committedMeade players sign letters of intent with NCAA schools

page 12

UPcomiNG eVeNtStoday, 11:30 a.m.-1 P.m.: Black History Month Observance - McGillFriday, 7-10 P.m.: Lounge Party - The LanesWedNeSday, 11:30 a.m.: National Prayer Luncheon - The Conference CenterWedNeSday, 5:30-7 P.m.: EFMP Bowling night - The LanesFeb. 22, 4-6 P.m.: Right Arm Night - The Conference Center

Food SaFetyMeade inspectors help ensure eating facilities adhere to standards

page 3

Soundoff!́vol. 65 no. 6 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community February 14, 2013

Photo by Chief Warrant offiCer 3 Jeffrey tugan

Members of a Mobile Multifunctional Signals Intelligence Team for the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade participate in a field training exercise in the mountains of Utah. Preparing for deployment to Afghanistan, the Soldiers trained for several weeks at Camp Williams, a training site located 25 miles south of Salt lake City and operated by the Utah national Guard. The camp offers specialized training environments such as desert, winter and mountain training as well as an Afghan village to simulate experiences downrange. For the story, see Page 11.

mountaineering

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 14, 2013

Commander’s Column

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

CrimeWatch................. 5 Movies.................................15

Community................. 14 Classified.............................16

Editorial StaffGarrison Commander Col. Edward C. rothsteinGarrison Command Sgt. Maj. thomas J. latterPublic affairs officerChad t. Jones Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.milChief, Command informationPhilip H. Jones Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.milassistant Editor & Senior Writer rona S. Hirsch Staff Writer lisa r. rhodesStaff Writer Brandon Bieltzdesign Coordinator timothy davis Supplemental photography provided by Patuxent Publishing Co.

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300

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

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What is the greatest challenge the U.S. Armed Forces face right now?

Suicide.This issue is causing us to lose quality Soldiers,

Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen at an alarming rate. Last year, we lost more Soldiers to suicide than we did to combat-related deaths.

The Army provides resources to address this issue. We train our force to recognize signs that someone may not be acting “normal” or that inter-vention may be required.

But when the opportunity presents itself, it is that Soldier, service member, DoD civilian who interacts with the troubled individual who must make the call, reach out and ask, “Are you thinking of kill-ing yourself?”

Command Sgt. Maj. Earl L. Rice, the U.S. Army Installation Command sergeant major, is often heard saying you have to “find the good.” Focus on those success stories in which Soldiers and leaders are doing the right thing and taking care of each other.

I want to share with you all a recent event on Fort Meade.

A junior enlisted Soldier on Fort Meade checked his Twitter around 11:30 p.m. before going to sleep. He noticed another junior enlisted Soldier he knew who was stationed elsewhere in the United States had signed off that night “goodbye” to friends and family members.

This Fort Meade Soldier recognized something different in this posting, something wrong. … He immediately texted the Soldier in trouble and got the service member to admit that the service mem-ber was thinking about committing suicide.

He then worked to get the service member on the phone to start talking. During the conversation, he found out that the Soldier had already taken some pills.

The Fort Meade Soldier kept his battle buddy on the phone for more than eight hours throughout the night, while simultaneously reaching out to his own noncommissioned officers to get in contact with the leadership of the Soldier in need.

These efforts were success-ful and by early morning, the military police and first respond-ers at the gar-rison where the suicidal Soldier was stationed had identified the Soldier’s resi-dence and arrived to render aid.

That troubled Soldier is alive today, and a 3-year old child still has a parent.

How easy would it have been for that Fort Meade Soldier to simply turn off his phone and say, “I’ll text my buddy in the morning.”

I have personally thanked that Soldier for his efforts to “never leave a fallen comrade” and his NCOs who have helped instill the Army values in him that allowed him to transition from words to deeds.

You will not see that individual’s name in my column as he prefers to remain anonymous. He did what he did because it was the right thing to do.

That Soldier needed him and he was there. For him, it was as simple as that.

You have seen and will continue to see me refer to service in the Army, or any of the services, as a career-long study of the Profession of Arms in the defense of our nation.

But also remember that this is not just a profes-sion or a career, but a family. We take care of each other.

When was the last time you checked on your buddy?

Editor’s note: For suicide prevention resources, call the Fort Meade Army Substance Abuse Pro-gram at 301-677-7121 or the National Suicide Life-line at 1-800-273-8255, or go to the Army Suicide Prevention Program website at www.preventsuicide.army.mil.

Never leave a fallen comrade

Garrison command sGt. maj. thomas j. latter

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

andcommunitymembersage18orolder are invited toaddress issuesorconcerns to thecommanderdirectlybyvisitingRothstein’sofficeonMon-daysfrom4to6p.m.atgarrisonheadquartersinHodgesHall,Bldg.4551,LlewellynAvenue.

Visitors are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment isnecessary.

Formoreinformation,call301-677-4844.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 14, 2013 SOUNDOFF! �

News

Temporary parking lot for Exchange opens Monday By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

The Walbridge construction company is planning the takeover of the current Exchange parking lot for Tuesday.

A temporary lot will open to the public on Monday as crews begin milling the current parking lot and install a temporary fence around the site.

Construction of the temporary lot began in late December with the demolish-ment of the PXtra.

The new lot, which will fit approximately 208 vehicles, was constructed over the vacant space. The median of the main driveway off MacArthur Road also will be used for parking.

The new 167,000-square-foot Exchange will be constructed on top of the old parking lot.

Construction on the new Exchange, which will feature a larger food court with six food vendors, a gun shop and pharmacy, is scheduled to be completed in 2014.

existed,” Rothstein said. “I wanted the community to know that they live and work on an installation that takes food safety seriously.”

Following the incident at Burger King, AAFES Chief of Public Affairs Lt. Col. Thomas E. Shrader issued the following statement:

“The Army & Air Force Exchange Service owns the Burger King franchise at Fort Meade. On Feb. 2, we noticed a lack of pressure in the soda dispenser. So we called a repair technician to fix the problem.

“Upon dismantling the machine, we dis-covered there was an internal leak within the electrical area, which attracted insects. This area is in the mechanical section of the dispenser, and at no time were direct food contact surfaces compromised.

