, and will be, remembered forever.”

The Korean War was the first test of the Unit-

ed Nations’ resolve to stand against tyranny. Twenty-one nations banded together with the United States and the Republic of Korea in a remark-able display of soli-darity to turn back North Korea’s naked aggression and stem the tide of commu-nism on the Korean Peninsula.

The Armistice, signed July 27, 1953, remains in effect today and highlights the need to remain vigilant against the forces of tyranny and oppression in Korea and around the globe.

Korean War veterans fought to halt the tide of communism that threatened to sweep over the Korean peninsula. Today, the Republic of Korea stands as a modern, prosperous, vibrant democracy because of their courage and selfless sacrifice.

Korean War veterans, family members and friends interested in attending the event may RSVP online at http://koreanwar.defense.gov/july27rsvp.html.

DoD to mark anniversary of the Korean War Armistice

News To Use


News

By Office of Fort Meade Staff Judge Advocate

Soldiers face a new drug threat in the form of Salvia Divinorum and “Spice,” two substances that have been on the rise as marijuana substitutes.

Recent changes in federal law make it illegal to possess most forms of Spice. Similarly, all marijuana substitutes are illegal in the Army and may subject the Soldier to court-martial, nonjudicial punishment (Article 15) or separation.

Salvia Divinorum is a naturally occurring hallucinogenic plant com-pound from the mint family. Spice is a synthetic cannabinoid made up of many different compounds. Both have been misused by Soldiers for their mind-altering or drug-like effects.

Salvia Divinorum is available com-mercially in both leaf and extract form. Ingestion may cause intense and dan-gerous LSD-like psychedelic experi-ences, which may include hallucinations, uncontrolled emotional outbursts, inco-herent speech, changes in perception, and dizziness. In high doses it can cause unconsciousness and short-term memory loss.

Salvia Divinorum is also referred to as Magic Mint, Diviner’s Sage, Sage Goddess, Emerald Essence, “la pastora (the sherperdess),” and, in context, sim-ply as “Dalvia.”

Spice is a mixture of herbs and syn-thetic cannabinoid compounds that, prior to March 1, 2011, was legally marketed by commercial sources. Spice could be purchased on the Internet and at local smoke shops. It was often adver-tised as incense or an “herbal smoking blend.”

Users commonly smoke Spice to pro-duce a feeling of euphoria similar to that caused by marijuana. It is 10 times stronger than an equivalent amount of marijuana.

Spice can cause decreased motor

function, loss of concentration and impairment of short-term memory.

Spice was marketed under the brand names of Spice Silver, Gold, Diamond, Tropical Synergy, Yucatan Gold, Dream, Blue Lotus, Bombay Blue, Gold Seal and Magic Silver.

Prior to March 1, 2011, synthet-ic cannabinoids such as Spice were legal for civilians to possess and use. However, on March 1, 2011, the Drug Enforcement Agency placed five forms of synthetic cannabinoids used in Spice into Schedule I of the Controlled Sub-stances Act.

This action by the DEA makes pos-sessing and selling Spice illegal. Under federal law, punishment for possession of Spice containing these chemicals will be similar to punishment for possession of marijuana.

More importantly, on Feb. 10, 2011, Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh issued an Armywide policy prohibiting the use and possession of any synthetic cannabinoid or other marijuana sub-stitute. This includes Salvia Divinorum and Spice.

The policy is punitive. Soldiers that violate the policy are subject to pros-ecution under Article 92, United States Code of Military Justice, for failure to obey a lawful general order. The maxi-mum punishment at a court-martial for possession or use of either substance is confinement for two years, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and a dishonor-able discharge.

Don’t be tempted to experiment with these substances or fooled by the ease by which they can be obtained. Being caught in possession of either Salvia Divinorum or Spice can destroy your career.

Soldiers caught in possession of either substance will be punished severely and will most likely lose rank or be sepa-rated from the Army.

Army prohibits use of marijuana substitutes

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News

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

Before you pack your bags for a perma-nent change of station or vacation overseas with your family and beloved pet, be sure to research the requirements for pet travel in your host country.

Fort Meade’s Veterinary Treatment Facility suggests that prospective travel-ers visit the animal welfare section of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website (www.aphis.usda.gov/regulations/vs/iregus/animals) to find out what documentation, if any, is necessary for traveling with a pet.

“The requirements are specific to each country,” said Katie Singer, office manager at the VTF. “If the country does not list specific requirements, be sure to contact the country’s embassy or consulate.”

Pets traveling abroad are required to have a health certificate. Fort Meade’s veterinary clinic usually provides this documentation, but the facility will be closed for renovations the last two weeks of July and will reopen sometime in August.

During that period, pet owners who need health certificates should visit a veterinarian at another military installation or contact a local civilian veterinarian.

Pets traveling abroad require health certificates

Brian, a German shepherd, and Nikko, a golden retriever, play a game of ball at Fort Meade’s Family Pet Care Center. For those considering traveling overseas with pets, the Fort Meade Veterinary Treatment Facility recommends researching the travel requirements for pets in the host country before embarking on your trip.

