1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 49 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community
´
December 6, 2012
¿cómo se llama?
photo by nate pesce
What’s Your Name?
Marisabelle Aponte, 7, stares down a llama as Maricelyz Morales looks on at the petting zoo at Picerne Military Housing’s ninth annual “December in the City” event on
Saturday at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The free event for Fort Meade residents featured a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, an inflatable polar bear slide, candy cane
train rides, a candy room and catered outdoor lunch. For the story, see Page 14.
shoplifting stem-ulation UPCOMING EVENTS
Loss prevention Pershing Hill ES Today, 7 p.m.: “Sound The Bells” Army Field Band concert - Meade High School
team on alert encourages youth to Friday, 5 p.m.: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony - McGlachlin Parade Field
enjoy math, reading Monday, 1:30 p.m.: Meade Turkey Bowl - Mullins Field
to curtail theft
Dec. 15, 8 a.m.: Reindeer Run 5K Run/1-Mile Walk - Murphy Field House
page 3 page 6 Dec. 15, 11:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.: Brunch with Santa Claus - Club Meade
2. N ews
Enter to win
THE BALTIMORE SUN MEDIA GROUP’S
Big Santa Contest
Debt and divorce:
One lucky winner Who pays what?
will win $1,000
By Jane M. Winand nance the debt into his or her own
Chief, Legal Assistance Division name. However, if the paying spouse
We frequently get questions at the doesn’t have good credit, this may not
Visit any of the merchants below Fort Meade Legal Assistance Division be an option.
about credit card debt and how debt Sometimes, though rarely, a creditor
and look for the may be affected by divorce. may agree to simply release the nonpay-
Big Santa display Although a divorce decree may
require an ex-spouse to pay the balance
ing spouse from the debt. It certainly
doesn’t hurt to ask, and if the answer
on a Soldier’s credit card, sometimes is “yes,” be sure to get it in writing. An
Fill out an entry form to win a Big Santa the ex-spouse does not pay the bill as oral release is not legally effective.
required. Second, if you are the nonpaying
The Soldier then may get a call from spouse, you may want to consider
Only one of the Big Santas a debt collector indicating that the bill becoming the paying spouse. Agree to
is in arrears. The debt collector would be responsible for the debt, conditioned
is hiding then demand payment from the Soldier on an agreement by your ex-spouse to
$1,000
and is not interested in what the divorce pay you an amount equal to what would
decree said about the ex-spouse being have been the debt payment.
responsible for repayment. The upside of this arrangement is
Unfortunately, this happens quite that you have control over the payment
often in divorce situations. of the debt and know that it gets done.
so register at If a joint debt is made during the The downside is that if the ex-spouse
marriage, it is often made by a contract does not make the timely payment to
all locations! between the creditor and both spouses. you, your credit is at risk.
Many times, when the marriage breaks You will have to try to come up with
up, the parties will enter into an agree- funds to make the payment yourself and
ment, or the court will enter an order, then take action against your ex-spouse
®
determining which party is responsible for reimbursement.
for paying each of the debts. Third, if the other spouse is going
10760 Hickory Ridge Rd 10155 Balt. Natl. Pike 1827 Mountain Rd. However, the creditor is never a party to be responsible for making payments
Columbia Rt. 40 Joppa to the agreement or the court action in on a joint debt, insist on an agreement
Ellicott City which the order was entered. As a result, that requires you to be provided with
roo
ma r k e
t
neither the agreement nor the court evidence, on a continuing basis, that
order is binding on the creditor. payments are being made.
b
s
As far as the creditor is concerned, Staying informed will help you to
both parties are still liable for the debt. take appropriate steps to protect your-
bo
ul
de sa
r g at
Since the creditor just wants to be paid, self from default by your ex-spouse on
10132 Balt. Natl. PIke 696 Baltimore Pike 2913 Emmorton Road 5805 Clarksville and doesn’t care who pays, the creditor these debts.
Ellicott City Bel Air Abingdon Square Drive will often go after both parties until the If you find yourself in a situation
Clarksville debt is paid in full. in which an ex-spouse fails to comply
There are several ways to protect with an agreement or court order and
yourself from this situation. The best the creditor is calling you to demand
remedy, if at all possible, is to secure payment, your only remedy is to seek
1514 Rock Spring Road 6600 Balt. Natl. Pike 8895 McGaw Road from the creditor a release of liability some accommodation from the creditor,
Forest Hill Catonsville Columbia for the spouse who is not going to be if possible, such as a cash settlement or
(location opening 12/7/12) responsible for the debt. payment schedule.
Sometimes this will mean that the Of course, you also should take
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Sweepstakes runs from 9 am (ET) on 11/27/12 to 5:00 pm (ET) on 12/20/12. Sweepstakes open to legal U.S. residents
residing in Harford, Howard, Carroll, Anne Arundel, Baltimore Counties & Baltimore City, MD who are 21 & older as of 11/27/12. Void where prohibited & responsible spouse will have to refi- action against your ex-spouse based on
outside MD. To enter, complete form at participating retailers. For list of participating retailers & Official Rules, visit www.baltimoresun.com/bigsantarules.
Limit 1 entry per person, per retailer. Odds of winning Grand Prize depend on number of eligible entries; odds of winning First Prize depend on number
the agreement or court-ordered require-
of eligible entries per retailer. 1 Grand Prize: $1,000. 15 First Prizes (one per participating retailer): stuffed Santa. ARV: $149.99. Total ARV of all prizes: ment to make payment on the debt.
$3,249.85. Sponsor: The Baltimore Sun Company, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278.
If you are in this situation, you may
Complete contest rules online at baltimoresun.com/bigsantarules Follow Fort want to seek legal advice before doing
Meade on anything else.
