Sound off July 17, 2014

call 118Three-digit hotline now available for suicide crisis

page 4

UPcOMING EVENTSTOday, 7 P.M.: “Pershing’s Own” Down Range Concert - Constitution ParkWEdNESdayS, 10 a.M.-2 P.M.: Fort Meade Farmers Market - Smallwood Hall lotJUly 24, 7 P.M.: “Pershing’s Own” U.S. Army Blues Concert - Constitution ParkJUly 31, 7 P.M.: The Volunteers Summer Concert - Constitution ParkaUG. 5, 5 P.M.: National Night Out - McGlachlin Parade Field

NEW lEadEr780th MI Brigade welcomes new commander

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Soundoff!́vol. 66 no. 28 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community July 17, 2014

photo by noah scialom

jazzing it upThe Crabtowne Stompers, an ensemble with the U.S. naval Academy Band, performs July 10 at the Pavilion during the Fort Meade Summer Concert Series. Rooted in new orleans jazz music, the band fuses its music with modern funk and jazz elements.For the story, see Page 6.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! July 17, 2014

Commander’s Column

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

CrimeWatch................. 8 Movies.................................15

Community................. 14 Classified.............................18

Editorial StaffGarrison Commander Col. Brian P. foleyGarrison Command Sgt. Maj. thomas J. latterPublic affairs officerChad t. Jones [email protected], Command informationPhilip H. Jones [email protected] Editor & Senior Writer rona S. Hirsch Staff Writer lisa r. rhodesStaff Writer Brandon Bieltzdesign Coordinator timothy davis Supplemental photography provided by the Baltimore Sun Media Group

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300or email [email protected]

If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-5602; DSN: 622-5602.

Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source.

Printed by The Baltimore Sun Co., LLC, a private firm, in no way connected with the Department of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of the Army of the products or services advertised.

www.ftmeade.army.milYou can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd

and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil.

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11,285

Let’s talk about customer service.It is about the Golden Rule: “Do unto others

as you would have them do unto you” — and you must love Soldiers and families.

Members of the Installation Management Command must understand their role in deliver-ing customer service to Soldiers, Army civilians, wounded warriors, retirees, and their families and survivors. The IMCOM team builds a ready and resilient Army. We take care of people and make them self-reliant.

Soldiers, family members, Army civilians, wounded warriors, retirees and survivors depend on the Army and the IMCOM team to enable them through installation services. Soldiers are committed to the Army profession and expect others in the Army to be as passionate about the mission as they are.

The Army has made a promise to champion Soldiers, civilians and families. Everyone on the installation management team helps fulfill this promise and delivers to standards.

As the commander of the U.S. Army Instal-lation Management Command and the Army’s assistant chief of staff for installation manage-ment, I want to ensure we set the example and that we deliver installation services to established standards.

Installations provide the structure, the foun-dation, the platform of readiness and resilience. As Gen. Ray Odierno, Army chief of staff, says: “The strength of the nation is the Army. The strength of the Army is the Soldier. The strength of the Soldier is the family. That’s what makes us Army Strong!”

Being the Army’s home means striving to provide the utmost in customer service to Sol-diers, family members, Army civilians, veterans and survivors of the fallen — the entire Army community.

You also are part of the great Army com-munity. Your well-being and professional devel-opment helps us provide even better customer service. Seek ways to improve your skills through education and training. Develop your sub-ordinates so they are empowered for greater responsibility.

Our customers are paramount. We need to listen when our customers speak. The breadth and depth of the services we provide is complex; it is our role to coordinate, anticipate and verify customer needs.

IMCOM has developed a culture of treat-ing people with dignity and respect. A person

who comes to one of our gar-risons should walk away satis-fied and with a sense of having received fair and courteous treat-ment.

We must continue this hallmark of our customers’ experiences. We should always have the attitude of expectancy — expecting to be the person who makes some-one’s day better.

Positive attitudes go a long way toward enhancing customer relations and enhances customer satisfaction.

Follow through with deeds instead of words alone. We must be adaptable and agile. Our abil-ity is a measure of organizational success.

Members of the IMCOM team are vital to how the Army lives, works, trains and plays. Whether it’s an intramural softball tournament, a fresh coat of paint for a barracks, or a range ready for realistic training, the quality of your work shows our customers we care about them, and their missions and their quality of life.

It’s what we mean by our vision — a ready and resilient Army: Providing Soldiers, families and civilians with a quality of life commensurate with the quality of their service.

The Army is about values. Live Army values daily. Use Army values to guide you for the best customer service on your installation.

The Army is counting on you.

Customer service: IMCOM’s attitude

Lt. Gen. david haLverson iMCoM Commander

Commander’s Open DoorGarrison Commander Col. Brian P. Foley

hasanopendoorpolicy.Allservicemembers,retirees,government

employees, family members or communitymembersage18orolderareinvitedtoaddressissuesorconcernstothecommanderdirectlybyvisitingFoley’sofficeonMondays from4to6p.m.atgarrisonheadquartersinHodgesHall,Bldg.4551,LlewellynAvenue.

Visitors are seen on a first-come, first-servedbasis.Noappointmentisnecessary.

Formoreinformation,call301-677-4844.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 17, 2014 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

Col. Jennifer G. Buckner passed the reigns of leadership of the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade to Col. William J. Hartman during a change of command ceremony Friday near the unit’s facility off Chamberlin Avenue.

“We’re very fortunate today at the Army as one great leader leaves, we welcome another great leader in Colonel William Hartman,” said Lt. Gen. Edward C. Cardon, commander of Army Cyber Command.

Cardon and Maj. Gen. George J. Franz III, commander of Intelligence and Security Command, presided over the ceremony as Hartman took command of the Fort Meade-based cyber unit.

The 780th MI supports combat operations; enables signals intelligence and computer net-work operations; and supports the DoD, Army and interagency operations worldwide. It is the Army’s only computer-network opera-tions brigade.

The unit consists of the Headquarters and Headquarters Company and 781st MI Battalion at Fort Meade, and the 782nd MI Battalion at Fort Gordon, Ga.

