Fort Meade Soundoff October 25, 2012

1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 43 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community October 25, 2012
´
country time
photo by Spc. Joseph Joynt
Ben Martin takes a spin on the mechanical bull, a machine designed to replicate the riding of a bucking animal, at Meade’s Gone Country held Friday evening at The
Conference Center. The four-hour event also featured line dance lessons and dart-throwing contests. For more, see Page 14.
holy Joe’s safe haven UPCOMING EVENTS
Post unit ministry Sarah’s House 25th FRIDAY, 6-10:30 P.M.: Halloween Costume Party - The Lanes’ 11th Frame Lounge
teams use coffee anniversary celebrates Saturday, 8 a.m.: Ghost, Ghoul & Goblin 5K Run/1-Mile Walk - The Pavilion
service to community Saturday, 9:30 a.m.: Halloween Pet Costume Contest - The Pavilion
to support Soldiers
Tuesday, 6-8 p.m.: Hallelujah Festival - The Pavilion
page 11 page 8 Nov. 3, 10:30 a.m.: Veterans Appreciation Day Luncheon - Club Meade

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Editorial Staff
Garrison Commander
Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
´
Exercise your right to vote
Col. Edward C. Rothstein
Garrison Command Voting in any type of election, from local elections to presidential
Sgt. Maj. Thomas J. Latter primaries, provides an important way to voice your opinions regard-
Public Affairs Officer ing elected leaders and issues that matter to you.
Chad T. Jones This week I give way from my weekly column to share with you
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil a letter written in 1964 by a young Fort Meade platoon leader who
Chief, Command Information scribes his thoughts about why it’s important for members of the
Philip H. Jones military to exercise their right to vote.
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil Thank you Regina Abbott for sharing with our readers this letter
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer by your husband, who died in 2010.
Rona S. Hirsch The next election will be held on Nov. 6. I hope everyone exercises
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes their right to vote. For more information, visit fvap.gov or talk to
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz your voting assistance representative. COL. Edward c.
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis Have a great week! Rothstein
Supple­mental photography provided Garrison Commander
by Patuxent Publishing Co.
Advertising
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My Vote, Freedom’s Privilege
Allison Thompson TO: The Personnel of My Platoon ably not going to affect the outcome of a
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com Oct. 16, 1964 national election. And no one will be hurt
Michele Griesbauer As members of the armed forces, we if you do not vote. No one, that is, except
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com have been entrusted with one of the most you as an individual.
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are
sacred missions our country can bestow For just as we, each one of us, is entrusted
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com. upon its citizens — namely, the defense of with a small portion of this nation’s defense,
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through this nation against all those powers intent
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. so are we entrusted with a voice in the selec-
on uprising or overrunning her. tion of this nation’s leaders.
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the But unfortunately, this trust is sometimes No matter where in the world a man
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
extremely evasive. The jobs we are given are lives, he is subject to military service. But
except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. frequently rather menial, the hours long, where else in this world is he afforded the
Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the the compensation small. Too often we feel
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, privilege of choosing his military service’s
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361. abused, unappreciated, mired in futility. commander-in-chief? This is the glory of
How many times, as we perform our our heritage, the honor of our freedom and
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, assigned tasks, have we failed to realize, the magnitude of our responsibility.
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser failed to remember the obligation and faith As uniformed members of the American
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. vested in us? ideal, we symbolize hope for all those in
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department However, we all know, stepping back and the world less fortunate than we are. The
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are taking a detached view of the situation, needy, the underfed, the oppressed look to
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 that every duty, large or small, is both America as their hope, their salvation.
the Army of the products or services advertised. necessary and vital to the realization of And when they turn their imploring gaze
maximum defense posture. And that every to this country, they are in essence look-
man, as he performs his duties, is contrib- ing to each and every one of us with the
www.ftmeade.army.mil uting his share to the preservation of this respect and admiration that only free men
nation’s autonomy. can command.
You 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. Defending our country, by whatever Let us be sure we deserve their admira-
means we must employ, through whatever tion. If we fail them, we have failed our-
tasks we must perform, is really more than selves. Take the time to vote. It is just a
just our duty; it is our privilege. small effort, but it is a huge responsibility.
Co n t e n t s Now it is time to focus this detached view The privilege of voting is the privilege of
on our right to vote. freedom. And gentlemen, this is the privi-
News.............................. 3 Sports................................... 20 People frequently ask, “Why should I lege we proudly defend. This is America.
bother? What difference will my vote make?” Walter D. Abbott Jr.
Trouble Ticket................ 4 Movies.................................. 22 And superficially, the logic behind these que- 1st Lieutenant, U.S. Army
ries seems both apparent and valid. USASA Support Group
Community.................. 17 Classified.............................. 23 Obviously, one vote more or less is prob- Fort Meade
SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
‘A man who cared’
Fort Meade dedicates building in memory of local union leader
Story and photo by Brandon Bieltz a representative from the office of Sen.
