This article provides a summary of events happening on Fort Meade in the March 15, 2012 issue of the Soundoff! newspaper. The main stories include: - Methane-generating trash from the Manor View dump site will be excavated and hauled off-post next week for safety reasons. Site preparation has begun. - USA Staffing will streamline the job application process for Army vacancies beginning in April. Applicants can create accounts and pre-position documents. - An Army Reserve Soldier was sentenced to six months confinement for wearing unauthorized insignia and making a false official statement about his medical profile.

1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 11 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community
´
March 15, 2012
Thrill of
victory
photo by noah scialom
Medically retired Staff Sgt. Michael Kacer, who lost his arm in Afghanistan, gives his variation of a high-five to retired Sgt. Robbie Gaupp during the Army’s Warrior Games team
qualification camp at Fort Meade. Nearly 50 wounded warriors competed in track and field events, cycling and sitting volleyball from March 8 to Monday. For more, see Page 12.
all that jazz on the run UPCOMING EVENTS
Jazz Ambassadors 2012 Fort Meade Today, 7-10 p.m.: Karaoke Night - The Lanes 11th Frame Lounge
search for new Run Series schedule wednesday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: Technical Job Fair - Club Meade
trombonist announced March 22, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Women’s History Month Observance - McGill
March 24, 9 a.m.: Ice Breaker Golf Tournament - The Courses
page 6 page 11

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Editorial Staff
Garrison Commander
Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
´ I want to acknowledge and support the commentary written this
week by LTG Mike Ferriter, commanding general of U.S. Army
Installation Management Command.
Col. Edward C. Rothstein In his column, LTG Ferriter talks about the importance of cus-
Garrison Command tomer service and the commitment it takes to consistently provide
Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith quality customer service.
Public Affairs Officer I can confidently say this commitment to quality service is dem-
Chad T. Jones onstrated every day here at Fort Meade.
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil As members of Team Meade, we are committed to making con-
Chief, Command Information nections with our customers and doing whatever it takes to ensure
Philip H. Jones that each customer believes we are listening to their concerns and
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil working to find the appropriate solutions to their needs. COL. Edward c.
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer As you read LTG Ferriter’s column, I know you will be able to Rothstein
Rona S. Hirsch Garrison Commander
easily substitute faces and names of your teammates as exemplary
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes examples of how we strive to excel in providing quality customer service.
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz Thank you Team Meade for meeting and, in most cases, exceeding the IMCOM standard for
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis customer service. I am extremely proud of our team and what you do for service members, families
Supple­mental photography provided and civilians every day.
by Patuxent Publishing Co.
Advertising Providing world-class customer service
General Inquiries 410-332-6300 Every day across our installations, mem- There’s Carol
Allison Thompson bers of Team IMCOM are working hard to Pryer, a Sur-
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com
provide world-class customer service and vivor support
Michele Griesbauer
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com
make it a great day to be a Soldier, family group coor-
member or Army civilian. dinator with
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are A prime example is when a 71-year-old the Florida
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com. retired sergeant first class visited the Fort Army National
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through McCoy ID card office in Wisconsin to renew Guard, who
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. his card. Ken Quade, a separation and retire- with great per-
ment services specialist, noticed the retiree sistence and
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the needed a different kind of card. He was not compassion has
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 receiving all the benefits he should have. built a strong LTG MIKE ferriter
except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. Mr. Quade could see the customer needed network for our Commanding General
U.S. Army Installation
Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the help, and so he took corrective action. most revered Management Command
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, Incredibly, with Mr. Quade’s help, the retiree members, Army
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361. was eventually able to recover more than survivors.
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage
$41,000 in back pay and receive other ben- Or Robin Greene at Fort Sam Houston,
without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, efits he had earned. Texas, who has worked hard to stream-
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser Just imagine the impact of this on the ser- line the process for providing housing for
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. geant first class and his wife. They returned Soldiers with medical needs. Or Jessica
to the office to tell Mr. Quade in person Zagelow, Family Child Care director at Fort
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department what a big difference it made in their lives. Bliss, Texas, who goes above and beyond for
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 We in the Installation Management Com- children who need extra care.
