Get to the PointGet to the Point 11

Atlantic RegionAtlantic RegionPerry Point,Perry Point,

MarylandMaryland

Volume XVII Issue 1Volume XVII Issue 1February  2011February  2011

Get to the Point: The NCCC NewsGet to the Point: The NCCC News

Get to the PointGet to the Point 22

Inside this Issue:Inside this Issue:Meet the Staff Meet the Staff  33

An Idea of What to Expect by LaQuine RobersonAn Idea of What to Expect by LaQuine Roberson 66

Health Reminder by Laura Tuck Health Reminder by Laura Tuck  77

Resource Manager’s MessageResource Manager’s Message 77

From the Desk of the From the Desk of the Member Support SpecialistMember Support Specialist 77

What is NCCC? The What is NCCC? The Member StatementMember Statement 88

Getting Things Done– Learn the Getting Things Done– Learn the AmeriCorps PledgeAmeriCorps Pledge 88

Alumni SpotlightStarbuck BallnerAlumni SpotlightStarbuck Ballner 99

Unit Chants– Unit Chants– BuffaloMooseBuffaloMooseRavenRaven 1111

Trainer’s Two Cents by Carlyn PaytonTrainer’s Two Cents by Carlyn Payton 1111

Rod’s Ruminations by Rod SwainRod’s Ruminations by Rod Swain 1212

In the In the Corner with the HulkPhysical TrainingCorner with the HulkPhysical Training 1212

Green Team OuttakesGreen Team Outtakes 1313

From the Cover, Class 17 Green Team, first row left to right:From the Cover, Class 17 Green Team, first row left to right: Katrina Hill, Bradley Lehman, Julian Cesner,Katrina Hill, Bradley Lehman, Julian Cesner,

Amelia Hansen, Allen Hunt, Hunter Griendling, Megan Riley, Katie Veys, Laura Mack, Marlee Cea, Danielle Arroyo, LiaAmelia Hansen, Allen Hunt, Hunter Griendling, Megan Riley, Katie Veys, Laura Mack, Marlee Cea, Danielle Arroyo, Lia

Daniels, Jamie Inarda, Chris Quirk, Constantino Rago, Heather Waters, John Serbell, Rod Swain, Caleb Kulfan, MelissaDaniels, Jamie Inarda, Chris Quirk, Constantino Rago, Heather Waters, John Serbell, Rod Swain, Caleb Kulfan, Melissa

Jabat, Leeann Sudol, Griff Ryan-Roberts, Ambrosia Barnette, Rachel Duffin, Mat Slavics, Kevin Jones, JJ Beggs,Jabat, Leeann Sudol, Griff Ryan-Roberts, Ambrosia Barnette, Rachel Duffin, Mat Slavics, Kevin Jones, JJ Beggs,

AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) is a full time team –based residential program for AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) is a full time team –based residential program for 

men and women ages 18 to 24. The mission of NCCC is to strengthen communities and develop leaders throughmen and women ages 18 to 24. The mission of NCCC is to strengthen communities and develop leaders through

direct, team-based national & community service. For direct, team-based national & community service. For more information about NCCC visit more information about NCCC visit 

www.americorps.gov/nccc or call 1 800 942 2677 www.americorps.gov/nccc or call 1 800 942 2677 

For more information about this publication, contact Laura For more information about this publication, contact Laura Mack,Mack,

Community Relations Support Team Leader, LMack@cns.gov Community Relations Support Team Leader, LMack@cns.gov 

Get to the PointGet to the Point 33

LaQuine RobersonLaQuine Roberson is the region director and has served more than 17 years with theis the region director and has served more than 17 years with theNCCC. She hails from Summerville, South Carolina and is a retired Army officer.NCCC. She hails from Summerville, South Carolina and is a retired Army officer.She is also an avid reader of thriller and drama novels.  She continues to provide ser-She is also an avid reader of thriller and drama novels.  She continues to provide ser-vice to her community through her sorority and vice to her community through her sorority and other activities.other activities.

Deputy Region Director for OperationsDeputy Region Director for Operations Dave BeachDave Beach, a retired U.S. Army Officer,, a retired U.S. Army Officer,has been with the NCCC for the past 10 years. An avid outdoorsman, Dave spendshas been with the NCCC for the past 10 years. An avid outdoorsman, Dave spendsmuch of his free time hunting and fishing and enjoys a yearly hunting trip to Colo-much of his free time hunting and fishing and enjoys a yearly hunting trip to Colo-rado. He is also rado. He is also willing to take on all challengers in a willing to take on all challengers in a friendly round of golf.friendly round of golf.

The Deputy Director for Programming for the The Deputy Director for Programming for the Atlantic Region isAtlantic Region is Robin NixonRobin Nixon..Robin is originally from New Hampshire, and has Robin is originally from New Hampshire, and has two daughters, including onetwo daughters, including oneNCCC alum (Sacramento Class XV). She has been with NCCC for two and a NCCC alum (Sacramento Class XV). She has been with NCCC for two and a half half years, and looks forward to working with Class XVII years, and looks forward to working with Class XVII to Get Things Done!to Get Things Done!