Twitter.com To schedule an appointment with an
attorney, call the Fort Meade Legal
/ftmeademd Assistance Office at 301-677-9504 or
301-677-9536.
10 SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
3. N ews
‘Elf Man’
visits
post with
holiday
movie
Joe Alan Manshum, 3, watches Jason
Acuna sign a postcard before a screening
of “Elf Man” at the Post Theater. More
than 200 people attended the screening
sponsored Sunday evening by the USO-
Metro.
BELOW: Service members and their
families wait in line to meet with Jason
Acuna, star of the family movie “Elf
Man.”
photos by nate pesce
Heather Monk
gives Jason Acuna,
also known as
“Wee Man,” a
kiss on the cheek
during a meet and
greet Sunday at
the Post Theater.
Acuna met with
service members
and families before
the screening of
his new movie “Elf
Man.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 6, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11
4. N ews
Fire safety tips for celebrating holidays
By Tracey Russell, Ground Directorate
U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety
Center
Fort Rucker, Ala.
Whether you’re celebrating the 12 days
of Christmas, eight nights of Hanukkah,
seven principles of Kwanzaa or any other
holiday tradition, a fire-safe environment
is one gift everyone can appreciate.
According to the U.S. Fire Adminis-
tration, residential fires peak during the
winter months. They estimate that more
than 400 holiday fires occur in American
homes each year, resulting in dozens of
deaths and injuries.
The following tips, offered by the
USFA and National Fire Protection
Association, can help prevent your
holiday celebration from going up in
flames.
Christmas trees
• Ensure artificial trees are labeled,
certified or identified by the manufac-
turer as fire retardant.
• Choose fresh trees with green nee-
dles that do not fall off when touched,
and trim one- to two inches from the
base of the trunk before placing the tree
in a stand.
• Place trees at least three feet from
heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, file photo
candles, heating vents or lights. The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that more than 400 holiday fires occur in American homes each year. Using caution with
• Add water to tree stands daily. holiday lights, decorations and cooking can help prevent fires during the holiday season.
• Never use lit candles to decorate
trees. Keep lighters, matches and other
sources of open flame far away from touch. tended. pan to smother the flames. Never throw
trees. • Never leave holiday lights unat- water on a grease fire.
• When a tree begins shedding nee- tended. Cooking While preventing fires is extremely
dles, it’s time to dispose of it. • Bring outdoor electrical lights inside • Keep towels, pot holders and cur- important, you must also be prepared
Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and after the holidays to prevent wear. tains away from open flames, ovens and in case a fire does occur.
shouldn’t be left inside or outside the stovetops. One of the best ways you can pro-
home or garage. Holiday decorations • Never leave cooking food on the tect yourself and your loved ones is to
Check your local news agencies to • All decorations should be nonflam- stove. A serious fire can start in sec- install smoke alarms throughout your
find a tree-recycling program. mable or flame retardant, and placed onds. home. According to the NFPA, nearly
away from heating vents. • Clean cooking surfaces regularly to two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in
Holiday lights • Never burn wrapping paper in a prevent grease buildup. homes with no smoke alarms or work-
• Before use, inspect holiday lights for fireplace — doing so can result in a very • Never use a stove or oven to heat ing detectors.
frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in insula- large fire that involves the chimney. your home. Pick up new batteries as part of your
tion, broken or cracked sockets, and • Ensure trees and other holiday • Double-check the kitchen before holiday shopping and test alarms before
excessive kinking or wear. decorations do not block exits. In the you go to bed or leave the house to festivities begin.
All lights should be marked as safe by event of a fire, time is of the essence. A ensure all appliances are off. Also, ensure your family knows what
an approved testing laboratory. blocked entry or exit puts you and your • Always wear short sleeves or tight- to do in the event of a fire. Prepare an
• Never connect more than three light family at risk. fitting sleeves when cooking. evacuation plan with at least two escape
strands together unless the directions • Avoid using lit candles. • Heat cooking oil slowly to avoid routes identified from each room and
indicate doing so is safe. If you do burn them, ensure they are burns from spattering grease, and be practice it often.
• Connect strings of lights to an in stable holders and placed out of easy extra careful when cooking deep-fried However you choose to celebrate
extension cord before plugging the cord reach to prevent them being acciden- food. your holiday, take time to work fire pre-
into an outlet. Periodically check wires tally knocked down. • If a cooking fire starts, turn off the vention into your plans. The new year is
to ensure they are not warm to the • Never leave candles burning unat- stove or burner and place a lid on the waiting — welcome it safely.
12 SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
5. N ews
Follow safety guidelines when purchasing toys
By Amy Cowell balls that have a diameter of 1.75 inches child, buy a helmet, too, and make sure
Program Evaluator or less. These products pose a choking the child wears it.
U.S. Army Public Health Command hazard to young children. • Teach all children to put toys away
December is National Safe Toys and • Children at this age pull, prod and when they’re finished playing so they
Gifts Month. twist toys. Look for toys that are well don’t trip over them or fall on them.
In 2007, the U.S. Consumer Prod- made with tightly secured eyes, noses And always read the label.
uct Safety Commission reported 18 toy- and other parts. The CPSC requires toy manufactur-
related deaths and an estimated 170,100 • Avoid toys that have sharp edges ers to meet stringent safety standards
emergency room-treated injuries to chil- and points. and to label certain toys that could be
dren under 15. a hazard for younger children.
But prevention is as simple as following Ages 3 to 5 Look for labels that give age recom-
a few safety guidelines when shopping for • Avoid toys that are constructed with mendations and use that information
the perfect holiday gift. thin, brittle plastic that might easily as a guide.
The CPSC recommends the following break into small pieces or leave jagged file photo Labels on toys that state “not rec-
toy safety shopping tips: edges. ommended for children under 3 ...
