Fort Meade SoundOff for June 14, 2012

child careCertified family providers give affordable services

page 7

graduation daySpecial pull-out section celebrates Meade High’s class of 2012

pages 11-14

Soundoff!́vol. 64 no. 24 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community June 14, 2012

Photo by Staff Sgt. bertha floreS

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III addresses more than 300 Soldiers, civilians and family members during a 90-minute town hall Friday afternoon at McGill Training Center. Chandler and his wife, Jeanne, toured Fort Meade, visiting with Soldiers at various tenant organizations and discussed promotion and performance requirements that will help shape the Army of the future. For the story, see Page 3.

facing the army’s future

uPcoMing eVentStoday, 10 a.M.: Army Birthday Cake-Cutting Ceremony - The Mall in ColumbiaFriday, 7:15 P.M.: Bowie Baysox “Fort Meade Day” - Prince George’s StadiumFriday, 8 P.M.-2 a.M.: Latin Night - Club MeadeSaturday, 8 a.M.: Summer Sizzler 5K Run & One-Mile Walk - Rock Avenue PoolWedneSday: DEMPS Visitor Control Center CLOSED

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! June 14, 2012

Commander’s Column

Cont ent sNews............................. 3 Classified.............................20

TroubleTicket............... 4 Sports..................................17

Community................... 8 Movies.................................19

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

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300

allison thompson 410-332-6850 [email protected]

Michele Griesbauer 410-332-6381 [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 Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary of 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: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361.

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 Patuxent Publishing Co., 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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It’s another busy week here at Fort Meade, per-haps one of the busiest weeks of the summer as we celebrate the Army’s 237th birthday.

As many of us know, birthdays are about change, maturing and progression. Without question, Amer-ica’s Army has endured considerable change since its inception 237 years ago, always adapting itself to the challenges and realities of the time.

When George Washington became our nation’s first “commander in chief,” he took over an Army whose combat experience had been in frontier war-fare during the French and Indian War.

From this humble beginning our Army has proudly withstood the test of time as our nation’s “protector of freedom” and has established a rich history of successfully defending this great country, its Constitution and citizens against all enemies.

As we celebrate this year’s Army birthday, let’s honor the lives of the men and women who wear the Army uniform proudly and their commitment and selfless service to our country. Let’s honor their efforts and willingness to serve and make our coun-try a safer place to live and work and our world a safer place to foster freedom and democracy.

To all those who have served and continue to serve, both at home and abroad, thank you and your families for your sacrifices, your unwavering courage and your proud legacy of service.

Also this week, the Meade High Class of 2012 celebrated its graduation Monday at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro.

Congratulations to all the graduates as you have achieved an important milestone in your lives. As you continue your preparations for life and a world full of opportunities, I want to suggest that you enrich your learning experiences by considering volunteering this summer.

There are a lot of reasons why youths, not just graduating seniors but all youths, should consider volunteering. Researchers tell us that it’s important for young people to seek out volunteer opportuni-ties. Volunteering is a great self-esteem booster, a

great way to meet new people and a great way to have fun.

I want to make it easier for our youth to find volunteer activi-ties. That said, I have requested Team Meade to create an initia-tive that will help our youth estab-lish volunteer hours this summer. Look for more details about youth volunteer opportunities includ-ing ways we can celebrate youths who volunteer their time this summer.

As a parent, I believe our youths are never too young to learn how to do for others. Not only do others benefit from their acts of kindness, there is a good feeling when our youth can stand up and say, “I’m doing something to help make the world a better place.”

You can make a difference at any age. Let’s all encourage our youth to volunteer and do something great this summer.

Lastly, this Sunday is the one day of the year we celebrate dads. So to those dads who not only lead their families to the best of their abilities but also serve their country, Happy Father’s Day! We appreciate your service and thank you.

As a service member, there are times you when you have to miss ball games, the school plays, the precious little moments. Please know that we know you missed these events because you are serving our country and for that, we are grateful.

Have a great week!Editor’s note: See Page 8 for a listing of Fort

Meade Army birthday activities. For more informa-tion about volunteering, call Army Community Ser-vice at 301-677-5590.

Celebrating the Army, grads and dads

COL. Edward C. rOthstEin

Garrison Commander

Commander’s Open DoorGarrisonCommanderCol.EdwardC.Rothsteinhasanopendoorpolicy.All service members, retirees, government employees, family members and

communitymembersage18orolderare invited toaddress issuesorconcernstothecommanderdirectlybyvisitingRothstein’sofficeonMondaysfrom4to6p.m.atgarrisonheadquartersinHodgesHall,Bldg.4551,LlewellynAvenue.

Visitorsareseenonafirst-come,first-servedbasis.Noappointmentisneces-sary.

Formoreinformation,call301-677-4844.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil June 14, 2012 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

Greeted with a standing ovation and a chorus of “hooahs” from more than 300 Soldiers, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III walked down the center of McGill Training Center on Friday to address the Fort Meade community.

The 90-minute town hall was the last of several stops that the Army’s highest-ranking enlisted Soldier made during his daylong visit to Fort Meade. Along with his wife, Jeanne, Chandler visited with Soldiers and their families throughout the installation.

“Jeanne and I travel around the Army and it’s our job to go out and be a scout,” Chandler said at the town hall. “We’re here to hear what’s on your mind and to share some information with you.”

Chandler began his tour by meeting with several command sergeants major from various tenant organizations, dis-cussing the complexities of the installa-tion and future growth and transition-ing of the Army.

“Fort Meade is a very interesting and unique installation in our Army — a lot of different activities,” he said.

The couple then visited more than 20 Soldiers from the Warrior Transition Unit at the Soldier and Family Assis-tance Center. Chandler also met with members of the Asymmetric Warfare Group to discuss its current opera-tions.

Jeanne Chandler focused on meeting spouses of Soldiers and with family readiness group leaders of frequently deploying units, including 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera) and the 781st Military Intelligence Battalion.

At noon, 10 Soldiers and their spous-es lunched with the Chandlers at the Freedom Inn Dining Facility.

“I had the opportunity to see Soldiers and their families,” Chandler said. “It was an awesome experience.”

Following lunch, Chandler’s tour continued with a stop at the 780th MI

Sergeant Major of the Army tours post

photo by Staff Sgt. bertha floreS

Sgt. Kaya Hansen of the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade shakes hands with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III after he promoted Hansen to sergeant on Friday at McGill Training Center. During his tour of the installation, Chandler visited several tenant units including the Asymmetric Warfare Group and the 780th MI Brigade.

to meet with members of the newly activated cyber brigade.

His visit concluded with the 90-min-ute town hall at McGill that began at 2:30 p.m.

Soldiers, civilians and family mem-bers filled the main ballroom as Chan-dler discussed several topics facing Soldiers and their families including professionalism, hazing, sexual assault and harassment, and the importance of strong leadership.

After the 30-minute presentation, Chandler opened the floor for ques-tions. During the next hour, Soldiers asked questions ranging from changes in policies and military courses to physi-cal training.

Chandler concluded the town hall by

recognizing several members of the Fort Meade community including Employees of the Year and Soldiers and NCOs of the Year.

Sgt. Kaya Hansen was among those to be presented with a Sergeant Major of the Army Coin. During a brief cer-emony after the town hall, Chandler promoted Hansen.

“I’m extremely honored and humbled by this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get pinned my sergeant rank by the sergeant major of the Army,” she said.

Chandler remained at McGill for nearly an hour following the town hall to meet with those who wanted to shake his hand or pose for a photo.

“It was a great privilege and oppor-tunity to meet with Sergeant Major of

the Army,” said Pfc. Connor Mendez, a video production and documentation student at the Defense Information School.

Chandler called the people at Fort Meade “amazing folks” and said he looked forward to returning to learn from the Soldiers and families.

“Today was a very enlightening day,” he said.

For more photos from the SMA visit, go to flickr.com/ftmeade.