Staff Writer Barbara A. Mikulski, several members
Tucked away in the corner of Fort of Howie’s family — including his wife,
Meade, a small white building sits off of Alba, — attended last week’s ceremony to
1 1/2 Street. The one-room building is see the words “Howie Hall” on the side of
the home of Local 1622 of the American the union hall.
Federation of Government Employees. During her brief remarks, Gabriel
On Oct. 18, the building was renamed spoke for the family.
in memory of the man who led the union “To me, Howie was the definition of
for more than two decades. Lonnie W. a man,” Gabriel said. “He took care of
Howie served as president of Local 1622 his wife, he took care of his family and
AFGE from 1989 to 2011. he worked hard. He didn’t work hard for
“When my grandmother told me that recognition; he worked hard for the satis-
the union hall would be named after him, faction of doing a good job. ...
I couldn’t help but smile,” said Qiana “The family and I would like to thank
Gabriel, Howie’s granddaughter, during you for lifting up Howie and honoring
the ceremony. “You guys all love and him and naming the union hall after
respect my grandfather the way our fam- him.”
ily loves and respects my grandfather.”
Garrison Commander Col. Edward Joseph Flynn, vice president of the
C. Rothstein also spoke at the 20-minute American Federation of Government
ceremony, calling Howie a “man who Employees 4th District, presents Alba
cared.” Howie with a dedication plaque in honor
“He cared and loved his community so of her late husband and former Local
much to work with the union and make 1622 AFGE president, Lonnie Howie,
things happen,” Rothstein said. on Oct. 18. Garrison officials and family
Howie, a native of Baltimore, was a members attended the 20-minute
member of the Air Force and the Army, dedication ceremony.
and served in both the Korean Conflict
and the war in Vietnam. After his military
career, Howie entered the civil service at
Fort Meade, where he served in a number tying a bow
of positions including property book offi-
cer and management analyst. on red ribbon
week
“Lonnie spent his entire adult life serv-
ing others,” said Joseph Flynn, AFGE 4th
District vice president. “He served in the
military defending our freedom and secu- In commemoration of the National
rity. As a Department of Defense worker, Red Ribbon Campaign, which began
he served our armed forces in keeping Oct. 20 and ends Sunday, Garrison
them prepared and ready.” Commander Col. Edward C. Roth-
In 1989, Howie was elected president stein ties a red ribbon around a tree
of Local 1622 AFGE. As union presi- outside garrison headquarters on
dent, Howie served on the negotiating Llewellyn Avenue. Red Ribbon Week
team, managed grievances, advocated on is the oldest and largest drug pre-
behalf of union members, and counseled vention campaign in the country. It
employees. serves as a vehicle for communities
Even after retiring from Fort Meade and individuals to support drug pre-
in 2004 after 25 years of civilian service, vention and education efforts.
Howie continued to serve as union presi- Red Ribbon Week is also national
dent until 2011. event honoring Drug Enforce-
Howie died of cancer on Feb. 20, 2011 ment Administration Special Agent
at the age of 72. Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was
“It’s good that we honor the memory killed in 1985 by drug traffickers.
of Lonnie Howie the way we do today,”
Flynn said. “I know that he’s with us, photo by philip h. jones
smiling like only Lonnie could.”
In addition to garrison leaders and
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil October 25, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Post patrol cars sport new graphics
By Lt. Col. J. Darrell Sides ments: this is an Army post and reflects to all rear is to allow the DES to follow up
Provost Marshal and Director • The green color morphing into blue of the DES. on public complaints/comments about
Directorate of Emergency Services represents the military police (green) U.S. Army Police strikes the much- particular patrols and allow DES mem-
The Directorate of Emergency Ser- and the Department of the Army Civil- needed balance within the dual-force bers to identify each other at emergen-
vices has started to display new graphics ian Police officers (blue) working as one police organization. (Simply writing cies/incidents.
on its patrol cars. team. “Military Police” on the cars makes • The circular graphic near the spot-
Below are features of the design ele- • “U.S. Army” logo reminds all that the DACPs feel left out, and it reminds light is the Fort Meade logo, our “city.”
the rest of us that they are • We are lowering the American flag
not MPs. But writing just on the back several inches so it doesn’t
“Police” makes us come appear to be bending. The flag on the
across as a civilian police passenger side will be reversed, identical
agency.) to the flag on the uniforms of our right
• “Assist, Protect, Defend” shoulders.
is the motto of the Military This design was voted on by the
Police Corps, the proponent MPs and DACPs, selected 2:1 over four
of all law enforcement for design options.
the Army. Overall, we are proud of the new
• The bumper numbers design and hope the Fort Meade com-
on the bottom sides and munity is as well.
Community
Crime Watch
Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
photo courtesy directorate of emergency services
Officer Benjamin Hamilton updates his patrol vehicle inspection log on Oct. 17 noting that new Oct. 18, Theft, attempt by driv- spotted the vehicle leaving Gate
er to elude uniformed police by 7 (Reece Road). Units attempted
graphics were installed on the vehicle just moments earlier. The design was voted on by the military failing to stop vehicle, resisting to initiate a traffic stop on the
police and Department of the Army Civilian Police officers. arrest: The Directorate of Emer- vehicle, but the driver refused
gency Services was notified of a to stop. The driver fled and was
shoplifting subject, who fled the eventually stopped.