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of mand are charged with delivering the major- Or Nick Overstake and Pat Fielder at
the Army of the products or services advertised. ity of installation services and Soldier and Campbell Army Airfield at Fort Campbell,
family programs, and we know that a critical Ky., who came in Christmas Day to repair
element of service delivery depends on our runway lights and make sure a flight with
people. redeploying Soldiers could land. There are
www.ftmeade.army.mil World-class customer service depends way too many great examples to name them
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd
on making connections with the customers all, and to that I say, Go Team!
and view the Fort Meade Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil.
across the counter: listening to them, work- Thank you, IMCOM personnel for set-
ing to find solutions and saying thank you. ting the standard for customer service. I
It doesn’t cost a penny to make someone feel am extremely proud of our team and what
like a million dollars. It does take a com- you do for Soldiers, families and civilians
mitment to serve and provide leadership at every day.
Co n t e n t s every level. And thank you, too, to our customers for
Our focus on customer service is a prom- your feedback. Keep sending us those ICE
ise of predictable service. It is a promise comments. Visit the IMCOM Facebook
News.............................. 3 Religion................................. 15 that customers will always be treated with page and tell us about our team members
courtesy, respect and an attitude of “Let’s who deliver excellent customer service. We
Trouble Ticket................ 4 Sports................................... 11 make this work.” want to know how we can improve, and just
We can see many other great exam- as much, we want to hear about our stars.
Community.................. 16 Movies.................................. 18 ples of customer service across IMCOM. Army strong!
SOUNDOFF! March 15, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
Methane-generating trash to be hauled off post
By Denise Tegtmeyer and Paul Fluck
Environmental Division
The trash will be disposed of at an
approved off-post landfill.
every other month at Fort Meade’s Res-
toration Advisory Board meetings.
Cleanup timeline
The removal of methane-generating The Army began preparing the site The next meeting is tonight at 7 p.m. • February to March: Site preparation (four
buried trash at the Manor View dump on Feb. 14 and continues to conduct at the Capt. John Smathers Reserve weeks)
site is scheduled to begin next week. site preparation activities such as fence Center on Annapolis Road, off Route
The purpose is to address safety haz- installation, traffic controls and vegeta- 175. • March to May: Trash excavation, off-post
ards associated with methane generat- tion clearing. Meetings are open to the public. disposal and backfilling (nine weeks)
ing from the buried trash. Removal of The next steps — trash excavation, Interested community members are wel- • May: Site restoration (two weeks)
the methane-generating trash and the off-post disposal and backfilling — are come to attend and to apply as a com- Throughout the work: Air monitoring,
restoration of the site to a flat, open anticipated to start next week. munity board member. methane monitoring, traffic control, dust
field allow the site to be returned to the The Manor View dump site and other For more information, call the Envi- control, odor control, noise control and
community for beneficial use. environmental projects are discussed ronmental Office at 301-677-9854. public outreach activities
News To Use
USA Staffing to streamline job application process
Beginning in April, Fort Meade will transition to Account,” then follow the directions. Document” section.
USA Staffing, an automated tool that will streamline the • Pre-position your resume. Once you correctly upload
announcement, referral and job selection processes. You may create and store up to five versions of your a document, it is available for
Army vacancy announcements will continue to be resume in your USAJOBS account. This allows you use in all future applications.
posted on both www.armycivilianservice.com and www. to tailor your resume content if you have significantly • Make sure your account
usajobs.gov. different types of experience/skills and apply for jobs in always has your current con-
Jobs announced under USA Staffing will require some different occupational areas. tact information, especially
new application procedures and documents, which will be Be sure your resume clearly describes the duties you your email address.
described in the individual vacancy announcements. have performed and the level of your experience. Include Review and update your resume periodically so it is
There are steps that an employee or potential applicant the beginning and ending dates for each job and the ready to use when you find a vacancy in which you are
can take now to simplify and expedite the process of hours worked if less than full time. interested.
applying for specific jobs under USA Staffing: If you include volunteer experience, be sure to include By pre-positioning your resume and supporting docu-
• Create accounts under both USAJOBS and Applica- the amount of time spent and describe the work you ments in your USAJOBS account, you will be ready to
tion Manager. did. quickly respond when you see a vacancy that interests
A USAJOBS account is needed to apply for all Army • Upload supporting documents. you.
positions. If you do not have a USAJOBS account, go to Some documents are required to verify your eligibility If your resume and supporting documents are loaded
www.usajobs.gov and click on “First Time Visitors” and for employment, veteran’s preference, education and/or in your account, the only requirement to finalize your
then “Create an Account.” credentials. application package will be completion of the assessment
An Application Manager account will be required You can scan these documents, save them on your questionnaire for the specific job you are applying for.
when you apply for jobs under USA Staffing. Go to computer and upload them to your USAJOBS account For more information, contact the Civilian Personnel
www.applicationmanager.gov and click on “Create an by following the instructions under the “Upload a New Advisory Center at 4432 Llewellyn Ave. at 301-677-6526.