“The restaurant was closed to allow for a thorough cleaning to ensure correction of the deficiencies. This issue was isolated to the faulty drink dispenser in the drive-thru area. The machine was completely cleaned and disinfected.

“Two inspections were conducted on Feb. 7, one by Preventive Medicine health inspectors and the other by the installation commander. The Burger King successfully passed both of these inspections and was subsequently reopened that evening.

“The Army & Air Force Exchange Service takes the health and safety of our patrons extremely seriously and deeply regrets this incident. Additional checks and inspections have been put in place over and above the normal requirements to ensure no such incidents occur in the future.”

Rothstein emphasized that the health and safety of everyone who lives and works on Fort Meade is of the upmost importance to him and the garrison staff.

“I will continue to do whatever is nec-essary to ensure that all of our eating establishments on post adhere to safety standards for food handling,” he said.

Story and photo by Philip H. JonesCommand Information Chief

Thanks to the efforts of food inspec-tors on Fort Meade, food safety is a priority at all of the installation’s food establishments.

Fort Meade’s Public Health Command Region-North Food Inspection Section and Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Cen-ter’s Preventive Medicine Section work together to oversee and monitor the safety of food.

Each has distinctive responsibilities.PHCR-North looks at food storage on

post, makes sure that food comes from approved sources, and inspects commis-saries, main Exchanges and Shoppettes for sanitation.

Preventive Medicine is responsible for sanitation in food courts, dining facilities and Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities, said Lyn Kukral, public affairs officer for U.S. Army Public Health Command.

While these Soldiers usually go unno-ticed because most of their work is con-ducted behind the scenes, they were very near the center of attention last week due to a faulty soda dispenser.

On Feb. 6, Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein ordered the AAFES Burger King franchise closed for one day due to a problem with a soda dispenser in the drive-through after workers discov-ered an infestation of fruit flies.

According to an entomologist from PHCR-North, the infestation was found in an area that is normally inaccessible to restaurant workers. A weeklong leak in the soda dispenser resulted in the infestation.

Once the infestation was discovered, Rothstein ordered the facility closed to ensure that workers would have adequate time to thoroughly clean and correct the problem area.

The area was reinspected by Kim-brough’s Preventive Medicine and Public Health Command Region-North Veteri-nary Services.

Rothstein said the decision to reopen the dining facility was based on his con-sultation with the Preventive Medicine team.

“I made the decision to close the Burg-er King, not because it posed an immedi-ate health risk, but because we wanted to give the staff the opportunity to conduct a top-to-bottom cleaning to ensure they were able to correct the problems that

Inspectors work to ensure food safetyStaff Sgt. Michael Sapp, a preventive medicine noncommissioned officer-in-charge at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center’s Preventative Medicine section, inspects a refrigerator at a food facility at the Exchange food court. Fort Meade food inspectors ensure that the post community has safe food.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 14, 2013

News

PHOTOs BY sgT. vanessa Hernandez

Col. Vinette Gordon (center), deputy chief of the Army Nurse Corps, greets Roberta Ross, acting nurse manager of the Same-Day Surgery/Post-Anesthesia Care Unit at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center, during her visit Feb. 7 to celebrate the 112th birthday of the Army Nurse Corps. Col. Lorraine Fritz (right), deputy commander for Nursing at Kimbrough, and Lt. Col. Rebecca Preza, chief of Perioperative Nursing Services, look on.

Corps’ Patient CaringTouch System, which was rolled out by the Army Medical Department in early 2012.

The PCTS was developed to reduce clinical quality variance by adopt-ing a set of internally and externally validated best practices that have been shown to improve the care provided to patients and their families, Fritz said.

Nurses from several clinics within the Fort Meade Medical Department Activity updated Gordon via telecon-ference on the progress of the system at their respective facilities.

The visit ended with a cake-cutting ceremony where Gordon presented the Army Nurse Corps coin and a copy of the book, “The Contemporary His-

tory of the U.S. Army Nurse Corps,” to Capt. Gayle Fisher, nurse manager of the Multi-Service Clinic; Glenne Kertes, clinical nurse manager for the Primary Care Unit; Sgt. Antoni Alatorre, noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the Specialty Clinic and Multi-Service Clinic; and retired Maj. Hector Erazo, who retired from Kim-brough in November 2012 after 21 years of service.

“It’s a great opportunity to have [Gordon] here today to interact with the staff and [for them] to be recog-nized for what they do at Kimbrough every day,” Fritz said.

Kertes, who served as an Army Nurse Corps officer five years ago,

said she was honored to be recog-nized by Gordon and the Army Nurse Corps.

“I had a great experience with the Army Nurse Corps,” said Kertes, who is now a DA civilian nurse. “It felt like I was part of a family.”

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

Col. Vinette Gordon, deputy chief of the Army Nurse Corps, celebrated the organization’s 112th birthday with a visit to Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center.

During her visit on Feb. 7, which included a tour and cake-cutting cer-emony, Gordon praised the facility’s dedication to service members.

“This is one of Army Medicine and the Army Nursing Corps’ treasures,” Gordon said. “The efforts of the nursing leadership and staff are very visible. You can see and hear how they are taking care of America’s sons and daughters.”

The Army Nurse Corps became a permanent corps of the Medical Department under the Army Reor-ganization Act, which was passed by Congress and signed by President Wil-liam McKinley on Feb. 2, 1901.

The organization’s mission, accord-ing to its website, is “providing respon-sive, innovative, and evidenced-based nursing care integrated on the Army Medicine Team to enhance readiness, preserve life and function, and pro-mote health and wellness for all those entrusted to our care.”

Traditionally, active-duty and Reserve component officers comprised the Army Nurse Corps. Today, the organization also includes Depart-ment of the Army civilians and enlist-ed medical personnel.

The nursing team at Kimbrough is made up of more than 150 nurses who are Army Nurse Corps officers, DA civilians and Army medics.

Col. Lorraine Fritz, deputy com-mander for Nursing at Kimbrough, and Lt. Col. Andrew Baxter, assistant deputy commander for Nursing, wel-comed Gordon to Kimbrough. They led her on a tour of the facility’s Green Clinic, the Same-Day Surgery Operat-ing Room and the new Multi-Service Clinic, which began a phased-in open-ing in December and will celebrate its official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 25.