Have you noticed an issue on post Exchange in his vehicle. Units
Trouble
and wondered if anything is being
done to fix it? Email concerns and
issues to chad.t.jones.civ@mail. Chaplain’s Word:
Ticket mil. Each week, Soundoff! will
address issues identified on post
and describe what is being done to
AUTUMN
“Autumn is a second spring
solve them. when every leaf is a flower.”
— Albert Camus
Issue: Plan: Status:
Youth Services Sports Renovate the Youth Services Actual use of fields is
Complex needs renovations Sports Complex expected to be Spring 2013
Connect with Fort Meade at
Demolition and installation
McGill Training Center Install a new HVAC
are now being performed, Facebook.com/ftmeade
HVAC is inoperative
(except in the ballroom) classrooms 1-5 closed during
A/C installation
SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
ASAP manager Kenneth Jones retires after 40 years
By Lisa R. Rhodes Jones said his experience working with
Staff Writer substance abusers and the mentally ill set
For 40 years, Kenneth Jones has worked the course for his life’s passion.
to educate the Fort Meade community “I just thought it was so unfortunate
— from garrison leaders to service mem- that people were, in essence, destroying
bers — about the dangers of substance themselves,” Jones said of his work with
abuse and how to prevent its debilitating substance abusers. “It all comes down to
effects. people believing that there’s no hope, low
On Nov. 3, Jones will retire as manager self-esteem, and they act in ways that are
of Fort Meade’s Army Substance Abuse counterproductive.”
Program and suicide prevention efforts. Jones began his career at Fort Meade as
Jones said it has been a “privilege” to a drug abuse counselor in 1972. He served
work at Fort Meade. as a drug abuse counselor in a residential
“I just want to thank everyone,” he (therapeutic community) and nonresiden-
said. “Fort Meade is a great place to work tial setting, assessing Soldiers and provid-
and live. I stayed here because I found no ing individual and group counseling and
reason to leave.” crisis management services.
Jones retires along with his wife, Gloria- By 1987, Jones had become the edu-
Carter Jones, a management analyst for cation coordinator for the installation’s
Manpower at the Resource Management Alcohol and Drug Control Office and was
Office who also has worked at Fort Meade responsible for supervising Fort Meade’s
for 40 years. drug testing program for service members
The couple will be feted Oct. 31 at a and civilian personnel, as well as con-
photo by jason kelly
retirement luncheon at Club Meade. tinuing the installation’s substance abuse
“Ken has been an invaluable asset to Kenneth Jones, Fort Meade’s Army Substance Abuse Program manager and Suicide prevention and education efforts.
this command,” said Wendy Messick, Prevention manager, will retire Nov. 3 after 40 years of service to the installation. More than 10 years later, Jones became
director of the Directorate of Human the ASAP manager.
Resources. “Ken is passionate about the Jones said the council uses a “public As a result, Jones transferred to the Jones said he is proud of the work
health and welfare of all members of this health model” to address the Army’s five Army, received his Advanced Individual of the Community Health Promotion
community.” pillars of resiliency: physical, social, fam- Training at the Academy of Health Ser- Council, which is chaired by Garrison
Navy Cmdr. Marivic Fields, director ily; emotional and spiritual. vices in San Antonio and became a com- Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein,
of Behavior Health Patient Management “Ken has been instrumental in bringing bat medic. and the plans to create an Army Wellness
and a licensed social worker at Kim- the Resiliency Campus and Army Well- Jones began his Army service as a Center and Army Resiliency Campus at
brough Ambulatory Care Center, has ness Center into fruition,” said Fields, young noncommissioned officer in charge Fort Meade.
known Jones for five years through her who also is the council’s health promotion of the ambulance section of the Army In September, ASAP was evaluated by
work with ASAP. officer. “Although these initiatives are still hospital at Fort Jackson, S.C., in 1971. the Army Center for Substance Abuse
“Ken is an icon in this community and in the works, it is safe to say that without His experience led to a lifelong career Programs and the Installation Manage-
he is knowledgeable about the needs of his involvement, it would have been diffi- dedicated to substance abuse and suicide ment Command. He credits ASAP’s suc-
the Fort Meade community and has made cult to see the progress we have currently prevention, and mental health issues. cess to the support that he and his staff
very strong relationships with different attained.” “We picked up a lot of Soldiers who have received from the installation over
agencies,” Fields said. “He is leaving a A native of Sylvania, Ga., a town 60 were, unfortunately, victimized. Some of the years.
legacy at Fort Meade, and it will be etched miles northwest of Savannah, Jones was them had drug problems,” said Jones, “I am proud that ASAP is recognized
in every cornerstone of Fort Meade and raised in Wilmington, Del., and went to recalling how the hospital’s metro ambu- as among one of the best in the military,”
in our hearts.” elementary school in Philadelphia. lance once picked up a Soldier who had Jones said, noting that inspectors from
That legacy includes the establishment After attending Pine Forge Academy, a overdosed on drugs and later died. “It IMCOM commented that it was “very
in 2009 of the installation’s Community Seventh Day Adventist boarding school, spurred an interest I had in substance refreshing to come to an installation where
Health Promotion Council. ASAP started for high school, he entered the Marine abuse and substance abuse prevention.” ASAP is done right.”