Agency], 32.”The group searched for Bo until around 2

a.m. and resumed the search later that morn-ing. Both the Fort Meade Police and NSA Police assisted in the dog hunt and sent bul-letins to other off-post departments to help

track Bo down. “I don’t think most of us expected to see

him back,” Hurlburt said. “It wasn’t fun.”As Hogan headed to Annapolis on Route

295, she noticed vehicles in front of her slow-ing down, then saw Bo walking around the

shoulder of the highway just south of Route 32.

An owner of four large dogs, Hogan said she would have been “mortified and sleepless” if any of her dogs were on the loose. With dog leashes in the back of her car, Hogan stopped to help the lost animal.

She pulled over and approached Beau with a leash, hoping the dog wouldn’t jump the Jersey barrier and run out of reach.

“When dogs are stressed, you don’t know how they’re going to react,” said Hogan, an auto-damage appraiser.

But the friendly dog didn’t have a problem with the leash and jumped into Hogan’s car. Since Bo was wearing a collar, Hogan knew the dog belonged to someone and began searching for an animal shelter.

While driving down Route 32, Hogan spot-ted a Maryland state trooper on the side of the road and stopped to ask for help.

With the bulletins out for Bo, the trooper thought he may be the Fort Meade firedog and called the NSA Police, who then called the fire department to pick up the dog.

“Everyone was really happy to have him back,” Hogan said.

After a quick visit to the Fort Meade Veteri-nary Office to be checked out, Bo returned to duty healthy, tired and hungry, Hurlburt said.

Hurlburt, who spends the most time with Bo, said it was exciting to have Bo back home.

“It was a good feeling,” he said.

file photo

Fort Meade firedog Bo sits during last year’s 9/11 remembrance ceremony. The 18-month-old German shepherd/Labrador was spooked by the post’s Fourth of July fireworks display and ran away, but was rescued the following morning by a motorist on Route 295.

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

While driving to work July 5, Carroll Hogan spotted a large German shepherd/Labrador mix roaming the shoulder of Route 295.

The Sykesville resident stopped her vehicle and helped the lost dog into the car.

Roughly an hour later, Bo the Fort Meade firedog returned to his home at the firehouse after more than 12 hours on the run.

Spooked by the installation’s Fourth of July fireworks show, Bo took off and was missing until the following afternoon when Hogan dropped him off with a Maryland state trooper.

“It was a great ending,” Hogan said.Prior to the fireworks on McGlachlin

Parade Field, firefighters had locked Bo in the firehouse because the 18-month old pooch is easily frightened by loud noises such as thunder.

During the fireworks, which began just after 9:30 p.m., a firefighter walked back into the firehouse for a drink. But when he exited, Bo bolted out the door and down Mapes Road toward the Route 32 gate.

Firefighers chased the dog toward the Defense Information School with no success.

“He was last seen booking it down the fence line,” recalled firefighter Stu Hurlburt. “When we realized he wasn’t anywhere close, I got in one of the chief’s vehicles and in hot pursuit headed down Mapes. And we just started checking everywhere — [National Security

Fort Meade’s wandering firedog found by motorist

photos courtesy family pet care center


Community news & notes

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

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

Bagger-licensing hoursBagger-licensing renewals for the

Fort Meade Commissary will be issued Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office at 4409 Llewellyn Ave.

Those who come to the office outside of this block of time will be able to leave their information. Badges will be issued as time permits.

NoticeAnyone with debts owed to or by the

estate of Sgt. Marc G. Williams, Fort Meade, Alpha Company, WTB, must contact 1st Lt. Anthony Cosentino, the summary court officer for the Soldier.

Williams passed away on June 21.To contact Cosentino, call 202-641-

2298.

Kimbrough change of command

Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center will be closed today until 1 p.m. for the change of command ceremony of Col. Leon E. Moores at 9 a.m. at McGlachlin Parade Field.

Moores is relinquishing command of the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity, Fort Meade, and Kimbrough to Col. Danny B.N. Jaghab.

308th MI change of command

Lt. Col. James M. Myers will relinquish command of the 308th Military Intelligence Battalion to Lt. Col. Karl D. Neal in a change of command ceremony on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at McGill Training Center.

Islamic prayer roomWith the Muslim holy month of

Ramadan beginning July 20, the Islamic

prayer room at Argonne Hill Chapel Center on Rockenbach Road will be open Mondays to Fridays for Dhuhr prayers.

Prayers begin at 1:15 p.m.For more information, call Chad

Jones at 301-677-1301.

Movies on the LawnMovies on the Lawn 2012 will feature

“Kung Fu Panda 2” tonight at 8:30 at Burba Lake, Pavilion 1.

Refreshments will be served at 7:30 p.m.

The event is free for active-duty service members and their dependents.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and flashlight. Glass containers and alcohol are prohibited.

For a complete schedule and more information, visit www.usometro.org/moviesonthelawn.

ACS birthdayCelebrate the Army Community Service

birthday on July 25 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Lanes.

Free bowling and shoes will be offered to the first 250 people. Prizes and giveaways will be awarded.

The event also will feature birthday cake and information about ACS programs.

For more information, call 301-677-5590.

Summer Concert SeriesThe U.S. Army Field Band will

present its annual Summer Concert Series every Saturday in August at 7 p.m. at Constitution Park.