• Look for household art materials,
Ages 6 to 12 contains small parts” are labeled that
Under 3 years old including crayons and paint sets, marked • For all children, adults should way because they may pose a choking
• Children under 3 tend to put every- with the designation “ASTM D-4236.” check toys periodically for breakage hazard to children under 3.
thing in their mouth. Avoid buying toys This means the product has been and potential hazards. Damaged or Toys should be developmentally
intended for older children that may have reviewed for chronic health hazards and, dangerous toys should be repaired or appropriate to suit the skills, abilities
small parts that pose a choking danger. if necessary, the product has been labeled thrown away. and interests of the child.
• Never let children of any age play with cautionary information. • If buying a toy gun, be sure the bar- For more information about purchasing
with deflated or broken balloons because • Teach older children to keep their rel, or the entire gun, is brightly colored safe toys and gifts, call the U.S. Consumer
of the choking danger. toys away from their younger brothers so that it’s not mistaken for a real gun. Product Safety Commission hotline at 1-
• Avoid marbles, balls and games with and sisters. • If you buy a bicycle for any age 800-638-2772 or visit cpsc.gov.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 6, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 13
6. C over S tory
Picerne’s ‘December
in the City’ celebrates
community spirit
By Lisa R. Rhodes time with their neighbors.”
Staff Writer Payton Armstrong, 10, was the first
Santa Claus was transported Saturday to child to have her picture taken with
the entrance of Potomac Place Neighbor- Santa.
hood Center aboard Engine 45 of the Fort “It was pretty exciting,” said the fifth-
Meade Fire and Emergency Services. grader at Pershing Hill Elementary School
Joined by three elves and Rudolph the who resides in Midway Commons. “He
Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa waved to the was cool. It’s been so long since I sat on
cheering children and adults who stood his lap.”
on the neighborhood sidewalks. Gena Armstrong, Payton’s mother, said
Mrs. Claus, who could not arrive by she came to the event 30 minutes ahead
truck due to an injured back, waited for of schedule to be the first on line to pose
her husband at the entrance of Potomac with Santa.
Place, where she handed him his eye- “This brings a lot of families together,”
glasses. The couple walked arm-in-arm said Armstrong, wife of Sgt. Maj. Wil-
into the center’s foyer, as a long line of liam Armstrong of the 160th Signal Bri-
children waited inside. gade who is deployed in Kuwait. “Picerne
Santa and Mrs. Claus were the featured cares a lot about the families who live
guests at Picerne Military Housing’s ninth here.”
annual “December In The City.” The Rebecca Summers, wife of Maj. Nakia
three-hour event included an inflatable Summers of the 741st Military Intel-
slide, a mobile candy-cane train, arts and ligence Battalion, attended with her two covered pretzels.
crafts, and a petting zoo. children, Raya, 8, and Nakia Jr., 5. Summers, a Potomac Place resident,
Picerne’s holiday tradition was the first “We came last year and everyone had said she enjoys “December In The City”
in a month of festive activities planned for a good time, so we’re back this year,” said because it is a festive alternative to the
the Fort Meade community. Summers, after her children selected free shopping mall.
“We do resident events for community candies from the candy room. “We’re not out fighting the crowds at
spirit,” said Meagan Murray, a commu- “You get filled with sweets,” said Raya, the mall,” she said. “And Santa rode right
nications specialist at Picerne. “We want as she held her goody bag filled with by our house, which was fun.”
to get everyone out there to have a good Skittles, M&Ms, gummies and chocolate- The event also featured an arts and
crafts room where children decorated
paper snowflakes, hearts and stars to
hang on their Christmas tree.
A DJ provided dance music, but the
Santa and youngsters seemed too shy to boogie on
Mrs. Claus the dance floor provided.
make their Outside, residents enjoyed a catered
grand lunch of macaroni and cheese, pasta and
entrance at cheese, meatballs, chopped beef, french
Potomac fries and cupcakes while seated at patio
Place tables.
Neighborhood Maj. Bobby Monday, of the Marine
Center for Cryptologic Support Battalion, and his
Picerne’s wife, Nicki, stood on line with their chil-
long-time dren Mia, 5, and Braeden, 2, who waited
holiday their turn to slide down the inflatable your family,” Nicki Monday said.
tradition, Arctic Plunge. Jordan Stahl, a freshman at Meade
“December In Monday said his family, which resides High School, attended with several high
The City.” in Potomac Place, has attended the event school friends to celebrate his birthday.
for the last three years. “We come every year,” the 14-year-old
“This is very important, the kids love said. “We hang out.”
it,” he said. During the event, the teens admired a
“It’s a great way to spend time with baby goat that was part of the petting zoo
14 SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
7. photos by NATE PESCE
ABOVE LEFT: Samantha Espinosa sings holiday songs with a
CENTER TOP: Santa Claus, three elves and Rudolph the Red-
choir that performed during the three-hour event.
Nosed Reindeer arrive atop a Fort Meade fire engine at the start
of “December In The City” on Saturday afternoon at Potomac
ABOVE RIGHT: Nely Grace Horr examines the candy cane
Place Neighborhood Center. Santa later joined Mrs. Claus for
from Santa Claus. The 4-year-old was among the hundreds of
photographs with anxious children waiting on line.
children who met with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a highlight of the
popular event.
CENTER BOTTOM: Emma Stover, 7, selects her choice of
sweets from the free candy room at Picerne Military Housing’s
BELOW: Nineteen-month-old Max Tjaden takes a look at the
“December In The City” event on Saturday. Children also
rooster and hen that were a part of the petting zoo sponsored
created holiday arts and crafts and enjoyed a catered lunch
by the Party Animalz Farm of York, Pa.
with their parents.
provided by Party Animalz Farm based
in York, Pa.