the initiative to develop the council. Corps in June 1969. After his military service, Jones landed Contemplating retirement, the Ran-
After Jones was named the Suicide Pre- Jones completed basic training at a job in the civilian sector through the dallstown resident intends to ride his
vention manager in 2009, he initiated the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Army’s Project Transition program and Harley Davidson “Lowrider” motorcycle
funding for the installation’s Applied Sui- Island in Beaufort, S.C., but received a became a psychiatric technician at Seton and spend time with his wife and eight
cide Intervention Skills Training Program, voluntary underservice transfer to the Psychiatric Hospital in Baltimore. grandchildren.
a 15-hour suicide prevention workshop. Army in September 1969. Jones completed an associate’s degree An active member of the Edmondson
The Community Health Promotion His brother Earle was also serving in in mental health technology at Baltimore Heights Church in Baltimore, Jones plans
Council works to integrate community the military. Jones said that at that time, City Community College, then earned his to work with church leaders to start a
services and resources; identify gaps and the military did not send two brothers to bachelor’s degree in psychology through substance abuse prevention ministry.
overlap of programs and services; and a combat zone. But the military occupa- a combined program at Coppin State But even with an eye toward retirement,
assess community health to enhance the tional specialties in the Marines were for and Bowie State universities. He is now Jones is grateful to Fort Meade.
well-being and quality of life of service combat arms. enrolled in a master’s degree program at “I want to thank everyone at Fort
members, their dependents and civilian “There was no job for me in the Marines Bowie State University, studying psychol- Meade for their support over the years,”
employees. at that time,” Jones said. ogy with an emphasis in substance abuse. Jones said. “I wish them well.”
SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

6. N ews
Inspired by an active life. Built to save it.
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TIMES: Monday, Nov. 5 - Friday, Nov. 9, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m.
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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil October 25, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

7. N ews
Sarah’s House celebrates 25 years of service
By Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer
For 10 years, Heaven White has
aspired to become a certified phleboto-
mist technician.
White is close to achieving her goal.
On Saturday, she will take the state
certification exam, confident she will
succeed.
“I’m excited that in just a few months, Heaven White, a
I was able to take 10 years of trying and guest at Sarah’s
actually do it,” she said. House, shares
For the past 10 months, White and her story of
her five children have been guests at success during
Sarah’s House, the transitional housing the transitional
program on Fort Meade. housing
White shared her story of success program’s 25th
during the 25th anniversary celebration anniversary
of Sarah’s House on Friday. The hour- celebration on
long event was followed by a reception Friday. White’s
at the facility. 8-year-old
“Sarah’s House has been a true part- daughter, Kayla
nership and a movement to take indi- Covert, shows
viduals and families through crisis to off a drawing
stability and self-sufficiency,” said Wil- she made for the
liam J. McCarthy Jr., executive director event.
of Catholic Charities of Baltimore dur-
ing the commemoration program. photo by
In 1987, Sarah’s House was estab- sarah pastrana
lished through a partnership between
Anne Arundel County, Catholic Chari-
ties and the U.S. Army at Fort Meade.
Today, Sarah’s House offers both
emergency shelter and transitional
housing for homeless families, serving
125 guests, half of whom are children,
on a daily basis. Guests receive intensive
case management, employment services,
licensed child care, counseling, trans- House 25 years ago when he was serving and a partner than a landlord. I believe During that time, White worked two
portation to and from work and doctor in the Maryland House of Delegates. that’s what it’s all about.” jobs and also enrolled at Sojourner-
appointments, parenting classes, com- “This county is an affluent county. Rothstein said the Army’s partnership Douglass College in Annapolis for a 10-
puter certification and GED classes. We read every day about million dol- in creating and sustaining Sarah’s House week training program for phlebotomy.
McCarthy said that a collabora- lar homes cropping up like dandelions is important and that he will continue A phlebotomist draws blood.
tion of state and community resources after a spring rain,” Leopold said. “But to promote Fort Meade’s support of “If it wasn’t for the few months of
now support Sarah’s House, including within all that affluence, there is poverty the organization through the work of stability that I attained here, I would not
the state of Maryland, Anne Arun- and homelessness.” service members who volunteer to help have been able to complete the program
del Community Development Services, Leopold said homelessness, hunger the guests. with raising five children and working
the United Way of Central Maryland, and domestic violence initiatives are a The anniversary celebration began two jobs,” said White, who also credited
the Community Foundation of Anne priority for his administration. In the with the National Anthem sung by the support of her case manager for
Arundel County, Anne Arundel County last budget year, the county provided Sgt. 1st Class Erica Lehmkuhl of Fort helping her achieve her goal.