Reserve Soldier was sentenced in a military court at
Fort Meade last week.
with the unauthorized wear of insig-
nia including the Ranger Tab, the Spe-
Capt. David A. Blumenthal was cial Forces Tab, the Combat Infan-
sentenced for sentenced to six months confinement,
and given a letter of reprimand on one
try Badge, the Expert Field Medical
Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Air-
wearing false specification of wearing false rank
and insignia and one specification of
borne Badge and the 82nd Airborne
Division Unit Deployment Patch.
making a false official statement. In addition, Blumenthal was
insignia Blumenthal, a member of the 422nd
Medical Detachment, 338th Medical
charged with making a false official
statement by falsifying his medical
Brigade from Rockville, was acti- profile to avoid participating in a
By Mary L Doyle
Chief, Media Relations vated in October 2011 for the purpose physical training test.
Find Fort Meade
Fort Meade Public Affairs Office of prosecution under the Uniformed Editor’s note: For more informa- on Facebook at
An Army Reserve Soldier accused Code of Military Justice. tion, call Veronica Castro in the Fort
of impersonating a superior officer by Blumenthal was charged with false- Meade PAO at 301-677-1465 or email Facebook.com/
wearing unauthorized rank insignia ly wearing the rank of major along veronica.m.castro.civ@mail.mil. ftmeade
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 15, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Have you noticed an issue on post Community
Trouble
and wondered if anything is being
done to fix it? Email concerns and
issues to chad.t.jones.civ@mail.
Crime Watch
Ticket mil. Each week, Soundoff! will Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
address issues identified on post
March 7, Wrongful damage of subject stated that she and
and describe what is being done to private property: Three juveniles her husband were involved in
solve them. threw rocks at a vehicle, causing an argument, which turned
scratches and dents on the rear, physical when she punched her
left side of the vehicle. husband. Later, her husband
pushed hard enough to knock
March 9, Larceny of private her to the floor, where she hit
property, wrongful damage of her head on the dishwasher.
government property: The victim stated
that she had returned from a TDY March 12, Contraband: The Directorate
and noticed the outer- and inner-room of Emergency Services was notified of
doors were damaged, and a diamond found contraband. During a health and
engagement ring was missing. welfare inspection, three bags marked
as and containing small traces of what
March 11, Assault consummated by appeared to be “spice” (an herbal
a battery: Units were dispatched for smoking mixture containing synthetic
a possible domestic disturbance. The cannabinoids) were discovered.
Jogger’s trail temporarily blocked
The Defense Information Systems Agency is scheduled to begin an
exterior building project from Monday through
March 24 that will impact joggers who use
the trail behind the agency’s complex.
The project involves window cleaning and
will require workers to use a lift that has a
support feature that expands outward from
the unit when it is set up.
As a safety precaution, the span of the
jogging trail immediately behind the DISA
file photo
courtyard will be temporarily blocked.
Play equipment near the Boundless Playground is currently undergoing repairs.
Visible barriers and monitors will be put in place to guide joggers as
a precautionary measure during the project.
Issue: Plan: Status: Commander’s
The Installation Safety Office
has deemed and marked
Repair the play equipment
so that it is functional
Repairs are under way
Open Door
some play equipment at
Burba Lake as unsafe Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein has
an open door policy.
Community members Maintain a minimum of Golf operations will All service members, retirees, government employ-
have concerns about golf 18 holes at current site; continue through ees, family members or community members age 18
course service availability in restoring golf operations May 1; The Clubhouse will or older are invited to address issues or concerns to
light of Base Closure and on a site south of the remain open for catering the commander directly by visiting Rothstein’s office on
Realignment installation is also proposed and conferences Mondays from 4 to 6 p.m. at garrison headquarters in
Hodges Hall, Bldg. 4551, Llewellyn Avenue.
Youth Services Sports Renovate the Youth Services Actual use of fields is
Visitors are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
Complex is in need of Sports Complex expected to be this fall
renovations to allow grass to mature
No appointment is necessary.
For more information, call 301-677-4844.