“For the last two years, this unit has been led by an incredibly talented officer,” Franz said. “Jen Buckner has provided the right kind of technical experience and disciplined leadership, creativity, innovation and selfless dedication.”

During Buckner’s tenure, the unit “built the best cyber team possible” and “built a force for the ages,” Cardon said.

In her brief remarks, Buckner called the 780th “an amazingly talented group of offi-cers, NCOs and civilians.” She thanked the service members of the unit for their innova-tive thinking and creativeness in establishing the 780th’s role in the Army.

“I share an enormous sense of pride in this force and their accomplishments,” Buckner said.

Buckner is set to become the first com-mandant of the Cyber School of Excellence at Fort Gordon. She said she is confident that Hartman will continue to successfully lead the organization.

“[Hartman] brings a great reputation, an impeccable background into the command,” Franz said.

Hartman comes to the 780th MI after serv-ing as commander of U.S. Special Operations Command’s Joint Communications Integra-tion Element since 2010.

During his two decades of service, Hart-man has served in a variety of roles including

New leader takes command of 780th MI

photos by nate pesce

Incoming Commander Col. William J. Hartman receives the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade’s colors from Maj. Gen. George J. Franz III, commander of Intelligence and Security Command, during a change of command ceremony Friday. Hartman replaces Col. Jennifer G. Buckner as commander of the computer-network operations brigade.BELOW: Col. Jennifer G. Buckner says her goodbyes following the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade’s change of command ceremony Friday near the facility on Chamberlin Avenue. Buckner, who commanded the unit for two years, has been assigned as the first commandant of the Cyber School of Excellence at Fort Gordon.

battalion, brigade and company commander; infantry platoon leader; and intelligence offi-cer.

The colonel has served with the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division during Operation Desert Storm; the Southern European Task Force; 165th MI Battalion; 1st Ranger Battalion; and 524th MI Battalion. Hartman was deployed several times in support of Operation Enduring Free-dom in Iraq and to Afghanistan.

During his brief remarks, Hartman thanked the unit’s Soldiers and said he looked forward to commanding the 780th.

“You’re the absolute tip of the spear of our nation’s cyber-space operations capabilities,” he said. “I’m honored and humbled to be here today and have the opportunity to command this extraordinary organization.”


News

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

A new three-digit suicide telephone hotline will now make it easier for active-duty service members and DoD civilians on post to get assistance in crisis situa-tions.

The phone number automatically con-nects them to the Military Crisis Line/National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Hot-line.

The three-digit number, which has been available since mid-April, is 118.

All landline telephones on Fort Made have the capacity to directly dial 118 and immediately connect to 1-800-273-TALK, where a trained suicide prevention coun-selor is available to provide assistance.

The counselors have military experience, and all phone calls to them are confiden-tial.

“I feel wonderful,” said Marissa Pena, Fort Meade’s Suicide Prevention Program manager, who helped to establish the three-digit number on post. “I feel like it is going

to really make people feel more comfort-able and at ease to ask for help when they need it.”

Although Fort Meade’s Army Substance Abuse Program offers the Applied Suicide Intervention Training Skills on a monthly basis to all service members and DoD civilians, Pena said none of the participants in the training workshop was aware of a Military Crisis Line/National Suicide Pre-vention Lifeline Hotline.

This is despite the fact that suicides con-tinue at Fort Meade.

“We had two suicides, back-to-back, of two active-duty Soldiers in brigades in December 2013,” Pena said.

Pena came up with the idea to establish the three-digit phone number at Fort Meade after she learned that the same number has been operational for Army installations in Europe since 2011.

“Think of how hard it is to remember a nine- or 11-digit phone number,” Pena said. “It is so confusing.”

In March, Pena contacted Scott Har-

ris, who was the Installation Management Command-Europe Region-Suicide Preven-tion Program manager in Heidelberg, Ger-many.

“My initial focus was to create a toll-free number in Europe that Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, Sailors and their family members could dial from their off-post homes and from their cell phones,” said Harris, who is now the director of Army Community Service at U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg, Germany.

“The intent was to ensure assistance that would be available 24/7, but at no cost to the caller. The system was created so that we could ‘plug-in’ to the stateside National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Hotline and Military Crisis Line network,” he said.

Harris said that over the years, a signifi-cant number of service members in Europe have made use of the number.

Once Pena learned the details of the European program, she approached Michael Noyes, Fort Meade’s Alcohol and Drug Control officer, about the project.

“Marissa’s work has been exceptional,” Noyes said. “People who are experiencing psychological stress or contemplating sui-cide find it hard to concentrate. So it’s hard to remember a 1-800 phone number. And if you dial from Fort Meade, you must dial 99 first, which makes it a 13-digit phone number, which is difficult.”

Noyes said the 118 phone number is a “significant advantage” for people.

Garrison Commander Col. Brian P. Foley was briefed for his approval.

Steve Goodman, a telecommunications specialist with Fort Meade’s Network Enterprise Center, worked to help establish the 118 phone number for Fort Meade’s landline phones.

Goodman said the project was easy to complete, and now anyone can dial 118 from any working 301-677-, 833 or 255 exchange from a landline phone on post.

Pena said the 118 phone number is liter-ally a lifesaver.

“Hopefully, we can save even more lives,” she said. “One suicide is too many.”

Suicide prevention number available on post

Water main flushing continuesAmerican Water is continuing its 2014 Annual Water Main Flushing Program on Monday.The purpose of the program is to provide the best quality water available to you, the customer, by removing any buildup of sediment that may have occurred in the water lines.Flushing may result in some temporary discoloration and the presence of sediment in your water. These conditions are not harmful and should be of very short duration.During the hours between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., limit your use of water to help prevent discolored water reaching your service lines to your residence. Should you notice an increase in discolored water at your residence, flush all faucets inside for 15 minutes.

If the water does not clear up, call the Water Treatment Plant at 443-591-0909. This number is monitored 24/7, should you have any additional questions or concerns.Areas that may be affected by planned flushing from Monday through July 25:

• Y Street

• Chamberlin Avenue

• Rose Street

• 9th Street

• 10th Street

• 13th Street

• 14th Street

• 15th Street

• 16th Street

• 18th Street

• Chisholm Avenue

Streets adjacent to Llewellyn Avenue, Ernie Pyle Street and Reece Road may see a temporary change in their water during flushing activities. Signs will be posted ahead of any flushing activities to notify customers.