Community College and more than 25 $350,000 in funding for Sarah’s House. Meade. Several children from Sarah’s White said she hopes to work in pedi-
local parishes and other religious con- “I was proud to be here 25 years ago, House recited the Pledge of Allegiance. atrics and that she will be proud to hang
gregations. and I’m proud to be here again today,” Later in the program, White’s 15- her certification on the wall beside her
Throughout the years, about 13,500 Leopold said. year-old son Dajuan Gay performed a children’s academic achievements.
people have found shelter and safety at Kathryn Philliben, director of Sarah’s soulful rendition of the jazz standard “It feels good to do a positive thing
Sarah’s House. More than 20,000 vol- House and the emcee for the event, “Feeling Good.” and show my children that if you keep
unteers have donated their time to help said she often thinks of Garrison Com- In her remarks, White said she and going, bad things are going to hap-
those in need. mander Col. Edward C. Rothstein “as her children arrived at Sarah’s House in pen, but focus on the good things
In his remarks, Anne Arundel Coun- our ‘landlord in command.’ ” December 2011 and were able to move that are going to happen,” White said.
ty Executive John R. Leopold said In his remarks, Rothstein said he into a three-bedroom transitional hous- “That’s what keeps you going, the good
he remembers the creation of Sarah’s would rather be thought of as “a brother ing apartment in March. things.”
SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

8. N ews
Fine-tuning
Freedom Inn prepares for Philip
A. Connelly Award competition
By Brandon Bieltz fact that it is a competition means we
Staff Writer always step it up.”
In fiscal year 2011, the Freedom Each day, the facility serves three
Inn competed against some of the best meals to more than 1,200 military
dining facilities in the Army — and personnel in 90 minutes.
beat them all. The annual competition, now in
Now, a year removed from taking its 45th year, recognizes excellence
home the giant silver cup trophy, the in food service. The event consists of
facility is back in the running for the several categories, including garrison
Philip A. Connelly Award in the civil- dining facilities and field kitchens.
ian garrison category. Civilian and military facilities are
The Freedom Inn was selected to separated into their own divisions.
represent the Installation Management When the Freedom Inn won in 2011,
Command’s Northeast Region and is civilian and military facilities com-
one of seven civilian dining facilities peted against each other in the same
in the Army that will be competing for categories.
the prestigious food service award. “We were the last civilian-operated photos by noah scialom
To prepare for the judging process, facility to beat out a military facility Myleni Lizardo stirs pasta in preparation for the lunch crowd at the Freedom Inn Dining
which will be conducted onsite on before they changed the rules,” Taylor Facility on Oct. 18. The facility was nominated to represent Installation Management
Nov. 8, the staff has been training said. Command’s Northeast Region in the annual Philip A. Connelly Award competition.
using a series of test runs every Thurs- While Taylor said she is “relieved”
day since Oct. 18. to be in a different category than the
“We’re fine-tuning,” said Melba Tay- “intimidating” Fort Bragg, N.C., din- against U.S. Army Garrison Grafen- it takes, they know the feel, they know
lor, contract manager for the Mary- ing facility, the level of competition woehr, Germany; DFAC 50, Fort how rewarding it is to brag about.”
land Business Enterprise Program at hasn’t dropped and winning will still McCoy, Wis.; Presidio of Monterey, On Nov. 8, three judges will visit
the Freedom Inn. “We’re fine-tuning be a challenge. Calif.: Army Drill Sergeant School, the Freedom Inn to judge the staff
what we do every day. We try to be This year, the Freedom Inn is com- Fort Jackson, S.C.; and Casey Main and facility on a number of criteria
Connelly-ready every day, but the peting in the civilian garrison category Dining Facility, Camp Casey, Korea. to determine a winner. Facilities are
“We’re competing against the best judged on a number of categories,
of the best,” Taylor said. such as supervision/training, food
In this year’s competition — the safety, serving and food preparation/
facility’s fifth attempt at the award quality.
— the Freedom Inn is going for its Each facility begins with 1,000
second title in three years. points; points are deducted for errors
The staff, many of whom have throughout the judging.
already undergone the rigors of the “We start with a thousand points
competition, are ready to take home a and we want to finish with a thou-
second Connelly, said Howard Moun- sand,” Taylor said.
tain, dining facility manager at the To prepare for the rigorous judging
Freedom Inn. scale, the staff is conducting training
“It will be great,” he said of winning runs every Thursday since the offi-
the award for a second time. “Once cial judging will be conducted on a
you win the first one, it gets kind of Thursday.
easier.” During each practice, the staff is
Taylor said the staff gets excited assessed on the same criteria they will
every time the Connelly Awards come be for the competition. Mountain said
around. the staff continues to improve in the
“It’s a personal sense of pride in weeks leading up to the judging.
what they do,” she said. “A lot of them “As the weeks progress, we get kind
have been with us through all five of of amped up and get ready,” he said.
our competitions. So they know what “We see the progress every week.”
Sheila Ly prepares fish filets in the Freedom Inn Dining Facility kitchen on Oct. 18. The
staff is fine-tuning its food preparation and service for the Philip A. Connelly Award
competition on Nov. 8.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil October 25, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

9. N ews
Argentinean principal
visits Fort Meade school
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes tunity to share best practices on issues of
Staff Writer mutual interest in education.