Thea BectonThea Becton is the Program Associate for the Perry Point Campus. She has served inis the Program Associate for the Perry Point Campus. She has served inthis position since July 2010.  Thea comes to the Atlantic Region after having servedthis position since July 2010.  Thea comes to the Atlantic Region after having servedas the Manager of Disaster Initiatives for the national office of Point of Light Foun-as the Manager of Disaster Initiatives for the national office of Point of Light Foun-dation- a long time partner of the Corporation for National & Community Ser-dation- a long time partner of the Corporation for National & Community Ser-vice.  Thea is a native of Dover, Delaware and currently resides in Bel Air, Marylandvice.  Thea is a native of Dover, Delaware and currently resides in Bel Air, Marylandwith her daughter Ryan.with her daughter Ryan.

After an amazing year as an AmeriCorps member Class VII in Charleston SC,After an amazing year as an AmeriCorps member Class VII in Charleston SC,Moose Unit Leader,Moose Unit Leader, Jason CangelosiJason Cangelosi went back to school to earn a degree in Envi-went back to school to earn a degree in Envi-ronmental Education from a small college in Vermont. Since graduating he has hadronmental Education from a small college in Vermont. Since graduating he has hadthe opportunity to work at several environmental centers as an outdoor educator andthe opportunity to work at several environmental centers as an outdoor educator andteam building facilitator. He has lived in Portland Maine for the past 3 years and isteam building facilitator. He has lived in Portland Maine for the past 3 years and isexcited to return to his home state of Maryland.  In his off time he enjoys being out-excited to return to his home state of Maryland.  In his off time he enjoys being out-doors, hiking, biking, and rock climbing.  He doors, hiking, biking, and rock climbing.  He looks forward to the opportunity to leadlooks forward to the opportunity to leadthe first ever class of the Moose Unit!the first ever class of the Moose Unit!

Meet the Atlantic Region Campus Staff Meet the Atlantic Region Campus Staff 

Continued on pg. 4Continued on pg. 4

Get to the PointGet to the Point 44

Jen HoranJen Horan is in her 4is in her 4thth year as the proud leader of the Raven Unit. However, Class 17 marks her year as the proud leader of the Raven Unit. However, Class 17 marks her 1111thth year working for the Atlantic Region. After serving two years (Corps   Member & Teamyear working for the Atlantic Region. After serving two years (Corps   Member & TeamLeader) in NCCC at the Charleston campus she made the hop to Maryland and has held positionsLeader) in NCCC at the Charleston campus she made the hop to Maryland and has held positionsas a Service as a Service Learning Coordinator and Assistant Projects Director for Training. Jen grew Learning Coordinator and Assistant Projects Director for Training. Jen grew up outsideup outsideof Philadelphia and frequents the city of brotherly love often to watch her beloved Phillies, grab aof Philadelphia and frequents the city of brotherly love often to watch her beloved Phillies, grab acheese steak, climb the Art cheese steak, climb the Art Museum steps like Rocky and occasionally, boo Santa Museum steps like Rocky and occasionally, boo Santa Claus Outside of Claus Outside of work Jen enjoys reading, frequenting cafes and traveling, especially road work Jen enjoys reading, frequenting cafes and traveling, especially road trips!trips!

Probably best known for her love of all things Disney,Probably best known for her love of all things Disney, Amanda McCartyAmanda McCarty is an Assistant Programis an Assistant ProgramDirector at the Atlantic Region campus.   She has more than nine years of Corps experience.  WhenDirector at the Atlantic Region campus.   She has more than nine years of Corps experience.  Whenshe’s not working, however, her favorite place to be is the happiest place on earth…you guessed it…she’s not working, however, her favorite place to be is the happiest place on earth…you guessed it…Disneyworld!Disneyworld!

Community Relations SpecialistCommunity Relations Specialist Sam McKenzieSam McKenzie will fire you up to recruit NCCC members and towill fire you up to recruit NCCC members and toshare your NCCC story with others. He comes to NCCC from share your NCCC story with others. He comes to NCCC from the nonprofit volunteerism worldthe nonprofit volunteerism world. He is. He isoriginally from Maryland but has traveled to seven countries. He maintains a vegan diet and con-originally from Maryland but has traveled to seven countries. He maintains a vegan diet and con-sumes other unusual foods/drinks.  He loves all things Google.sumes other unusual foods/drinks.  He loves all things Google.

Carlyn PaytonCarlyn Payton, a native Washingtonian, is the Assistant Program Director for Training.  She, a native Washingtonian, is the Assistant Program Director for Training.  Sheis an alumnae of AmeriCorps NCCC serving during Class 11 and 12 is an alumnae of AmeriCorps NCCC serving during Class 11 and 12 in Denver, CO.  She in Denver, CO.  She has ahas amasters degree in Organizational Communalizations, minor in Human masters degree in Organizational Communalizations, minor in Human Resources DevelopmentResources Developmentand her Bachelors degree in Psychology.  Her long term goal is to design a swimming pool thatand her Bachelors degree in Psychology.  Her long term goal is to design a swimming pool thatcould thrive on being filled with apple cider vinegar instead of could thrive on being filled with apple cider vinegar instead of water.water.

Member Support SpecialistMember Support Specialist Vivian NewstateVivian Newstate is a native of is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio whose interests include theCincinnati, Ohio whose interests include theperforming arts, “courageous conversations,” and daring to dream.  Besides her current role, withinperforming arts, “courageous conversations,” and daring to dream.  Besides her current role, withinNCCC she has held the positions of Field Team Leader and Support Team Leader.NCCC she has held the positions of Field Team Leader and Support Team Leader.