Beginning today, Fort Meade’s Automotive Skills Center is reducing its hours by nearly half.

The facility, which is managed by the Direc-torate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, has cut its hours from 40 to 24 and is operating only three days a week.

New hours are Thursday and Friday from 1 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Since it’s a very used facility — it’s very popular, it’s always crowded — they want to keep it open,” said Steve Orcutt, facility manager. “So the options on the table were to either close the facility or open it with reduced hours, reduced services and reduced opera-tions. We’ll still have it open, but it won’t be the same amount of time.”

The Automotive Skills Center, located at 6530 Taylor Ave., features 24 open bays, hydraulic lifts, state-of-the-art tools, and equipment for use on all domestic and for-eign vehicles. Patrons can work on their own cars using the tools, equipment and assistance from staff.

“It’s a good place for people to meet and hang out,” Orcutt said. “They like it a lot.”

Despite the center’s popularity, the facility has never generated a profit, nor was it ever expected to. Surpluses in the budget and prof-

its from other DFMWR facilities have kept the Automotive Skills Center afloat.

Now, however, due to the funding con-straints and limitations for fiscal year 2015, the extra money isn’t there to break even.

“Since budget cuts have been coming down more and more from the Army, it’s becoming harder for MWR to keep that process going,” Orcutt said. “It wasn’t meant to produce any income. The facilities were meant to be a benefit.”

Instead of closing the facility, DFMWR opted to reduce the hours and restructure the staff to fit into the budget. The four mem-bers of the staff will be offered other jobs — nobody will be fired.

Classes, from welding to servicing transmis-sions, which used to be taught at the center but ended last year, will continue to be canceled for the time being.

The “convenience resale items” will also be removed from the center. All other services will continue.

Orcutt said DFMWR is seeking ways to find extra funding or alternative solutions around the budget to extend the Automotive Skills Center hours.

“We’re not stopping the fight,” he said. “... We’re trying to do everything we can [to avoid] closing the place because once you close the place, it’s almost impossible to open again.”

Auto Skills Center puts brake on hours


News

By Navy Mass Communication Spc. 2nd Class Zach AllanFort Meade Public Affairs Office

The Fort Meade Pavilion was filled with the sounds of New Orleans-style jazz as the Crabtowne Stompers, an ensemble of the U.S. Naval Acade-my Band, played a range of smooth and energetic tunes to an enthusiastic crowd.

“I thought it was very entertaining,” said 1st Lt. Seth Leigh, a student at the Defense Information School, after the program. “I’ll definitely come out to another show in the series.”

The 90-minute concert, performed July 10, was part of the Summer Con-cert Series’ annual lineup of weekly per-formances by the U.S. Army Field Band to help boost morale on Fort Meade and in its surrounding communities.

“The crowd here was great!” said Navy Musician 1st Class Colin Renick, the Crabtowne Stompers’ leading petty officer. “We’d love to come out and play Fort Meade again.”

This was the first time that the Crab-towne Stompers played at Fort Meade, performing a mostly instrumental blend of classic New Orleans brass music with a few original compositions.

The band is led by Navy Senior Chief Musician Nicholas Pastelak, who pro-vided vocals for a moving jazz rendition of “America the Beautiful.”

“It was fantastic!” said Italian Air Force Col. Urbano Floreani, another student at DINFOS. “I won’t forget it.”

One of Renick’s original songs, “Funeral Song: Death of a Clown,” stood out for its somber yet playful tones.

“I’ve seen some of the Navy bands before and they are all quite good,” said Wanda Coral of Severna Park. “I think they should play alongside the Army band’s Jazz Ambassadors. That would be a great show.”

The 250-strong crowd could hardly be contained with its enjoyment of the Stompers’ tunes. Many clapped and danced to the soulful rhythms and ener-gy as children ran amok.

The band closed out the show with the number, “Mardi Gras in New Orleans,” which earned the Stompers the final of many standing ovations.

Even as the crowd dispersed, the band “played the crowd out to their cars,” said Pastelak, with a light soothing melody.

The Crabtowne Stompers bring soul to Fort Meade

PHOTOS BY NOAH SCIALOM

The Crabtowne Stompers, an ensemble with the U.S. Naval Academy Band, performs July 10 at the Pavilion during the Fort Meade Summer Concert Series. Rooted in New Orleans jazz music, the band fuses its music with modern funk and jazz elements.

RIGHT: An audience of 250 people attends the 90-minute concert presented by the U.S. Naval Academy Band’s Crabtowne Stompers. The band performed a mostly instrumental blend of classic New Orleans brass music with a few original compositions.

• Tonight: “Pershing’s Own” Down Range

• July 24: “Pershing’s Own” U.S. Army Blues

• July 31: The Volunteers

• Aug. 7: The Jazz Ambassadors of the U.S. Army Field Band

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 17, 2014 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Joseph Van MeterDivision Chief of OperationsFort Meade Fire and Emergency Services

A child safety-seat check will be conducted by Fort Meade Fire and Emergency Services on Wednesday from 2-5 p.m. at Meade Heights Elementary School, 1925 Reece Road.

The event is open to the community and will be held in cooperation with Kids in Safety Seats, a statewide non-profit program funded through a federal grant.

The mission is to reduce injuries and death among Maryland’s children by helping people obtain and use car seats and booster seats correctly each time an infant or child rides in a motor vehicle.

The safety-seat check event is one of the best ways for parents and caregiv-ers to determine if they are using the car seat correctly. On average, almost 75 percent of all child safety seats

inspected in Maryland are improperly installed or misused.

Here are some things to expect when attending a safety-seat check event:

• If possible, bring your child or children. Safety technicians will want to see how your child fits in the seat currently used.

• If you are unable to bring your child, place a piece of tape on the vehicle seat, level with the child’s shoulders, so that the technician can accurately determine your child’s shoulder level.

• Pre-install the safety seat to the best of your ability. You must read through your vehicle owner’s manual (car seat section) and safety seat manual — prior to the appointment.