SOUNDOFF! March 15, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
Jazz Ambassadors seek top trombonist
By Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer
After seven years as a trombonist with the
U.S. Army Field Band’s Jazz Ambassadors,
Staff Sgt. Michael Bravin has set a high bar for
the qualifications of his replacement.
“The person we’re looking for will be a
consummate jazz soloist - a unique solo voice
that will contribute to the identity of the
Jazz Ambassadors,” said Sgt. Maj. Michael
Buckley, the ensemble’s noncommissioned
officer-in-charge.
The 19-member jazz ensemble is seeking
resumes and music samples on CD from
military and civilian musicians to fill the trom-
bone vacancy. The deadline for submissions is
March 23. In-person, live auditions with the
ensemble will be held June 5 and 6 at Army
Field Band headquarters at Fort Meade.
“The goal of the audition process is to
replace the person who is leaving or moving on
with someone of equal or higher skills,” said
Master Sgt. Sammy Marshall, the auditions
and support group leader of the Field Band
who is coordinating the candidate search and
audition process. “It’s an extremely high level
of musicianship.”
Bravin, who will become the Field Band’s photo courtesy of u.s. army field band
new instrument repair technician in May, The Jazz Ambassadors, the Army’s official touring big band, is seeking a top trombonist. Live auditions with the 19-member
studied classical trombone performance at the ensemble will be held June 5 and 6.
University of North Texas in Denton, which is
considered to have one of the best jazz studies selections for CDs or the website. committee selects the audition finalists. cian with Cirque du Soleil.
programs in the country. Candidates for the trombone vacancy must Civilian finalists are advised to see an Army “There are many ways to serve your coun-
The 39-year-old has also played with the be able to perform at a professional level and recruiter and are given six weeks to meet the try and this is one of them,” said Command
late Maynard Ferguson’s Big Bop Noureau be proficient in a variety of jazz, big band and qualifications for enlistment. Candidates must Sgt. Maj. Loran McClung of the Field Band.
band, Guy Lombardo’s Royal Canadians popular styles. They must have strong sight- take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude “I look for people who will be proud to say
with Al Pierson, the Paul Anka Orchestra and reading skills and hold a baccalaureate degree Battery and meet the Army height and weight they’re in the Army while they are doing this,
musician Bobby Caldwell. or higher, although it is not required. requirements before being invited to the live rather than ‘The Army’s my employer, and
Prior to joining the Jazz Ambassadors, The position requires a minimum four-year auditions. I have to wear this costume for work every
Bravin had enlisted in the Navy for four years enlistment. A prospective civilian hire will be The live auditions will be conducted in day.’ ”
and played with the Electric Brigade, the informed of his or her acceptance to the band two rounds. During the first round, which is Buckley said the new trombonist will be
premiere popular music ensemble of the U.S. prior to enlistment. held in the morning, each of the finalists will dedicated to the Field Band’s mission to serve
Naval Academy Band in Annapolis. The Soldier musicians are also required to be required to play prepared pieces with the as a Soldier representing Soldiers and must
The Jazz Ambassadors’ repertoire includes undergo mandatory Army training. ensemble for about 30 minutes. The audition also be a team player.
big band swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary For the highly competitive audition pro- committee will then select the finalists who “You can usually tell if there’s an arrogant
jazz, jazz standards, popular tunes, Dixieland, cess, candidates must submit a resume and a will go on to the second round, which is held streak going on or if somebody might be too
vocals and patriotic selections. CD of six music excerpts. The excerpts must in the afternoon. self-centered,” McClung said. “We don’t have
More than half of the band members are be recorded along with the provided mp3s The remaining finalists will sight read and room for divas with as much time that we
graduates of the University of North Texas, that are found online at the U.S. Army Field perform new music they have never seen with spend on the road in close quarters. ...That
and several have a master’s degree in jazz Band’s website. the ensemble. The round ends with improvised person needs to know how to get along with
studies. One band member has a doctorate Candidates must play along with three of solos. folks.”
in the field. the excerpts, which are samples of recordings “We are looking for how well they impro- After the interview, the prospective hire is
Some ensemble members have also played by the Jazz Ambassadors. They must then per- vise and someone with great skills playing in selected. For a civilian hire, a letter of accep-
with the new Glenn Miller Orchestra and form solo with the three remaining excerpts. tune with a great tone quality,” Buckley said. tance is sent to the recruiter, who finalizes the
trumpeter Nicholas Payton. Candidates are also required to provide three “[They must have] good style and a great enlistment. The new trombonist will then be
The Jazz Ambassadors, under the direc- samples of improvisation. understanding of the different styles of jazz.” sent to basic training.