Trey PettigenTrey Pettigen: Logistics Manager “Have you ever : Logistics Manager “Have you ever dreamed of fighting for your country in a dreamed of fighting for your country in a time of time of need?” Trey Pettigen fulfilled that dream. On need?” Trey Pettigen fulfilled that dream. On December 30, 2007, he deployed to December 30, 2007, he deployed to Afghanistan, whereAfghanistan, wherehe left all his friends and family behind to serve his country. Trey was born on October 4, 1985, in Bal-he left all his friends and family behind to serve his country. Trey was born on October 4, 1985, in Bal-timore, Maryland, but he grew up in Aberdeen. Trey is married and has two children.timore, Maryland, but he grew up in Aberdeen. Trey is married and has two children.

Glen Stubbolo,Glen Stubbolo, is an Assistant Program Director with several years is an Assistant Program Director with several years of AmeriCorps and NCCCof AmeriCorps and NCCCprogram experience.program experience. He is well known for He is well known for his inspiration and positive outlook. He describes himself his inspiration and positive outlook. He describes himself as a service person and believes in civil service. He has 6 children and was recently the Chief of as a service person and believes in civil service. He has 6 children and was recently the Chief of Volunteer & Community Services at Delaware State Volunteer & Community Services at Delaware State Parks.Parks.

Get to the PointGet to the Point 55

Michelle RoyallMichelle Royall, the Resource Manager for the Atlantic Region, she recently relocated from South, the Resource Manager for the Atlantic Region, she recently relocated from SouthCarolina and is originally from Winston-Salem, NC.  Carolina and is originally from Winston-Salem, NC.  Michelle has over 15 years Michelle has over 15 years of AmeriCorpsof AmeriCorpsNCCC experience.  She loves to travel, play tennis and explore new areas.  Also, she is a NCCC experience.  She loves to travel, play tennis and explore new areas.  Also, she is a certifiedcertifiedScuba Diver and recently learned Scuba Diver and recently learned how to sail.  She how to sail.  She also enjoys college basketball:  “Go Tarheels!”also enjoys college basketball:  “Go Tarheels!”

This is the second Corps year This is the second Corps year for Counselor for Counselor Laura Tuck Laura Tuck who hails from Roanoke, VA. Laura iswho hails from Roanoke, VA. Laura isinspired by her work at NCCC inspired by her work at NCCC everyday because she is old everyday because she is old enough to remember when this wasenough to remember when this wassimply a vision as she always simply a vision as she always says “the future looks so bright because our young people are says “the future looks so bright because our young people are ininit!”it!”

Dernard Williams:Dernard Williams: California native married going on 28 years to his wife Renee with fiveCalifornia native married going on 28 years to his wife Renee with fivechildren and five grand children.  Dernard served in the U.S Army for over 23 years retiring inchildren and five grand children.  Dernard served in the U.S Army for over 23 years retiring in2006. While serving in the military he has held numerous leadership positions from Inspector,2006. While serving in the military he has held numerous leadership positions from Inspector,Squad Leader, Advanced Individual Training Instructor, Senior Drill Sergeant, DetachmentSquad Leader, Advanced Individual Training Instructor, Senior Drill Sergeant, DetachmentNoncommissioned Officer In Charge (NCOIC), and First Sergeant.   Dernard Williams nowNoncommissioned Officer In Charge (NCOIC), and First Sergeant.   Dernard Williams nowserves as the Support Services Specialist at the Atlantic Region. In that capacity, he is responsi-serves as the Support Services Specialist at the Atlantic Region. In that capacity, he is responsi-ble for the smooth operations of the campus. If you have a problem with your house or your ble for the smooth operations of the campus. If you have a problem with your house or your vehicle, Dernard is your man.vehicle, Dernard is your man.

Atlantic Region Staff, Dec 2010 at Staff Retreat, left Atlantic Region Staff, Dec 2010 at Staff Retreat, left to right: Jen Horan, Sam to right: Jen Horan, Sam McKenzie, Vivian Newstate, Thea Becton,McKenzie, Vivian Newstate, Thea Becton,

Robin Nixon, Michelle Royall, Robin Nixon, Michelle Royall, LaQuine Roberson, Trey Pettigen, Dave Beach, LaQuine Roberson, Trey Pettigen, Dave Beach, Amanda McCarty,  Laura Tuck, CarlynAmanda McCarty,  Laura Tuck, Carlyn

Payton. Not Pictured: Jason Cangelosi, Glen Stubbolo and Dernard Williams.Payton. Not Pictured: Jason Cangelosi, Glen Stubbolo and Dernard Williams.

Welcome Class 17, from the Atlantic Region Staff!Welcome Class 17, from the Atlantic Region Staff!

Get to the PointGet to the Point 66

Congratulations!  In a few weeks, you will be arriving to PerryCongratulations!  In a few weeks, you will be arriving to Perry

Point, Maryland to begin your adventure in AmeriCorps NCCC. ThePoint, Maryland to begin your adventure in AmeriCorps NCCC. The

Atlantic Region NCCC campus is located in Atlantic Region NCCC campus is located in Perry Point, Maryland – Perry Point, Maryland – 

which is known as “The Point.” The which is known as “The Point.” The campus is placed right on thecampus is placed right on the

water where the Susquehanna River meets the Chesapeake Bay,water where the Susquehanna River meets the Chesapeake Bay,

located about 45 minutes north olocated about 45 minutes north of Baltimore. You will never have af Baltimore. You will never have a

lack of things to do.lack of things to do.