Admission is free; no tickets required.• Aug. 4: The Concert Band and

Soldiers’ Chorus featuring symphonic and choral selections. The 65-member instrumental ensemble is joined by the 29-member Soldiers’ Chorus to perform Broadway show tunes, opera, Americana and classical works.

• Aug. 11: Jazz Ambassadors, America’s Big Band, will perform a mix of big band swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz, standards, Dixieland and patriotic selections.

• Aug. 18: The Volunteers, Army’s premier touring pop/rock band, will perform a blend of popular American music, including rock ‘n’ roll, pop and country.

• Aug. 25, combined concert featuring all four performing components

In the event of inclement weather, the first three concerts will be canceled and

not rescheduled. The final concert will be performed at McGill Training Center and will feature a variety of selections from The Volunteers.

For more information or up-to-date inclement weather information, visit ArmyFieldBand.com.

VTF productsThe Fort Meade Veterinary Treatment

Facility at 2018 Annapolis Road is under-going renovations through August.

From Monday through July 27, VTF will only sell pet products through its side entrance while the front entrance and clinic are under construction.

VTF will resume seeing patients on July 30.

For medical emergencies, see your nearest civilian veterinarian. The closest military vet clinics are:

• Andrews Air Force Base VT, at 240-857-2651

• Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall VTF, Va., at 703-696-3604

• Fort Belvoir VTF, Va., at 703-805-4336


EFMP presentationThe Exceptional Family Member

Program will present the program “Tricare, Other Benefits, and Autism Safety” on Aug. 8 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Army Community Service, 830 Chisholm Ave.

Lt. Col Scott Campbell’s presentation will feature a discussion on autism, dollar limits for ABA therapy under Tricare ECHO, an autism ABA demonstration, safety precautions and community involvement.

Registration is required. The event is open to service members and civilians.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 301-677-7836.

Dance partiesClub Meade is offering several dance

events.Special menus will be available. There is

no cover charge.• Latin Club Night, Friday, 8 p.m. to 2

a.m.• Chicago Steppin’, July 20, 7 p.m. to

midnight.Free dance lessons will be offered from 7

to 8 p.m.• Country - Top 40 Night, July 27, 9 p.m.

to 2 a.m.For more information, call 301-677-6969.

Parenting workshopThe Scream Free Parenting workshop,

“Five Truths Every Parent Needs to Know,” will be held Aug. 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 22 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Meuse Forest Neighborhood Center.

Join Hal Runkel, author of “Scream Free Parenting,” to learn about his scream-free approach to parenting and principles to help you stay calm and connected with your children.

Free child care is provided for children registered with Child, Youth and School Services.

Advance registration is required at 301-677-3617 or by email to [email protected].

Joint Financial Readiness Classes

Joint Financial Readiness Classes are being offered at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

Classes are open to active-duty and retired service members, Reservists and members of the National Guard (on duty), family members with identification cards and DoD civilians.

• Consumer Awareness: Today, 1 to 3 p.m.

• Investing 101: Tuesday, 9 to 11 a.m.• Developing Your Spending Plan:

July 19, 1 to 3 p.m.• First Term Financial Readiness: July

24, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.For more information, call ACS at

301-677-5590 or the Navy Fleet and Family Support Center at 301-677-9014.

Career, financial classesThe Fleet and Family Support Center

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

Registration is required for each class.• Common Sense Parenting: Friday,

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.• Federal Employment: Tuesday, 9

a.m. to noon. Learn the basics of the federal employment system.

• Investing: Tuesday, 9 to 11 a.m. Learn the basics of investing and take the mystery out of how investments can fit into achieving your financial goals.

• Spending Plan, July 21, 1 to 3 p.m.• Career Exploration, July 24, 9 a.m.

to noon: Using various assessment

NEWS & EVENTS

EDUCATION


Community news & notes

tools and techniques, learn about your personality preferences, values and interests and how to use them for achieving personal and professional success.

• Get Ready! Employment Orientation: July 26, 9 a.m. to noon: Learn about job readiness resources available through Fort Meade’s Employment Readiness Programs and Anne Arundel Workforce Development’s Kick Start Program, including websites, classes, job listings, employment support groups and a tour of the resource center.

For more information, call 301-677-9017 or 301-677-9018.

MFTB coursesArmy Community Service and Army

Family Team Building are offering Family Team Building classes at Potomac Place and Meuse Forest neighborhood centers.

• “Grow Skills for Military Life,” Level 2, on Aug. 9 and 10, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• Instructors Course, MFTB instructor training, Sept. 9 and 10, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Bring a brown bag lunch.Registration is required. Limited child

care is available.To register or for more information, call

301-677-5590 or email [email protected] or [email protected].

PWOC Bible studyProtestant Women of the Chapel will

host summer Bible study on Wednesdays until July 25 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

Child care will be provided. The prayer and fellowship program’s

fall kickoff is scheduled for Aug. 29 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

For more information, visit Facebook at PWOC Fort Meade, or email [email protected] or call Kori Yates at 301-262-0756.

StorytimeThe Medal of Honor Memorial

Library offers pre-kindergarten Storytime on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10 a.m. and 10:30 to 11 a.m.