Soldiers discuss Army’s future at town hall


News

June 3, Driving while intoxi-cated: driving while under the influence of alcohol, careless or reckless driving: The Director-ate of Emergency Services was notified by gate security of a vehicle that ran the gate. An investigation revealed that the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed, veered to the right and struck the left rear corner of vehicle No. 2, which was parked and unoccupied. The force of the impact forced vehicle No. 2 forward, where it struck the rear tailgate of vehicle No. 3, which was parked and unoccupied. The operator of vehicle No. 1 submitted to have blood drawn with results pending.

June 3, Wrongful damage of private property: The victim stated she went to her car to retrieve her car charger and noticed her car had light scratch marks on the trunk and front hood as well as both doors on the same side.

June 6, Wrongful damage of private property: The victim stated that the air in his car tires had been let out.

June 7, Shoplifting: AAFES loss pre-vention personnel at the Exchange

observed the subject remove a box of cologne from the shelf. The subject opened the box and removed the bottle of cologne, placed it in her purse and exit-ed the store without rendering payment.

June 9, Driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol: The Directorate of Emergency Services was notified of an individual unconscious behind the wheel of a vehicle at the 24-hour Shoppette. Units responded to the scene and observed the driver unconscious with the engine running. At the units’ request, the driver underwent a field sobriety test, which he failed. He submitted to a breathalyzer, resulting in a blood alco-hol content of .12 percent.

June 10, Assault: The Directorate of Emergency Services was notified of teens fighting. An investigation revealed that a verbal argument between the subject and victim turned physical when the subject began to swing at and punch the victim. The victim retaliated and punched the subject in the face, causing minor injury and ending the fight.

CommunityCommunityCrime Watch

Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services

Trouble Ticket

Youth Services Sports Complex needs renovations

Renovate the Youth Services Sports Complex

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

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

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

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

solve them.

Issue: Plan: Status:

McGill Training Center HVAC is inoperative

(except in the ballroom)

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

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

Chaplain’s Word: PLANT TREES“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under

whose shade you do not expect to sit.”

— Nelson Henderson

FINAL AER CAMPAIGN TOTALSThe Fort Meade Army Emergency Relief campaign has collected $109,482 as of Monday, 137 percent of its $80,000 goal.

Making the right choices leads to healthier lifestyleBy Clarissa HardingKimbrough Ambulatory Care Center

June is Men’s Health Month.Did you know the leading health threat for men is heart

disease? Heart disease is a broad term that includes diseases of the blood vessels such as coronary artery disease, heart rhythm problems and heart infections.

Narrowed or blocked blood vessels can lead to heart attack, chest pain or stroke.

Take charge of your heart health by making healthier lifestyle choices. Healthful choices include not using tobacco, maintain-ing a healthy weight, exercising and increasing your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains.

If you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations.

If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control.Making the healthier choice will reduce the impact of the

risk factors you cannot control such as family history, age and race.

Motor vehicle crashes are another major health risk for men. To stay safe on the road, use common sense: wear your seat belt, follow the speed limit and don’t drive under the influence of alcohol and other substances or while sleepy.

Finally, suicides are a major cause of male death. Listen to yourself and ask for help. Don’t apply a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

The staff of Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center encour-ages you to take control of your health with preventive measures such as a healthy lifestyle, practicing safety behind the wheel and being attuned to persistent feelings of being “down” or unworthy.

File photo

Michael Dorsey of Randallstown has his blood pressure checked during last October’s Retiree Appreciation Day at McGill Training Center. June is Men’s Health Month, a time to take control of your health with healthier lifestyle choices.


News

By Jason KellyFort Meade Emerging Media Manager

Actions online can result in profes-sional and legal consequences offline.

That is the message from both military social media and legal subject matter experts for service members and civilians who use social media.

While the military permits service members to use social media, their par-ticipation is not without limitations.

“A service member must understand that when you’re on social media plat-forms, you still represent the United States,” said Staff Sgt. Dale Sweetnam, noncommissioned officer in charge for the Army’s Online and Social Media Divi-sion, Office of the Chief of Public Affairs. “As a service member using social media, you should conduct yourself in a manner that is reflective of the values associated with military service.”

Negative comments by service mem-bers about supervisors or the release of sensitive information online are punish-able under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, just as they are offline.

Gary Stein is an example of that reality. The U.S. Marine Corps discharged Stein, a sergeant with I Marine Expeditionary Force, with an “other than honorable discharge” in April after he posted critical content about President Barack Obama on Facebook.

“Your recourse is not to go to Face-book and post about it,” said Capt. Lance Clark, Fort Meade’s chief of Military Justice. “Your recourse is to go to [your] command and say, ‘I’m unhappy with what this person did or something that I perceive to be wrong.’ ”

Before posting online, Clark recom-mends social media users ask themselves, “Would I be embarrassed if my mom read this ... or would I be concerned about getting in trouble if my first sergeant saw this, my sergeant major or my com-mander saw this?”

In recent weeks, both the Garrison Command Group and Fort Meade Public Affairs Office have received complaints from Fort Meade social media users regarding negative comments posted by

other users.The comments were not posted on any

of Fort Meade’s official social media sites and, therefore, not subject to the instal-lation’s user agreements. The comments were reportedly posted within private Facebook groups, which are not operated by the garrison.

The following are Fort Meade’s official Facebook pages: PAO (facebook.com/ftmeade), the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (face-book.com/ftmeademwr), Fort Meade Police (facebook.com/fggmpd), Fort Meade Fire Prevention Office (facebook.com/prevention45), Fort Meade Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (Face-

book.com/ftmeadeboss), and Fort Meade Survivor Outreach Services (http://ow.ly/btTq4).

The Fort Meade Public Affairs Office routinely monitors the installation’s social media websites and, if necessary, removes content that violates social media user agreements (facebook.com/ftmeade/info), said Philip H. Jones, chief of Command Information.

Page administrators also attempt to contact a user to explain why his or her post was removed. However, it is not always possible to do so, Jones said, because of privacy settings that limit who may send private messages.

Repeat offenders can be banned from

posting on a Fort Meade page based on the violation such as “comments that are abusive, hateful or intended to defame anyone or any organization,” according to the user agreement.

Defamatory comments “are assertions of untrue facts that put [someone] in a bad light,” said Clark, who used the example of stating that someone is a thief “because you’re asserting that they actu-ally stole things.”

While civilians are not subject to the UCMJ, they still can be held account-able.

Furthermore, a service member can potentially face “collateral consequences” for a family member’s actions, said Clark. For example, service members have been barred from residing on post because they could not control their children who violated post policies.

Like most social networking sites, Facebook’s community standards pro-hibit certain content and actions includ-ing violence and threats, indications of self-harm, bullying, harassment and hate speech.

Facebook recommends its 901 million, monthly active users send a message to the person responsible for abusive con-tent, unfriend or block the person, and use privacy settings. Users on Facebook can report suspected violations, includ-ing content they cannot see, by visiting facebook.com/help/tools.

“The important thing to remember is that there is a right way to use social media and a wrong way,” Sweetnam said.

The military offers several resources to promote social media awareness. The Army posts social media presentations and the latest edition of its Social Media Handbook at slideshare.net/usarmyso-cialmedia.

The Fort Meade Public Affairs Office also offers social media awareness train-ing for units, family readiness groups and other Fort Meade organizations.

Editor’s note: For more information or to request training, contact Jason Kelly, Fort Meade Emerging Media manager, at 301-677-1109 or [email protected].

Use of social media comes with responsibilities

Fort Meade’s main Facebook page (facebook.com/ftmeade) is one of six garrison pages authorized by the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office, which monitors the pages to remove inappropriate posts. Facebook users can report inappropriate posts, including content they cannot see, by visiting facebook.com/help/tools.


News

Story and photo by Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

After Vanessa Wagner became a Fort Meade family child care provider in 2003, she worked for three years until her husband, Navy Chief John Wagner, was reassigned to the Naval Base San Diego, Calif.

When Wagner returned to the instal-lation in 2009, she renewed her commit-ment.

“It’s an honor for parents to trust you with their most prized possession,” the Meuse Forest resident said.

Wagner is one of more than 45 child care providers on post who are certi-fied by the installation to provide day care for military personnel and DoD civilians.

The program has five child care pro-viders who work off post and are licensed by the state in addition to their FCC certification.

“We are the equivalent of a child cen-ter without walls,” said Patricia Hardy, an FCC director.