After the tour, Gordon met with members of Kimbrough’s nursing team for a briefing on the facility’s implementation of the Army Nursing

Celebrating 112 years of service

Kimbrough pays tribute to Army Nurse Corps

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 14, 2013 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Capt. Adam PettyLegal Assistance Attorney

Serving as the personal representative of a decedent’s estate is a huge responsibil-ity and can be overwhelming at times.

A personal representative, or “execu-tor,” administers the decedent’s estate, which generally involves resolving any debts and handling the distribution of property.

There are various steps a personal rep-resentative could be called upon to take:

• Step 1: Inventory the decedent’s docu-ments and assets.

Locate all of the decedent’s assets, personal effects and estate-planning docu-ments such as a Last Will and Testa-ment.

Other documents that should be locat-ed include bank and brokerage statements, life insurance policies, car and boat titles, deeds, and the decedent’s three prior income tax returns.

Be sure to collect any money owed to the decedent.

• Step 2: Open the probate estateThe personal representative must offi-

cially open the probate estate.In Maryland, the personal representa-

tive must contact the appropriate county’s Register of Wills. However, in other states, the executor may be required to retain an estate attorney.

Be sure to file any appropriate claims for veterans and Social Security benefits.

• Step 3: Value the decedent’s assets.The next step in the estate settlement

process is to establish date-of-death val-ues for all of the decedent’s assets. All financial institutions where the decedent’s assets are located must be contacted to obtain the date-of-death values.

For assets such as real estate, personal effects, collectibles and closely held busi-nesses, the executor may need to contact a professional appraiser.

• Step 4: Pay the decedent’s final bills and estate expenses.

Executor responsible for decedent’s estate

Figure out what bills the decedent owed at the time of death, determine if the bills are legitimate, and then pay the bills.

The personal representative also will be responsible for making sure that the ongo-ing expenses of administering the estate such as legal fees, utilities and mortgage payments are paid.

• Step 5: Pay the decedent’s income taxes and estate taxes.

Pay any income taxes and estate taxes that may be due for the tax year of the death or any years that the decedent was delinquent.

• Step 6: Distribute the balance to the estate beneficiaries.

The final step in the estate settlement process is to manage the remaining estate assets. Carry out the will’s instructions regarding specific gifts and monetary donations, then make distributions of the estate assets to the appropriate estate beneficiaries.

The role of a personal representative of an estate is an important responsibility.

For more information about the duties of a personal representative or steps to take, schedule an appointment with a Legal Assistance Division attorney at 301-677-9504 or 301-677-9536.

Feb. 4, Larceny of private prop-erty: The victim stated that two bottles of liquor, including one bottle of Jack Daniel’s, were stolen from his residence.

CommunityCommunityCrime Watch

Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services

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News

And the oscAr

goes to ...Marine Pfc. Josue

Perezquinones poses with the golden Oscar statuette and mural of actress Marilyn Mon-roe at the USO-Metro Center at Fort Meade. An “Oscar Roadtrip”

crew made the stop at the USO-Metro Center on Feb. 8 during a 21-day journey to deliver the coveted statuette to Hollywood for the

85th Academy Awards on Feb. 24.

Photo by StAFF SGt. SeAn K. hArP

Moment in TimeDuring World War I, Fort Meade was established in 1917 as Camp Meade, a cantonment for troops drafted for the war.In celebration of the installation’s 96th anniversary, Soundoff! will feature a series of historical snapshots of the people and

events at Fort Meade through the years.

Joe Henderson

While serving out his draft during the Vietnam War, jazz musician Joe Henderson played saxophone for the U.S. Army Band. At the tail end of his two-year stint in the Army, Henderson was stationed at Fort Meade, where he was a member of the Second Army Band.

A native of Lima, Ohio, Henderson studied music at Kentucky State College and Wayne State University in Detroit while playing in local jazz clubs. He was drafted in 1960, first serving with the Army Band at Fort Benning, Ga., where he competed in a talent show with a four-piece combo and won first place.

At Fort Belvoir, Va., Henderson was selected to tour with a show that entertained troops around the world.In 1962, on the final leg of his Army service, Henderson was stationed at Fort Meade. After his honorable discharge later that

year, he promptly drove to New York City where he immediately began playing with jazz groups.In 1963, Henderson released his first album titled “Page One.” Throughout his nearly 40-year career, Henderson released more

than 30 albums as the primary artist and appeared as a sideman on more than 100 records.Henderson released his final album in 1998. He died in 2001 of heart failure after a long battle with emphysema at age 64.

Chaplain’s WordLIFE’S JOURNEY

“If you don’t know where you’re going,when you get there

you’ll be lost.”

— Yogi Berra, baseball legend

NO ONE DOES COMMUNITY NEWS LIKE WE DO

A Baltimore Sun MediaGroup Publication

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! February 14, 2013

News

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

In the past two years, Meade High School has faced the sudden deaths of five students and five recent graduates.

Two of the deceased were struck by vehicles, six were involved in car accidents, one succumbed to an illness and the other died of a ruptured aorta.

In the wake of the tragedies, the school is slowly healing, said Principal John Yore.

“Resilient is one way to describe our students and teachers,” he said. “Commu-nity is another way to describe Meade.”

To help the students and faculty deal with the unprecedented loss, trauma response teams from the Anne Arundel County Public Schools system and Meade High’s staff of two school psychologists and seven counselors have provided men-tal health services, including grief and crisis counseling, to students and consulta-tions for faculty.

The county school system “has been very supportive with mental health resources and presence for our students and the school,” Yore said.

Meade High held a memorial service and candlelight vigil on Jan. 10 that was coordinated by school psychologist Nelli El-Ghazal with the help of students, par-ents from Fort Meade and the Meade High Alumni Association.

“The loss of our students has been the

challenging part,” El-Ghazal said. “But the way the staff, students and families came together to work through these trag-edies has been remarkable.”

Students have received direct services, such as individual and group counseling, grief counseling, mediation and assess-ments to help them develop interventions that suit their needs.

El-Ghazal said the school’s grief coun-seling is not long term, but eligible stu-dents have had access to behavioral health services from the Villa Maria Continuum, an independent counseling agency, and the Tele-Behavioral Health program at the Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda.