tion of Chief Warrant Officer 4 William S. Once application submissions are received, Musicians who make it through the second Buckley said that although Bravin will be
McCulloch, tours the U.S. approximately 100 the CDs are scrubbed and marked anonymous. round are then interviewed by the audition missed, the band is confident that the rigorous
days per year. When the musicians are not The CDs are then numbered and passed along committee. audition process with be successful.
on the road, they are conducting rehearsals to the audition committee, which is made up Marshall said one candidate who has “I’m sure we’ll find another great trombon-
of new music for the next tour and recording of band members and seniors leaders. The applied for the trombone position is a musi- ist,” he said.
SOUNDOFF! March 15, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

6. N ews
Water distribution system undergoes cleaning
Fort Meade Directorate of Public Works specific area will be flushed. Flushing will and Llewellyn Avenue south to Route 32
From time to time, it becomes necessary be conducted regardless of weather condi- (Bldgs. 195, 201-249, 294,375,393, 392,
to clean the water distribution system on tions. 2200-2257)
Fort Meade. For more information, call American • April 4, Section 7, EPA/MWRA
American Water began flushing the sys- Water at 443-591-0909. area, MacArthur Road east to
tem in February and plans to finish the Annapolis Road and Reece Road south
project in June. Water system flushing to Llewellyn Avenue (Bldgs. 546, 601,
During the flushing, the water may 701, 830-855, 2501,2630, 2724-2790,
become cloudy and discolored. It may also schedule 2849)
have an odor. To reduce these effects, let • Monday, Section 3, Heritage Park, • April 4, Section 8, Potomac Ridge
the water run from the cold tap for a few Taylor Avenue east to Roberts Avenue area, Ernie Pyle Street south to Reece
minutes. and south to Route 32 (Bldgs. 30 Road and Cooper Avenue east to Ernie
Lower water pressure may be experi- through 78, 6620 and 6622, 4200-4475, Pyle Street (Bldgs. 2900-3099, 4800-5012) file photo
enced during the flushing, however, the 2271-2286) • April 30, Section 9, VCC area, Ernie Rockenbach Road (Bldgs. 7000-7755)
pressure will quickly return to normal. • March 26, Section 4, Commercial/ Pyle Street east to Bldg. 1900 and 22nd • May 21, Section 12, 2nd Calvary
To help avoid clothes-staining, the best DISA area, Cooper Avenue east to Street south to Walker Drive (Bldgs. 900- Avenue area, Rockenbach Road north to
time for washing laundry is from 6 p.m. to Garner Lane and Mapes Road south 1007, 1830-1850, 1900-1978, 2010-2122) Bldg. 8122 and 79th Division Boulevard
6 a.m., during nonflushing hours. Running to Llewellyn Avenue (Bldgs. 2500-2699, • May 7, Section 10, Patriot Ridge/ east to Mills Court (Bldgs. 7800-8122)
an empty, short wash or short cold-rinse 4407-4432, 4500-4551) Schools area, Cooper Avenue east to • May 21, Section 13, Meuse Forest
cycle prior to adding clothes will also help. • April 2, Section 5, Medical/RV area, Annapolis Road and Ridge Road south area, Rockenbach Road north to Bldg.
In addition, toilet flush mechanisms can Redwood Road, east to Ernie Pyle Street to Ernie Pyle Street (Bldgs. 1100-1102, 8926 and Clark Road south to Barkley
possibly become clogged by small particles and Llewellyn Avenue south to Morrison 1250-1252, 3100-3102, 3300-3320, 3400- Street (Bldgs. 3900-3902, 8400-8926)
in the water, which can cause an erratic Street (Bldgs. 2300-2302, 2480-2491, 3483, 3523-3564) • June 4, Section 14, National Security
flushing operation that will normally stabi- 4424-4425) • May 14, Section 11, Pershing Agency
lize with continued use. • April 9, Section 6, Recycle area, Hill area, Connector Road east to
Refer to the schedule to know when your Ernie Pyle Street east to Annapolis Road Wray Road (Bldg. 7600) and south to All finish times are approximate.