About 265 children are enrolled in the program and registered to partici-pate through Parent Central Services on Reece Road.

The FCC certification process is rig-orous. Prospective child care providers must be at least 18 years old and high school graduates. They are required to attend an orientation session as well as six days of training in child development, health, nutrition, communicable diseases, special needs, fire and safety standards, child abuse identification and preven-tion, and administrative paperwork.

Providers also receive training in CPR once a year and in first aid every three years.

Background checks are conducted every year on providers and their family members ages 12 and older who live in the home. Once the initial background check is cleared, Hardy and Christine Matthews, the program’s co-director, inspect the provider’s home.

The home also is inspected by the Fort Meade Fire Department, the Installation Safety Office and a public health nurse from Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Cen-ter.

Once providers pass these inspections, they are certified.

FCC providers are free to set their own fees and may care for a total of six children, two of whom can be under age 2. If the provider’s children are under age

Family child care providers offer quality day care

8, they are included in the total.Hardy said it is important for the

Fort Meade community to know that it is a violation of Army regulations for anyone to provide home child care on the installation for more than 10 hours a week on a regular basis without FCC certification.

Those on Fort Meade who provide unauthorized day care may lose their housing privileges and jeopardize the career of their military family member.

Wagner cares for six children, ages 5 months to 4 years old. She said she always has had an interest in children, starting from her roots in the Baptist church and her work as a Sunday school teacher for the past 25 years.

A military wife for 21 years and mother of three, Wagner said she was

both a stay-at-home mom and also had a career, so she understands the demands on military families.

“Children have different needs,” she said. “Some children will never adapt to a child center. They need to be in a home away from home. I’m not their mom, but I’m a mom.”

Monica Richie has been a FCC pro-vider for nine months. The Midway Commons resident cares for three chil-dren, ages 22 months to 3 years old, in addition to her three children.

“It’s been really good,” said Richie, wife of Spc. Keith Richie, a lab techni-cian at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda. “I like that I’m able to stay home with my daughter. She is able to interact with the kids. It’s really been good.”

Before moving to Fort Meade in July, Richie worked as an administrative assis-tant at the Fort Detrick of Silver Spring Child Development Center.

Richie’s husband said the FCC pro-gram is a good opportunity for his wife.

“I think it’s good for her and that she gets to stay home,” he said. “There’s plenty for her to do with the family.”

Tanya Crowley, a DoD contractor, said she is pleased with the quality of service she receives through the FCC program. Richie cares for Crowley’s 2-year-old son Jalen.

“I think it’s great,” Crowley said. “I like the oversight of the program and that the providers get regular visits from the administrators. It makes me feel real comfortable that the providers are certi-fied in different areas.”

Monica Richie, a Fort Meade family child care provider, is joined by her husband, Spc. Keith Richie, their three children and Spencer Nielson, 3, and Cooper Stevens, 22 months. Richie, one of more than 45 certified, family child care providers on post. For more information about the Fort Meade FCC, call 301-677-1160.


Community news & notes

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

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

VCC closureThe DEMPS Visitor Control Center will

close Wednesday for a Commander’s Call and staff training.

The VCC will reopen June 21 for normal duty hours.

Anyone requiring access to the installation should follow the perimeter road behind the VCC to the inspection station.

All drivers must have a driver’s license and vehicle registration.

For more information, call 301-677-1064.

DFMWR early closingsMany activities sponsored by the

Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will close Friday at noon so that staff may participate in Organizational Day events.

For a complete listing of activity closing, visit ftmeade.army.mil.

VTF closingsThe Fort Meade Veterinary Treatment

Facility at 2018 Annapolis Road is undergoing renovations through August.

Regular hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. will be held from June 18 to July 13.

The clinic will close July 16 to 31 for the remodeling of the lobby and exam room, and on June 29 in the afternoon for monthly inventory.

Summer holiday closings will be on July 4 and 5 for Independence Day and Aug. 31 to Sept. 2 for Labor Day.


780th change of commandCol. Jonathan E. Sweet will relinquish

command of the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade to Col. Jennifer G. Buckner in a ceremony Friday at 9 a.m. on McGlachlin Parade Field.

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at McGill Training Center.

34th IS change of command

Lt. Col. Lisa Y. Stevenson of the 34th Intelligence Squadron will relinquish command to Lt. Col. Joseph M. Appel in a change of command ceremony on June 21 at 9:34 a.m. at National Vigilance Park at the National Security Agency.

For more information, email Capt. Monica Sowell at [email protected] or Master Sgt. Darcy Bailey-Smith at [email protected].

Hearts Apart surveyArmy Community Service is conduct-

ing a survey on Hearts Apart.The support group is geared for those

separated from their service member by deployment, PCS or TDY for more than 30 days.

To participate, visit surveymonkey.com/s/HeartsApartSurvey.

Meade High seeking volunteers

Meade High School is seeking community members and parents of students to serve in its new volunteer program, “Service Stars.”

Volunteers will serve two to three

hours per month during the school day in support of teachers. Tasks include inventorying books, providing cooking demonstrations, filing, reading support to students, monitoring hallways and helping with bus duty.

Volunteers will be given free admission to school events and will be honored at a year-end awards ceremony.

For more information, call Bobbi Coff-man at 443-433-2416 or email [email protected].

Latin NightEnjoy a night of Latin dancing in a

nightclub ambiance at Latin Night on Friday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Club Meade.

No cover charge. A cash bar will be available.


Chamber Music ConcertThe U.S. Army Field Band will

present a Chamber Music Concert featuring mixed performers on Sunday at 3 p.m. at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 929 Ingleside Ave., Catonsville.

The free event is open to the public. No tickets required.

The Field Band’s Chamber Music Concert Series features a wide spectrum of chamber music literature, ranging

from classical works to folk tunes performed both instrumentally and vocally.

For more information, call 301-677-6586 or visit www.ArmyFieldBand.com.

Rock star for a dayArmy Entertainment is sending one

talented Soldier to the Army Concert Tour on June 23 at Fort Knox, Ky., to be the opening act.

The winning Soldier will open with a 15-minute set for REO Speed Wagon, Styx and Blue Oyster Cult.

To enter, the Soldier must upload a video audition between 1:30 to 4:30 min-utes long. Instructions for uploading the videos are located on the promotion web-page: armymwr.com/rockstar.

Evening vet clinicThe Fort Meade Veterinary Treatment

Facility at 2018 Annapolis Road is offering an evening vet clinic Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m.

The clinic will provide health exams, vaccinations and sick appointments.

Services are available to active-duty service members, retirees and their families with military I.D.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 301-677-1300.

NEWS & EVENTS

Army Birthday CelebrationsCake-cutting, family fun event, Army displays at Columbia mall

Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein and Howard County Executive Ken Ulman will participate in a cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate the Army’s Birthday today at 10 a.m. at The Mall in Columbia in front of the Lord & Taylor department store.

After the ceremony, an hourlong family fun event will be held at the mall. Displays by Army units from the area also will be set up through Saturday.

Bowie Baysox celebrates Army birthdayThe Bowie Baysox will help celebrate the Army’s 237th

Birthday with Fort Meade by hosting the installation for its game Friday at 7:05 p.m., when the team takes on the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at Prince George’s Stadium, 4101 Crain Highway, Bowie.

Free tickets are available at Leisure Travel Services, 2300 Wilson St.

An Army color guard from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regi-ment (The Old Guard) will post the colors. The National Anthem will be performed by the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps.

“God Bless America” will be performed by Sgt. 1st Class Erika Lehmkuhl of First Army Division East.

Pfc. Wesley Pattillo of the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade will throw out the first pitch.

A group of local, future Soldiers will be sworn into the Army, rounding out the day’s Army birthday celebration.

For more information, call LTS at 301-677-7354.

CDC III celebrationGarrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein will

participate in an Army birthday cake-cutting and sing songs with children at Child Development Center III today at 3 p.m.

For more information, call Tracy Love at 301-677-1530.