• Today: “Zoom! Zoom! Zoom!” stories about things that “go”

• July 19: “ Don’t be a Square,” about shapes

• July 26: “Beach Party,” about the beach and ocean


EFMP playgroupThe Exceptional Family Member

Program is offering “Little Hands” playgroup for enrolled families with children ages 5 and younger on July 19 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Registration is limited to the first 15 people.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 301-677-4779.

Drama CampSummer SKIES is offering PROPS

Drama Camp for grades one to 12 from July 23-28 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Cost is $40 and includes breakfast, snack and a T-shirt.

Performances will be July 28 at 3 and 5:30 p.m. at McGill Training Center. Admission is free and open to the public.


Sky Vacation Bible SchoolSky Vacation Bible School will be

held Aug. 6 to 10 from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

The free program is for children ages 4 years old through fifth grade.

VBS features games, crafts, music and adventures. Snacks and lunch are included.

Registration is limited to the first 200 children and will close July 23. Registration tables will be set up until July 23 at the Chapel Center and the Main Post Chapel.

Volunteers are needed to sign up immediately.

For more information, call 301-677-0386 or 301-677-6038.

Summer reading programChildren of all ages are invited to the

Medal of Honor Memorial Library to register for this year’s “Reading Is So Delicious” summer reading program that ends Aug. 25.

Participants will receive a reading log and a goodie bag.

Summer reading program events will be held at Burba Cottage.

• Tuesday, 10 a.m.: “Books, The Magic is Real,” featuring magician Joe Romano

• Aug. 7, 10 a.m.: Mad Science of Central Maryland


Out & About• The annual Caribbean Carnival

Festival will be held Saturday and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. at Lake Clifton Park, Baltimore. Admission is $10 on Saturday and $15 on Sunday. Celebrate Caribbean heritage with island cuisine including curried goat and jerk chicken; arts and crafts; international entertainment; and live reggae and steel drum bands. For more information, call 410-362-2957 or visit dccaribbeancarnival.org/.

• “BSO: Star Wars and Beyond”: The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will perform the “Star Wars” score to fireworks and selections from other movie blockbusters such as “Batman” and “Pirates of the Caribbean” on Saturday at 8 p.m. at Oregon Ridge Park, 13401 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville. Tickets cost $9 to $18. For more information, visit bsomusic.org or call the ticket office at 410-783-8000.

• Leisure Travel Services is offering monthly Saturday bus trips to New York City on July 21 and Aug. 18, with discounts to attractions. Bus cost is $55. For more information, call 301-677-7354 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

• The Blue Star Museums program is offering free admission for all active-duty, National Guard and Reserve service members and their dependents through Labor Day. More than 1,800 museums are registered. For more information, visit bluestarfam.org/Programs/Blue_Star_Museums or dodlive.mil/index.php/2012/06/blue-star-museums-all-summer-long.

• Fort Meade E9 Association meets the second Friday of every month at 7 a.m. in the Pin Deck Cafe at the Lanes. The next meeting is Friday. The association is open to active, retired, Reserve and National Guard E9s of any uniformed service. All E9s in this area are invited to attend a breakfast and meet the membership. For more information, visit e9association.org or call 410-551-7953.

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

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

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

• Patient/Family Advisory Council meets

the third Tuesday of each month at 3 p.m. at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center. The next meeting will be Tuesday in Kimbrough’s main conference room on the third floor, room 3C03.

For more information or to become a council member, call Becky Mays Jenkins, coordinator of Patient and Family Centered Care, at 301-677-8261.

• Fort Meade TOP III Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m. at the Courses. The next meeting is Wednesday. The association is open to all Air Force active-duty and retired senior noncommissioned officers. For more information, call Master Sgt. Jonathan Jacob at 443-479-0616 or email [email protected].

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

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

• Meade Branch 212 of the Fleet Reserve Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at VFW Post 160 on Route 170 in Glen Burnie. The next meeting is Wednesday. Active-duty, Reserve and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are invited. For more information, call 410-761-7046 or 301-262-6556.

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

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

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

• Retired Enlisted Association meets the third Thursday of the month from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. The next meeting is July 19. For more information, visit trea.org or call Mary Gray, the local president, at 410-916-5385 or Arthur R. Cooper, national president, at 443-336-1230.

YOUTH

RECREATION

MEETINGS

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! July 12, 2012

Cover Story

for Performing Arts, Corrine joined other teens in a dance circle as younger children danced in the middle. They later formed an impromptu conga line to Arrow’s “Hot, Hot, Hot.”

“The band is really good,” said Corrine, daughter of retired Lt. Col. Lee Mitchell. “They interact with the crowd, the kids.”

Ureka Nogales danced with her husband, Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Robert Nogales of Navy Information Operations Command Maryland, while their sons Robert, 9, and Royce, 6, chomped on pink cotton candy.

“The band keeps an energy and takes requests,” said Nogales, a ballroom dance instructor for Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Severna Park. “They’re mixing it up and that’s good.”

Once darkness fell over Fort Meade, all heads tilted upward as explosions of color and patterns lit the sky.

“Phenomenal,” said Ben Smith, who works in IT security for the Federal Drug Administration, after the show. “I really enjoyed them.”