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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 15, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

7. N ews
Designing Woman
Army wife’s hand-crafted jewelry makes it to Hollywood
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes her husband lived at Fort Campbell, Ky. stylist on “Glam Fairy” and knew the make-
Staff Writer Shanabrough’s husband was serving a one- up artist and hairstylist on “Jerseylicious,”
Nicole Shanabrough never imagined that year deployment to Afghanistan when she two hit fashion-reality shows on the Style
a piece from her home-based jewelry com- was invited to an at-home jewelry show at a cable channel, asked Shanabrough to create
pany would capture the eye of an actress at friend’s house. pieces for the cast of each show.
a pre-party for the Oscars. But it did. The designer said many of the women Nikkay Fashions has been featured on
On Feb. 23, Kate Linder, an actress on at the show said they would like to own each show since November 2011. In January,
TV’s “The Young and the Restless,” took a unique piece of jewelry at a reasonable the Shanabroughs moved to Fort Meade.
home one of Shanabrough’s hand-crafted price. Although she grew up as a tomboy and
necklaces that was displayed at a celebrity “I thought it can’t be that difficult to athlete in York, Pa., Shanabrough said she
gift lounge during a pre-party for the 84th make jewelry,” Shanabrough said. “I thought has a keen fashion sense, despite the fact that
Annual Academy Awards. it would be a good hobby and a way to make her wardrobe is filled with shorts, T-shirts
“I’m still in shock,” said Shanabrough, new friends.” and hoodies.
who lives in Potomac Place with her hus- With her husband away, Shanabrough “I eat, sleep and breathe fashion,” said Nicole Shanabrough, an Army wife and
band, Spc. Christopher Shanabrough, a said she also wanted to make good use of Shanabrough. resident of Potomac Place, is the owner
combat medic at the Walter Reed National her time alone. “I read W magazine and watch ‘Project of Nikkay Fashions, a line of her hand-
Military Medical Center in Bethesda, and “I thought I can sit here and cry and Runway’,” she said. “I set my DVR to crafted jewelry. Shanabrough’s jewelry
their 18-month-old son Jameson. mope that he’s gone, or I can do something record it.” was displayed last month at a gift lounge
“I still pinch myself,” she said. with my life,” she recalled. Last summer, a friend told Shanabrough for celebrities during a pre-party for the
Shanabrough is the owner of Nikkay Shanabrough headed to local craft stores about the Indie Exhibit, an organization that Academy Awards.
Fashions, a line of hand-crafted jewelry that to purchase supplies. She started off mak- represents independent artisans and creatives “I have a bigger goal for myself,”
she started three years ago. ing stretch bracelets and necklaces and sold at celebrity gift lounges. The lounges feature Shanabrough said. “I’m determined to make
The designer makes necklaces, earrings, them for $10 to friends and relatives. free promotional items for celebrities, media it to New York Fashion Week,” a premiere
rings and bracelets using wholesale colored Although she got positive feedback from professionals and publicists at entertainment fashion event held every February and Sep-
acrylic and glass beads, fishing line, charms her first clients, Shanabrough was turned parties in Hollywood and elsewhere. tember.
and odd ends such as gun metal, hardware away when she tried to sell her line to local Shanabrough signed a contract with the Next month, a bracelet from Nikkay
washes, peacock feathers and acrylic crystals retail stores. Indie Exhibit and had her jewelry displayed Fashions will be featured on the cover of the
from chandeliers. Shanabrough later discovered she could at celebrity gift lounges for the American New York Post’s Page Six Magazine.
Linder, who appears as Esther Valentine purchase her supplies much cheaper from Music Awards in October 2011 and at the Shanabrough said her ultimate goal as a
on the soap, has not contacted Shanabrough wholesale gem and bead fairs. She also Oscars last month. jewelry designer is to become her family’s
about Nikkay Fashions, but the designer started using fishing line to make her jewelry The designer said she hopes more celebri- sole breadwinner. But for now, she is study-
said she has noticed more hits to her website because it is much more durable than the ties will pick up her jewelry when the Indie ing for an associate’s degree in nursing at
and Facebook page from Los Angeles and string sold in craft stores. Exhibit showcases pieces at actor Charlie Anne Arundel Community College.