CYSS celebration barbecueThe Youth Center and Teen Center each will host a

barbecue today a 4:30 p.m. in honor of the Army’s birthday.The barbecue is open to youths in grades six to 12 who

are registered with Child, Youth and School Services.The event will feature hamburgers, hot dogs, cake and

games.One guest is permitted per CYSS youth. Guest fee is $2.For more information, call 301-677-1149.


Community news & notes

EFMP focus groupsExceptional Family Member Program

focus groups will meet July 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

Guest speakers are EFMP representatives from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Use this opportunity to tell us what is working and areas for improvement.

Registration is required.For more information, email joi.

[email protected] or call 301-677-4473.

Food vendors wantedThe Directorate of Family and

Morale, Welfare and Recreation Special Events is seeking food/beverage and novelty vendors for Fort Meade’s Independence Day celebration.

For more information, email [email protected].

Tax Center openThe Fort Meade Tax Center at

4217 Roberts Ave. is open to take appointments until June 30.

If you filed an extension, have a tax question or received a tax notice and need assistance, call 301-677-9765 to schedule an appointment.

MFTB coursesMilitary Family Team Building, part

of Army Community Service, is offering two classes:

• Healthy Relationships: Monday, 1 to 4 p.m., Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

The Level II class for military spouses will provide a set of skills and lessons for building and maintaining healthy relationships.

• “Navigating Military Life”: July 12 to 13, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Potomac Place Neighborhood Center

The Level I class, for military personnel and spouses and Department of Army civilians, provides tools to navigate the military lifestyle. Modules include Expectations of Military Life, Understanding Military Acronyms, and Military Traditions and Customs.

Registration is required for both classes.

For more information, call 301-677-4110 or email [email protected] or [email protected].

Auto care coursesThe Automotive Skills Center at 6530

Taylor Ave. is offering “Understanding A/C & Heating Systems” on Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m.

Cost is $10.An FMWR card is required to use the

Auto Skills Center. New patrons must first view a 20-minute safety video, then attend a 10-minute briefing before receiv-ing the FMWR card.


Romp ‘n StompRomp ‘n Stomp playgroup, for

parents and their children up to 5 years old, will meet during the summer on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Boundless Playground.

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

Children’s Reading RoomThe Potomac Place Children’s

Reading Room will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.


EFMP playgroupThe Exceptional Family Member

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

Registration is limited to the first 15 people.

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

StorytimeThe Medal of Honor Memorial Library

offers pre-kindergarten Storytime on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

• Today: “Hooray for Father’s Day,” stories, songs and finger plays about fathers

• June 21: “Reading Is So Delicious,” getting ready for the library’s summer reading program with a Storytime about food


Summer reading programChildren of all ages are invited to the

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

Participants will receive a reading log and a goodie bag. After seven days, they can bring their reading log to the library for additional prizes.

Prizes will be on display at the library.For more information, call 301-677-

5522.

Out & About• A Star-Spangled Sailabration will be

held through Tuesday in commemoration of the War of 1812. Dozens of tall ships and U.S. Navy gray hulls are expected in the Baltimore harbor. The “Angels Over Baltimore” Air Show, featuring the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels aerobatics demonstration team, will take place over the harbor and Fort McHenry on Saturday and Sunday.

A commemoration ceremony will be held Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to noon and will include performances by the U.S. Navy Band, Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines and the Morgan State University Choir. For more information, visit starspangled200.com.

• The 35th anniversary of the Columbia Festival of the Arts will be held Friday through June 30, showcasing music, dance, theater, visual arts, film and outdoor activities for the entire family.

Events include a free literary reading with poets and prose writers on June 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Oliver’s Carriage House. The Flying Karamazov Brothers will perform June 23 at 8 p.m. at the Rouse Theatre at a cost of $20 to $45. For a complete listing of events, visit columbiafestival.com.

• The Bowie Baysox is sponsoring Team Ghost Riders Cowboy Monkey Rodeo on June 24 at Prince George’s Stadium, as the Baysox takes on the Reading Phillies at 2:05 p.m. Dog-riding monkeys will patrol the field during the pregame performance. Team Ghost Riders will return for several in-game performances between innings. To order tickets, visit baysox.com or call the box office at 301-464-4865.

• Harborplace Summer Live! free summer concert series will be presented through Sept. 29 on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Harborplace Ampitheater, 200 E. Pratt St., Baltimore. Friday: U.S. Navy Cruisers Rock Ensemble; Saturday: Maryland Defense Force Band (military/brass); June 22: Tom Principato

(blues/roots); June 23: Groove Stu (R&B/neo-soul); June 29: The Crawdaddies (zydeco/roots rock). In inclement weather or for more information, visit harborplace.com.

• Enlisted Spouses Club will continue to meet the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center due to renovations. The next meeting is Mon-day. For more information, visit ftmeadeesc.org 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 Neigh-borhood Center. The next meeting is Monday. For more information, call Rikki Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or email [email protected].

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

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

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

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

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

• Retired Enlisted Association meets the third Thursday of the month from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center. The next meeting is June 21. For more information, visit trea.org or call Mary Gray, the local president, at 410-916-5385 or Arthur R. Cooper, national president, at 443-336-1230.

• Society of Military Widows meets for brunch the fourth Sunday of the month at 11 a.m. at Club Meade. The next meeting is June 24. For more information, call Betty Jones at 410-730-0127.

• Single Parent Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at School Age Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next meeting is June 25. Free child care will be provided on site.

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

EDUCATION

YOUTH RECREATION

MEETINGS

GRADUATIO

NC l a s s o f 2 0 1 2

Ariel Abdull Abad, Alonzo Mitchell Abraham, Amber Nicole Acton, Brittany Nicole Adams, Roland Arnold Agli, Rimsha Chaudbary Ahsan, Wadiah Akbar, Lance Matthew Alderman, Ashley Brienna Alexander, Brandon D. Alexander, Ebony Zakiya Nashae’ Alexander, Renata Sharmela Alexander, Marquis De’Sean Alford, Fathima Ali, Andrew Jordan Allen, Christopher Patrick Allen,

Isiah Williams Alston, Jazmin Alexis Alvelo, Raven A. Anan, Nicholas Alexander Ancrum, Mathew Mitchell Andrise, Katherine Esperanza Angel, Rija Arshad, Maritza G. Ayala

Christine Joy Baierlein, Imani Nicole Bailey, Tavis Tiler Baldwin, Shalini Balram, Destiny Flora Baltazar, Ya-Maila Amina Bangura, Samantha Jamanila Barber, Amber Janese Elizabeth

Barnes, Victor Johnathon Barr, Angelo Tejada Bautista, Gambriel L. Beasley II, Dylan Michael Beaver, Marissa Renee’ Bell, Heather Dimes Biesel, Michal D. Billups, Shenelle Lorraine Black, Kaitlyn Marie Blanch, Shant’e Simone Blanks, Brooke Anna Blasy, Kojo O. Boadu, Melissa Michelle Bonilla, Tiara Lennise Bouges-Coney, Kurtis John Boulter, Princess Ciara Bowden, Nicholas

Irving Bowie, Meshiah Kiana Bowling, Rodney Raymond Boyd III, Victor Adolfo Bravo, Terrance Lamont Braxton Jr., Rachel Skye Brewer, John Christian Brewster, Dikiara Armani Brinson, William Taariq Brock, Jade Nicole Brockington, Caitlyn Alexandra Brooks, Devin Nicole Brooks, Jasmine Nicole Brown, Ivey Camille Brown, Stephan Anthony Brown, Tatyana Evonne

Brown, Teion Darcell Brown, Desiree Brittney Bruce, Robert Winston Brusberg, My’Isha Raiona Bryant, Sa’Diyya Chane’l Bryant, William Khary Bryant, Gerald Thomas Williams Bush, Michael Antione Lorenzo Bush, Andrew Francis Butler, Garrett Alec Butler, Kevin Nehemiah Butler, Timothy Malek Butler, Vonshea Antonina Butler, April Rose Byers, Chad David Byron

Meade High School

More graduation photos online at www.ftmeade.army.mil/soundoff/meadehighgraduation The list of names was provided by the Anne Arundel County Public School System. Because of publication deadlines, some students’ names might have been provided prior to final review of requirements. Some students listed might not have completed all requirements to graduate.

photo by noah scialom

Meade High School seniors line up Monday at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro to find their seats for the school’s annual graduation ceremony. More than 500 students graduated this year.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil June 14, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

GRADUATIO

NMeade High School

photos by noah scialom

A.J. Ibola of Laurel waves to his family after receiving his diploma Monday.