An Idea of What to An Idea of What to Expect: From the Region DirectorExpect: From the Region Director

LaQuine Roberson: Region Director LaQuine Roberson: Region Director 

When you get here, you will receive all the proper items required to “get things done” including a federalWhen you get here, you will receive all the proper items required to “get things done” including a federal

identification card, a full wardrobe, your suitcase/backpack for the year (known as the red travel bag) andidentification card, a full wardrobe, your suitcase/backpack for the year (known as the red travel bag) and

steel-toed work boots.steel-toed work boots.

Once you are well equipped you will be assigned to your housing. On our VA Base there are two sorts of Once you are well equipped you will be assigned to your housing. On our VA Base there are two sorts of 

living accommodations: “The Village” or “9H”. Both are set up with housemates or roommates to prepareliving accommodations: “The Village” or “9H”. Both are set up with housemates or roommates to prepare

for your team lifestyle.   No matter where you end up you will still be surrounded by the NCCCfor your team lifestyle.   No matter where you end up you will still be surrounded by the NCCC

community.  Together you’ll grocery shop and cook your own meals, as well live side by side.community.  Together you’ll grocery shop and cook your own meals, as well live side by side.

The first four weeks of your AmeriCorps Term will be the region’s Corps Training Institute (CTI), whereThe first four weeks of your AmeriCorps Term will be the region’s Corps Training Institute (CTI), where

the Staff and Team Leaders will prepare you as a Corps Member (CM) to go out on your service projects.the Staff and Team Leaders will prepare you as a Corps Member (CM) to go out on your service projects.

Through your training you will have the chance to develop the skills necessary for the work ahead of you.Through your training you will have the chance to develop the skills necessary for the work ahead of you.

Such valuable skills as first-aid, CPR, van driving (if you choose to be a driver), and many othersSuch valuable skills as first-aid, CPR, van driving (if you choose to be a driver), and many others

including proper physical training.including proper physical training.

At some point during CTI, you will be assigned to your unit and team. The units for Class XVII are asAt some point during CTI, you will be assigned to your unit and team. The units for Class XVII are as

follows: Buffalo, Moose and the Ravens. Each unit has 7 teams, giving the Atlantic Region a total of 21follows: Buffalo, Moose and the Ravens. Each unit has 7 teams, giving the Atlantic Region a total of 21

teams that can range anywhere from 10 to 12 members.teams that can range anywhere from 10 to 12 members.

We can promise you that CTI will be a lot of fun, but it is definitely a whirl wind so be prepared. InWe can promise you that CTI will be a lot of fun, but it is definitely a whirl wind so be prepared. In

addition to training, you will have plenty of time to meet new friends, explore the surrounding areas andaddition to training, you will have plenty of time to meet new friends, explore the surrounding areas and

make lots of memories. Get excited, get ready, and remember…be flexible. During this year, you andmake lots of memories. Get excited, get ready, and remember…be flexible. During this year, you and

your team will learn to “roll with the punches.” We have a motto this year at the Atlantic Region which isyour team will learn to “roll with the punches.” We have a motto this year at the Atlantic Region which is

‘Region Up!’ It’s a call for us all to support each other and take what we do to the next level.‘Region Up!’ It’s a call for us all to support each other and take what we do to the next level.

Don’t worry; this is going to be an amazing year of excitement, learning, development  and most of all,Don’t worry; this is going to be an amazing year of excitement, learning, development  and most of all,

service. Prepare to meet new people, travel the country and do and see things you would have never service. Prepare to meet new people, travel the country and do and see things you would have never 

imagined possible. So bring your camera and prepare to get dirty. You are about to begin the mostimagined possible. So bring your camera and prepare to get dirty. You are about to begin the most

amazing year of your life!amazing year of your life!

WELCOME TO AMERILIFE!WELCOME TO AMERILIFE!

Get to the PointGet to the Point 77

AmeriCorps NCCC uses debit cards to reimburse AmeriCorps NCCC uses debit cards to reimburse travel expenses and/or pay relocation expenses.travel expenses and/or pay relocation expenses.

Please do not expect to have Please do not expect to have these funds available to you immediately upon your arrival at these funds available to you immediately upon your arrival at the Perrythe Perry

Point Campus. Our debit card company (JP Point Campus. Our debit card company (JP Chase) has securities in place that Chase) has securities in place that allow only you toallow only you to

activate your account and establish your PIN before activate your account and establish your PIN before funds are available. This, of course, funds are available. This, of course, will takewill take

some time. Michelle Royall, our Resource some time. Michelle Royall, our Resource Manager, will give you complete instructions on activat-Manager, will give you complete instructions on activat-

ing your account when you arrive. We ing your account when you arrive. We do recommend, however, that you have do recommend, however, that you have enough money to get you throughenough money to get you through

your first two weeks on Campus while your your first two weeks on Campus while your debit card is being activated.debit card is being activated.