If you are replacing one safety seat for another, read through the owner’s manual for the new safety seat prior to your appointment.

• Bring all manuals with you that day.

• You will be asked to fill out a form, providing your name and address; the child’s name, weight, height and age; and the year, make, model and mileage of your car.

Unless required by law, your personal information will be used for identification purposes and data collection only.

• Plan on spending approximately 30 minutes per car seat, to fully assess and learn how to use your child’s safety seat.

• Bring a spouse, friend or relative to help keep an eye on your child while you are working with the technician to install the safety seat.

• Ask questions and be prepared to be involved in the checking process.

Because it is your seat and your child, you should feel confident about how to reinstall the safety seat on your own or with help from a spouse, friend or relative after leaving this event.

For more information, call Chief Joseph Van Meter at 301-677-4725.

Bring car seats for safety check

file photo

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News

prepaid debit card, sent through wire trans-fer or paid with credit card, is the sure sign you are dealing with a scammer.

The IRS does not ask people to pay with prepaid debit cards or wire transfers and does not ask for credit card numbers over the phone. When the IRS contacts people about unpaid taxes, they do it by mail and not by phone.

If you get a call like this and suspect you are speaking with a tax scammer, hang up the phone immediately and consider contacting your phone provider and asking them to block the number.

The IRS requests that you report the inci-dent to the Treasury inspector general for tax administration at 800-366-4484.

You also may file a formal complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint (select “other” and then “impos-ter scams,” and in the notes include “IRS Telephone Scam”).

If you receive a suspicious email, forward it to the IRS at [email protected]. Do not open any attachments or click any links within the email.

If you owe or think you may owe federal taxes, contact the IRS directly at 800-829-1040.

If you believe you have been the victim of a phishing scam or any other type of fraud, call the Fort Meade Legal Assistance Office to schedule an appointment to speak with an attorney at 301-677-9504 or 301-677-9536.

By Austin J. ShortLegal Assistance Intern

Tax season may have ended, but offi-cials from the Internal Revenue Service and Federal Trace Commission are once again warning the public about scammers posing as IRS officials.

In what tax officials are calling one of the “largest scams of its kind,” scammers have been calling people and reporting that they still owe the IRS money and threatening to deport them, revoke their driver’s license, or even shut down their business if they do not pay.

As of March 20, the Treasury inspector general for tax administration had received more than 20,000 contacts related to this

scam and reports that thousands of victims have paid more than $1 million to those pretending to be from the IRS.

The scam involves a thief posing as the IRS by hacking the caller ID information to appear as if the IRS is calling. The caller demands that the victim pay the money immediately with a pre-loaded debit card or wire transfer with threats of arrest, deporta-tion, or suspension of a driver’s license or business if the victim does not pay.

In some instances, the scammers will even make follow-up calls, claiming to be the police or from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

While there are different variations to the scam, the demand for money loaded on a

Spotting IRS tax scams before it’s too late

July 10, Failure to stop at red sig-nal before right turn, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, driving without a license, driv-ing while under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol: While on routine patrol, an officer observed a vehicle fail to stop at a steady, red circular light before making a right-hand turn. The officer made contact with the driver, who was unable to produce a valid state registration or driver’s license.The officer noticed a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the driver. The driver was asked to exit the vehicle and submit to Standard-ized Field Sobriety Tests. He agreed to the test and performed poorly. He refused to render a breath sample.

July 11, Driving while impaired by alcohol, driv-ing while under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, failure to control speed to avoid accident: Police were dispatched in reference to a downed motorist. While waiting for a tow truck, units witnessed a vehicle strike the patrol vehicle, caus-ing damage to the left-rear section, rendering the vehicle inoperable.The police noticed an odor of alcoholic beverage coming from the driver. The driver was asked to perform Standardized Field Sobriety Tests to determine his ability to drive, which he agreed to and performed poorly. He refused to render a breath sample.

CommunityCommunityCrime Watch

Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services

For week of July 7-13:• Moving violations: 14• Nonmoving violations: 7• Verbal warnings for traffic stops: 34• Traffic accidents: 6• Driving on suspended license: 0• Driving on suspended registration: 0• Driving without a license: 0

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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! July 17, 2014

Cover Story

photos by nate pesceMuslims and non-Muslims gather at Argonne Hills Chapel Center for an Iftar meal. The dinner is the traditional breaking of the daily fast during the month of Ramadan.

CENTER: Families prepare to break the Ramadan fast on Friday evening. The meal provided an opportunity for non-Muslims to learn about Ramadan from those who practice Islam.


For the fifth consecutive year, the local Muslim community was joined by non-Muslims to break bread and celebrate Ramadan with an Iftar feast.

The nearly two-hour event, hosted by Fort Meade and the National Security Agency at Argonne Hills Chapel Center, provided an opportunity for non-Muslims to learn about Ramadan from those who practice Islam.

Nearly 200 people attended the dinner, which featured Adm. Michael S. Rogers, commander of U.S. Cyber Command and director of the National Security Agency, as the keynote speaker.

“Our Department of Defense diversity is on full display tonight and every day on Fort Meade,” said Garrison Commander Col. Brian P. Foley. “We are home to over 49,000 U.S. service members and civil-ians of every major faith. Tonight we are proud to celebrate Iftar with one of those major groups — our wonderful Muslim community.

“...Tonight’s Iftar does not just show-case our diversity, it provides us an oppor-tunity to celebrate and learn from it. I know that I am looking forward to learning more about the Muslim faith this evening,” he said.

The Iftar dinner traditionally breaks each of the daylong fasts during the month of Ramadan, which began June 28 and ends July 28. Muslims abstain daily from food, drink and other physical needs between sunrise and sunset.

The fast is meant to allow individuals to put more effort into following Islamic practices.

“Iftar is the traditional Muslim break-ing of the fast,” said Chad Jones, director of the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office and Fort Meade’s Muslim lay minister. “Ramadan is a monthlong celebration. It is the month the Quran was revealed and a very holy month for us Muslims.”

Aqueel Iqbal of Makkah Learning Center in Gambrills opened the ceremony with a reading from the Quran, which discussed the importance of Ramadan and fasting.