Beverly Hills. In 2010, Shanabrough created a website Sheen’s post-viewing party for his upcoming Shanabrough plans to become a regis-
Although she has made some income and Facebook page. Luck struck when film “She Wants Me” on March 30. tered nurse while working toward the fulfill-
from the sales of her work, Shanabrough fashion bloggers Deana Spoitti and Dana Her work will also be displayed at the gift ment of her dreams — to produce a jewelry
said she is focusing on creating a jewelry line Prigge saw her Facebook page and asked lounge for the Kids’ Choice Awards, also on line sold in department stores.
for department stores. Shanabrough to create a piece they could March 30. “I’ve always set bigger goals for myself,”
The Army wife decided to create her advertise to their readers. Nikkay Fashions will be featured at Bal- Shanabrough said. “That’s the only way that
own jewelry company in 2009 when she and Later, Prigge, who was a guest fashion timore Fashion Week on Aug. 17. you can advance things in life.”
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a telescope at home. through the first few rounds of review because
Becker has an undergraduate degree in when you see the video of him and his family
astrophysics and a master’s in space and plan- talking about him going to into space, you
etary studies. He said his passion for space could tell it was heartfelt.”
and space travel is something he shares with Becker said if he wins, his flight will be
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Maj. David Ortiz, a friend and co-worker a father zooming plastic space shuttles around
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a common passion between them. always focused on the stars.
“Savan’s interest in space is at the very core Perhaps one night, for a little longer than
of his being,” Ortiz said. “For a true sci-fi geek six minutes, his family and friends may be
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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 15, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

9. N ews
Pershing Hill teacher competes for top county honor
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes “I try to teach my kids there’s nothing you last year.
Staff Writer can’t do, if you believe it,” said Loiselle, who A National Board Certified teacher, Loiselle
Michelise “Mikki” Loiselle, a fifth-grade resides in Crofton with her husband, James said that to inspire curiosity and a love for
teacher at Pershing Hill Elementary School, Mischke, and their 9-year-old daughter Katie. learning in her students, she often invites pro-
encourages intellectual inquiry among her “I hope learning is an adventure for my kids.” fessionals from different fields to share their
students. Born at Fort Polk, La., Loiselle comes from knowledge in the classroom.
“I’m not afraid to have my kids tell me, ‘I a military family. Her father is a retired Army For example, a sign language advocate from
don’t agree with you,’ but they have to do it master sergeant who was once stationed at the Deaf Reach, a nonprofit organization based in
respectfully,” she said. “The ones who question Pentagon. Her grandfather served in the Army, Washington, D.C., that works with deaf adults,
and look for ways to improve things are the and several uncles have served in the military. has visited Loiselle’s class several times to teach
ones to make change and become leaders.” Loiselle said she was inspired to become an students sign language and how she works to
Loiselle’s ability to treat students with intel- educator by Neil McCloud, her fourth-grade dispel stereotypes about the deaf.
lectual respect is one of the reason’s why she teacher in Australia where her father was For her own professional growth and devel-
was nominated for the Anne Arundel County stationed. opment, Loiselle said she is mentoring new
Public Schools Teacher of the Year award. Michelise Loiselle, a fifth-grade teacher “He accepted all of us unconditionally,” fifth-grade teachers.
“She teaches like a champion every day and at Pershing Hill Elementary School, is Loiselle said. “I had good people as teachers.” Duane Arbogast, chief academic officer for
ensures that she maximizes each child’s poten- one of five finalists for the Anne Arundel Loiselle attended public schools in Prince the Prince George’s County Public Schools,
tial,” said Pershing Hill Principal Tasheka County Public Schools Teacher of the George’s County and graduated from the Uni- hired Loiselle in 1998 when he was principal
Green, who nominated Loiselle for the honor. Year award. versity of Maryland in 1991 with a bachelor’s of Ridgeway Elementary School. He wrote a
“She is a world-class educator.” which is made up of educators and commu- degree in elementary education. She earned a recommendation for her for the Anne Arundel
Loiselle is one of five public school finalists nity leaders, will select a teacher “with excellent master’s degree in elementary education from County Public Schools teaching award.
for the distinction, which is presented annually credentials and reputation and outstanding Bowie State University in 2000. “Ms. Loiselle was very smart and creative.
in partnership by the Anne Arundel County talents in the classroom.” After graduating college, Loiselle worked ... Her instruction included high expectations
Public Schools and the Annapolis and Anne The judging committee also considers a for seven years at Crofton Elementary School for all students. She treated her students with
Arundel County Chamber of Commerce. finalist’s community involvement, leadership and then taught at Ridgeway Elementary intellectual respect,” Arbogast said. “She is the
The winner will be announced April 16 at skills and other educational pursuits. School in Prince George’s County from 1998 complete package.”
the 2012 Excellence in Education banquet at As part of the selection process, Loiselle to 2004. Loiselle said she believes her chances of
the BWI Marriott in Linthicum. was required to write several one-page essays She became a talent development teacher being selected are good.