Bob Mosier, spokesperson for the coun-ty school system, said the trauma response teams are staffed by counselors, psycholo-gists and social workers who are sent to schools when a crisis happens and con-tinue to work at schools on an as-needed basis after a tragedy.

The school system employs more than 300 counselors, psychologists and social workers who are trained to provide mental health and wellness services for students and staff.

In the wake of Meade High’s most recent tragedy, Yore said Anne Arundel County Schools Superintendent Kevin Maxwell and his administrative staff arrived at the school within an hour after

Meade High copes with grief after tragedieslearning that freshman Jaelin Ashe, 15, was fatally struck by a vehicle in Laurel on Dec. 20.

Yore said Maxwell and his staff pro-vided support throughout the day and continue to have conversations with the staff about how the county school system can assist in the healing process.

Meade High and the county school system, which provides resources and sup-port to families in cases of student death, illness and injury, also have reached out to the families of the deceased students and

graduates.Meade High provided families with

information about community resources and invited them to participate in the memorial service and candlelight vigil.

El-Ghazal said that while people grieve differently, the emotional pulse at the school, on the whole, is improving.

The support for students, staff and families will be ongoing, said Yore.

“We want to have a foundation and climate of support in place at all times,” he said.

photo by Sgt. walter reeveS

Two Meade High School students comfort each other during the school’s candlelight vigil on Jan. 10. Grief and crisis counseling were provided to students after the deaths of five students and five recent graduates during the past two years.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 14, 2013 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Wendy PoulsonSocial Security ManagerGlen Burnie

Whether you are a small-business owner, a retiree or a new parent, here are some Social Security tax tips that may help you prepare for Tax Day.

Are Social Security benefits taxable?

About one-third of those receiving benefits must pay taxes on some of their Social Security.

If your total income, including Social Security and all of your other taxable income, is $25,000 or more and you file federal taxes as an individual, you’ll need to pay federal taxes on some of your benefits.

That amount is $32,000 for married couples filing a joint return.

Will I get a tax form for my Social Security benefits?

Yes. In fact, you should have already received it.

Social Security Benefit State-ments (Form SSA-1099) for tax year 2012 were mailed to beneficiaries and should be received by Jan. 31. If you receive Social Security and haven’t received your 1099, you can request one online at socialsecurity.gov/1099.

Does your baby need a Social Security Number?

Yes. Most people apply for their baby’s Social Security number while they’re still in the hospital at the same time they apply for the birth certifi-cate.

But if you didn’t, you’ll need to apply for your child’s Social Security number in order to claim the child as a depen-dent on your tax return.

You’ll also need it if you ever apply for government benefits on behalf of the child or your family.

For more information about Social Security cards and numbers, visit socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

Social Security and tax time

PHOTO by jay l. baker

aligning prioritiesNavy Petty Officer Christina Walrath shakes hands with Gov. Martin O’Malley, who met with Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein, Fort Meade Alliance General Manager Tim O’Ferrall (left rear) and other members of Maryland’s Federal Facilities Advisory Board on Feb. 7 in Annapolis for the release of the board’s strategic plan. The plan outlines recommendations on how the state can align its resources with federal priorities such as encouraging innovation and the creation of more jobs in Maryland.

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News

Story and photo by Sgt. Michael KieseU.S. Army Field Band

Son Tropical, an 11-piece ensemble made up of members of the U.S. Army Field Band’s Jazz Ambassadors, Con-cert Band and Soldiers’ Chorus, per-formed at Roland Park Elementary Middle School in Baltimore on Feb. 1.

The band performed authentic Latin and Afro-Cuban music with a unique educational focus. Teachers instructed students on the basics of Latin music history and dance the week before the performance to empower them to be educated listeners and participants.

For example, during the call and response sections of the performance, students were quizzed on Latin music terminology, history and geography. They also were encouraged to dance to the appropriate styles of Latin music.

The school band also participated in performing “Malaguena,” a Latin jazz standard, before Son Tropical’s set. Band director Danni Schmitt said her students were delighted to hear a live performance by professional musi-cians.

One of the school band’s trombone players, a seventh-grader named Julian, was excited to see Son Tropical’s trom-bonist perform a solo, said Schmitt.

“He said, ‘Mrs. Schmitt! Mrs. Schmitt! Come here!,” Schmitt recalled. “I walked over and he turned around and pointed at the guy, and his mouth just dropped. It was just such a beauti-ful and perfect moment. Seeing that kind of reaction from the kids, that’s why we get up and do what we do every day.”

Son Tropical also performed for the students last year. Schmitt said that after the band’s visit, she noticed an influx of beginner musicians to the band.

“For the students who aren’t in music, it exposes them to [music] they probably haven’t ever heard before,” said Jared Perry, Roland Park’s assistant teacher. “And for them to learn the dances and to be able to dance along with the band is phenomenal. For the musicians who are up-and-coming … it gives them motivation to practice. And to [hear] the range on the trumpet, the range on the trombone, the dexterity of the saxophone, and just the rhythm and just feeling it … it’s just a phenomenal experience for everyone.”

Master Sgt. Timothy Young, pianist

Olé: Army Field Band performs Latin music for students

An aspiring drummer in the Roland Park Elementary/Middle School band watches Son Tropical, an ensemble of the U.S. Army Field Band, perform authentic Latin and Afro-Cuban music during a performance at the school on Feb. 1 as part of the Field Band’s educational outreach.

for Son Tropical and the Jazz Ambassa-dors, said educational outreach is part of the Field Band’s mission.

“We mostly do these kinds of things when we are out on the road,” Young said. “One of our goals is just to present ourselves. A lot of people aren’t aware of the opportunities the Army affords people musically and otherwise.”

As an example of how the Field Band influences young musicians, Young recalled how he once met an aspiring jazz pianist who was an usher at one of the Jazz Ambassadors’ concerts six years ago. The usher later sent Young some of his recordings and Young gave

him some feedback.The usher later joined the Marines

and, in 2011, contacted Young to let him know he was stationed at Quantico, Va., and had become a pianist with the Marine Corps Band based there.