Rogers said the reading reminded him of hearing the “Call to Prayer” during his service in Muslim countries.

“I don’t understand the language, but I

Fort Meade hosts traditional Iftar dinner

can recognize beauty and I can recognize the idea of faith and I can recognize the idea of being part of something bigger than oneself,” he said.

During his remarks, Rogers said he looked forward to the opportunity to learn more about the Islamic faith.

“I love events like this because they recognize the diversity that is America, and they revel in that diversity that we can recognize the different faiths, different experiences, and they make us stronger as a nation and that we can learn from each other,” he said.

At 8:33 p.m., the “Call to Prayer” was made in the chapel center. At the first note of the call, the Muslim attendees broke their fast, having their first bite of food and drink of water of the day.

Shortly after, the Maghrib prayer was conducted in the chapel. Non-muslims returned to the chapel to observe the prayer.

“It’s very important for non-Muslims to enjoy and break bread with us; that’s our pleasure,” said Mamadou Thioune of Upper Marlboro. “It’s wonderful.”

Following the prayer, non-Muslims joined Muslims in a meal of traditional

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 17, 2014 SOUNDOFF! 11

some extent, is misrepresented at times,” he said. “To break bread with them and build these relationships strengthens us as a community and a country.”

Highland resident Homayara Aziz said it is important for non-Muslims to partici-pate the Iftar meal to learn about Rama-dan and that the principles of the holiday are universal — not just Islamic. The fast-ing, she said, helps people appreciate they have food to eat at the end of the day.

“We believe in the those same principles of charity, citizenship, helping the poor, helping the needy,” Aziz said. “I think it really bonds us together. That’s the whole reason Iftar draws so many people — the principles of Ramadan are the same for every one.”

Aziz, who has attended Fort Meade’s Iftar for the fourth year, said more people participate each year.

“Every year I feel like this grows and grows,” she said. “It feels like there were more non-Muslims than Muslims cel-ebrating with us. They were part of the whole celebration.

“It’s really become like a family. Some of these folks who are non-Muslim, we see them every year and it’s just celebration here. It’s wonderful.”

‘I love events like this because they recognize the diversity that is America.’

adm. Michael s. Rogers commander, U.s. cyber command & national security agency Director

Middle Eastern food and pizza. During the dinner, non-Muslims were encour-aged to ask questions about Islam and Ramadan.

Pete Smith, a candidate for the seat of Anne Arundel County councilman Dis-trict 1, attended the Iftar dinner to better understand the beliefs and identity of the Muslim community.

“This is part of our community that, to Laila Hamidi-Booher, 5, eats pizza during the Iftar meal at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. The meal also featured traditional Middle Eastern food.

BELOW: Hussein Karachiwalla (center) prays at Argonne Hills Chapel Center during Friday’s Iftar. The event, in its fifth year, was hosted by Fort Meade and the National Security Agency.


SportS

With four neighborhood pools open to Corvias residents and a community part-nership with the Columbia Association, Fort Meade residents and service members have several options when it comes to cooling down this summer.

Corvias Military Living neighborhood pools• Through Aug. 24: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and

Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.• Aug. 25 through Sept. 3: Weekdays from 4 to 8 p.m., and weekends and

holidays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.Pools are open to residents only. Residents may bring up to four guests per

family.Residents must provide pool passes to access the pool. To pick up a pool

pass, visit your neighborhood center.

Columbia AssociationThe Columbia Association has opened five pools to the Fort Meade

community, offering a special military/DoD rate.Cost to visit the below pools will be $4 per adult and $2 per child per visit. A

valid military/DoD I.D. card will be required.• Talbott Spring: 410-730-54219660 Basket Ring, Columbia, MD 21045• Faulkner Ridge: 410-730-529215018 Marble Fawn Court, Columbia, MD 21044 • Jeffers Hill: 410-730-12206030 Tamar Drive, Columbia, MD 21045• McGills Common: 410-730-599510025 Shaker Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 • Running Brook: 410-730-52935730 Columbia Road, Columbia, MD

Other options• North Arundel Aquatic Center: 410-222-00907888 Crain Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21061$4 for active-duty adults / $4 for children. They also offer a 20-use family

swim pass for $68.

• Arundel Olympic Swim Center: 410-222-7933, 301-970-22162690 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401$4 for active-duty adults / $4 for children.


For the past several months, Gaffney Fitness Center gym-goers have been able to receive guidance from trained fitness professionals.

Body Spirit, the contractor that leads Gaffney’s aerobics programs, began pro-viding personal trainers in January. The paid service includes one-on-one or two-on-one sessions.

“The personal training program is off to a good start with a lot of room for growth,” said Beth Downs, sports specialist with the Directorate of Fam-ily and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. “We had anticipated a bit of a slow start since it was a brand-new program being introduced for our patrons. But over time, the program grew due to increased marketing efforts along with word of mouth.”

The company offers several packages that range from $40 to $600, from a micro-fit assessment to 12 one-on-one training sessions with one of the two personal trainers. The sessions include a health screening, measurements and an “exercise prescription.”

“It’s to help increase fitness and offer something different here to mix it up to help people if they’re kind of hitting a rut in their routines,” Downs said. “They can use the trainers to try to get some new ideas to help them get back on track.

Two-on-one sessions also are avail-able.

While the sessions are conducted at Gaffney, the FMWR is not directly pro-viding the service. The gym staff serves

as the go-between for the clients and trainers.

Downs said those interested in the service should contact Gaffney. The staff will then pass the client’s information onto the trainers.

“The trainers are the ones who estab-lish the contact to come out for that initial assessment,” Downs said. “We don’t deal directly with the clients. We just have the facility, offering the time and the equipment.”

Downs said there had been a request for trainers in the past and expects the program to be successful and grow on Fort Meade.

“I think it’s good to provide something different for our patrons to change the pace a little bit,” she said.

Gaffney Fitness Center provides physical trainers

Personal trainer prices• Micro-fit assessment: $40

• One 60-minute individual session: $60

• Two-on-one, 60-minute session: $100

• Six one-on-one, 60-minute sessions: $320

• Eight one-on-one, 60-minute sessions: $400

• Six two-on-one, 60-minute sessions: $580

• Twelve one-on-one, 60-minute sessions: $600

www.quickscores.com/ftmeadesports.