This was the first time that the Jessup resi-dent and his girlfriend, Jen Davis, attended Fort Meade’s Fourth of July celebration.

“It seemed the military would be more special than the others,” Davis said. “I really appreciated it.”

every hour.Radio station Mix 106.5 broadcasted live

from noon to 6 p.m. near the gazebo while its crew hosted contests with prizes.

Dunkin’ Donuts offered free samples of iced coffee and Oreo Coolatas. Old Navy distributed flip-flops.

Living Wellness Chiropractic in Columbia provided free massages by Dr. Harry Derr. “This is part of our community outreach, and we are also offering the opportunity for a free chiropractic checkup,” Derr said. “This is our way of giving back.”

People lined up to purchase food and bev-erages from vendors clustered along Cooper Avenue. Amid the competing aromas of bar-becue, kettle popcorn, chicken teriyaki and cotton candy, vendors also sold Italian ices, shaved ice, frozen drinks, gourmet coffee, fresh fruit cups, hot dogs and corn dogs.

Kiosks featured yo-yo balloons and tarot card and palm reader Rita Ritsick of Oden-ton, who has been dispensing fortunes at the event for 15 years.

Children had their face painted and hair sprayed in multicolors. They cooled off in misting tents, tested their skill at carnival games and on the five inflatables with dif-ferent themes including an obstacle course, bounce castle and basketball challenge.

“I like the slides; they’re super fun,” said 5-year-old Sam Boggs, of Glen Burnie, who attended with his parents, Steve and Sharon Boggs.

At the inflatable football tug-of-war, two people of the same size were paired up and tethered to a rope, then pulled against each other to throw a football across the goal line.

“Being close to 50, I found it quite diffi-cult going against a 17-year-old [my victori-ous son],” said Eric York, who works at the National Security Agency.

This was the first time that the Severn resi-dent, his wife and four children attended the daylong festival. “It’s really nice,” York said. “We’re looking forward to the fireworks. We brought tools to camp out.”

Dance fever set in when the New Monop-oly band took the stage at 5:30 p.m., per-forming four hours of pop favorites ranging from Motown and The Monkeys to the Bee Gees and Cee Lo Green.

“The music is all different genres and eras,” said Corrine Mitchell of Randall-stown, who danced with her 5-year-old niece Aliyah.

A student dancer at the Baltimore School

PHOTOS BY AnTHOnY CASTellAnO

Craig Sanders of Pasadena is encouraged by his mom Amy Sanders and grandmother Sherry Miller as the tethered 5-year-old tries to throw a football across the goal line at the inflatable football tug-of-war, one of five inflatables at the daylong event.

The 30-minute fireworks display on McGlachlin Parade Field wowed residents and visitors, many of whom arrived hours earlier with lawn chairs, canopy tents and coolers, to celebrate the Fourth of July.

By Rona S. HirschStaff Writer

Soaring temperatures did not deter this crowd.

Throughout Fort Meade’s Fourth of July celebration, thousands of visitors streamed through the gate with picnic coolers, lawn chairs and extended families.

Many arrived early, staking out prime viewing sites on McGlachlin Parade Field for the elaborate fireworks display that start-ed after 9:30 p.m.

“We’re here since 12:30,” said Maryanne Ferguson, a Pasadena teacher who attended with nine family members. “We wanted a good spot.”

Ferguson chatted with her aunt, Betty Urban of Gambrills, beside the canopy that shaded Urban’s 10-year-old granddaughter, Hannah Johns, and coolers containing lunch and dinner.

“I’ve been coming for at least 18 years, since my son Michael was born and we lived in Seven Oaks,” Ferguson said. “The activi-ties are free, the food is reasonably priced and the fireworks, of course, are the best.”

Throughout the day, an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people attended the annual event organized by the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. The festi-val featured children’s attractions, carnival

games, a radio DJ and band, novelty and food vendors, giveaways and a 30-minute fireworks display.

“It’s awesome,” Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein said of the festivi-ties. “It’s a great opportunity to bring togeth-er family, friends and the entire Team Meade community - those inside and outside the fence line - together on post. I’m very proud of Team Meade and our staff in putting this together and the entire community sharing in the patriotism on the Fourth of July.”

Residents and visitors relaxed on lawn chairs and blankets, some sipping tall tropi-cal fruit drinks, while children took a spin on the Mind Bender and mini-Ferris wheel, and teens danced to reggae music and Michael Jackson.

“It gets better every year,” said Sgt. Can-dice Westbrook of Potomac Place, who has attended for nine years.

A noncommissioned officer in charge of organ transplants at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Westbrook was joined by her three children: Chante, 19, Joseph, 17, and Nathan, 2, and their cousin Rhonda Battle of Pittsburgh.

“It’s crazy,” Chante said of all the free activities offered.