Garrison Commander Col. Edward The program is funded by the State
C. Rothstein and Silvia Monica Del Rey Department’s Bureau of Educational
talked about their mutual love for educa- and Cultural Affairs.
tion and shared pictures of their children Del Rey, whose fellowship at Manor
over a cup of coffee. View ends Nov. 1, said she is interested
Del Rey, principal of an elementary in learning about how technology is used
school in Buenos Aires, met with the in American schools.
colonel on Friday morning as part of a She has observed classes at Manor
fellowship from the U.S. Department of View and has visited several schools
State. She is participating in the three- within Anne Arundel County.
week Educational Seminar Argentina “I am impressed,” Del Rey said of her
Administrator Exchange Program. time at Manor View. “The homework is
“It was a very pleasant experience,” specialized.”
Del Rey said of her visit with Rothstein She also said she admires the respect
at garrison headquarters. “I felt at home, that students have for adults, and the
like he was a relative.” work and dedication of the staff.
Del Rey, whose fellowship began Oct. “The principal is very enthusiastic and
13, is being hosted by Donna O’Shea, friendly.” Del Rey said.
principal of Manor View Elementary The fellowship also has included fun Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein welcomes to his office Silvia Monica
School. O’Shea also has been awarded activities such as shopping on the East- Del Rey (center), principal of an elementary school in Buenos Aires, and Donna
a fellowship from the State Department ern Shore, and trips to Washington, O’Shea, principal of Manor View Elementary School. Del Rey visited Rothstein as part
to travel to Argentina to visit Del Rey’s D.C., a winery and a football game at the of a three-week exchange program funded by the State Department.
school for three weeks next summer. U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.
The Educational Seminar 2012-2013 ing with Rothstein. Morris served as an
During Friday’s visit on post, Del Rey various schools and mentioned that the
Argentina Administrator Exchange Pro- interpreter for Del Rey.
was escorted by O’Shea. Sarah Bonise, installation commemorates the contribu-
gram is a short-term, mutual exchange Fort Meade’s School Liaison Officer,During the meeting, Rothstein spoke tions of various cultural groups through-
opportunity for school principals in the briefly about the Fort Meade schools
and William Morris, a homework aide out the year.
United States and Argentina. The pro- and his partnership with principals and
for Child, Youth and School Services at Del Rey and Rothstein also shared
gram provides principals with an oppor- parents to ensure that Fort Meade chil-
the Teen Center, also attended the meet- photos of their children. Del Rey is the
dren receive a quality education. He also mother of a 16-year-old daughter, who
talked about his experience as a special aspires to a career in medicine, and of a
education teacher before he entered the 20-year-old son who is studying econom-
Improve Lives Army.
“I haven’t lost the love for education,”
ics at the University of Buenos Aires.
Del Rey invited Rothstein and his
th ugh yo
ro ur Rothstein said. “It is a passion. My
father was a teacher. Teaching is very
family to visit her in Argentina. Roth-
stein, who accepted the invitation, gave
Wo rkplace Giving. important to me.”
Del Rey is the principal of an elemen-
Del Rey a Commander’s Coin of Excel-
lence, which she said she would pass
Please Designate: tary school in Buenos Aires that serves along to her son.
355 children from vulnerable families. After Del Rey’s meeting with Roth-
Catholic CharitiesShe asked Rothstein about the involve- stein, O’Shea said she is looking forward
ofBaltimore ment of the community in Fort Meade to visiting Del Rey’s school in Argen-
# 54862 schools and whether Fort Meade chil- tina.
dren are exposed to diverse cultural “I’ve always wanted to learn more
Sarah’ House
s activities. about everything,” O’Shea said. “I’ll
# 89505 Rothstein gave Del Rey an overview learn about her school from a cross-cul-
of the Parent Teacher Association in tural perspective.”
Our Da Bread
ily
Employment Center
# 17581
My Sister’s e
Plac Follow Fort Meade
Women ’sCenter
# 23249 at Twitter.com/ftmeademd
cc-m
d.org/giveatwork
10 SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

10. N ews
Coffee talk
Holy Joe’s free java, tea aids Fort Meade unit ministry teams
Story and photo by Tina Miles casual conversation with no specific
780th MI Brigade agenda,” said Chaplain Pete St. Mar-
Public Affairs Office tin in Afghanistan in 2008, who is
Nothing sets the mood for informal quoted on Holy Joe’s Cafe website.
conversation in a comfortable setting Holy Joe’s flagship brew is General
like a hot cup of coffee. Absolution Roast Coffee.