Young said that since then, the Marine has attended some of the Jazz Ambassadors’ rehearsals. Young is now his piano teacher.

“It’s very cool and inspiring to see a young man like that follow in my foot-steps, so to speak,” Young said.

Editor’s note: In addition to instru-mental demonstrations, the Field Band also performs clinics, master classes and

educational music assemblies throughout the year.

The Army Field Band also offers free educational materials online at Army-FieldBand.com. For more information, visit the website and click the “Educa-tion” tab.

Connect with Fort Meade at Facebook.com/ftmeade

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 14, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 11

Cover Story

By Sgt. Amy Lane 704th Military Intelligence BrigadePublic Affairs

DRAPER, Utah — In preparation for an upcoming deployment, Soldiers of Alpha Company, 742nd Military Intelligence Battalion, 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, traveled to Camp Williams for several weeks of training in the mountains of Utah.

The Soldiers are members of the Mobile Multifunctional Signals Intelli-gence Team, and will deploy to Afghani-stan to support tactical units to provide mission critical intelligence.

“This is where SIGINT meets tacti-cal forces,” said Capt. Jessamyn Liu, commander of Alpha Company. “This team brings specialized SIGINT skills in to support ground forces. They act as a force multiplier.”

Training focused on the Low Level Voice Intercept used to provide early warnings against possible enemy forces.

“The MMST Soldiers are carrying not only everything the ground troops carry, but they are also carrying their own specialized equipment,” Liu said. “Their rucksacks can weigh up to 90 pounds while they’re out there climbing mountains.”

Liu traveled to Camp Williams to observe her Soldiers in their training, which consisted of classroom time fol-lowed by hands-on training. The team of 31 Soldiers, along with some from the 743rd MI Battalion, split into groups and worked with members of the Utah National Guard, who acted as the oppos-ing force during real-life scenarios.

Having grown up in Utah, Spc. Megan Sten, a signal collector/analyst with Alpha Company, knew how chal-lenging it would be to train in the higher altitude.

“I’ve always been an active, athletic person and I like the more tactical side of my job, so this was fun for me,” she said. “I did acclimate faster than the others because I grew up in the area.”

Though mostly focused on learning the new equipment, Sten also had the opportunity to see her family who lives nearby.

Liu said the Soldiers trained not only on their equipment, but also in the operating environment. The terrain and elevation in the Utah training environ-ment mirrors the environment the Sol-diers will face in Afghanistan.

Camp Williams, a training site located

704th MI Soldiers prepare for upcoming deployment

Photo by Chief Warrant offiCer 3 Jeffrey tugan

A team of 31 Soldiers in Alpha Company, 742nd Military Intelligence Battalion, 704th MI Brigade, train at Camp Williams before deploying to Afghanistan. The terrain and elevation in the Utah training environment operated by the Utah National Guard mirrors the harsh environment the team will face in Afghanistan.

25 miles south of Salt Lake City and operated by the Utah National Guard, offers specialized training environments such as desert, winter and mountain training as well as an Afghan village to simulate the experiences Soldiers will have downrange.

Spc. Albert Hatem, a signals intel-ligence analyst with Alpha Company, said the elevation was tough, but he acclimated quickly.

“I’m not built to be behind a desk,” he said. “I volunteered for this deployment to experience the more tactical side of my job.”

This will be the first deployment for both Sten and Hatem.

“It’s a great opportunity, even the training alone is,” Hatem said. “Very few Soldiers get to do this. It really sets

us aside. It kind of makes us an elite group.”

Sten said the training was tough and she enjoyed the opportunity for more in-depth learning on the equipment. Both Soldiers said they were given an overview of the equipment back at Fort Meade, but the hands-on experience is even more important.

“It was more like the environment in Afghanistan, so it was better training than just walking around Fort Meade with a rucksack,” Sten said. “It’s a lot different when you throw in the moun-tains, altitude and snow. It was exciting and a good experience.”

An additional challenge was the freez-ing temperatures. During the two-week field portion of the training, tempera-tures fell below zero every day. One

day, temperatues plunged to 13 degrees below zero.

The Soldiers were supposed to camp out for the entire two weeks, but because of the cold they were brought in each night. They stayed warm while climbing, but got cold quickly when they stopped moving.

Periodically, the group took turns taking a break to change into dry tops and socks to preserve body heat. They also slid into their sleeping bags during breaks.

“When your ruck weighs 80 to 90 pounds and you add 15 inches of snow and high altitudes, a hill that would normally take 30 minutes to climb takes an hour,” Hatem said. “But training in the worst of conditions can give us the upper hand.”

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil12 SOUNDOFF! February 14, 2013

SportS

photos by brian krista

Meade High senior Anthony Watkins poses for a picture with his mother Kimberly Murray after signing his letter of intent on Feb. 6 at the high school. The wide receiver will play football next year at Saint Francis University in Lorette, Pa.

Malik Dorsey’s parents Rodney and Lisa Myrick join the defensive lineman after he signed his letter of intent to play football at the University of Maine next year. Dorsey joins six other Meade High School seniors who have been recruited to play college football.

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

After helping lead the Meade High School Mustangs to playoffs for the first time in 11 years and to the state semifinals, seven seniors are prepared to take their playing career to the next level.

On last week’s National Signing Day, two Mustangs — Malik Dorsey and Anthony Watkins — signed letters of intent to officially accept offers to play college football. Five other players followed, either by signing later in the week or continuing official visits to schools before signing.

Dorsey is heading to the University of Maine, while Watkins will attend Saint Francis University in Lorette, Pa. Corey Brooks later signed to play for ASA Community College in New York.

“It’s a dream come true,” Watkins said.

Fellow Mustangs Ray Myers, Hunter Cox, Kevin Johnson and Daivon Nixon, who are still making official visits, will declare their intent by the end of Febru-ary, said head coach Rich Holzer.

Dorsey and Watkins were accompa-nied by Holzer, their families and Prin-cipal John Yore during the ceremony on Feb. 6.

Sporting a new Maine Black Bears hat, Dorsey signed the letter that will send the defensive lineman to the town of Orono to play Division I football in the Colonial Athletic Association.

“I think he found a pretty good fit,” Holzer said. “They’re not afraid to play shorter, maybe a little undersized defen-sive linesman.”