Resource Manager’Resource Manager’s Message: s Message: Michelle RoyallMichelle Royall

In order to make your In order to make your in-processing as easy as possible, you need to bring in-processing as easy as possible, you need to bring the followingthe followingpaperwork:paperwork:•• Document proving citizenship (passport, birth certificate)Document proving citizenship (passport, birth certificate)

•• Copy of driving record (if you plan on being a van driver)Copy of driving record (if you plan on being a van driver)

•• Valid photo IDValid photo ID

•• Copy of High School Diploma or College Degree, Copy of High School Diploma or College Degree, if applicableif applicable

•• Social Security Number Social Security Number 

•• Documentation of tetanus shot, if you had oneDocumentation of tetanus shot, if you had one

•• Immunization RecordsImmunization Records

•• Direct Deposit informationDirect Deposit information

•• Student loan information for loan forbearance, if applicable.Student loan information for loan forbearance, if applicable.

You can begin forwarding your mail beginning February 5. The addresses for letters and packages are listed to theYou can begin forwarding your mail beginning February 5. The addresses for letters and packages are listed to theleft.left.

From the Desk of the From the Desk of the Member Support SpecialistMember Support Specialist

Please be advised that upon arrival, Please be advised that upon arrival, every Corps Members will have a every Corps Members will have a physical examinationphysical examination

to include an observed drug screen, pregnancy testing (if to include an observed drug screen, pregnancy testing (if female), Tuberculosis testing andfemale), Tuberculosis testing and

Tetanus shots if needed. Members who have Tetanus shots if needed. Members who have not had a Tetanus shot Booster within the not had a Tetanus shot Booster within the pastpast

five years will need to five years will need to be immunized. Thus, don't forget to bring your be immunized. Thus, don't forget to bring your immunization recordimmunization record

to verify your most recent shots. Although you may to verify your most recent shots. Although you may have had a Tuberculosis test in have had a Tuberculosis test in 2010, if 2010, if 

your test was given before July 1, your test was given before July 1, 2010, you will be required to have 2010, you will be required to have another TB test. Allanother TB test. All

schools               schools                require annual TB testing, and if you work in a school as part of a NCCCrequire annual TB testing, and if you work in a school as part of a NCCC

project, you must follow this          project, you must follow this          requirement. Consequently, undergorequirement. Consequently, undergoing a TB test ining a TB test in

February 2011 will fulfill this requirement throughout your service year.February 2011 will fulfill this requirement throughout your service year.

Health Reminder: Laura Tuck, CounselorHealth Reminder: Laura Tuck, Counselor

Get to the PointGet to the Point 88

AmeriCorps Pledge– Get AmeriCorps Pledge– Get Things Done Things Done for for America!America!

I will get things donI will get things done for Ame for America,erica,To make our people safer, smarter, and healthier.To make our people safer, smarter, and healthier.

I will bring Americans together to strengthen our communities.I will bring Americans together to strengthen our communities.

Faced with apathy, I will take action.Faced with apathy, I will take action.Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground.Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground.

Faced with adversityFaced with adversity, I will , I will persevere.persevere.

I will carry this commitment with me this year and I will carry this commitment with me this year and beyond.beyond.I am an AmeriCorps MemberI am an AmeriCorps Member, and I , and I will GET THINGS DONE!will GET THINGS DONE!

Member Statement– Member Statement– all Members must know how to answer the question what’sall Members must know how to answer the question what’s NCCC?NCCC?

I’m a member I’m a member of the National Civilian Community Corps, anof the National Civilian Community Corps, an

AmeriCorps program. N-triple-C members are 18 to 24 yearsAmeriCorps program. N-triple-C members are 18 to 24 years

old and spend 10 old and spend 10 months getting things done for Americamonths getting things done for America

while developing their own while developing their own leadership skills. Wleadership skills. We serve e serve onon

teams to help communities prepare for and teams to help communities prepare for and respond torespond to

disasters, build homes, and help the environment.disasters, build homes, and help the environment.

Get to the PointGet to the Point 99

Starbuck Ballner of Croton, New York, served as a CorpsStarbuck Ballner of Croton, New York, served as a Corps

Member in Class 16 at the Atlantic Region-  Recently, weMember in Class 16 at the Atlantic Region-  Recently, we

caught up with Starbuck Ballner, one of caught up with Starbuck Ballner, one of the superstars of Classthe superstars of Class

16 to find out his impressions on his service 16 to find out his impressions on his service year and what heyear and what he

is doing currently. Starbuck served as a Corps Member on theis doing currently. Starbuck served as a Corps Member on the

Badger 7 team in Class XVI.Badger 7 team in Class XVI.

What was the best part of your year?What was the best part of your year? I had two especiallyI had two especiallyfavorite and memorable parts of my year. The first was thefavorite and memorable parts of my year. The first was thedisaster mission I was assigned to in middle Tennessee. Mydisaster mission I was assigned to in middle Tennessee. Myteam worked in a suburban county just outside of Nashvilleteam worked in a suburban county just outside of Nashville"mucking and gutting" homes of affected residents, some of "mucking and gutting" homes of affected residents, some of whom had their homes submerged under toxic flood waters or whom had their homes submerged under toxic flood waters or forcefully lifted off the ground and carried away. It was a trulyforcefully lifted off the ground and carried away. It was a trulydevastating time for the communities but the way the relief devastating time for the communities but the way the relief efforts were organized at a grass roots level was astounding.efforts were organized at a grass roots level was astounding.For example, a group of churches got together and opened aFor example, a group of churches got together and opened adonation center in an abandoned supermarket and every daydonation center in an abandoned supermarket and every daywe went in there the tables were always full of cleaningwe went in there the tables were always full of cleaningsupplies, non perishable food, clothes and personal hygienesupplies, non perishable food, clothes and personal hygieneproducts; the place was run entirely on donations andproducts; the place was run entirely on donations andvolunteer efforts.volunteer efforts.