• Basketball• Football

• Softball• Soccer

Find schedules, scores, standings and upcoming seasons for

All-Army athletics, new sports and special events at

And more, plus


SportS

Sports ShortsFall sports

Registration for fall sports is underway at Parent Central Services, 1900 Reece Road.

Fall sports include football, soccer, cheerleading, swim team and flag football.

Participants can register at the CYSS Central Registration Office at 1900 Reece Road or online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/meadecyms.html.

For more information, call 301-677-1149 or 1156.

Coaches neededChild, Youth and School

Services’ Youth Sports is looking for coaches for fall sports.

For more information, call 301-677-1329 or 301-677-1179.

EFMP Walking GroupThe Exceptional Family Member Program Walking Group will meet July 24

from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the track at Mullins Field.All are welcome — strollers, too. To register, call 301-677-4473.

Intramural flag football meetingA coaches meeting for intramural flag football will be held Aug. 6 at 1 p.m.

at Murphy Field House.A team representative must be present at the meeting to submit a roster.Only active-duty service members are allowed to compete in the league.For more information, call 301-677-3318 or email beth.d.downs.naf@mail.

mil.

Dollar DaysDollar Days at the Lanes is every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.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.

Texas Hold ‘emTexas Hold ‘em no buy-in games are played Mondays and Wednesdays at 7

p.m. at the Lanes.Games are free and open to the public. For more information, call 301-677-

5541.

To Taraweh or not to Taraweh? That was the question facing the Jone-

ses Tuesday evening. For those of you unaware, we are

currently in the month of Ramadan, which most people know as the month when Muslims fast while the sun is up. This year, it is about 17 hours a day. In another 10 years, it will only be about eight hours a day. And yes, fasting includes no water.

It is also a time of reflection, gen-erosity and prayer. Every night during Ramadan, Taraweh prayer takes place after our final daily prayer. It is read aloud, takes about an hour, and if you attend every day during Ramadan (either 29 or 30 days depending on the moon), you will have heard the entire Quran recited.

Now Taraweh is not mandatory like Fajr (morning prayer), nor is it a “vol-untold” activity, which anyone who has ever put on the uniform is familiar with. But missing Taraweh is certainly frowned upon, both socially and spiritu-ally. That’s because for those who believe in such things, Taraweh is when you get to spend some quality time with the Boss of Bosses.

That’s why missing it is such a big deal.

Of course, in the Jones house, so is missing the All-Star Game.

My love for baseball is no secret, and after dominating T-ball this spring and skipping a day of school to catch a Tigers game at Camden, my oldest son Yusuf (aka YDJ) finally has caught his case of baseball fever.

His favorite thing to do is check scores on my phone and watch highlights. He’s starting to know all the teams, he’s ask-ing good questions, and last night he even asked for a Miguel Cabrera Jersey for his Eid gift. Eid is the celebration after Ramadan, and for kids, it is sort of like Christmas without Santa or a tree.

Anyway, the boy loves him some baseball. My “Pumpkin Girl” does too, especially since Orioles All-Star Adam Jones called her out of the stands and handed her a baseball last month.

So, instead of putting our heads to the prayer mat at the mosque, The Joneses decided to keep their eyes on the television to watch the game. We watched the pregame ceremonies and learned that the girl who sang in “Frozen” has a great voice, but has no business singing Dylan or the National Anthem.

I went over the difference between the two leagues, and with the Tigers and Orioles on the same squad, there were no arguments on who we wanted to win. A debate usually leads to tears and a takedown or two — the tears courtesy of YDJ, the takedowns from Meena.

And even though Cabrera and Jones both played, it didn’t take long for every-one to root for “The Captain” Derek Jeter during his final All-Star Game. The fact that a dude my age, and who played on the same Little League fields as I did, is now the face of baseball is inconceivable.

From his first standing ovation and snagging Andrew McCutchen’s ground-er, to his leadoff double, Jeter owned the night. es.pn/1nInQwX

As the game went on and the tributes continued, I was able to share a piece of baseball history, and hometown pride, with the kids while we scarfed down hot dogs and mac n’cheese. Even my baby boy “YJ3” got into the game because he and Jeter both wore No. 2 on their jerseys.

When the game was over and the American League helped ensure the Tigers would have home field advantage in the upcoming World Series, I still felt a bit guilty about missing Taraweh.

Then I figured that I still had 14 more nights to pray, and if Allah was going to give a pass for anything, it would prob-ably be for “The Captain.”

If you have comments on this or any-thing to do with sports, contact me at [email protected] or hit me up on Twitter @CTJibber.

No shame watching the All-Star Game

Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs

Officer

Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn

Spring, summer, fall or winter...Get involved with Youth Sports on Fort Meade, call

301-677-1105/1146/1156/1179.


Community news & notes

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

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

Public noticeFort Meade will conduct a Restoration

Advisory Board meeting today at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express BWI at 7481 Ridge Road, Hanover.

RAB meetings are held to keep the public informed and involved in Fort Meade’s environmental cleanup and restoration program, and to provide opportunities for public involvement.

Major topics include a summary of the Southeast Regional Site Investigation and updates on the Nevada Avenue area.

The public and media are invited. To foster communication and open discussion, video recording devices are prohibited from the meeting room.

Interested citizens who would like to learn more about the restoration program or become an RAB member, are encouraged to attend the meeting.

For more information, call 301-677-7999 or visit www.ftmeade.army.mil/environment and click on RAB link.

902nd MI change of command

Col. Yvette C. Hopkins of the 902nd Military Intelligence Group will relinquish command to Col. John J. Bonin during a change of command ceremony Friday at 10 a.m. at McGlachlin Parade Field.

During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Mark Mathis will relinquish responsibility to Command Sgt. Maj. Gordon S. Walker.

Kimbrough change of command

Col. Danny B.N. Jaghab will relinquish command of the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity and Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center to Col. Laura Renee Trinkle during a change of command ceremony on Aug.

7 at 10 a.m. at McGlachlin Parade Field.