Kendall Braxton Calhoun, Tasia Kumari Carter, Emilie

Elizabeth Cass, Andre Lamont Cassell Jr., Evelin

Castro, Cory Wayne Cayton, Kevin T. Chacon, William Roger Chaney Jr., Meagan R.J. Chesser, Christopher Kelly Chew, Shakera I’anna Chisolm, Davon Russell Clark, Kandiz Nicole Clark, Renee’ Marcina Clark, Tyree D’vonte Clark, Tyrell Wesley Clark, Paris T. Coates, Marcus Xavier Coleman, Alicia Marie Collins, Antoine Delonte Collins, Toni Aleshia Collins, Chelsea Ann Combes, Brandon Hezekiah Combs, Teresa Marie Comings, Kathryn Charisse Compher, Juan Gabriel Concepcion-Rodriguez, Sara Marie Constantine, Corey Benjamin Cooper, Dymarus J. Cooper, Desirae Kristine Corry, Corinne Yvette Costa, Drew Christian Cotton, JoHannah McKenzie Couture, Lukas Taylor Craig, Aeriel Amani Crawford, Tayler Alonzo Creek, Alyssa Raquel Cruz, Jasmine Ixbucane Sue Cruz, Jesus Guerrero Cruz, Jose M. Cruz, Dasheina Latroya Curtis, Dejanaye Kierra Cutchember

Gabriella Nicola Damewood, Jonnie V. Dang, Frances Zoe Daniel, Branden Christen Daniels, Kandell Aaliyah Daniels, Sarah Elizabeth Daniels, Aaliyah Brionna Davis, Breana Francis Davis, Serene Eternity Davis, Jacqueline Yeseni Deleon, Chelsea Lynn Dennis, DeMetri D. Dennis, Joseph L. Derenberger, Justin Alger DeSouza, James M. Devlin, Christina Nicole Diak, Lucianna Marisol Diaz, Robert A. Dillon, Daneicha

C l a s s o f 2 0 1 2

12 SOUNDOFF! June 14, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

Renee Dixon, Fulvie Dolora Djatche, Fanle Monique Anrene Dodd, Tyler Doub, Mitchell Donald Doughty, Gennifer Alexa Duncan, Amber E. Durrant, Cara Ashley Dye

Alexander James Echard, Meyana Shante’ Edmonds, Michael Joaquan Eiland, Jennifer Nicole Ellis, Leslie Ann Elmore, Ajibola O. Erogbogbo, Darius Devante’ Evans, Molefi Kamau Ahmad Everett

Gladis Z. Faiz, Daniel Marino Faudree, Craig Bernard Felder, Phebe Patience Ferguson, Aubrie M. Fernander, Thomas A. Ferreira, Cristian Alexander Flores, Antwon Michael Fludd, Kehran R. Foster, PerResha Danay Foster, Jasmine Lavette Diane

Freeman, Ciera Gabrielle Fuller

Victoria Gambrah, Christian Gamez, David Eduardo Gamez-Bonilla, Kevin G. Gamez-Rodriguez, Alexia Erica Gardner, Densan Andre Garrick, Nathanael Dean Gilbert, Kynsasha Ti’shell Gillaspie, Edward Alphonso Glenn, Nelson Alexander Glover, Michael Alexander Golas, Mariely Gomez, Silvia Gonzalez, Austin Lee Goodwin, Shantelle Meilanie Gordon, John Benjamin Grantham, William L. Grebenstein, Chastidy Brianne Green, Robert Montand Green, Yarkeyria Kei-Onia Green, Dwayne McCoy Gresham Jr., Mark Robert Groom, Jacob Michael Gross, Victoria D. Gross, Emily Nicole Guenther, James

Leonard Gustafson

Monique Tears Haigler, Morgan Lynn Hall, Briana Ale’andra Hamlett, Brian L. Hammond, Yongwoon Sean Han, Cody William Hanchey, David D’mon Harding, Janetta Larel Harding, Te’Leshea Denise Harley, Trisha D. Harlow, Jordan D. Harper, Amani Y. Harris, Kasey Zaneta Harris, Matthew Robert Harris, Colleen Marie Harrison, Jalen L. Harrison, Kiahna Cherie Haughton, Kiara Iyana Haughton, Cambre’a Michyle Hebron, Ke’Onya Lachole Hebron-Walker, Shelby A. Henson, DeAnne Mone’t Hill, Stephen Randall Hinojos, Justen C. Hobdy, Briana Denise Holmes, Dinikqua D. Holmes, Reannah Paige Holt, Tyrone N. Hudson, Mariah Noel Hughes,

Sarah Michelle Hunley, Jeffrey Horace Hunt III, Logan Aaron Hunt, Chennette Marie Hyman

Lytease E. Industrious, Annalisa Francesca Zulaica Irby, Cronan Hill Irion

Deairra Michele Jackson, Matthew R. Jacobsen, Ghalib Khadar Jama, Diamond D. James, Ken’Terika Raynee’ James, Christine Myra McCoy Jannsen, Toni L. Jenkins, Eliza Symon Jennings, Guadalupe Jimenez, David L. Johnson, Meilyn Ann Johnson, Orlando C. Johnson Jr., Randall D. Johnson, Robin Caprice Johnson, Rosa Yvonne Johnson, Solomon S. Johnson, Spencer E. Johnson IV, Anise Laverne Jones, Briana Danay Jones, Calvinaugh Rossiel Jones, Jamarii David Jones,

Ken Christian Jones, Kendall T. Jones, Kristen L. Jones, Philicty R. Jones, Rayshawn E. Jones, Shane Eugene Jones, Trevon Anthon Jordan

Morgan Alexandra Keeton, Rick S. Keller Jr., McKenna Anne Kennedy, Kiya L. Kenney, Erik M. Kerns, Amina Khan, Mehwish Khan, Jimmy S. Khouri, Jenny InYoung Kim, Rebecca Pyung Lee Kim, Alexis Ray King, Aaron D. Kirk, Kiana Nicole Knight, Mattie Jean Kobus, Jason Sterling Koch

Luis Javier Labrador Jr., Gabriel Alexander Lassiter, Marian Patricia Latney, Tatianna Danielle Lee, Sarah T. LeRoy, Alayah N. Lewis, Casey A. Lewis, Vincent Antoine Lewis II, Yan Lin, Kaige M. Lindberg, Justin Ivan Little, Yael Maria

Little-Garcia, Shayne William Livingston, Stephen D’ontaye Lloyd, Jasmine M. Long, Deanee Latisha Lott

Adam T. Maiga, Kyrsten Marie Maiolo, Pari Mangaldas Majethia, Davon M. Manigault, Joshua Luke Mapes, Ariel Marie Marbley, Breanne Marie Marchese, Artaesia Theresa Tanay Marshall, Alexander Charles Martin, Daniel Scott Martin, Teasha K. Martin-Palmer, Sheryl Ann Martinez, Elkenjay Akure Matthews, Hector Henery Matthews, Maeva Ruth Mbongo, Maurice N. Mcbride, Dominique Jamil McCalop, Zana Y. McCants, Natalia Rica McClean, Timothy McClung, April Rene McIntire, Jamie A. McKeither, Jaron Joseph McKinnon, Richard Alexander McLaughlin,

David O. McNeill, Kathleen Theresa McPartland, Jorge D. Medina Jr., Alyssa E. Mercedes, Nicole Ashley Messimer, Stephen Shawn Metz Jr., Karen Dy Million, Nakisha N. Mills, Karina Miranda Ramos, Jessica Marie Miracle, Gabrielle Ann Moleski, Demontrica Leon Montgomery Jr., Kevis Ragene Moore, Kyree Da’sean Moore, Maxim Mouzannar, Dante’ J. Moyer, Kailey J. Muffley, Naimah J. Muhammad, Alyesha Nicole Mundell, Patrick Bouvier Myles Jr.