We were so lucky to be living and working in a communityWe were so lucky to be living and working in a communitythat took such pride in lending a hand to their neighbors in athat took such pride in lending a hand to their neighbors in atime of confusion, grief and heart ache. In just 4 weeks mytime of confusion, grief and heart ache. In just 4 weeks myteam contributed to the clean up of over 28 homes and locallyteam contributed to the clean up of over 28 homes and locallyowned businesses, removed over 200,000 pounds of debrisowned businesses, removed over 200,000 pounds of debrisand supported 3 different local disaster relief centers. Weand supported 3 different local disaster relief centers. Weworked alongside homeowners who, in some cases, had lostworked alongside homeowners who, in some cases, had lostalmost everything they owned and helped them begin thealmost everything they owned and helped them begin therebuilding process. It was exactly the kind of project Irebuilding process. It was exactly the kind of project Ienvisioned I would be contributing to in NCCC when Ienvisioned I would be contributing to in NCCC when Iapplied; a team of hard working, enthusiastic young people, aapplied; a team of hard working, enthusiastic young people, aneighborhood in a time of immediate need and rewardingneighborhood in a time of immediate need and rewardingphysical work.physical work.

My other favorite part of the year was my round of wild landMy other favorite part of the year was my round of wild landfire fighting in Maryland and Virginia.fire fighting in Maryland and Virginia. Our team wasOur team wasextremely tight knit and we loved being outside all day in theextremely tight knit and we loved being outside all day in thewoods learning new skills like how to use and repair woods learning new skills like how to use and repair chainsaws. We worked on clearing trails and wideningchainsaws. We worked on clearing trails and wideningemergency vehicle lanes at a state park in Maryland battlingemergency vehicle lanes at a state park in Maryland battlingpoison ivy, stinging insects and a fear of heights when we atepoison ivy, stinging insects and a fear of heights when we atelunch on top of the fire lookout tower! Our other project waslunch on top of the fire lookout tower! Our other project wasbuilding a boardwalk at the Great Dismal National Wildlifebuilding a boardwalk at the Great Dismal National WildlifeRefuge in Virginia that would lead to an interpretiveRefuge in Virginia that would lead to an interpretiveeducational facility and enable school field trips and historicaleducational facility and enable school field trips and historicaltourists to learn about the Swamp's key role as part of thetourists to learn about the Swamp's key role as part of theUnderground Railroad. The team chemistry was so vibrant andUnderground Railroad. The team chemistry was so vibrant andour common drive to work hard and laugh hard both on andour common drive to work hard and laugh hard both on andoff the work site made us an unstoppable force.off the work site made us an unstoppable force. This was trulyThis was trulythe best year of my life.the best year of my life.

Alumni Spotlight: Alumni Spotlight: Class XVI’s StarClass XVI’s Starbuck Ballnerbuck Ballner

Starbuck Ballner, firefighter, NCCC Class 16, 2010Starbuck Ballner, firefighter, NCCC Class 16, 2010

Get to the PointGet to the Point 1010

Continued from page 7, Class Continued from page 7, Class 16 Alumni, Starbuck Ballner 16 Alumni, Starbuck Ballner 

I had wonderful teammates who made me laugh so hard I cried and teammates who helped meI had wonderful teammates who made me laugh so hard I cried and teammates who helped merealize who I want to be, contribute to projects that mattered in communities around the country,realize who I want to be, contribute to projects that mattered in communities around the country,got to rock out at Jazz Fest in New Orleans and feel blessed each daygot to rock out at Jazz Fest in New Orleans and feel blessed each day I woke up and eager to get toI woke up and eager to get towork. I've never felt more excited to be alive.work. I've never felt more excited to be alive.

What are your current plans?What are your current plans? In January 2011 I will be a part of the AmeriCorps State/NationalIn January 2011 I will be a part of the AmeriCorps State/National

program in Houston, Texas with College Forward, an program in Houston, Texas with College Forward, an organization that provides college access andorganization that provides college access and

college persistence services to motivated, economically disadvantaged students, in order tocollege persistence services to motivated, economically disadvantaged students, in order to

facilitate their transition to college and make the process exciting and rewarding.   Prior to myfacilitate their transition to college and make the process exciting and rewarding.   Prior to my

NCCC year, I knew that I had a passion for service but was unsure which field I wanted to focusNCCC year, I knew that I had a passion for service but was unsure which field I wanted to focus

my energy. During my NCCC experience, I had participated in many projects tutoring and mentoring youth inmy energy. During my NCCC experience, I had participated in many projects tutoring and mentoring youth in

partnership with local community organizations. I realized that education and youth development, the opportunity topartnership with local community organizations. I realized that education and youth development, the opportunity to

enrich the life of a young person, meant the most to me.enrich the life of a young person, meant the most to me.