The Fort Meade Museum, which opened during the day, fired a Civil War-era cannon

Independence Day celebrated with fireworks, music, attractions

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 12, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

PHOTOS BY AnTHOnY CASTellAnO

Jesse Diaz, 5, of Fort Meade beats the heat at a misting tent, a popular attraction that provided relief to soaring temperatures.BELOW LEFT: Dance instructor Ureka Nogales and her husband, Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Robert Nogales of Navy Information Operations Command Maryland, dance to the music of the New Monopoly band, which performed for four hours until the fireworks.BELOW RIGHT: Melissa Novak, 5, of Baltimore, and her dad, Maryland National Guard Sgt. Gerald Novak, ride the Mind Bender at McGlachlin Parade Field. Children also took a turn on a spinning ride and mini-Ferris wheel.

‘I’m very proud of Team Meade and our staff in putting this together and the entire community sharing in the patriotism on the Fourth of July.’

Garrison Commander Col. edward C. Rothstein


SportS

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

A month ago, Ann Quinlan’s search for an alternative form of traditional yoga led her to Argonne Hills Chapel Center, where yoga-like exercises are combined with reli-gious Scripture for a new fitness program.

“This was the perfect fit for me,” said Quinlan, who resides in Columbia.

Wholyfit classes, taught by volunteer instructor Kay Snow, meets Tuesdays and Fridays for an hourlong class beginning at 6 a.m.

Combining physical fitness, Scrip-ture memorization, worship and prayer, Wholyfit offers a Christian alternative to traditional yoga.

According to the national organization’s website, Wholyfit promotes a healthy life-style, increased energy, strength, flexibility and stress management.

“We work on strength, flexibility, stami-na, balance — all that you would work on in other types of fitness programs — and we focus on that through also using the word of God,” Snow said.

Although Wholyfit is considered an alternative to yoga, the movements and postures are very similar to those asso-ciations with the traditional exercise pro-gram.

Snow said that movements in yoga are not exclusive to that form of exercise. Wholyfit takes the movements and inte-grates them with Biblical meanings.

While performing movements and pos-tures, Snow recites Scriptures related to the names given to the exercises. Read-ings include selections from the Book of Psalms, the Gospels and devotionals.

“I like to use Scriptures [so] that when they do this posture they aren’t only focus-ing on challenging their body and building their body, but they’re also focusing on God’s word,” Snow said.

The integration of the exercise and faith is a main draw for many of the participants such as Quinlan, who joins the group before starting her workday at Defense Media Activity.

“It’s a good way to start my day,” she said. “It’s good stretching, but I also feel very relaxed.”

But Snow said the courses also can be challenging. Classes are taught in five sections: warming, balance, strength and stamina, flexibility and restoration. The tempo changes throughout the sections,

Exercising religiouslyWholyfit fitness program provides faith-based alternative to yoga

with the fastest movements during the warm-up.

“We move through postures very quick-ly, just basically moving through them almost like Tai Chi,” Snow said.

The slowest portion of the program is focused on balance. Typically, Snow said, the class will consist of one balance posture.

“That section moves slowly because you hold the postures for probably five- to 10 breath cycles,” Snow said.

Participants then move seamlessly into the various sections focusing on different aspects of fitness. Each class ends with a restoration and meditation period during which Snow reads more Scripture.

“It is a great way to not only build and strengthen your body, but build and strengthen your faith,” she said.

photos by jen rynda

Ann Quinlan from the Defense Media Agency postures in Wholyfit, a Christian alternative to yoga, on Tuesday morning at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. Through a series of movements and postures, the program helps participants improve strength, flexibility, stamina and balance. BELOW: Wholyfit instructor Kay Snow demonstrates a fitness exercise during Tuesday’s class at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. The nationwide fitness program combines physical fitness, Scripture memorization, worship and prayer.


SportS

By Mike Milord and Doug SampleArmy Cyber Public Affairs

An Army Cyber Command cyclist from Fort Meade completed the Race Across America, or RAAM, on June 23 while raising money and awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project.

On June 16, two teams supported by Team 4Mil, a wounded veterans team and a U.S. service-member team, raced their bikes from Oceanside, Calif., to Annapolis in the 2012 Race Across America. The annual transcontinental bicycle race from the West Coast to East Coast is a feat of endurance.

Part of the veteran team, Lt. Col. Mike Matney, a liaison officer with the G-30 staff, pedaled to a successful RAAM finish on a Saturday evening, after seven days, two hours and 50 minutes.

Team Wounded Warrior Project arrived in Annapolis to a cheering crowd of family, friends and fellow 4Mil team members who followed their progress across the country.

Crossing the finish line represented the culmination of several years of training and preparation.

For Matney, it began when he started riding mountain bikes in Germany as a second lieutenant in the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment near Fulda.

“I gradually started riding road and triathlon bikes when I was a commander at Camp Roberts, California and started my life as a triathlete,” he said.

Team 4Mil has been around for three years. Matney was invited to be part of the inaugural team through the coach of the U.S. Naval Academy’s cycling team.

“I could not participate in the first year because of other commitments,” he said. “The second year I was accepted as an alternate rider for the competitive team. And in the third year I was nomi-nated and accepted as the rider captain of the inaugural Wounded Warrior Proj-ect’s team that was presented to the Race Across America by Team 4Mil.”

To prepare for this type of cross-country ride, Matney said there is an initial adjustment period when the body has to adapt to the position.

“Normally, it takes about a week of daily riding,” he said. “For most new cyclists, this is the worst part and often leads to not wanting to ride, similar to being introduced into weight training or horseback riding.”