As a result of the combined efforts Harris, who spearheaded the Meade
of Chaplain (Capt.) Ken Harris, project, first encountered Holy Joe’s
780th Military Intelligence Brigade, coffee downrange while serving in
and Holy Joe’s Café, the Unit Min- Balad, Iraq. Harris contacted Holy
istry Team stationed on Fort Meade Joe’s in March with the request of just
received a truckload of coffee on one pallet for his unit. The contact
Friday. said, “If you’re getting a pallet, why
Holy Joe’s donated 20 pallets of sev- not get a truckload?”
eral brands of K-cup coffee and seven That’s when Harris came up with
pallets of K-cup tea for distribution the garrisonwide idea and the collabo-
to the Unit Ministry Teams as part ration began.
of the chaplain’s ministry plan within “The coffee came in as a gift to ser-
their units. vice members through the Fort Meade
That translates to an average of 180 Chapel Tithes and Offerings fund,”
cases of coffee or tea per pallet, four Harris said.
boxes per case and 24 cups per box. Requests for coffee should come in
“Tom Jastermsky and his team at through unit chaplains. “Holy Joe’s
Holy Joe’s have helped our UMT requires that the coffee be a part of
reach out across the brigade, down whatever a UMT is already doing,”
to company levels,” Harris said. “You Harris said.
will soon begin to see coffee stations In a joint effort involving Army,
that, as a result of this blessing from Navy, Air Force and National Secu-
Holy Joe’s, will be used to reach out Chaplain (Capt.) Ken Harris, 780th Military Intelligence Brigade, who spearheaded rity Agency chaplains, shipment was
to Soldiers and their families.” the Meade project, and Sgt. Ernest Tillinghast, chaplain’s assistant, open one of the set up and a warehouse for delivery
Harris plans to utilize the donations boxes of coffee donated by Holy Joe’s Café to the Unit Ministry Teams on Fort Meade acceptance was established. Chaplains
within the 780th MI Brigade by set- as part of the chaplain’s ministry plan within their units. postwide arranged for their individual
ting up areas that will not only contain distribution.
coffee but other Family Life resources gregational Church in Wallingford, from their congregation and online to “Every unit on Fort Meade has
as well. They will be open and avail- Conn., sends coffee and tea to service fund their ministry. Everyone involved, a chaplain providing area coverage,
able during regular business hours. members in the U.S. and to those from the roasters to the distributors, is even if there is no chaplain assigned,”
“We don’t want the Soldiers to have deployed worldwide. a volunteer. Harris said.
to come to our office,” Harris said. First Congregational Church works “Coffee has the effect of making the With all that coffee brewing, all that
“We want the resources to be available through chaplains of all military ser- chaplain’s space a nice place to hang is left now is for service members to
wherever they are.” vices, at no cost to the Soldier or the out. It is in these moments that God stop by and enjoy a welcoming cup
Holy Joe’s, a ministry of First Con- government. They solicit donations and I do our best work, I believe: in o’ Joe.
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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil October 25, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

11. N ews
Central Personnel
Clearance Facility
holds final celebration
Story and photo by Joe Cohen thanked all in attendance who contrib-
Public Affairs Program Representative uted to the overwhelming success of the
U.S. Army Central Personnel Clearance CCF over its 35-year tenure.
Facility Security specialist Bruce Kessler pre-
Approximately 200 people celebrated sented an overview of CCF throughout
the U.S. Army Central Personnel Clear- its journey. He highlighted CCF leading
ance Facility’s 35th and final anniversary all of DoD in its innovative advance-
on Oct. 18 at McGill Training Center. ments made in adjudicative technology
Those attending included current and and other business practices, which are
former civilian employees, military per- now a staple for all clearance adjudica-
sonnel, contractors and invited guests. tions facilities — not only for the DoD
On Oct. 1, 1977, the CCF began but the entire federal government.
operations in order to adjudicate all U.S. The guest speaker, Brig. Gen. Robert Employees of the U.S. Army Central Personnel Clearance Facility watch as Brig.
Army’s military, civilian and contractors’ L. Walter Jr., deputy commanding gener- Gen. Robert L. Walter Jr., deputy commanding general of U.S. Army Intelligence
security clearances in one consolidated al of U.S. Army Intelligence and Security and Security Command; Dorthe Brush, B Branch chief and the longest-serving DoD
facility to make the process more effec- Command, spoke of the many successes civilian staffer at CCF; and Benjamin Martin, Files Management, the most recent CCF
tive and efficient with a consistent set of CCF has achieved over the years, includ- employee, cut the cake at the CCF 35th and final anniversary celebrated Oct. 18 at
rules and guidelines. ing the 400,000 cases that CCF adjudi- McGill Training Center.
In December, the CCF will join with cated in 2009 to meet the congressional
the other DoD Clearance Adjudicative mandate of the Intelligence Reform and Task Force, the Clearance Adjudication Both Fish and Walter praised the
agencies at the newly formed Depart- Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Tracking System, and implementation group for always meeting the challenges
ment of Defense Clearance Adjudicative Walter also spoke of the efficiency of the Homeland Security Presiden- put before them and they looked forward
Facility at Fort Meade. and effectiveness of CCF and its many tial Directive 12 — while never losing to the impact the people of CCF will
CCF Commander Col. Edward J. innovative business practices, includ- sight of the critical mission of national have on the Consolidated Department of
“Ned” Fish welcomed everyone and ing the creation of the Insider Threat security. Defense Clearance Adjudicative Facility.