Dorsey’s father Rodney Myrick, a retired Air Force master sergeant who served with the 70th Intelligence, Sur-veillance and Reconnaissance Wing, called the signing the “ultimate accom-plishment” for his son.

Myrick recalled helping to put the equipment on his son when Dorsey was a youngster and all the effort the 18-year-old has put in since then.

“I’ve seen all his hard work — get-ting up 6 o’clock in the morning and working out,” Myrick said. “It’s just great to see all his hard work is coming to pay off.”

Dorsey said he decided to attend the University of Maine because of the bigger and better competition he will face; adding he is eager to begin train-ing with the team.

“I’m trying to get up there as soon as I can,” he said.

Dorsey’s motor and effort on the field, Holzer said, are what set him above other players.

“He never stops,” Holzer said. “It’s like the Energizer Bunny — he just keeps going. There’s not many kids in high school football who play as hard as he does.”

Watkins agreed to play in the North-east Conference with the Saint Francis Red Flash.

“I went up there and I liked the coaches,” he said. “The players brought me in like I was there for awhile. I just felt comfortable with the decision. My mom liked the school and I liked the school. It was just a good fit.”

His senior season of 47 catches for 812 yards and 10 touchdowns was the first year of his career. Had Watkins played all four years, Holzer said, he would have ended up on the roster of a bigger program.

“He’s just a freak of an athlete, he’s an outstanding athlete,” he said. “I can see him being an All-American at Saint Francis.”

Besides Dorsey and Watkins, Myers will make the most immediate impact on his college team, said Holzer. The defensive back is considering West Vir-ginia Wesleyan College and Misericor-dia University in Dallas, Pa.

“He has all the natural abilities; he’s just short,” Holzer said of the 5-foot, 6-inch defensive back. “In Division II you can get away with that.”

Although they are heading to college to advance their playing career, both Dorsey and Watkins said they will miss playing at Meade High.

“It’s kind of bittersweet,” Watkins said. “I’m going to fulfill my dream, but I still wish I could play with my high school team.”

This large group of seniors recruited to play college football puts Meade High School “on the map,” Watkins said. Holzer agreed, adding that colleg-es don’t go to schools that lose games.

“I think it lends a lot of credibility to what we’re doing,” Holzer said. “Par-ents see that we have kids succeeding in our program and moving on to bigger and better things.

“We’re winning football games now, but the bigger picture most parents are concerned about is what we’re doing to help their sons, and I think that this kind of proves it,” he said.

Meade High football players sign college commitments

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 14, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 13

SportS

Sports ShortsIndoor triathlon

Gaffney Fitness Center will host an indoor triathlon on March 9 inside the facility.

Wave start times will be between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m.Cost is $15 per person, which includes a T-shirt and goodie bag.Participants must be at least 18 years old.Registration is required by Feb. 25. There will be no onsite registration.The competition will consist of a 10-minute swim, 30-minutes on bike, and a

20-minute run. Performance will be measured by the total distance covered in the three legs.

To register, go to ftmeademwr.com. For more information, call 301-677-3318.

Old Joe Golf Tournament The Fort Meade Officers’ Spouses Club is sponsoring the 8th Annual Old

Joe Golf Tournament on April 12 at Eisenhower Golf Course, 1576 Generals Highway, Crownsville.

Shotgun start will be at 8:30 a.m.Cost is $70 for active-duty service members, retirees and family members,

and $75 for everyone else.Registration and payment are due by March 29.Registration includes green fees and cart, putting contest, continental

breakfast, barbecue lunch, two beverage tickets, door prizes, snacks and player goodie bags.

Proceeds benefit the Fort Meade OSC Scholarships and Welfare Programs.For more information, email Lorin Neslony at 2ndVice@fortmeadeosc.org

or visit fortmeadeosc.org.

EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member program is

sponsoring its monthly bowling event on Wednesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Lanes.

Exceptional family members will receive a free game and shoe rental. Other family members will receive discounted games and shoe rental.

To register, call 301-677-4473 or email kelly.g.burger@us.army.mil.

Spring sports registrationRegistration for spring sports is under way at

Parent Central Services, 1900 Reece Road.Spring sports include soccer, T-ball, baseball,

softball, track, indoor football and basketball.For more information, call 301-677-1149 or 1156.

Texas Hold ‘emTexas Hold ‘em no buy-in games are played Mondays at 7 p.m. at the Lanes.Games are free and open to the public.For more information, call 301-677-5541.

Dollar DaysThe Lanes offers Dollar Days every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Bowlers receive a game of bowling, shoe rental, a hot dog, hamburger,

small fries, pizza slice or small soda for $1 each.For more information, call 301-677-5541.

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

Did your mother ever tell you that if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it at all?

Well, Momma Jones never played by that rule. But fortunately for you, Drill Sgt. Jones at Fort Sill, Okla., did.

In fact he’d do it in cadence. It went sorta like this:

Drill Sgt. Jones: “If you ain’t got nothing nice ...”

Delta 1/40, Company C: “One!”

DS J: “Don’t say it at all.”

Delta: “Two!”

DS J: “Unless you wanna get smoked ...”

Delta: “Three!”

DS J: “By Drill Sergeant Jones.”

Delta: “Four!”

DS J: “I am the man.”

Delta: “Five!”

DS J: “You all are stinking privates.”

And so on and so forth.

It was ironic since it seemed that Drill Sgt. Jones never seemed to have anything nice to say. Regardless, a few push-ups, flutter kicks and turn-and-bounces later, the message took.

And since this is the first week without football, and Michigan lost by 23 to the stinking Spartans, and ESPN is giving way too much coverage to Michael Jordan, I’m not very happy right now.

So I’m just going to keep quiet until next week when I’ll focus on Spring Training, CYSS spring sports, and a beef with our own Marcia Eastland.

Until then, if you have any comments on this or anything to do with sports, contact me at chad.t.jones.civ@mail.mil.

Jibber-Less (somewhat)

Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs

Officer

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil14 SOUNDOFF! February 14, 2013

Community news & notes

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

For more information or to submit an announcement, email Philip Jones at philip.h.jones.civ@mail.mil or call 301-677-5602.