In inclement weather, the event will be moved to McGill Training Center.

Kimbrough change in hours

Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center is modifying its hours of operation on Aug. 5 and 7.

These changes are to facilitate events associated with its upcoming change of command.

On Aug. 5, Kimbrough will be open from 7:30 a.m. to noon and closed from noon to 4 p.m.

On Aug. 7, Kimbrough will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and open from 1 to 4 p.m.

New hours for Auto SkillsDue to funding constraints and

limitations for FY 2015, the Automotive Skills Center at 6530A Taylor Ave. has reduced its hours of operation.

New hours of operation: Thursday and Friday, 1-9 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, call 301-677-5542.

Summer Concert SeriesThe U.S. Army Field Band’s free

Summer Concert Series is performed Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Constitution Park.

Each week, members of the Army Field Band and special guests perform a new lineup of music spanning contemporary pop to jazz classics.

Final concert is Aug. 23.• Tonight: “Pershing’s Own” Down

Range• July 24: “Pershing’s Own” U.S. Army

BluesComprised of exceptional jazz

musicians, the Army Blues strives to fulfill its mission through public concerts, educational outreach and the preservation of the tradition of America’s unique art form: jazz.

• July 31: The VolunteersSince its inception in 1981, The

Volunteers has been telling the Army story through rock, pop, country and patriotic music.

• Aug. 7: The Jazz Ambassadors of the U.S. Army Field Band

The 19-member ensemble is the official touring big band of the U.S. Army.

No tickets required. Bring a folding chair or blanket for seating.

In inclement weather, the performance will take place at the Pavilion. The decision will be made at 3 p.m. on the day

of each performance.For updates, check armyfieldband.

com or the Fort Meade Facebook page at facebook.com/ftmeade.

All visitors should enter Fort Meade via the main gate at Route 175 and Reece Road. Visitors are subject to an identification check and vehicle inspection.

For more information, call 301-677-6586.

Naval Academy Band concerts

The U.S. Naval Academy Band is presenting concerts at the Annapolis City Dock’s Susan B. Campbell Park, 1 Dock St., Annapolis.

Concerts are free and open to the public with no tickets required.

• Electric Brigade: Tuesday at 7 p.m.• Alumni Concert: July 29 at 7 p.m.For more information, go to www.usna.

edu/USNABand or call 410-293-1262.

Farmers marketThe Fort Meade Farmers Market

is held every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Nov. 12 in the Smallwood Hall parking lot, across from McGlachlin Parade Field.

The Fort Meade community will have access to fresh and local fruits and vegetables, free-range meats, quality heirloom vegetables, herbs and annuals, flowers, jams, baked goods and breads.

For more information, go to ftmeademwr.com.

Free classesThe Navy Fleet and Family Support Cen-

ter offers a variety of classes at its facility at 2212 Chisholm Ave.

The free classes are open to DoD identifica-tion cardholders including active-duty service members, retirees and their family members, DoD civilian employees and contractors.

Registration is required for each class.• Pre-deployment Brief: Today, 10-11:30

a.m.• Common Sense Parenting: Monday, 9-

10 a.m.Topic: Preventing Misbehavior• Career exploration: Tuesday, 9 a.m.

to noonLearn about your personality prefer-

ences, values and interests, and how to use them to achieve success.

• Boots2Business/Small Business Asso-ciation (SBA): Tuesday and Wednesday

from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., McGill Training Center

• Medical Records Review: Have your medical records reviewed by an AMVETS representative. Appointment required at 301-677-9014.

For more information or to register for any of the classes, call 301-677-9017 or 301-677-9018.

Math enrichmentChild, Youth and School Services is

offering summer classes in math enrichment for CYSS youths entering grades eight to 12.

Session One: Algebra I, Monday-July 25Session Two: Algebra II, July 28-Aug. 1Session Three: Pre-Calculus, Aug. 4-8Session Four: AP Physics, Aug. 11-15 All classes meet from 2-4 p.m., with a

break from 2:50-3:05 p.m.To register, call the Teen Center at 301-

677-6054 or 301-677-6093 or the Youth Center at 301-677-1437 or 301-677-1603.

StorytimeThe Children’s Library at Kuhn Hall

offers pre-kindergarten Storytime on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at the Children’s Library in Kuhn Hall, 4415 Llewellyn Ave.

The free event features stories, songs or a finger-puppet theme.

• Today: “Into the Woods at Storytime” - Books about woodland animals

• July 24: “Bookworms” - Stories, songs and fingerplays about bugs

• July 31: “Beach Party” - Beach and ocean-themes

There is no Storytime in August.For more information, call 301-677-

5522.

Vacation Bible SchoolVacation Bible School will run Aug.

4-8 from 9 a.m. to noon at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

The free program is for ages 4 through fifth grade.

Registration tables are set up through Monday at Argonne Hills Chapel Center and the Main Post Chapel. Registration is limited to the first 200 children.

This year’s theme is “Weird Animals and Where Jesus’ Love is One-of-a-Kind” and features one-of-a-kind Bible adventures; untamed games; KidVid cinema; Ozzy’s Preschool Park; crafts; and music.

For more information, call Marcia

NEWS & EVENTS

EDUCATION

YOUTH


movies

Eastland at 301-677-0386 or 301-677-6035 or Sheila Stewart at 301-677-6038.

Out & About• Anne Arundel County Public Library

is offering the following events:“Fizz, Boom, Read Magic Show! today

at 1:30, 3:30 and 7 p.m. at West County, 1325 Annapolis Road, Odenton. Joe Romano returns to amaze, amuse and delight with his magic. Be prepared to watch the fizz and hear the boom!

“Reading with Ladybug” today at 3:30 p.m. at Crofton Community Library, 1681 Riedel Road. Improve your reading skills while enjoying the attention of Ladybug, a Yorkie dog tutor. To book a 15-minute slot, call the library at 410-222-7915.

Family Movie Night: “Planes,” today at 7 p.m. at Linthicum Community Library, 400 Shipley Road. Wear your jammies, bring your blanket. (Rated PG, 91 minutes) For more information, call 410-222-6265.

“Ask a Master Gardener” on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Crofton Community Library. Ask gardening questions and bring your bug, weed or plant in a sealed plastic bag for analysis.