In addition to receiving $1,000 and tickets on topics such as philosophy of teaching, for Anne Arundel County in 2004 and worked “I believe in myself; I believe in what I do,”
from Southwest Airlines, the winner will repre- greatest contribution and accomplishment with teachers at several schools, including Per- she said. “I hope my love for teaching and
sent the county in the Maryland State Teacher in education, a solution for a major issue in shing Hill, to identify exceptional capabilities enthusiasm came across in my interview.”
of the Year competition. public education, and suggestions on how to in all students. If she does win, Loiselle said the honor
Noreen Haenn, events coordinator for the improve the teaching profession. Loiselle was In 2007, Loiselle became the talent develop- extends to her students, colleagues and the
Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Cham- also interviewed by a panel of judges. ment teacher at Pershing Hill and moved on Fort Meade community.
ber of Commerce, said the judging committee, She said her teaching philosophy is simple. to become a fifth-grade teacher at the school “I’m only as good as they are,” she said.
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10 SOUNDOFF! March 15, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

10. S ports
file photo
The 2012 Fort Meade Run Series schedule has been announced and will feature seven races throughout the year. The first run will be the Earth Day 5K and one-mile walk
April 21 at Burba Lake.
2012 run series boasts seven races 2012 Run Series
By Brandon Bieltz
Staff Writer
for running groups of seven to 10.
Participants can pre-register online at
ner said.
After each race, awards will be given to
Schedule
Next month, local runners can dust off ftmeademwr.com or at Gaffney Fitness the top, overall male and female runners, • Earth Day 5K and one-mile walk,
their running shoes and break out their Center until the Monday before the race. as well as the fastest male and female run- April 21, Burba Lake
shorts. Runners can also register for the entire ners in each age group. All children also
The 2012 Fort Meade Run Series sched- series for $80. will receive a ribbon for participating in • Patriot Pride 10K/Relay and one-
ule has been announced and will feature The special registration rates do not a run. mile walk, May 19, Murphy Field
seven races on the installation throughout apply for race day sign-ups. The cost New this year is the one-mile walk House
the year. Runners will kick off the fourth increases to $25 for an individual and to for those looking for a shorter race. The
annual event with the Earth Day 5K Run $60 for a family. There is no group rate on one-mile course will begin and end at the • Summer Sizzler 5K and one-mile
and one-mile walk on April 21 at 8 a.m. the day of the event. same location of the run, but will feature a walk, June 16, Rock Avenue pool
For the past four years, the run series “It’s the cheapest run series in the area, tighter course inside the larger route.
has averaged more than 300 service mem- by far,” Wanner said. “A 5K run may be hard for a 6-year-old, • Football FanFare 5K and one-mile
bers and civilians at each race. The seven runs will be held throughout but they can certainly do the one mile,” walk, Sept. 22, Constitution Park
“People love it,” said Angie Wanner, the installation, with starting points at Wanner said. “They can hustle that mile
sports specialist for the Directorate of Burba Lake, Murphy Field House, the or walk it, whatever it is.” • Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K and
Family and Morale, Welfare and Recre- Rock Avenue pool, Constitution Park and Wanner said the friendly competition one-mile walk, Oct. 27, Pavilion
ation. “It’s a good workout and it’s com- the Pavilion. Each run will feature a new also allows participants to test the waters
petitive in nature, but not against other course. of competitive running. • Turkey Trot 5K and one-mile walk,
people — against yourself.” Every race has a different theme, from “I think the best thing is when you see Nov. 17, Murphy Field House
Wanner said the series allows runners to running in costumes for the Halloween somebody finish who didn’t think they
compete for a lower fee than most other Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K in October could,” she said. “People looking for a way • Reindeer Run, 5K and one-mile
runs in the area. For pre-registered partici- to earning a turkey at the Turkey Trot in to challenge themselves on a regular basis, walk, Dec. 15, Murphy Field House
pants, each run costs $15. The cost is $40 November. this is a good way to do it because rain or
for families of three to six people and $85 “We’re trying to make it exciting,” Wan- shine, it’s time to run.” All runs begin at 8 a.m.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil March 15, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11