Alexandra Ard Navarro, Buban N. Ndeta, David Anthony Neal II, Andy Joel Negron, Lewis Sha’Core Nicholson, Kevin Donald Nothey, Samantha Nadine Novreske, Adrian Dakota Nuzback, Natalie Oyinkansola Nwandu

Robert Romain Obleton, Kiara Eunicia Oliver, Tolulope Oludanmilola Oni, Valerie Bolatito Onifade, Brenda Abigail Orellana, Joel K. Osagie, Cory K. Otsuji, Jennifer C. Otta, Tierra S. Ouellette, Christopher R. Outland, Orlean Rose Outmezguine, Niyah Rochelle Savon Owens, Indrek Owusu-Afriyie, Niniola Ajoke Oyinloye

Ariana Coral Paga’n-Gonza’lez, Darren Richard Pallozzi, Whitney N. Parham, Helen Jang Park, Adrianna Iva Raychelle Parker, Anthony L. Parker, Andrew Joseph Parr, Stacie Marie Parsons, Palak Yogeshkumar Patel, Tavon James Paye, Abigail Jean Payne, Kevin Jae Pearson, Garrett Brian Peavey, Samantha Joy Pemberton, Gloranny Perdomo-Cuevas,

Neil R Perdomo, Eric Alexander Perez, Maria Alejandra Perez Lara, Briona M. Peters, Imani Zhane’ Peterson, Brittani Tenei Pharris, Anthony M. Phifer II, Oluwatosin Deborah Phillips, Samanica Monique Phillips, Sa’Diyya C. Phillips-Bryant, Malcolm R. Pinckney, Bruce Patrick Pitcher Jr., Justin

M. Poland, Anna Mavency Portillo, Sharice Victoria Powell, Daryl Samuel Pratt, Erinn Gabrielle Price, Jaime F. Prieto

Houman Qadir, Zachary Tyler Quaresma, Breyonna Shakia Queen, Diamond Tiana H-Quigley, Maci Ellen Quintanilla, Josephine Nicole Quiroz

Anyssa Rahman, Cameron Anthony Ramos, Justin Anthony Ramos, Rogies J.R. Randall IV, Asia Lorraine Randolph, Adam J. Raymonds, Marcus Lee Reed, Jameisha Allyana Reid, Lailynn Marie Reyes, Jacob Alan Rickley, Monice Re’Vonne Riddick, Pierre W. Riggs, Carmen Luisa Rivera, Jonathan Rivera-Matos, David Robinson, John M. Robinson, Jahlani Z. Rochester, Brady Matthew Rock, Carlos Omar Alfaro Rodriguez, Christian Rodriguez, Von Marie Rolon-Gonzalez, Na’Dia T. Rose, Tunisha Tatiana Ross, Katheryn Marie Royer

Jennifer Saccone, Mariel Eliz Salvatierra, Darius Roderick Samsingh, Carlos E. Sanchez-Martinez, Marshauna Renee Sanders, Maya Kadeja Marie Sanders, Renee’ A. Sanders, Daniel Santiago, Mark S. Scarlas, Alexander J. Scherer, Students celebrate after receiving their diplomas during Meade High School’s annual graduation ceremony at the Prince George’s Equestrian

Center in Upper Marlboro.

Diamond James, a Meade High senior who resides in Clinton, walks to his seat at the graduation ceremony.


GRADUATIO

N

Wesley Allen Schmidt, Justin Victor Schueler, Eric Todd Scott, Hailey Leanna Sekula, Ibrahim Alie Sesay, Nathan Scott Seter, Brianna Laereen Shabazz, Breanna Rhonece Shackleford, Michael J. Shadle, Kinza Ali Shah, Lubaba Shahid, Samia Shahid, Aldon Evan Shanklin, Eric Machell Sharpe Jr., Denise Nicole Shedrick, Jabree N. Sheffield, Michelle J. Shipp, Danish Hameed Siddiqui, Tanoa R. Shorter III, Caitlyn Karen Smith, Darrylvon Anthony Smith, Paul A. Smith, Tiffane Smith, William Edward Smith

Jr., Sereyrith S. Sok, Jung Hwa Song, Georgina Gissel Sorto, Oluwatobi E. Sowande, Isaiah Junior St. Clair, Shea Lynne Stahl, Gabriella Nicole Stallworth, Tristan Xavier Stancle, Shawneeka A. Stepney, Chassidy Darsh’a Stewart, Brian Daniel Staples, Alec G. Sweatman

Diane N. Tanyi, Kevin Robert Tapp, Paul Brandon Tario, Njuh Adel Tata, Andrew J. Taylor, Darrin K. Taylor, Aaron Jerail Terry, Kristopher B. Thacker, Heidi Ann Thiele, Charvele N. Thomas,

Jazmine Ariel Thomas, Jeslin P. Thomas, Matthew A. Thomas, Tyra Allyn Thomas, Jesse A. Thompson, Robert Alexander Thompson, James Throckmorton, Michelle Marie Torres, Keshia R. Tracey, Trinity Maria Trimuel, Stacey M. Tripp, Amber Cierra Turner, Trenell K. Turner, La’Vonne Ipyana Tynes

Eden Shiena D. Ugaddan, Christian Daniel Unkenholz, Roland E. Urizar

Cindy Eduvijes Velasquez, Coldon Marqueve Viator

Sherrod Tyjuan Waddy, Justin C. Wade, Morgan Jaymese Wade-Davis, Christopher Patrick Walker, Justin Michael Wall, Marcus Tremane Wallace, Kathryn Marie Wallen, Ashley Nicole Ward, Christopher J. Ward, Deisha Lynae Ware, Denzel A. Warren, Jordan Renee Wells, Nina L West, Sara Elizabeth White, Tyeisha Charnise White, Jordan Nigel Whitlow, Cameron James Williams, Crystal A. Williams, Jana Nicole Williams, Marcellis D’Shawn Williams, Stephani Crystal Williams, Taylor

Michelle Williams, Jasmine Mariah Willis, Octavius W. Wilson, Tessla Olivia Wilson, Angela Yvonne Wilson-Stephen, James D. Windsor, Brittany N. Winters, Eric Javon Withers, Brian Witkowski, Chenelle Monique Witty, Cynthia Wong, Sean Anthony Wood, Kenton J. Woodard

Joshua Bradley Yarbro, Megan A. Yeardley, Timothy Yoo, Taraeya V’ann Young, Terrell A. Young, Tanisha Katise Younger, Caitlin Danielle Youse-Reese, Timothy James Yu

C l a s s o f 2 0 1 2 Meade High School


Several young ladies walk through the breezeway at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center as they hold on to their caps before their graduation ceremony.


Graduation 2012

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

Meade High School’s first class of 49 graduating seniors in the Homeland Secu-rity Signature Program received diplomas Monday.

“I’m happy that we were able to influence the students in a positive manner,” said Tina Edler, the program’s lead instructor. “One hundred percent of the graduates are either going on to college or are entering the active-duty military.”

More than 70 enrolled in the program in September 2008. Edler said that although the program had a retention rate of 98 percent, several students moved to different schools over the past four years.

The HSS program prepares students for careers in security, technology and engineer-ing by offering an innovative, theme-specific curriculum and co-curricular activities that are relevant to a 21st-century workforce.

Meade High was the first of 12 high schools in Anne Arundel County to offer its own signature program. The theme of homeland security was selected because of the school’s location on Fort Meade, the Base Realignment and Closure process, and the large number of businesses and defense com-panies in the area that specialize in homeland security.

Ira Snell III, president of Snell Enterprises, a cyber security company located in Colum-bia, is chair of the HSS program’s Integrated Community Stakeholder’s Team. The team is composed of industry leaders, government agency representatives, community leaders and parents who have partnered with the Anne Arundel County Public Schools to assist with the HSS curriculum and co-cur-ricular activities.

“To finally see the first class walk across the stage is exciting,” Snell said. “You feel like you played a part in their development. I

think they’re prepared, energetic, committed and ambitious.”

The HSS curriculum consists of two core courses that are offered to students in the freshman and sophomore years. Edler said that for the remaining two years, students are encouraged to pursue courses that lead to careers in criminal justice and public ser-vice, engineering or geospacial information systems.