Carsen Short, 14, said there is one
long-time holiday tradition that even
people her age do not want to miss.
“We get to see Santa, even though we’re
older,” the Meade High freshman said.
“You’re never too old for Santa.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 6, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 15
8. C ommunity N ews & N otes
Sound the Bells!
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS for the fifth grade’s field trip to Philadelphia.
The bazaar will feature games, crafts, vendors, food, a silent auction and
The U.S. Army Field Band photos with Santa,
will present “Sound the Bells! A For more information, call Pershing Hill at 410-222-6519.
Holiday Celebration” today at 7
p.m. in the Meade High School Brunch with Santa
auditorium.
The concert is free, but tickets Child, Youth and School Services will sponsor “Brunch with Santa Claus” on
are required. The event is open to Dec. 15 at Club Meade.
the public. Reserved seating is at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
For tickets or more information, Tickets cost $15 for adults and $8 for ages 4 to 10. There is no charge for
visit armyfieldband.com. children ages 3 and younger.
Advance tickets are only available at the Youth Center.
Tree lighting Tickets at the door are sold on a space-available basis only.
For more information, call 301-677-1437.
Fort Meade’s annual Holiday
Tree Lighting Ceremony will be Out & About
held Friday at 5 p.m. at McGlachlin
Parade Field, near the gazebo. • The Concert Artists of the Baltimore Symphonic Chorale will join the Baltimore
The event will feature the U.S. Symphony Orchestra for a performance of Handel’s “Messiah” on Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Army Field Band Brass Quartet; a sing-along with the Fort Meade community’s Cub, at the Meyerhoff, 1212 Cathedral St., Baltimore. Tickets cost $25 to $67. For more
Boy and Girl Scouts; a visit by Santa; and refreshments. information, visit bsomusic.org or call the box office at 410-783-8000.
• The Lisbon Ole Fashion Christmas Horse Parade will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. on
Main Street in Lisbon. Decorated horses, mules, wagons, carriages and stagecoaches will
fill the streets. The event also will feature pony rides. A ham and fried chicken dinner will
be served in the Lisbon Volunteer Fire Department Hall to benefit food banks and the fire
department.
Cost of dinner is $14. For more information, visit lisbonhorseparade.com.
• Leisure Travel Services is offering holiday shopping trips to the outlets at Williamsburg
Pottery Mall in Virginia on Saturday and to New York City on Dec. 22. Bus cost for each
is $55. For more information, call 301-677-7354 or visit ftmeademwr.com.
• Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys is featured through Dec. 31 at the Baltimore & Ohio
Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St., Baltimore.
Celebrate the holiday season at Baltimore’s largest holiday display of toy and model
train layouts. Weekend train rides and photo opportunities with Santa continue through
Dec. 18, and with Frosty the Snowman through Dec. 31. All ages can enjoy indoor train
carousel rides and crafts at Santa’s workshop.
Admission is $16 for adults; $14 for seniors ages 60 and older; and $10 for children ages
2 to 12. Cost for Mile One Express Train ride is $3 for adults and $2 for children. Carousel
rides cost $2 for one ride and $5 unlimited for the day.
For more information, visit borail.org or call 410-752-2490.
• Leisure Travel Services is offering discount tickets to Toby’s Dinner Theatre in
Columbia’s production of the musical “A Christmas Carol” through Dec. 30. For more
photo by philip h. jones information, call 301-677-7354 or visit ftmeademwr.com.
Connie Robinson, Lynn Durner and Spc. Chelsea Fraser of the Fort Meade • Symphony of Lights Military Appreciation Night will be held Dec. 13 from 6 to 10
Religious Support Office make adjustments to holiday decorations at the gazebo p.m. at Symphony Woods in Columbia.
on McGlachlin Parade Field in anticipation of the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Service members with military identification receive $10 off admission.
Ceremony that will be held Friday at 5 p.m. The exhibit features a 1.4-mile drive-through of 70 larger-than-life holiday light displays.
The display, benefiting Howard County General Hospital, is open nightly through Jan. 6
Christmas bazaar from 6 to 10 p.m., but is closed Dec. 31.
Admission is $20 per car or van (up to eight passengers). Coupons for $5 off are
A Christmas bazaar will be held Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 available at hcgh.org/symphonyoflights and facebook.com/symphonyoflightsfestivities.
a.m. to 4 p.m. at Seven Oaks Elementary School. For more information, call 410-740-7840 or visit hcgh.org/symphonyoflights.
For more information, call 337-718-1776 and leave a message. • Hampden Christmas Street Holiday Show is displayed nightly through Jan. 1 at 700 W.
34th St., Baltimore. Local residents display their light displays. Houses are lit from sidewalk
Pershing Hill bazaar to rooftop. For more information, visit christmasstreet.com.
• Annapolis Christmas Light Parade will be held Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. The best
The Winter Bazaar at Pershing Hill Elementary School will be Friday from 6 spots to view the parade include: Eastport Bridge, Fawcett Boat Supplies parking lot, 110
to 8 p.m. Compromise St., U.S. Naval Academy, and the Annapolis City Dock and Ego Alley.
The school, located at 7600 29th Division Road, is sponsoring the fundraiser
16 SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
9. C ommunity N ews & N otes
No Soundoff! Commissary holiday
Soundoff! newspaper will not closings
publish Dec. 27 and Jan. 3. The Fort Meade Commissary hours
Soundoff! returns Jan. 10. on Dec. 24 will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The store will be closed Christmas. It
The deadline for Soundoff! community will reopen Dec. 26 at 7 a.m. for early-
“News and Notes” is Friday at noon. All bird shopping and at 9 a.m. for regular
submissions are posted at the editor’s dis- store hours.
cretion and may be edited for space and For more information, call the
grammar. Look for additional community commissary at 301-677-7465.
events on the Fort Meade website at www.
ftmeade.army.mil and the Fort Meade 3D prevention kick-off
Facebook page at facebook.com/ftmeade.