Matney recommends a professional bike fit.

Cyber Soldier shows prowess in endurance events

photo courtesy of 4Mil

Lt. Col. Mike Matney, a liaison officer with the G-30 staff at Army Cyber Command, trains on Fort Meade. Matney recently completed the 2012 Race Across America, an annual transcontinental bicycle race from the West Coast to East Coast.

“I have discovered the perfect saddle for me through many miles of riding,” he said. “When putting in this many miles, comfort is paramount to reduce inju-ry, increase efficiency and, ultimately, increase speed.”

During the ride there is a mental aspect along with the physical, Matney said.

“I think about a lot of things - I have

conscious thoughts and subconscious thoughts that move in an out of each domain, all based on the conditions I’m in,” he said. “Foremost is staying focused on the road and the conditions I’m riding in. But I might take a climb or bomb a descent and think, ‘Man, that was hillacious,’ while keeping the rubber side down and positioning my body to control the bike.”

As a rider, experience counts.“Eventually we learn to ‘read’ the road,

foresee and then execute our actions,” Matney said. “We are constantly mak-ing decisions, gearing, timing, cadence, effort, traffic conditions, debris. It isn’t as challenging as mountain biking, but we won’t top out over 50 mph on a mountain bike either.

“When things get tough, I think about what is going well. Yes it is hot, but I am hydrating and sweating. It is raining, but I have good traction and visibility. The oxygen is thin; I have a headache, but this is awesome crossing over the continental divide.

“Bottom line is, I am an endurance athlete. That means I like to hurt and I like to hurt for a long time. I also had an external motivator. During this race, my anniversary was June 24, so I had to be home by the 23rd.”

When it came to finally crossing the finish line, Matney said he felt euphor-ic.

“This is a true life experience, and I learned more about myself than any other race I have ever done, including the Ironman,” he said. “This race chal-lenged me along many lines of resilience - physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social.”

Riding as part of the Wounded War-riors creates a special bond among the team, said Matney.

“I will consider these men as lifelong friends; if they ever need anything I will be there,” he said. “They are a special group. I was honored to be on their team and humbled to be the rider captain. All of them overcame their injuries and kept pressing forward to take on this challenge.”

The support of the American people along the way was especially rewarding, said Matney.

“In Oceanside, near Camp Pendleton, California, we were tackled by waves of people who were interested in our team and mission,” he said. “At the inter-team exchanges, we had many people come up and take photos and hear more about what we were doing. ...

“When we came into Mount Airy in Maryland, some friends of mine made a sign that had each of the racers’ names listed on it, and in Odenton some other friends of mine waved us in.

“In Annapolis the real crowds came out. We had a few hundred spectators cheer for the team and congratulations for us making it to the finish.”


SportS

It’s 9:15 Wednesday morning.I’m picking up my in-laws from the airport

in about six hours and chugging day-old coffee like a disgruntled police detective who is wak-ing up ornery after a night of chasing clues and downing whiskey from a flask.

Not to mention that all the world of sports has provided me, since Wimbledon, is a blow-out at the All-Star Game, Dwight Howard trade rumors, extra time to contemplate my failings as a fantasy baseball owner, and the ESPY awards.

So how do you think I’m doing?Actually, I’m doing pretty good. I love my

in-laws, and their arrival usually means I can look forward to some good eats from Mom and a weekend of Dad buying everything.

Plus, the Wimbledon finals were outstand-ing, Prince Fielder won the Home Run Derby (the best All-Star Game activity in all of sports), and my fantasy woes are correctable now that I’ve got my pitching staff back in order.

In fact, the only thing I’m worried about is getting this column done before our Command Information Chief Philip Jones starts getting on my back about missing deadline.

I made the mistake of telling Phil I might not have a column this week because of a few other things that were going on. You can check out Wednesday morning’s Facebook posts to figure out what it was.

His response: I can write something for you.

Now you might be surprised how often I hear that, like coming up with a column is as easy as pulling a rabbit out of a hat or mak-ing fun of the ESPYs. My former boss would threaten to “take my column for a week” so the masses could have something good to read once in a while.

However, it’s not just superiors or editors who express their desire to write Jibber for a day. During last week’s Fourth of July fes-tivities, at least three people said they’d like to write my column just once so everyone could read what is really going on in sports.

Similar claims have come to me while shop-ping at the local Food Lion when the clerk thought I should write about women’s basket-ball. One person interrupted me while I was dropping my son off at CDC III to tell me I should write more about the Cowboys.

And of course, our friend from the museum, Bob Johnson, seems to have a column idea every other week that he’d be happy to write.

Normally when I’d hear this disrespect to my skills, I’d get offended or laugh it off with a dismissive, “Yeah, right. You might write

something, but it won’t be Jibber.”

But even thick-skinned individuals like myself who live a life without ego can reach a break-ing point where they feel compelled to take a stand.

Well, Phil’s com-ment this morning was that breaking point. I’ve had all the disrespect I can stand, and I can stand no more, so let me break it down Scott Hall-style. (You wrestling fans may also know him as Razor Ramon or from the NWO.) http://bit.ly/Ho6TAF

To all you wanna-be columnists who think you can do what I do: Don’t sing it, bring it. Don’t tell me what you can write, write it. And since I’ve got some vacation time coming up in August, we might even run it in the paper — photo and all.