The core courses focus on the latest devel-opments in areas such as terrorism, cyber security and food safety, and also expose students to various careers in the field.

Through ICST and other program part-ners, several notable guest speakers have participated in the program including Bob Droggin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning freelance reporter specializing in homeland security issues, and a chief calligrapher with the Cen-tral Intelligence Agency who gave each stu-dent a polygraph in the classroom.

In addition, students attended a youth conference hosted by Gov. Martin O’Malley and Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown and have met with Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin and Rep. Elijah Cummings. They also visited the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis and Princeton Univer-

sity in New Jersey.Edler said the inaugural class had a good

experience.“They enjoyed the course and they had so

much exposure to different experiences that they wouldn’t have had otherwise,” she said.

Part of ICST’s new strategic plan is to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

To fulfill this goal, Snell said the ICST is working on developing project-based learning projects for the Meade cluster schools to pre-pare elementary and middle school students for HSS at the high school level.

Meade High graduates first homeland security class


Tina Edler, (front row, fifth from left), lead instructor for Meade High School’s Homeland Security Signature Program, stands with members of the program’s inaugural class after their graduation Monday. All 49 students will go on to college or careers in the military.

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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil16 SOUNDOFF! June 14, 2012

Community

By Jonathan AgeeU.S. Army Field Band

A panel of 14 Soldier-musicians watched as Eric William Black performed his solo. It was something he had practiced numerous times, but now in front of musicians who have dedicated their lives to the craft, Eric was nervous.

His hands were sweaty as he picked up his tuba, but Eric stayed focused on the music he rehearsed. He began to play, and what the Soldiers-musicians heard was exactly what they were looking for - a young musician with outstanding skills and musicality.

“When I was about to perform, my mindset was, ‘I’m going to go in and rock their socks off. I don’t care how the other guys did, I only care how I do, and I am going to play to win,’ ” said Eric, a South Hill, Va., native and junior at

Park View High School. “As I walked through the door all I could think was, ‘Come on Eric, don’t make a fool of yourself.’ ”

The 16-year-old was selected as the winner of the U.S. Army All-American Young Artist Competition on April 27. He was among three finalists selected to perform before the U.S. Army Field Band panel at Fort Meade.

Although all three contestants presented a high level of musical ability, Eric’s performance stood out from his peers.

“We thought Eric would be an excellent win-ner this year. He blew us away with his musi-cality,” said Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Kanowith, Young Artist Competition coordinator. “In addition to performing his piece from memory, he had a beautiful warm sound, clear musical ideas, and presented himself in a way that we would be proud to put in front of our stage.”

Kanowith quickly noted that all the finalists were excellent; the fact that they made it to the finals speaks volumes for their musical ability.

The Young Artist Competition was started five years ago by the Army Field Band to highlight and feature extremely talented young musicians.

Each fall, the competition is advertised through a variety of networks that reach high

High school tuba player wins Young Artist Competition

photos by Nate pesce

KIDs run for funLEFT: Brenna Aleshire, 6, runs toward the finish line during her half-mile race at the Armed Forces Kid’s Fun Run on Saturday morning near 2234 Huber Road. Runners, ages 5 to 13, competed in races of varying distances from a half-mile to two miles based on their age.RIGHT: Youngsters and their parents take off from the starting line to begin the Armed Forces Kid’s Fun Run. Nearly 250 children participated in the run billed as the “world’s largest children’s running event.”

Tuba player Eric William Black, a junior in South Hill, Va., was selected as the winner of the U.S. Army All-American Young Artist Competition on April 27. The 16-year-old was among three finalists selected to perform before the U.S. Army Field Band panel at Fort Meade.photo by Master sgt. robert McIver

school music students. Juniors then have a chance to submit an application and record-ing to be reviewed by Army Field Band senior leaders.

Once selected, the young musicians are invited to the Army Field Band to perform their piece in front of a panel of premier Soldier-musicians. For high school juniors, the experience can be the highlight of their musical career.

As the winner of the Young Artist Competi-tion, Eric will now have the chance to perform his solo with the Army Field Band during a public performance. When the exact location and performance are determined, they will be posted on the Army Field Band website.

“This is a core element of our educational mission,” Kanowith said. “We are teachers. We are committed to music education. What we didn’t have before this competition was some-thing that highlighted exceptionally refined and accomplished high school students. The Young Artist Competition provides that.”

Eric is looking forward to performing with the Army Field Band, but also has his sights set on college. After his senior year, Eric plans to start his undergraduate work to become a music teacher or professional performer.


SportS

photos by nate pesce

Staff Sgt. Tina Oden of the Warrior Transition Unit looks for a strike at the Lanes during an instructional event taught by professional bowlers Saturday afternoon. Storm Products, a manufacturer of bowling equipment, brought in top-level instructors to teach the wounded warriors. BELOW RIGHT: Hank Boomershine, a gold-level certified bowling instructor and vice president of sales and marking at Storm Products, gives Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ed Rivas pointers on holding the bowling ball during the instructional event for members of the Warrior Transition Unit.

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

Hoping to learn how to properly spin his bowling ball for a more accurate strike, Sgt. 1st Class Chiedoziem Nwofor visited the Lanes on Saturday morning.

After a just a few hours, the member of the Warrior Transition Unit was spinning and curving his ball down the alley.

That’s what can happen after getting pointers from professional bowler Jeff Carter, who has rolled 108 perfect games and holds the United States Bowling Congress highest league-average record of 261.74.

“[Carter] was outstanding,” Nwoford said. “He taught me how to do it.”

A collection of the top professionals in the sport were on hand Saturday to teach Soldiers from the WTU and their families the art of bowling. In groups of 15, a total of 60 Soldiers were given two-hour lessons from the team of veteran bowlers at no charge.

“It’s an honor; it’s kind of cool to have the stars in here,” said Mike Sinek, manager of the Lanes. “It’s really great to do something for the Soldiers and their families.”

Sinek developed the idea of an instruc-tional event for WTU members after seeing the success of the Soldier and Family Assistance Center therapeutic bowling program held every Tuesday at the Lanes.

“It gets them out here with their fami-lies; it gives shows them another activity that they can do,” SFAC director Mark Stoessel said of the sport’s therapeutic benefits. “It can help them heal and get their mind off their injuries.”

After contacting Storm Products, a manufacturer of bowling equipment, Sinek and members of the SFAC began planning for the unique event.

“This has never been done in the bowl-ing industry,” Sinek said. “It’s been done with golf, but never with bowling.”

While the company participates in many charity events, Storm’s Vice Presi-dent of Operations Corbet Austin said the company jumped at the opportu-nity to work with the wounded warriors. Coaches traveled from all over the coun-try, including Utah, Georgia, Illinois and Florida, to participate.

“We want to help, we want to give back,” Austin said. “You don’t get to share your appreciation enough with the military, I think. ... Just talking to some

Pro bowlers, instructors teach WTU Soldiers

of them and some of the stories they have, it’s like ‘Wow. You guys have been through some really tough things.’

“And here they are, they have a smile on their face. They’re dedicated, they serve our country and keep us safe. If we can give back a little bit just to show them a tiny bit of appreciation, which is not much compared to what they have to go through, hey, we’re in.”

The event staff featured Randy Peder-son, a member of the PBA Hall of Fame with 13 PBA titles who is now an ESPN analyst; Hank Boomershine, a U.S. Con-gress Gold Level certified coach; and several Storm vice presidents.

“These are the TV guys coming out to teach you how to bowl,” said Sgt. 1st Class Denny Phillips of the WTU. “These are professionals. That’s big.”

Through video cameras and one-on-one instruction, coaches worked with members of the WTU and their families on crafting their bowling skills.

For a few members such as Phillips,

Saturday was their first attempt at bowl-ing.

“I wanted to learn,” Phillips said. “I just decided to come out and give it a try, and I wound up liking it. I really like it.”

In addition to lessons, each member of the WTU was given custom bowling balls and bags from Storm and shoes from Dexter Bowling Shoes.

Phillips, who had only previously vis-ited the bowling alley to pick up some french fries, went from not knowing what bowling shoes were to owning a pair.