• Tent Troupe will present “Folk Tales, Fables and Fun” today at 1:30 p.m. at Montpelier Mansion grounds, 9650 Muirkirk Road in Laurel, rain or shine.

Seating is under the big top tent.The free children’s matinee will feature

“The Bremertown Musicians” and an adaptation of “Anansi the Moss-Covered Rock,” “Caps for Sale” and two tales written and adapted for Tent Troupe.

The interactive format begins with a pre-show of singing and dancing.

For more information, call 301-377-7817 or 301-776-2805.

• Artscape, America’s largest free arts festival, will be celebrated Friday to Sunday in the Mount Royal Avenue and Cathedral Street, Charles Street, Bolton Hill, and Station North Arts & Entertainment District neighborhoods.

Hours are: Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The free event features 150-plus fine artists, fashion designers and craftspeople; visual art exhibits including exhibitions, outdoor sculpture, art cars, and photography; concerts on outdoor stages; a full schedule of performing arts including dance, opera, theater, film, experimental music and the Baltimore

Symphony Orchestra; family events such as hands-on projects, demonstrations, competitions, children’s entertainers and street theater; and an international menu of food and beverages.

For a complete schedule, go to artscape.org.

• The National Museum of Health and Medicine, in conjunction with the Naval Medical Research Center, will shed light on the latest advances in the world of undersea research and emergency preparedness at its next Medical Museum Science Café, “Undersea Medicine Research: Improving Performance Under Pressure” on Tuesday from 6-7 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring.

The free event will feature a lecture by Navy Capt. David Regis, a diving medical officer who heads the Undersea Medicine Department, NMRC.

NMHM’s Science Cafés are a regular series of informal talks that connect the mission of the Department of Defense museum with the public.

For more information, call the NMHM at 301-319-3303 or visit medicalmuseum.mil.

• Leisure Travel Services is offering its next monthly bus trip to New York City on July 26, with discounts to attractions. Bus cost is $60. For more information, call 301-677-7354 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

• Prostate Cancer Support Group meets at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda on the third Thursday of every month. The next meeting is today from 1 to 2 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the America Building, River Conference Room (next to the Prostate Center), third floor.

Spouses/partners are invited. Military ID is required for base access. Men without a military ID should call the Prostate Center at 301-319-2900 at least two days prior to the event for base access.

For more information, call retired Col. Jane Hudak at 301-319-2918 or email [email protected].

• Families Dealing with Deployment meets the first and third Monday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Meuse Forest Neighborhood Center. Children welcome. The next meeting is Monday. For more information, call 301-677-5590 or email [email protected].

• Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 254 meets the fourth Wednesday of the month from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room of Building 9801 at the National Security Agency. The next meeting

is July 23. For more information, call 443-534-5170 or visit afsa254.org.

• Society of Military Widows meets for brunch the fourth Sunday of the month at 1 p.m. at the Lanes. The next meeting is July 27. For more information, call Betty Jones at 410-730-0127.

• Calling All Dads meets the second and fourth Monday of every month from 4 to 5 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center, 4998 2nd Corps Blvd. The next meeting is July 28.

The group is for expecting fathers, and fathers with children of all ages. Children welcome. For more information, call 301-677-5590 or email [email protected].

• Single Parent Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at School Age Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next meeting is July 28. Free child care is provided onsite.

For more information, call 301-677-5590 or email [email protected].

• Marriage Enrichment Group, sponsored by Army Community Service, meets the second and fourth Monday of every month from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. The next meeting is July 28. For more information, call Celena Flowers or Jessica Hobgood at 301-677-5590.

• Women’s Empowerment Group meets Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. to provide a safe, confidential arena for the support, education and empowerment of women who have experienced past or present family violence.

Location is only disclosed to participants. To register, call Samantha Herring, victim advocate, at 301-677-4124 or Katherine Lamourt, victim advocate, at 301-677-4117.

• Moms Walking Group, sponsored by Parent Support, meets Thursdays from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. To register, call Colaina Townsend or Michelle Pineda at 301-677-5590.

• Project Healing Waters meets Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Soldiers and Family Assistance Center, 2462 85th Medical Battalion Ave.

The project is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of wounded warriors and veterans through fly fishing, fly tying and outings.

For more information, call Larry Vawter, program leader, at 443-535-5074 or email [email protected].

• Dancing with the Heroes, free ballroom dance lessons for the Warrior Transition Unit, meets Thursdays at 6 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center in the seminar room.

Participants should wear loose clothing, comfortable shoes with leather soles. No super high heels or flip-flops.

Community news & notes

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 Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. (The Fort Meade Theater will no longer be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays.)

PRICES: Tickets are $5.50 for adults (12 and older) and $3 for children. 3D Movies: $7.50 adults, $5 children.

Today through July 27

Friday & July 27: “Edge of Tomorrow” (PG-13). An officer finds himself caught in a time loop in a war with an alien race. His skills increase as he faces the same brutal combat scenarios, and his union with a Special Forces warrior gets him closer and closer to defeating the enemy. With Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton.

Saturday: “Maleficent” (PG). A vengeful fairy is driven to curse an infant princess, only to dis-cover that the child may be the one person who can restore peace to their troubled land. With Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Sharlto Copley.

Sunday: “22 Jump Street” (R). After making their way through high school (twice), big changes are in store for officers Schmidt and Jenko when they go deep undercover at a local college. With Chan-ning Tatum, Jonah Hill, Ice Cube.

July 25: “Jersey Boys” (R). The story of four young men from the wrong side of the tracks in New Jersey who came together to form the iconic 1960s rock group The Four Seasons. With John Lloyd Young, Erich Bergen, Michael Lomenda.

July 26: “The Fault in Our Stars” (PG-13). Hazel and Gus are two teenagers who share an acerbic wit, a disdain for the conventional, and a love that sweeps them on a journey. Their relation-ship is all the more miraculous given that Hazel’s other constant companion is an oxygen tank, Gus jokes about his prosthetic leg, and they met and fell in love at a cancer support group. With Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Nat Wolff.

RECREATION

MEETINGS

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Sound off July 17, 2014