National Prayer LuncheonThe Fort Meade Annual National

Prayer Luncheon will be held Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at the Conference Center, 6800 Taylor Ave.

The guest speaker is retired Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Matthew A. Zimmerman, who served as the 18th Army chief of chaplains from 1990 to 1994.

Seating is limited to 200 people.Suggested donation is $10 for civilians

and service members E6 and above.Tickets are available at the Main

Post Chapel, 4419 Llewellyn Ave. or by contacting the Religious Support Office at 301-677-6703 or at diana.l.durner.civ@mail.mil.

Lounge partyParty at the 11th Frame Lounge at

the Lanes on Friday from 7 to 10 p.m.The free event will feature music, food

specials, a special drink menu, games and giveaways.

For more information, call 301-677-5541.

Karaoke NightThe next Karaoke Night will be Feb.

21 from 7 to 10 p.m. in the 11th Frame Lounge at the Lanes.

The event is held the third Thursday of the month.

For more information, call 301-677-5541 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

ESC scholarshipsThe Enlisted Spouses’ Club is hosting

its annual Enlisted Spouses’ Club Military Dependent Youth Scholarships for the 2013-2014 school year.

The ESC scholarship award, valued at

$1,500, is open to qualifying graduating high school seniors as well as continuing education students.

Numerous scholarships will be awarded.

The Evelyn Silva Scholarship Award of Excellence is offered to qualifying high school seniors only and is valued at $2000. There will only be one recipient.

The complete application package is available on the ESC website at ftmeadeesc.org.

For more information, email Trish Baker at scholarshipdirector@ftmeadeesc.org.

OSC scholarshipsThe Fort Meade Officers’ Spouses’

Club has posted its 2013 scholarship applications on its website.

College-bound, high school seniors and dependent children currently enrolled in college can apply for the Merit Scholarship.

High school seniors with an outstanding academic record also will be considered for the Etta Baker Memorial Scholarship.

The Fort Meade OSC also will award a JROTC Scholarship as well as a Military Spouse Scholarship.

Application forms with eligibility requirements are available at fortmeadeosc.org. Completed applications must be postmarked by April 1 to be considered.

For more information, email Heather Thomas at scholarships@fortmeadeosc.org.

Employment Readiness classes

The Employment Readiness Program is offering the following free programs on Feb. 27:

• Military & Spouse Employment

Support Job Club Meeting: 11:30 a.m., Potomac Place Neighborhood Center

• Part 1: “From Resolution to Reality: How to stick to your career goals and mean it”: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Part 2: Bonus webinar: Federal resume training - Tips to understanding the government hiring process: 1 to 2 p.m.

Learn the difference between appropriated positions, nonappropriated status, and how to qualify. Learn to read and understand the position you are applying for.

To register online, visit http://www.eventbrite.com/edit?eid=5478682888.

For more information, call 301-677-5590.

Common Sense ParentingA Common Sense Parenting class will

be offered Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

Share some of your insight and get more tools to learn how parents are teachers.

To register or for more information, call 301-677-5590.

Mob/Dep programsThe Mobilization/Deployment

Program will offer the following programs at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

Registration is required.• Pre-deployment Brief: March 1 and

March 15, 9:30 to 11 a.m.• Family Readiness Group

Roundtable: March 20, 9 to 11 a.m.• CARE Team Training: March 25, 9

a.m. to 3 p.m.For more information, email Pia

Morales, Mobilization/Deployment Program manager, at pia.s.morales.civ@mail.mil or call 301-677-4110.

Financial Readiness classesArmy Community Service is offering

the following Financial Readiness classes at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

Classes are open to DoD identification cardholders, including active-duty service members, retirees and their family members, DoD civilian employees and contractors.

Registration is required for each class.• Credit Clinic meets every Wednesday

from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.Use the new online appointment

system to schedule for the Credit Clinic and regular appointments with a financial counselor at fortmeadeacs.checkappointments.com.

• Car Buying: Today, 1 to 3 p.m.• Liquidating Your Debts: Tuesday, 9

to 11 a.m.• Money Management: Feb. 21, 1 to

3 p.m.• First Term Financial Readiness

(online class): Feb. 26, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.• Military Saves Day of Financial

Fitness: Feb. 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.Numerous speakers will address

various financial topics throughout the day. Enjoy a free lunch and a chance to win door prizes. Space is limited.

To register or for more information, call 301-677-5590. To schedule an appointment, visit fortmeadeacs.checkappointments.com.

Career, financial classesThe Fleet and Family Support Center

offers the following free classes at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.:

• Stress Management: Today, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Spouses Meet and Greet: Today, 10 a.m. to noon

• Pre-deployment: Feb. 21, 9:30 to 11 a.m.

• Money Management: Feb. 21, 1 to 3 p.m.

• Job Search Strategies: Feb. 26, 9 a.m. to noon

Learn techniques to help you succeed in your job search as well as the tools for networking and negotiating job offers.

• Day of Financial Fitness: Feb. 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Registration is required for all programs. For more information, call 301-677-9014, 301-677-9017 or 301-677-9018.

UMUC info sessionLearn all about University of

Maryland University College at an

Black History Month celebrationFort Meade’s annual Black History Month observance will be held today

from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McGill Training Center.Admission is free and open to the public.The event is hosted by Navy Information Operations Command Maryland.The speaker is Navy Rear Adm. James Crawford III, deputy judge advocate

general and commander of Naval Legal Service Command.Entertainment will feature the Morgan State University Performance Arts

Department.Food samplings will be provided.All Fort Meade service members and civilian employees are encouraged

to attend with supervisory approval and without charge to annual leave. Administrative leave is authorized.

For more information, call Navy Chief Edward T. Brown at 301-688-6373 or Sgt. 1st Class Torey Palmore at Equal Opportunity at 301-677-6687.

NEWS & EVENTS

EDUCATION

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 14, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 15

Community news & notes movies

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

Movies start Wednesdays to Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. NEW PRICES: Tickets are $5 for adults (12 and older) and $2.50 for children.

Today through March 3

Today & Wednesday: “The Guilt Trip” (PG-13). An inventor and his mom hit the road together so he can sell his latest creation. With Barbra Streisand, Seth Rogen, Brett Cullen.