So, Phil, or that lady at the checkout line, or the dude at the CDC III, or Bob, or any off you Jabronies who have something you need to get off your chest in regard to sports, write it up in between 400 to 700 words and send it in to me.

You can talk about something national like the upcoming NFL season. You can keep it to the Fort Meade sports scene. Or you can even enlighten us with why Tiddlywinks is more of a sport than soccer. It can be serious, or funny.

The key is, if it makes the cut and deemed Jibber worthy, we just may run it in the Aug. 23, Aug. 30 or Sept. 6 editions of Soundoff! We also may post some additional columns on the Fort Meade Live Blog page.

You can send your submissions starting Friday and keep them coming through Sept. 1. All content will be edited for propriety and Associated Press and Fort Meade style guidelines.

So here is your chance to let out your inner Jones or, hopefully, inner Grantland Rice and show the community you are more than just “a lot of talk and a badge,” as Bobby De Niro put it in “The Untouchables.”

If you need any ideas, email me at [email protected].

BTW, it is 10:30 a.m., which means I wrote nearly 800 words in one hour and 15 minutes. That’s why I’m too sweeeeeeet!

If you have any comments on this or anything to do with sports, contact me at [email protected].

Don’t sing it, bring it!

Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs

Officer

Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn Sports ShortsRunning club

Gaffney Fitness Center plans to form a running club that will meet once a week at the facility.

Those interested in joining should contact Angie Wanner at 301-677-3318 or email [email protected].

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

Intramural flag football meetingA coaches meeting will be held July 31 at 1 p.m. at Murphy Field House for

those interested in forming an intramural flag football team for the fall.Each team is asked to send one representative to the meeting. Letter of

intent to play is due by Aug. 10.For more information, call 301-677-3318.

Wholy FitWholy Fit, a devotional exercise program combining physical fitness,

Scripture memorization, worship and prayer is offered Tuesdays and Fridays from 6 to 7 a.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

The program aims to promote healthy lifestyles, increased energy, strength, flexibility and stress management

For more information, call Sgt. 1st Class Buffie Hall at 301-677-7842 or Kay Snow at 703-855-9318, or visit wholyfit.com.

Brazilian Jiu JitsuBrazilian Jiu Jitsu is offered Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8

p.m. at Gaffney Fitness Center.The free course is open to men and women, service members and civilians

with no experience and to those with the highest level of any martial arts.Instructors include Henry, who has a BJJ brown belt, and Deek, who has a

BJJ blue belt.For more information, email [email protected].

EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member Program bowling events are held the third Tuesday

of each month at the Lanes.The next EFMP bowling event will be Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.Events are open to Fort Meade exceptional family members and their family mem-

bers and features free buffet food and giveaways.Exceptional family members ages 18 and younger and their siblings may register for

free games and shoe rental at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/meadecyms.html.Adult exceptional family members may register for free games and shoe rental at

the EFMP office at 301-677-4779. Discounted games and shoe rental will be offered to other adult family members.

For more information, email Anita Hendrix at [email protected] or call 301-677-4779.

Dollar DaysThe Lanes offers Dollar Days every Thursday.Bowlers receive a game of bowling, shoe rental, a hot dog, hamburger,

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

For more Fort Meade sports, visit www.quickscores.com/ftmeadesports.


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. Tickets are $4.50 for adults (12 and older) and $2.25 for children.

Today through Aug. 5

Today: “Battleship” (PG-13). This sci-fi action movie pits a fleet of naval ships against an alien force that’s attacking Earth. Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgard, Liam Neeson, Rihanna, Brooklyn Decker and Tadanobu Asano.

Friday-Sunday & July 19: “Men in Black 3” (PG-13). Agent J (Will Smith) has to go back in time to stop an alien from changing history. With Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Jemaine Clement and Emma Thompson.

Wednesday & July 21, 22: “Snow White and The Huntsman” (PG-13). An evil queen dispatches a huntsman to kill Snow White, but his heart is not in the job. With Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron and Chris Hemsworth.

July 20, 26: “Prometheus” (R). A clue that seems to hold a secret about the origins of the human race triggers a journey into space — and a challenge to save Earth. With Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender and Charlize Theron.

July 25, 27, 28, 29: “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted” (PG). The gang joins a traveling circus in an effort to elude those trying to catch them, and get back to New York. With Ben Stiller, Chris Rock and David Schwimmer.

Aug. 1, 4, 5: “Rock of Ages” (PG-13). In 1980s Los Angeles, people chase their rock and dreams and overcome obstacles in this musical drama. With Alec Baldwin, Tom Cruise, Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Malin Akerman, Mary J. Blige.

Aug. 2-3: “That’s My Boy” (R). A young man’s estranged father (Adam Sandler) tries to recon-nect with him. With Andy Samberg, Leighton Meester, Vanilla Ice, James Caan.

Fort Meade SoundOff for July 12, 2012

News & Politics

Transcript of Fort Meade SoundOff for July 12, 2012