What was going through your mind as you won so many awards this year at the end of the year AwardsWhat was going through your mind as you won so many awards this year at the end of the year Awards

Banquet?Banquet?

In those brief moments there were so many flashes of the experiences that led me to join NCCC, the people I workedIn those brief moments there were so many flashes of the experiences that led me to join NCCC, the people I worked

with and alongside this year and how I hope to continue working for the improvement in quality of life for people allwith and alongside this year and how I hope to continue working for the improvement in quality of life for people all

over the world. I thought about how I was introduced to NCCC by a team at my YMCA summer camp over 10 yearsover the world. I thought about how I was introduced to NCCC by a team at my YMCA summer camp over 10 years

ago, the residents of New Orleans and Cheatham County, Tennessee where I worked on community revitalization andago, the residents of New Orleans and Cheatham County, Tennessee where I worked on community revitalization and

disaster relief projects, the Perryville Police Department Outreach Program which was the first project I worked on thisdisaster relief projects, the Perryville Police Department Outreach Program which was the first project I worked on this

year, my AmeriCorps Team Leader who challenged me to be a year, my AmeriCorps Team Leader who challenged me to be a better person, my parents who encouraged me to be morebetter person, my parents who encouraged me to be more

aware of the world around me and to do the right thing especially when no one is watching, the music and books thataware of the world around me and to do the right thing especially when no one is watching, the music and books that

have opened my eyes to have opened my eyes to social issues and the realization thatsocial issues and the realization that anything is possible when you believe in it.anything is possible when you believe in it.

Starbuck Ballner, with his team at a Starbuck Ballner, with his team at a project with Habitat for Humanity in Portland, project with Habitat for Humanity in Portland, ME ME 

Get to the PointGet to the Point 1111

The Trainer’s TThe Trainer’s Two Cewo Centsnts

Welcome Class XVII! We are thrilled about your arrival on February 7Welcome Class XVII! We are thrilled about your arrival on February 7 thth. As a member of . As a member of NCCC, you will have NCCC, you will have the opportunity to gain new skills, enhance the abilities you alreadythe opportunity to gain new skills, enhance the abilities you alreadyobtain, and meet some really awesome people. My name is Carlyn Payton; I am the Assis-obtain, and meet some really awesome people. My name is Carlyn Payton; I am the Assis-tant Program Director for Training. I play a vital role in member development. I managetant Program Director for Training. I play a vital role in member development. I manage

your training, transition schedules, the GED Assistance Program, and all awards and your training, transition schedules, the GED Assistance Program, and all awards and college credits available tocollege credits available toyou, just to name a few.you, just to name a few.

Just around the corner is the Just around the corner is the Corps Training Institute (CTI). CTI is the time Corps Training Institute (CTI). CTI is the time that we dedicate to ensuring that youthat we dedicate to ensuring that youreceive the core training necessary for receive the core training necessary for a successful year. When you arrive, a successful year. When you arrive, we will begin your in-processing andwe will begin your in-processing andthen transition right into training. I look forward to meeting all then transition right into training. I look forward to meeting all of you. Again, Congratulations!of you. Again, Congratulations!

Carlyn PaytonCarlyn Payton: Assistant Program Director for Training.: Assistant Program Director for Training.

STAMPEDE!STAMPEDE!

My horns up high, my hooves down low My horns up high, my hooves down low 

Now this is how you buff-a-loNow this is how you buff-a-lo

Buff-A-Lo, Buff Buff-A-LoBuff-A-Lo, Buff Buff-A-Lo

Buff-A-Lo, Buff Buff-A-LoBuff-A-Lo, Buff Buff-A-Lo

My head stays  upMy head stays  up

My back  stays straightMy back  stays straight

My team stays downMy team stays down

But my antlers ain’tBut my antlers ain’t

Get em up-Got em upGet em up-Got em up

Get em up-Got em upGet em up-Got em up

Ohhhhhhhh  Moose!Ohhhhhhhh  Moose!

Now flap your wingsNow flap your wings

Get up and soarGet up and soar

Our Raven chantOur Raven chant

Is “Nevermore”Is “Nevermore”

Like Edgar Allen always says “Caw caw, caw caw”Like Edgar Allen always says “Caw caw, caw caw”

Like Edgar Allen always says “Caw caw, caw caw”Like Edgar Allen always says “Caw caw, caw caw”

Unit Chants: Show a Little Pride and Yell It Out!Unit Chants: Show a Little Pride and Yell It Out!

While Atlantic Region is in the process of While Atlantic Region is in the process of finding a Unit Leader finding a Unit Leader for the Buffalo Unit, Raven for the Buffalo Unit, Raven Unit Leader Unit Leader Jen HoranJen Horan will be actingwill be actingas the Unit Leader for Buffalo 1 – 4 , as the Unit Leader for Buffalo 1 – 4 , while 5-7 will be managedwhile 5-7 will be managedJason CangelosiJason Cangelosi. Our Deputy Region Director for . Our Deputy Region Director for OperationsOperations

Dave BeachDave Beach will be providing support and will be providing support and leadership during thisleadership during thistime as well.time as well.