For more information or to submit an December is National Drunk,
announcement, email Philip Jones at philip. Drugged, Driving (3D) Prevention
h.jones.civ@mail.mil or call 301-677-5602. Month.
The Army Substance Abuse Program
at Fort Meade will sponsor a Drunk,
NEWS & EVENTS Drugged, Driving Prevention Month
kick-off event on Tuesday from 11:30
a.m. to 1 p.m. at McGill Training
Center.
ACS online assessment Everyone is invited to this powerful, New Year’s Eve parties Registration is required for each
class.
Help Army Community Service tailor life-saving event. Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the • Dollars and Sense: Today, 1 to 3
programs and services to better meet For more information, call 301-677- Lanes. p.m.
the demographics and interests of Team 7983. The family party will be from 5 to 8 • Federal Employment: Tuesday, 6
Meade by completing this quick and p.m. The party for adults will be from 9 to 7:30 p.m.
easy online survey: surveymonkey.com/s/ AFTB Birthday Bush p.m. to 1 a.m. • Spouses Meet & Greet: Dec. 13, 10
ACSNeedsAssessment2012. An Army Family Team Building Book unit and private parties early at a.m. to noon
“Birthday Bash and Volunteer 301-677-5541. • Stress Management: Dec. 17, 9 to
Baltimore County Police Appreciation Party” will be held Dec. 11 a.m.
seeking applicants 17 from 9 a.m. to noon at Army EFMP stress-reliever • Anger Management: Dec. 18, 9 to
The Baltimore County Police
Community Service, 830 Chisholm Ave. program 11 a.m.
For more information, call 301-677-
For more information, call 301-677-
Department is now hiring police officers. 4110. The Fort Meade Exceptional Family 5590.
The deadline to apply is Dec. 21. Member Program will present “Sanctuary
The written test will be administered
in January. The academy class starts in
Karaoke Night Away From Stress” on Wednesday from UMUC information
6 to 8 p.m. at Army Community Service,
June. The next Karaoke Night will be Dec. 830 Chisholm Ave. session
Applicants must be 21 years old by 20 from 7 to 10 p.m. in the 11th Frame Learn to strengthen your emotional An information session on the
graduation from the academy, have Lounge at the Lanes. resilience and manage your energy University of Maryland University
a high school diploma or GED, be a The event is held the third Thursday during the holiday season through College will be offered Tuesday from 9
United States citizen and have a valid of the month. power journaling, positive thinking and a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Army Education
driver’s license. For more information, call 301-677- relaxation exercises. Center, 8601 Zimborski Ave.
Starting salary is $46,699. 5541 or visit ftmeademwr.com. Registration is required. Advisors will be available to discuss
The position offers benefits such as To register, call Kelly Gibson at transfer credit and help you assemble a
medical, dental and vision insurance, life Jazz Night 301-677-4473 or email Kelly.gibson1@ degree plan. Bring transcripts.
insurance, tuition reimbursement and us.army.mil. During the session, participants may
deferred comp. The Brass Lounge at Club Meade will
feature Jazz Night on Dec. 13 from 5:15 apply, register for classes and learn how
To apply, visit joinbaltimorecountypd.
com or call 410-887-BCPD. to 6 p.m. and 6 to 10 p.m. EDUCATION to maximize education benefits.
Cover charge is $7 for the first session The $50 application fee will be waived
and $10 for the second. if you apply at the event.
Kimbrough holiday For more information, call 301-677- For more information, call 301-621-
closings 6969. Career, financial classes 9882.
Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center
will be closed on the following days for Chicago Steppin’ Army Community Service and the
Fleet and Family Support Center
Couples evening study
the Christmas and New Year’s holiday Chicago Steppin’ will be held Friday offer free classes at the Community Protestant Women of the Chapel is
period: and Dec. 21 from 7 p.m. to midnight at Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave., offering to couples a free evening study
• Dec. 14 at noon for staff holiday Club Meade. to DoD identification cardholders, of the book, “The Marriage You’ve
parties A free beginner’s lesson will be offered including active-duty service Always Wanted,” on Thursdays at 6:45
• Dec. 24 and 25 for Christmas from 7 to 8 p.m. members, retirees and their family p.m. through Dec. 20 at Argonne Hills
• Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 for New Year’s. For more information, call 301-677- members, DoD civilian employees and
6969. contractors. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 6, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 17
10. C ommunity N ews & N otes
to 12 years old. a food to share. Installation of officers for • Military Council for Catholic Women
EDUCATION The program is open to active-duty the new year will be held at the meeting. is open to all women ages 18 and older for
service members and Reservists on For more information or to join, call prayer, faith, fellowship and service at the
active-duty status, DoD personnel, Diane Shreves, publicity chairman, at 410- Main Post Chapel.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 retirees and Fort Meade DoD 760-3750. Mother’s Prayer & Apologetics meets
contractors. • Enlisted Spouses Club meets the Tuesdays from 9:45 a.m. to noon when
Chapel Center. For more information, call 301-677- second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Anne Arundel County schools are in ses-
Free child care is provided. 1149 or 301-677-1156. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. sion. Monthly programs are held Mondays
For more information, call 301-677- The next meeting is Monday. For more from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
6035 or email meade@pwoc.org or visit information, visit ftmeadeesc.org or email For more information, email Beth
ftmeadepwoc.org. RECREATION membership@ftmeadeesc.org. Wright, president, at bethwright826@hot-
• Single Parent Support Group meets mail.com or call 305-240-1559.