Nwofor said he’s ditching the bowling alley’s balls for his new, custom tie-dyed one.

Both Phillips and Nwofor said they appreciated Storm for bringing the top-level instructors.

“I don’t know much about bowling and I never really heard of Storm, but they put on a show like this — this is unheard of,” Phillips said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of thing.”

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil18 SOUNDOFF! June 14, 2012

SportS

Sports ShortsFort Meade Night at Bowie Baysox

Free tickets are available for service members, civilians, contractors and family members to see the Bowie Baysox, the Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, take on the New Hampshire Fisher Cats on Friday for Fort Meade Day.

The game begins at 7:05 p.m. at Prince George’s Stadium, 4101 Crain Highway.

The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment Color Guard will post the colors. The U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps will perform the National Anthem

A Fort Meade Soldier will perform “God Bless America.” Another Fort Meade Soldier will throw out the first pitch.

Tickets may be picked up at Leisure Travel Services, 2300 Wilson St.For more information, call LTS at 301-677-7354.

Meade High baseball campRegistration is under way for the Meade High School baseball camp

that will be held Monday through June 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the high school.

The camp, which is open to ages 7 to 14, will cover hitting, bunting, fielding, throwing, base running, stretching, playing at the next level and nutrition.

Cost is $175.For more information, email Dave Lanham at [email protected] or

call 442-336-2424.

EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member Program bowling events are held the

third Tuesday of each month at the Lanes.The next EFMP bowling events will be Tuesday and July 17 from 5:30 to

7 p.m.Registration for the first event is required by Sunday.The events are open to Fort Meade exceptional family members and their

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

register for free games and shoe rental at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webt-rac/meadecyms.html.

For more information, call 301-677-1156.Adult exceptional family members may register for free games and shoe

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

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

Summer Sizzler 5K Run and One-Mile WalkThe installation’s annual Run Series continues with the Summer Sizzler 5K

and One-Mile Walk on Saturday at 8 a.m. at the Rock Avenue Pool.The pre-registration cost for individuals is $15. Cost on the day of the run

is $25.The pre-registration cost for groups of seven to 10 is $85.The pre-registration cost is $40 for a family of three to six people. On the

day of the event, cost is $60 per family.All pre-registered runners will receive a T-shirt.The next run will be the Football FanFare 5K Run and One Mile Walk on

Sept. 22 at Constitution Park.For more information, call 301-677-7916.

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

Let’s get the nice-nice out of the way and wish the Army a happy 237th birthday.

I’m guessing some of you have seen at least one of the 20 or so Army birthday videos out there. The one with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III, his wife Jeanne, and Rosita was pretty cute, especially if you are into “Sesame Street.” I probably would have gone with Oscar the Grouch or The Count — ah, ah, ahhh — but that’s just me, and I’m not the SMA.

And in case you haven’t seen it, here is the official Army birthday video http://youtu.be/AsoRu279Pt4, which has a significant Team Meade flare to it.

From Valley Forge to Vietnam and from Normandy to Baghdad to Kanda-har, our Army has kicked more tail than a donkey, and I will always be proud of being a member of the Army family. But the one question I have is: What do you get the Army for a birthday gift? It has planes, I’m sure some trains and plenty of automobiles, not to mention tanks and guns and Class VIs and even cooler uniforms.

Now, I may have an issue with pick-ing out gifts, but one group that doesn’t seem to have that issue is Team Jones: My Desert Rose, Pumpkin Girl, YDJ and YJ3 totally outdid themselves for Father’s Day by granting me permission to go with Cousin Claw to see “The Boss” in Chicago in September.

Can anyone say Man Weekend 2012? Michigan is playing Air Force, the Sox are hosting the Royals, and deep dish, Chicago-style pizza makes everything better.

You know who else is coming through with some good gifts for Father’s Day? Sports.

First, the NBA Finals. As much as I wanted Boston to beat the Heat, I’m glad Lebron James went into beast mode to close out the Celtics. That’s because Bron Bron is now in the pro-verbial no-win situation.

Oklahoma City is going to run Miami out the gym because they are a superior team. (I have to give credit to our friend Al Lawrence who has been on the Thun-der bandwagon since last year.)

However, common sense and a series full of quiet 30-point games will not keep Lebron from being blamed for the

loss, nor will it redeem his repu-tation as being the guy who becomes opaque when the game is on the line.

Let’s just say it’s not always good to be the King, espe-cially when you haven’t done anything to earn your crown. Additionally, let’s not overlook the fact that D-Wade punked himself by giving his team up to Lebron. His submission makes me think back to my Shakespeare who reportedly wrote, “Doth not one great season a hall-of-fame career make?”

Second, for any of you hoping to get that well-deserved Father’s Day nap, UEFA Cup soccer is for you. The beau-tiful game is also a beautiful sedative. Some people count sheep or drink some warm milk to catch some ZZZs, but I’m learning nothing puts me down better than a nil-nil match on the pitch.

Third, now that Tiger Woods is win-ning again, the U.S. Open is back to being the gift that keeps on giving. There are few things more validating as a father than spending the last few hours of your special day controlling the remote and exerting your author-ity by forcing the family to watch the world’s best golfers play like you.

Watching PGA pros struggle has a way of making you feel better about yourself, and that feeling is a much bet-ter “gift” than a measly tie or cologne, which are the equivalent of your chil-dren saying, “You’re OK, Dad, but your wardrobe needs some help and you don’t smell that great either.”

So, whether you are a Soldier, a father, or both, enjoy your day.

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

Sports, give us thy gifts

Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs

Officer

Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn

Connect with Fort Meade at Facebook.com/ftmeade


Movies

The movie schedule is subject to change. For a recorded announcement of showings, call 301-677-5324. Further listings are available on the Army and Air Force Exchange Service website at www.aafes.com.

Movies start Wednesdays to Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $4.50 for adults (12 and older) and $2.25 for children.

Today through July 1

Today: “Safe” (R). A cage fighter tries to protect a young math prodigy who has been targeted by gangsters. With Jason Statham, Catherine Chan and Chris Sarandon.

Friday: “The Raven” (R). Author Edgar Allan Poe and a detective hunt a serial killer who is using Poe’s work as a basis for murder. With John Cusack, Luke Evans and Alice Eve.

Saturday & June 21-22: “Dark Shadows” (PG-13). In this takeoff from the 1970s daytime drama, vampire Barnabas Collins emerges from a long slumber to 1972 Maine. With Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer and Helena Bonham Carter.

Sunday: “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” (PG). An enthusiastic pirate captain (Hugh Grant) sails the high seas and dreams of besting his bitter rivals, Black Bellamy (Jeremy Piven) and Cutlass Liz (Salma Hayek).

June 20, 24: “Think Like A Man” (PG-13). Four friends conspire to turn the tables on their women when they discover the ladies have been using comedian Steve Harvey’s relationship advice against them.

June 23, 27, 30 & July 1: “Marvel’s The Avengers” (PG-13). Creatures from another world, and a fairly significant set of egos, must be tamed when superheroes Captain America, The Hulk, Thor, Iron Man, Black Widow and Hawkeye team up to save the world from disaster.

June 28-29: “What To Expect When You’re Expecting” (PG-13). The challenges of impending parenthood turn the lives of five couples upside-down. With Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks, Chace Crawford, Brooklyn Decker, Ben Falcone, Anna Kendrick, Matthew J. Morrison.

Get to work on time. Know the hours of operation for

Access Gates on Fort MeadeDemps Visitor Control Center,

Bldg. 902 Reece Road7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.,

Monday through Friday

Gate 1: Mapes Road and Route 32

5 a.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days a week

Gate 2: Mapes Road and Maryland Route 175

5 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday;

closed weekends and holidays

Gate 3: Rockenbach Road5 a.m. to 9 p.m.,

7 days a week

Gate 6: Llewellyn Avenue and Maryland Route 175

6 to 8 a.m., Monday through Friday for inbound traffic;

3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday for outbound traffic

Gate 7: Reece Road and Maryland Route 175

(Demps Visitor Control Center gate) 24-hour access

Follow Fort Meadeat Twitter.com/ftmeademd

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News & Politics

Fort Meade SoundOff for June 14, 2012