Friday & Feb. 21: “Jack Reacher” (PG-13). An investigator (Tom Cruise) probes a ran-dom sniper attack. With Rosamund Pike and Robert Duvall.

Saturday & Sunday: “Rise of the Guard-ians” (PG). An evil spirit schemes against the immortal Guardians (Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sand-man). Voices of Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Jude Law.

Feb. 22, 23, 24: “Gangster Squad” (R). A chronicle of the Los Angeles Police Depart-ment’s fight to keep the East Coast mafia out of their area in the 1940s and 1950s. With Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Nick Nolte.

Feb. 27, March 2, 3: “Les Misérables” (PG-13). An adaptation of the stage musical based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel. With Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe and Anne Hathaway.

Feb. 28, March 1: “Mama” (PG-13). A supernatural presence haunts two little girls. With Jessica Chastain, Nikolaj Coster-Wal-dau, Megan Charpentier.

information session on Feb. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Army Education Center, 8601 Zimborski Ave.

Advisors will be available to discuss transfer credit and help you put together a degree plan. Bring transcripts.

The $50 application fee will be waived if you apply at the event. (The $100 application fee for Doctor of Management is not.)

For more information, call 301-621-9882.

Story TimeThe Potomac Place Reading Room

offers pre-kindergarten Story Time on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10 a.m. or 10:30 to 11 a.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center.

• Today: “Love is in the Air” - A Valentine’s Day celebration of love and friendship

• Feb. 21: “Pets Galore” - Celebrate “Responsible Pet Owners Month” with stories, songs and finger plays about pets.

• Feb. 28: “Smile! Dental Health Month” - Special guest demonstrates dental care.

For more information, call 301-677-5522 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

Career prep classesTeen Career Job Fair Prep Classes:

Got Questions, We Have Answers will be offered Wednesdays through March 13 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Fort Meade Teen Center.

The Fort Meade Youth Job Fair will be held March 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. at McGill Training Center.

Prep class topics:• Wednesday: How to Prepare for Job

Fairs & Interviews (What do I say?)• Feb. 27: Resume Preparation (What

do I write and is it right?)• March 6: Mock Interview & Dress

for Success Session (How do I look?)• March 13: Get Your Resume

Reviewed/Feedback (Is my resume good enough?)

Reservations are not required.For more information, contact Vikki

A. Torrence, Employment Readiness Program manager, at vikki.torrence@us.army.mil or call 301-677-5590, or contact James E. Dey, CYSS Workforce Preparation specialist, at james.e.dey3.naf.mail.mil or call 301-677-1749.

Dance, grillingChild, Youth and School Services will

sponsor the following events for grades six to eight at the Youth Center:

• Valentine’s Dance: Friday, 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Cost is $2. The event will feature music, prizes and snack bar.

• Grilling & Chilling, Feb. 22, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The event will feature grilled potatoes, vegetables, turkey burgers and a drink. Participants choose activities after dinner.

Cost is $5.For more information, call 301-677-

1437.

Out & About• Monster Jam will be at the 1st Mariner

Arena on March 2 and 3. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for children. Tickets are available at Leisure Travel Services and come with a pit pass. For more information, call 301-677-7354.

• The Bowie Baysox will host live auditions on March 16 at Prince George’s Stadium to sing the National Anthem before a Baysox home game. Stadium gates open for registration at 9 a.m. Auditions begin at 9:30 a.m.

The team presents a live performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before all 71 home games.

Auditions are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis. No word sheets are allowed. All auditions must be performed in person. CDs, cassettes or videos will not be accepted for review. Instrumentalists are permitted.

Large church or school groups interested in performing the National Anthem at a game should call the Baysox at 301-464-4880.

• The Meade Area Garden Club is sponsoring a bus trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show on March 4 from 8:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “Brilliant,” showcasing the culture and plants of Great Britain.

Cost, which includes bus fee and admis-sion, is $60 for members and $65 for non-members.

Reservations are required; payment must accompany the reservation. There are no refunds of the bus fee after Wednesday.

Make your reservation with Beverly Dura-na at 7676 Ridge Chapel Road, Hanover, MD 21076, or call her at 410-551-2263.

• The Laurel Museum is featuring the exhibit, “Stationed in Laurel: Our Civil War

Story,” until Dec. 22. Hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. at 817 Main St. in Laurel.

The exhibit focus is on the Northern units serving at Laurel Station, an area that included the only rail line between Washing-ton, D.C., and the Northern states, and the war’s affect on the town.

For more information visit laurelhistori-calsociety.org or contact the Laurel Museum at info@laurelhistoricalsociety.org or 301-725-7975.

• Meade Area Garden Club will meet Friday at 10 a.m. at the Jessup Community Hall at the corner of Route 175 and Wigley Avenue.

Master gardener and floral designer Anne Brooks will present the program “From Gar-den to Vase” on using and maintaining a cutting garden.

Meetings are canceled if Anne Arundel County public schools are closed or open late due to inclement weather.

For more information, call Pat Loosarian, membership chairman, at 410-519-6443 or Sharon Durney, club president, at 410-761-5019.

• Families Dealing with Deployment meets the first and third Monday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Meuse Forest Neigh-borhood Center. The next meeting is Monday. For more information, call Rikki Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or email rikki.l.ford.ctr@us.army.mil.

• Retired Enlisted Association meets the third Tuesday of the month from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Perry’s Restaurant, 1210 Annapolis Road, Odenton. The next meeting is Tuesday. For more information, visit trea.org or call Elliott Phillips, the local president, at 443-790-3805 or Arthur R. Cooper, past national president, at 443-336-1230.

• Bully Proofing Support Group meets the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Tuesday. The group is geared for parents of children ages 5 to 12. For more information, call 301-677-5590.

• Retired Officers’ Wives’ Club will meet March 5 at 11 a.m. at the Conference Center. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with music and dance performed by Ballet Mobile, an edu-cational performing organization. Selections from Beethoven will be included in this classi-cal ballet presentation.

Cost is $15. Reservations for you and your guests must be made by Feb. 22 by calling your area representative or Betty Wade at 410-551-7082. For more information, call Lianne Rob-erts, ROWC president, at 301-464-5498.

YOUTH

RECREATION

MEETINGS