Get to the PointGet to the Point 1212

In the Corner with The Hulk: Physical TrainingIn the Corner with The Hulk: Physical Training

What is PT? Physical TrainingAmeriCorps NCCC campus and myself, The HULK subscribe toWhat is PT? Physical TrainingAmeriCorps NCCC campus and myself, The HULK subscribe to

the principle of physical fitness for all members and team leaders.  ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR the principle of physical fitness for all members and team leaders.  ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR 

ALL THINGS FITNESS!ALL THINGS FITNESS!

Members and Team Leaders will participate in team conditioning at least three times weekly.  ThisMembers and Team Leaders will participate in team conditioning at least three times weekly.  This

conditioning will be team based, except during the time spent on the campuses. During those timesconditioning will be team based, except during the time spent on the campuses. During those times

physical conditioning will be conducted by units or the entire corps. This conditioning program isphysical conditioning will be conducted by units or the entire corps. This conditioning program is

important because AmeriCorps NCCC undertakes hard, physical work and members need to be strong and limber important because AmeriCorps NCCC undertakes hard, physical work and members need to be strong and limber 

enough to engage in it safely.enough to engage in it safely.

The HULK move of the week:The HULK move of the week:

The Side-Straddle HopThe Side-Straddle Hop (known as the Jumping Jack) is (known as the Jumping Jack) is a physical jumping exercise performed by jumpinga physical jumping exercise performed by jumping

to a position with the legs spread wide and the hands touching overhead and then returning to a position with the feetto a position with the legs spread wide and the hands touching overhead and then returning to a position with the feet

together and the arms at the together and the arms at the sides.sides.

Rod’s RuminationsRod’s Ruminations

Welcome Achievers!Welcome Achievers!

Hello and welcome toHello and welcome to The RuminationsThe Ruminations. For some reason, the “powers that be” last year . For some reason, the “powers that be” last year permitted me to have a small portion of permitted me to have a small portion of Get To The Point Get To The Point to amuse you…oops, I mean…to amuse you…oops, I mean…present you with a valuable perspective on the present you with a valuable perspective on the happenings around the Atlantic Regionhappenings around the Atlantic Regionfrom one of your Unit STLs. Mercifully, these same powers have allowed me to continuefrom one of your Unit STLs. Mercifully, these same powers have allowed me to continuethis tradition into Class XVII. So, welcome to AmeriCorps NCCC and prepare for anthis tradition into Class XVII. So, welcome to AmeriCorps NCCC and prepare for anexciting year! I’ll be here to share the lighter side with you.exciting year! I’ll be here to share the lighter side with you.

A Carnivore’s ManifestoA Carnivore’s Manifesto

By this point it is no secret, I am not a salad person. If By this point it is no secret, I am not a salad person. If I had to pick a last meal, it would probably consist of steak I had to pick a last meal, it would probably consist of steak and potatoes, with a side of and potatoes, with a side of steak. So, one of steak. So, one of my biggest shocks in AmeriCorps so far has my biggest shocks in AmeriCorps so far has been the startling number been the startling number of people who abstain completely from eating meat. Don’t get me wrong, I respect vegetarians to no end. I under-of people who abstain completely from eating meat. Don’t get me wrong, I respect vegetarians to no end. I under-stand that it’s potentially healthier and lord knows I do stand that it’s potentially healthier and lord knows I do not have the will power to not have the will power to subsist solely on plants. So, vege-subsist solely on plants. So, vege-tarians, I tip my cap to you. But the question I keep asking is: if animals weren’t meant to be eaten, then why weretarians, I tip my cap to you. But the question I keep asking is: if animals weren’t meant to be eaten, then why werethey made to be so delicious?they made to be so delicious?

I have also noticed that I have also noticed that the age old debate between meat the age old debate between meat eaters and veggies definitely heats up amongst our teams. eaters and veggies definitely heats up amongst our teams. IIcan remember several spirited discussions between my teammates when can remember several spirited discussions between my teammates when I was a I was a Corps Member, particularly aroundCorps Member, particularly aroundgrocery day. Since then, I grocery day. Since then, I have been ruminating about a solution to this problem.have been ruminating about a solution to this problem.

Once I moved past all of the legitimate solutions, I eventually moved on to one of my more crack pot (a.k.a. genius)Once I moved past all of the legitimate solutions, I eventually moved on to one of my more crack pot (a.k.a. genius)ideas: form teams that consist of all vegetarians or all meat eaters, or better yet, entire units. There could be a Tofuideas: form teams that consist of all vegetarians or all meat eaters, or better yet, entire units. There could be a TofuUnit and a T-Bone Unit. Unit and a T-Bone Unit. Everyone would be free to eat Everyone would be free to eat what they want, liberated of arguments and what they want, liberated of arguments and unhappy stom-unhappy stom-achs! And there would be achs! And there would be none of this “flexitarian” or “pescetarian” nonsense. I’m tired none of this “flexitarian” or “pescetarian” nonsense. I’m tired of your flip-flopping. Makeof your flip-flopping. Makeup your minds already! I up your minds already! I know what you’re thinking…this solution would present a lack of diversity. But are eatingknow what you’re thinking…this solution would present a lack of diversity. But are eatinghabits really a form of habits really a form of diversity? This is a question for someone above my diversity? This is a question for someone above my pay grade. Talk to Deputy Region pay grade. Talk to Deputy Region Direc-Direc-tor Dave Beach about it, but I think you’ll find that he is on my side here.tor Dave Beach about it, but I think you’ll find that he is on my side here.

Get to the PointGet to the Point 1313