Turning lemons into lemonade
Lemon Laws protect consumers of newly purchased, leased vehicles
By Capt. William Biggers car. But how do you know if the vehicle you attempt, and that causes the vehicle to fail reduced by a fair usage fee, not to exceed 15
Fort Meade Legal Assistance just purchased is indeed a “lemon” under Maryland’s safety inspection. percent of the original vehicle’s cost.
In the early 1800s, the word “lemon” was these laws? • You have any one problem that substan- But what if you live in the District of
used by the English to describe a person who Each state sets the standard for what is, and tially impairs the use and market value of the Columbia or the state of Virginia?
was sour or unfriendly. This was later picked is not, a lemon, and the state of Maryland is vehicle that was not corrected in four or more Thankfully, both have their own Lemon
up by Americans as a slang term for some- no different. First and foremost though, repair attempts. Laws as well. However, each state’s laws vary
thing broken. Maryland’s Lemon Laws only apply to either • You have any number of problems that and it’s best to consult with an attorney to
How we made the jump from “unfriendly” newly purchased or leased vehicles (less than substantially impairs the use and market determine whether or not you qualify under
to “broken” is unclear. But nevertheless, the 24 months from the date of purchase), which value of the vehicle that have caused it to be the applicable Lemon Law statutes in other
term “lemon” is used to describe a defective include cars, light trucks and motorcycles. out of service for a cumulative total of 30 or states.
car. In addition, the vehicle must be registered more days. If you think you qualify under the Mary-
In fact, brand-new “broken” or “lemon” in the state of Maryland and it must have less If your car is indeed a lemon, the manu- land Lemon Law statute, want to know
cars have become such a problem that we’ve than 18,000 miles on the odometer. facturer has 30 days to correct the problem. more about the Lemon Laws of other states,
enacted laws all over the country called If your vehicle meets the above criteria, If the problem cannot be corrected, you are or need help with the process of seeking a
Lemon Laws, which protect consumers from then it may be considered a lemon if it falls entitled to either an exact replacement vehicle refund from the vehicle manufacturer, call
an inherently defective vehicle. into any one of the following categories: or a refund of your purchase. the Fort Meade Legal Assistance Office at
There’s nothing more frustrating than hav- • You have a brake or steering failure, If you receive a refund of your purchase, 301-677-9504 or 301-677-9536 to schedule an
ing mechanical difficulties with a brand new which was not corrected after the first repair there is one caveat. The purchase price will be appointment to meet with an attorney.
12 SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

12. C over S tory
Meade goes country
Conference Center hosts
Western-themed event
By Navy Seaman Nicolas N. Lopez previous years.
Defense Information School The hope was that more junior service
Yeehaw! members would attend Meade’s Gone
More than 140 service members and Country, said Wendy Gibbs, the commu-
civilians, including members of the nity recreation officer for DFMWR.
Defense Information School community, “We have done Oktoberfest for years,
attended the first Meade’s Gone Coun- but it’s been declining,” she said. “We’re
try celebrated Friday at The Conference constantly looking for ways to meet the
Center. needs of service members.”
The purpose of the four-hour event, Initial plans included a country music
which was sponsored by the Fort Meade band, so the theme was pushed in that
Directorate of Family and Morale, Wel- direction, said Stacy Echard, special
fare and Recreation, was to provide an events coordinator for DFMWR.
Photos by brian krista alternative to the annual Oktoberfest of Although the band was unavailable, the
14 SOUNDOFF! October 25, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

13. Photo by Spc. Joseph Joynt
event was still a great plan, said Echard. CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT:
Participants rode a mechanical bull, Garrison Commander Col. Edward C.
threw darts, won prizes, sampled the whis- Rothstein poses with Stacy Echard, special
key bar and learned to line dance, events coordinator for the Directorate of
“When the instructor arrived, the dance Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation,
floor was packed,” Gibbs said. “Everyone which sponsored Meade’s Gone Country on
wanted to learn how to do the dance.” Friday evening at The Conference Center.
The tasty and affordable food also was
popular among junior service members, Lance Cpl. Dan Moulton dons a cowboy hat
said Gibbs. as he takes in the action of the mechanical
Another draw was the mechanical bull, bull, a popular attraction at Meade’s Gone
a machine designed to replicate the riding Country.
of a bucking animal.
“It’s a little more difficult than it A pair of cowboy boots sits beside an old
looks,” said Sarah Leslie after she rode whiskey barrel, part of the country-western
the mechanical bull for the first time. decor at The Conference Center.
“That first whip around was too strong.
… I thought I was gonna die.” Sarah Leslie takes on the mechanical bull
Senior Master Sgt. Gary Rihn, a stu- at Meade’s Gone Country on Friday at The
dent at the Public Affairs Qualification Conference Center. Participants also lined
Course at DINFOS, also enjoyed the up for dart-throwing contests, line dance
event. lessons, food and a whiskey bar.
“I like it; I’m country,” Rihn said. “I
live out in the country, my wife and I have Navy Yeoman 1st Class Chris Horton takes
a farm. This brings me back to that.” aim while competing in a game of darts. Photo by brian krista
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil October 25, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 15