Auto care courses the second and fourth Monday of the • Fort Meade Homeschool Co-op meets
The Automotive Skills Center at 6530
Taylor Ave. offers monthly courses from 1
Out & About month from 6 to 8 p.m. at School Age
Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next
Fridays at 9:30 a.m. at 1900 Reece Road.
For more information, call Kelli Stricker
to 3 p.m. • The U.S. Army Field Band Chamber meeting is Monday. Free child care will be at 410-674-0297 or email ftmeadehome-
An FMWR card is required. New Music Series is presenting a Woodwind provided on site. schooling@verizon.net.
patrons must first view a safety video. Sextet Recital on Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. at For more information, call Rikki Ford, • Cub Scout Pack 377 invites boys in
Basic Welding 101 will be offered St. Martin’s in-the-Field Church, 375 Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677- first through fifth grades,, or ages 7 to 10,
Dec. 16. Benfield Road, Severna Park. 3617 or email rikki.l.ford.ctr@us.army.mil. to attend its weekly Monday meetings at 6
For more information, call 301-677-5542. The free concert will feature • Spouse Connection meets the second p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.
an original work by Janáek and Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 For more information, email
Bible study arrangements by Staff Sgt. Kevin p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood, Cubmaster Tom Johnston at pack377_
Walko, bass clarinet, of music by 4998 Second Corps Blvd. The next cm@yahoo.com or Committee
A Bible study program is held Bartok, Beethoven, Finzi and Ellington. meeting is Tuesday. The program provides Chairperson Elizabeth Johnston at
Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at For tickets and information, call 301- an opportunity for all spouses in the Fort pack377_cc@yahoo.com.
Argonne Hills Chapel Center through 677-6586. Meade community and surrounding area • Boy Scout Troop 379 meets Mondays
Dec. 13. to meet and get connected. For more at 7 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel
Find hope and inspiration as the class information, call 301-677-4110 or email Center on Rockenbach Road. The troop
studies “Living Victoriously in Difficult MEETINGS amber.e.rustad@us.army.mil. is actively recruiting boys age 11 to
Times” by Kay Arthur. • Bridging the Gap deployment support 18. For more information, email Lisa
To register, call 301-677-3785. • Monthly Prayer Breakfast, hosted by group, sponsored by Army Community Yetman, at lisayetman@verizon.net
the Garrison Chaplain’s Office, is held the Service, meets the second Tuesday of the or Wendall Lawrence, Scoutmaster, at
YOUTH first Thursday of every month at 7 a.m. month from 6 to 8 p.m. at Potomac Place lawrencewendall@juno.com.
at Club Meade. The next prayer breakfast Neighborhood Center. The next meeting • American Legion Post 276 is open to
is today. is Tuesday. For more information, call veterans and active-duty service members
All Fort Meade employees, family Sharon Collins at 301-667-4116 or email at 8068 Quarterfield Road in Severn.
Romp ‘n Stomp members, and civilian and military sharon.j.collins@us.army.mil. Breakfast may be purchased beginning
personnel are invited. There is no cost for • Meade Branch 212 of the Fleet Reserve at 9 a.m. Lunches may be purchased
Romp ‘n Stomp playgroup for parents the buffet; donations are optional. For Association meets the second Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Happy
and their children up to age 5 meets more information, call 301-677-6703 or of each month at 7 p.m. at VFW Post Hour is from 4 to 6 p.m. Dinner may be
Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the email diana.l.durner.civ@mail.mil. 160 on Route 170 in Glen Burnie. The purchased at 6 p.m. on Fridays and the
Youth Center gym. • Meade Rod and Gun Club meets the next meeting is Wednesday. Active-duty, fourth Sunday of every month.
For more information, call Rikki first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. Reserve and retired members of the U.S. Membership discounts are offered
Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at at Perry’s Restaurant and Odie’s Pub at Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are for active-duty military. For more
301-677-3617 or e-mail rikki.l.ford.ctr@ 1210 Annapolis Road, Odenton. The next invited. For more information, call 410- information, call 410-969-8028 or visit
us.army.mil. meeting is tonight in the banquet hall in 761-7046 or 301-262-6556. americanlegionpost276.org.
back of the building. Dinner is served at 6 • Fort Meade TOP III Association • Fort Meade E9 Association meets the
Youth Book Swap p.m. For more information, call 410-674- meets the second Wednesday of each second Friday of every month at 7 a.m.
The Medal of Honor Memorial 4000. month at 3 p.m. at the Courses. The next in the Pin Deck Cafe at the Lanes. The
Library is sponsoring a Youth Book • National Alliance on Mental Illness meeting is Wednesday. The association next meeting is Dec. 14. The association
Swap through Saturday. of Anne Arundel County conducts a free is open to all Air Force active-duty and is open to active, retired, Reserve and
Bring in your gently used books to support group for families with a loved retired senior noncommissioned officers. National Guard E9s of any uniformed
trade with others. one suffering from mental illness on the For more information, call Master Sgt. service. All E9s in this area are invited
For more information, call 301-677- first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. Jonathan Jacob at 443-479-0616 or email to attend a breakfast and meet the
5522. at the Odenton (West County) Library, jajacob@nsa.gov. membership. For more information, visit
1325 Annapolis Road. The next meeting • Protestant Women of the Chapel meets e9association.org or call 410-551-7953.
Parents Night Out is tonight. For more information, visit
namiaac.org.
Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at
Argonne Hills Chapel Center. There are
• Families Dealing with Deployment
meets the first and third Monday of
Parents Night Out is offered the third • NARFE Chapter 1519 will meet eight different Bible studies to choose every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at
Friday of each month from 6:30 to 10 Tuesday at 1 p.m. at Holy Trinity Parish from. This year’s theme is Generation 2 Meuse Forest Neighborhood Center.
p.m. Hall, 7436 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd., Generation. Free child care is provided. The next meeting is Dec. 17. For more
The next event will be Dec. 21. Glen Burnie. For more information, call 301-677- information, call Rikki Ford, Parent
Enrollment closes Dec. 14. The meeting will be the chapter’s 6035 or email meade@pwoc.org or visit Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or
The fee is $10 for the first child and potluck Christmas Party. Everyone brings ftmeadepwoc.org. email rikki.l.ford.ctr@us.army.mil.
$5 for each additional child ages 6 weeks
18 SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
11. R eligion
Fort Meade 2012 Holiday Religious services, activities
DATE SERVICE TIME LOCATION
Dec. 7 Fort Meade Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony 5 p.m. Parade Field (near gazebo)
Dec. 9 Episcopal Service of Lessons & Carols 4 p.m. Post Chapel
Dec. 11 Hanukkah Luncheon Celebration 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Chapel Center
Dec. 24 “Happy Birthday Jesus” Mass (for children) 5 p.m. Chapel Center
Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Midnight Mass 10 p.m. Chapel Center
Dec. 24 Episcopal Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 p.m. Post Chapel
Dec. 24 Episcopal Christmas Eve Carols/Service 10:30/11 p.m. Post Chapel
Dec. 25 Christmas Day Mass 12:15 p.m. Post Chapel
Dec. 31 New Year’s Vigil Adoration 4-4:45 p.m. Post Chapel
Dec. 31 New Year’s Vigil Mass 5 p.m. Post Chapel
Dec. 31 Gospel Watch-Night Service 10 p.m. Chapel Center
Jan. 1 Mary, Mother of God 12:15 p.m. Post Chapel
Times of the regular weekend Protestant and Catholic services during the day will remain the same
(if not noted).
For more information about religious services, call the Garrison Chaplain’s Office at 301-677-6703.
Chaplain’s Word Find the Fort Meade
Religious Schedule
at
KINDNESS
www.ftmeade.army.mil.
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Look for the “Community” tab then click
on “Religious Services” for
schedules, events and contact information.
— Aesop
For All of Your Personal Banking Needs... You Belong Here!
At The Washington Savings Bank our Premium Checking is FREE! Five Convenient Locations to Serve You!
And it comes with all the features to make your life easier! BOWIE CROFTON
301-352-3100 410-721-8867
• On-Line Banking with Bill Pay 4201 Mitchellville Rd. 1669 Crofton Centre
• Premium Mobile Banking with a TWSB APP MILLERSVILLE ODENTON
410-987-1515 410-551-8800
• Text Message Banking with Text Alerts 676 Old Mill Road 1161 Annapolis Rd.
• Free Debit Card with Purchase Rewards WALDORF MEMBER
• Surcharge Free Access to over 2,000 ATMs For more information visit us 301-843-7200 FDIC
• Finance Works™ - The latest banking @ www.twsb.com 3225 Crain Highway
tool that puts money management http://www.facebook.com/TWSBank
at your fingertips and your
financial goals within reach!
or Scan the QR Code with your Smart Phone
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil December 6, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 19
12. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Editorial Staff
Garrison Commander
Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
´
I’m out of the office this week attending the U.S. Army
Installation Management Garrison Commanders Conference
Col. Edward C. Rothstein in San Antonio.
Garrison Command Despite not being on the installation, the safety of the
Sgt. Maj. Thomas J. Latter community is always a top priority.
Public Affairs Officer Last week, I shared my thoughts about making sure you
Chad T. Jones plan ahead if you choose to drink alcohol at holiday parties.
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil This week, I’m sharing a commentary from the TRADOC
Chief, Command Information Safety Office about seat belt safety.
Philip H. Jones Seat belts are one of the most effective safety devices in
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil vehicles today. But we all have to remember to buckle up.
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer Failure to buckle up contributes to more fatalities than any COL. Edward c.
Rona S. Hirsch other single traffic safety-related behavior, according to pub- Rothstein
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes lic safety officials. Garrison Commander
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz If you know the facts about the seat belt safety and you’re still not wearing a safety belt,
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis you may need to ask yourself why.
Supplemental photography provided Be safe and have a great week!
by Patuxent Publishing Co.
Buckle up for safety
Advertising
General Inquiries 410-332-6300
Allison Thompson
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com
Michele Griesbauer
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com By Chris Hairr What I couldn’t see was a large piece of a fallen
TRADOC Safety Office tree limb buried beneath the straw.
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are Fort Monroe, Va. When my front passenger-side tire hit the
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com. Do you think seat belts, like leather uphol- branch, it sent my car veering into the oncom-
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through stery, are optional in your vehicle? I can tell you ing lane. I avoided going off the road into a
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. from a personal experience they’re not optional ditch, but fishtailed when I swerved right to
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the
— they’re essential. avoid the oncoming car.
personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary A few years ago, my brother was attending My car spun and then went off the right side
of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday college in a big city when he and a friend decided of the road. As it did, one of the tires dug into
except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. to go out for a night on the town. Knowing his the dirt and caused my car to simultaneously
Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the friend would be drinking, my brother offered to spin and flip.
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, be the designated driver that night. When everything stopped, my car was upside-
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-5602; DSN: 622-5602.
It was a good thing he did. down and facing the direction I’d come from. I
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage As they were heading home, another driver was still safely in my seat, hanging by my seat
without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, ran a stop sign and drove directly into my belt.
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser brother’s path. All my brother could do was hit But it could have been much worse. Not being
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. the brakes, slowing the car from 30 mph to 20 a frontal collision, my airbag never deployed.
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department
mph as they struck the other vehicle. Had I been unbelted and thrown forward, there
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are My brother and his friend were both in the would have been nothing to protect me.
not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance front seat, and the impact threw both of them The crash totaled my car. Also, I’d been
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of forward. My brother was restrained by his seat heading home from college for Christmas
the Army of the products or services advertised. belt, but his unbelted friend went head-first into break, so nearly everything I owned was in
the windshield. that car. Many of those things were damaged
When the car stopped, my brother had a or destroyed.
minor cut on his forehead, which required a few But that’s a small price to pay. After all, while
www.ftmeade.army.mil stitches to close. His friend, however, didn’t fare they could be replaced, I couldn’t.
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd so well and suffered serious head injuries. He I survived with slight tenderness in my right
and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil. spent more than a month in the hospital and shoulder and some pain in my right ankle
never fully recovered. where it had gotten caught in the pedals as the
Who would have thought that wearing a seat car rolled.
belt during a 20-mph collision would spell the I’d been going about 50 mph when I crashed,
Co n t e n t s difference between a minor injury and a perma-
nent disability?
and the way my car spun and flipped, I would
have been dead without my seat belt. I’d likely
Need more proof seat belts work? Well, a have been ejected and smeared across the road
News.............................. 3 Sports................................... 20 year later, I was involved in a single-vehicle like the quart of barbecue I had bought to take
accident. I’d just gotten onto a road and was home.
Trouble Ticket................ 4 Movies.................................. 22 accelerating to the 55-mph speed limit when I Not a pretty picture.
saw a pile of pine straw ahead in my lane. How about you? Are you ready to strap in
Community.................. 16 Classified.............................. 23 Because of an approaching vehicle, I couldn’t and survive? It’s your choice. Consider it care-
dodge into the oncoming lane to avoid the pile. fully because you may well live or die by it.
SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
13. S ports
First Army East goes to
battle in Turkey Bowl II
By Eric Johns said Capt. Steven Lim, quarterback for the
First Army Division East Public Affairs officers. “We only had three practices.”
An epic battle was fought between two Division Chief of Staff Col. Tracy
longtime rivals of First Army Division Smith predicted a win at halftime.
East — officers and noncommissioned “I predict we will win this game; I pre-
officers. dicted before the game and I am saying
They battled it out Nov. 20 on McGla- it now,” Smith said. “We put together an
chlin Parade Field during this year’s Tur- unbeatable team and we are establishing a
key Bowl II, a rematch from last year when winning streak.”
the NCOs were defeated after a late-game The NCOs changed the game plan
touchdown. during the second half, putting Division
“This year we are willing to play as dirty Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Defreese in
as the officers,” said Headquarters Detach- at quarterback.
ment 1st Sgt. Joseph Smith. “We actually Defreese led the NCOs, throwing four
practiced and put the right people in the touchdown passes versus two by the
right place this year.” officers team. However, one touchdown
After more than a month of trash talk- proved to be the difference.
ing and preparation, the officers started “Everybody is having a good time right
the game with possession of the ball only before Thanksgiving,” he said. “Don’t get
to be shut down during their first attempt me wrong. We would love to whoop their
at a touchdown. butts, but it is all in good fun.”
After punting to the NCOs, the officers Both teams played hard for bragging
made a good stand, stalling them just short rights. Unfortunately for the NCOs, they Photo by Staff Sgt. Stephen Crofoot
of the goal line. have to wait another year to avenge their Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Defreese throws a pass during the First Army Division
The officers drew first blood with a loss. East Turkey Bowl II on Nov. 20 on McGlachlin Parade Field. The game was a rematch
scoring drive that started a scoring frenzy The final score was 42-38, with the from last year as the NCOs were defeated again by the officers after a late-game
leading to a 30-6 lead at halftime. First Army East officers holding on for touchdown.
“I thought it would be a lot harder,” the win.
Fun on a slippery slope
Fort Meade ski club hosts trips far and near
By Brandon Bieltz portation, lodging and, in club for more than 40 years, said that unlike other
Staff Writer some cases, meals. local ski groups, the Fort Meade club is small enough
From the powdery slopes of Breckenridge, Colo., At each location, the for all members to know each other.
to the more than 60 miles of snow trails in Austria, club reserves rooms in the “The Washington Ski Club has thousands of
the Sun, Snow and Surf Ski Club spans the globe for same part of the building members and Columbia Ski Club had more than 500
the best slopes. and members usually stay members,” Bishop said. “If you take one trip with
The Fort Meade club, which is open to anybody together on the moun- our club, it is highly probable that you will know at
connected to the post, conducts several weeklong tains. least several people on your next trip — not so with
trips each year. While members travel primarily to While many of the ski- the bigger clubs.”
ski resorts, the club also organizes bike trips, seasonal iers have similar abilities While the group’s larger trips require extensive
parties and social activities. on the slopes, Hamrah traveling, the club also meets locally at gatherings at
“As a club advertising major trips, we generally stick said the club is open to members’ homes. The club also occasionally meets at
to four trips a year,” said Ron Hamrah, president. any level — even those local slopes for day trips.
One is a European trip and three are domestic. who don’t want to ski but “It’s a good fraternal organization,” Hamrah said.
Annual membership dues cost $25 for individuals just make the trip. “You know the folks and you enjoy time together on
and $35 per family, with discounts for a two-year “Not all of us have the the mountain.”
membership. Members also must pay trip costs. ability; we’re at different levels,” he said. Editor’s note: For more information on the Sun,
But Hamrah said the price for the weeklong trips The camaraderie between the 33 club members is Snow and Surf Ski Club, contact Bill Bishop at 301-
are reasonable because they include lift tickets, trans- a draw for skiiers. Bill Bishop, who has been with the 604-2113 or hoopsgap@aol.com.
20 SOUNDOFF! December 6, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil
