soundoff july 31, 2014

CANCElEdCompletion of background checks halts summer VBS

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UPCOMING EVENTSTOdAy, 7 P.M.: The Volunteers Summer Concert - Constitution ParkTUESdAy, 5-9 P.M.: National Night Out 2014 - McGlachlin Parade FieldTUESdAy, 5-9 P.M.: NFL Punt, Pass & Kick competition - McGlachlin Parade FieldWEdNESdAyS, 10 A.M.-2 P.M.: Fort Meade Farmers Market - Smallwood Hall lotAUG. 7, 7 P.M.: The Jazz Ambassadors Summer Concert - Constitution Park

FONd FArEWEllGarrison chaplain secretary retires after 37 years of service

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Soundoff!́vol. 66 no. 30 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community July 31, 2014

play Timephoto by Daniel Kucin jr.

“Wildwood Witch” Teah Gibson sings with her cast of cooks during a performance of “Hansel and Gretel,” produced by the Missoula Children’s Theatre, on Saturday at McGill Training Center. The hourlong musical featured Fort Meade children ages 5 to 17, who were selected for the production during Missoula’s weeklong theater camp. For the story, see 2.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! July 31, 2014

Commander’s Column

Cont ent sNews............................. 3 Sports..................................18

CrimeWatch............... 10 Movies.................................16

Community................. 14 Classified.............................21

Editorial StaffGarrison Commander Col. Brian P. foleyGarrison Command Sgt. Maj. thomas J. latterPublic affairs officerChad t. Jones [email protected], Command informationPhilip H. Jones [email protected] Editor & Senior Writer rona S. Hirsch Staff Writer lisa r. rhodesStaff Writer Brandon Bieltzdesign Coordinator timothy davis Supplemental photography provided by the Baltimore Sun Media Group

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300or email [email protected]

If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday except the last Thursday of the year in conjunction with the Fort Meade Public Affairs Office. Requests for publication must reach the Public Affairs Office no later than Friday before the desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-5602; DSN: 622-5602.

Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source.

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

www.ftmeade.army.milYou can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd

and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil.

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I don’t like to start these columns or any of my correspondence to the field with bad news.

Truthfully, our Army is still doing a good job overall with regard to safety. As of April 28, total accidental fatalities were down 4 percent from fiscal 2013.

That’s a great accomplishment, and I don’t want to take away from it by focusing on the negative.

But I think it would be a disservice to you and our Soldiers to gloss over the fact that motorcycle fatalities are up sharply from this time last year, that indiscipline is still their leading cause, and that NCOs continue to make up a disproportionate share of the deaths.

The Army does a tremendous job in training Soldiers on motorcycle safety. Civilians in the gen-eral population don’t have nearly the same training opportunities as our riders, especially progressive training courses that build upon basic skills.

There’s simply no excuse for Soldiers killing themselves via indiscipline on their bikes, and while it’s true leaders can’t be with their subordi-nates 24/7, they can set the example and follow the standards themselves. Honestly, that seems to be where we’re falling the most short, given that 10 of the 14 motorcycle fatalities reported this year have been leaders.

Command Sgt. Maj. Leeford Cain, USACR/Safety Center, recently published a note to the field addressing this issue, and I’d like to reiterate a couple of his points.

First, what’s the status of your unit’s motorcycle mentorship program, and are the right people leading it?

If you can’t answer that question, perhaps it’s time to revisit your training and mentor selection. Check out the new “Leader’s Guide for Selecting a Motorcycle Mentor” at https://safety.army.mil for tips on forming the best team possible.

Second, are your leaders disciplined?The leaders we’ve lost to indiscipline-based

motorcycle accidents aren’t the only ones out there, but their poor example can have an irrevers-ible impact on our formations if left unchecked or written off as “we can’t fix stupid.”

Between training, mentorship and disciplined, engaged and accountable leadership, we have the tools we need to reduce motorcycle losses. Each works and each saves lives.

I encourage you to widely share a letter we recently received from a junior leader and motor-cycle rider who had a close call with a reckless driv-er just after finishing required safety training. It’s very powerful and speaks to the lifesaving effects

of training, if the trainee takes what he or she learns seri-ously. The let-ter is available at https://safety.army.mil/Link-Click.aspx?fileticket=cG356XF6vdk%3d&tabid=2094

The U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safe-ty Center has also made a major overhaul to the Travel Risk Planning System, or TRiPS. The system will offer users a wide variety of functional-ity and upgrades, including better travel planning options, improved user email compatibility, and freestanding applications for smartphones (com-ing soon).

Please make leaders aware of these changes and encourage them to use the upgrades as a means to improve communication with their Soldiers. TRiPS attached to a DA31 will never make Sol-diers safe, but it has proven effective when used by first-line leaders to force dialogue with their Soldiers and actually assess and mitigate the risk posed by their travel plans.

Thank you all for the hard work you do every day in safety that directly impacts readiness — I know your jobs aren’t easy. It’s not my intent to be negative here, but I know you want to face the harsh realities head on.

Our Soldiers’ lives are simply too important to sugarcoat facts, especially when far too many are dying for no good reason. Please let me know what more I can do to help.

Army Safe is Army Strong!

Motorcycle accidents a harsh reality in Army

BRIG. GEN. TIMOTHY J. EdENs Commanding General, U.s. Army Combat Readiness/

safety Center

Commander’s Open DoorGarrison Commander Col. Brian P. Foley

hasanopendoorpolicy.Allservicemembers,retirees,government

employees, family members or communitymembersage18orolderareinvitedtoaddressissuesorconcernstothecommanderdirectlybyvisitingFoley’sofficeonMondays from4to6p.m.atgarrisonheadquartersinHodgesHall,Bldg.4551,LlewellynAvenue.

Visitors are seen on a first-come, first-servedbasis.Noappointmentisnecessary.

Formoreinformation,call301-677-4844.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 31, 2014 SOUNDOFF! �

News

file photo

The RSO staff notified 79 parents and 57 volunteers of this decision on Friday.

“Everyone has been gracious and very understanding,” said Marcia Eastland, Protestant Religious Education coordina-

tor and VBS organizer. “The safety of our kids is what is most important.”

Over the last year, the Department of the Army has tightened and increased the procedures and requirements for back-

ground checks for volunteers who work with children on Army installations all over the world.

“Volunteers are required to under-go background checks more than ever before,” Kirby said.

“There are approximately eight levels of background checks required of our volunteers. Our 250 volunteers have com-pleted all but the one it requires — fin-gerprinting. This is a new procedure and one not initially required of the Chaplains Office.”

Garrison Commander Col. Brian P. Foley said the cancellation is not due to the quality or quantity of volunteers.

“It has to do with the evolving proce-dures put in place to ensure our children’s safety,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we would not be able to complete the required background check procedures that ensure our volun-teers are properly vetted before Vacation Bible School was scheduled to begin.”

Kirby said the required fingerprint-ing should be completed by the end of August, and the Watch Care program will be reinstated.

VBS will return next summer.

By Sgt. 1st Class Mark Bell200th Military Police Command

Army Reserve Soldiers from the Fort Meade-based 200th Military Police Com-mand and other major Reserve commands took time away from their military and civil-ian jobs to learn a skill that could save lives.

Twenty-five Soldiers, dressed in business casual, sat in a small room surrounded by large paper taped to the walls covered in words and phrases. This was a result of sev-eral brain-storming activities during a recent, weeklong Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training course.

After completion of the course, Soldiers were qualified to teach the two-day ASIST course to service members and civilians.

Brig. Gen. Phillip Churn, commanding general of the 200th MP, took several min-utes to talk with course participants and expressed the importance of the program for active-duty, National Guard and the Reserve Soldiers.

“This program is one of my top priori-ties,” he said. “We must give our Soldiers the proper education and resources to help our

200th MPCOM families. Some of us may only wear the uniform one weekend a month, but they are our family 365 days a year.”

Churn, who commands more than 14,000 Soldiers and the largest military police orga-nization in the Army, said suicide prevention and saving lives is a critical mission for every Soldier.

“We must help our families who live in 44 states, and it starts right here in the class-room,” he said. “The information you are receiving today is critical for laying the foun-dation of a healthy Army Reserve family.”

ASIST is required by the Army for all personnel whose duties are likely to bring them in contact with Soldiers, civilians and family members who are in crisis, said David Dummer, the command’s Suicide Prevention Program manager.

He said the Army estimates that these Soldiers and civilian employees, collectively referred to as “gatekeepers,” comprise about 10 percent of total personnel.

Since October, Dummer said, the 200th MPCOM has completed 13 of 17 scheduled ASIST workshops and taught nearly 400

personnel how to help anyone contemplat-ing suicide.

“The research-based ASIST curriculum was designed by LivingWorks, a global lead-er in suicide prevention,” Dummer said. “Instructors must follow the LivingWorks model and are required to meet eligibility criteria in order to maintain their certifica-tion.”

At the conclusion of the workshop, Dum-mer said every brigade and direct reporting unit under the Fort Meade-based major Army Reserve command now has at least one ASIST instructor.

“The remaining training slots were allo-cated to other commands and organizations with which the 200th has formed strategic alliances in the campaign to save lives,” he said.

One such ally is the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-TALK. Reserve Capt. Christo-pher Maginn is assigned to the Army Reserve Medical Command and full-time, call-taker on the hotline.

Along with the ARMEDCOM, the 99th Regional Support Command and

Fort Meade also sent representatives to the instructor course.

“The 99th and 200th frequently collabo-rate on suicide prevention, Yellow Ribbon programs, and related initiatives and have forged strong partnerships on multiple lev-els,” Dummer said.

Churn said ASIST workshops are essen-tially the front-line defense to help Soldiers and families facing crisis.

“We must take care of our own,” he said. “We stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the battlefield and back home in our communi-ties across this great nation.

“Our Soldiers fight for our freedoms abroad, and today we take on a battle to ensure our formations and families have a voice, and someone is there to listen to them in a time of need.”

Churn said the Army Reserve is filled with people who are making a difference in the lives of their communities.

“As we never leave a comrade behind in harm’s way, we will never leave an Army Reserve family behind in a time of need,” he said.

Reserve Soldiers come together to learn how to save lives

By Lisa R. RhodesStaff Writer

On Friday, the Religious Support Office canceled its summer Vacation Bible School and temporarily paused all chapel-supervised, youth-related activities. This was done to ensure the completion of background checks required of the RSO’s volunteer force.

“Unfortunately, this action is necessary in order to ensure our volunteers have completed full background checks, and to protect and ensure the health and welfare of our children,” said Garrison Chaplain (Col.) Warren E. Kirby. “We are fervently working the issue.

“I anticipate and sincerely hope, within the next four to six weeks, by the time school starts, that the RSO will return to normal operations. We hopefully will be able to continue all presently paused chapel-related youth activities.”

This year’s weeklong Vacation Bible School was scheduled for Monday through Aug. 8. In addition to the can-cellation of VBS, Watch Care, the RSO’s day care program for families that attend Sunday church services, also has been temporarily suspended.

Vacation Bible School canceled


News

By Navy Mass Communication Spc. 2nd Class Zach AllanFort Meade Public Affairs Office

A first-of-its-kind artifact was donated to the Fort Meade Museum on Friday.

Judith L. Nowottnick, a seventh grade history teacher at Arundel Middle School in Odenton, donated a letter written by Mamie Eisenhower, wife of former Presi-dent Dwight D. Eisenhower, describing the time she and her husband lived on Camp Meade.

During World War I, Fort Meade was established in 1917 as Camp Meade, a cantonment for troops drafted for the war.

Nowottnick’s mother, Catherine L. O’Malley, penned the only existing his-tory book focusing on Odenton. More than 40 years ago, she wrote a letter to Mamie Eisenhower requesting informa-tion on Odenton during the time she and her husband resided on post.

“This is the only primary-source docu-ment like this we have ever received about President Eisenhower’s time on Meade,” said Fort Meade Museum Director Rob-ert Johnson. “Because the Eisenhower Presidential Library exists, that is where the bulk of papers concerning him go.”

The letter, dated 1970, briefly recounts the Eisenhowers’ time on post after World War I. “We had quarters on the part of the post known as ‘Franklin,’ ” wrote the former first lady. “My husband was a Tank Corps officer along with General George Patton and others.”

Nowottnick also donated a page from her mother’s manuscript outlining how she used the information in Mamie Eisen-hower’s letter.

“I was going to hand this over to the Odenton Heritage Society,” Nowottnick said. “But I really felt like it belonged on Fort Meade.”

It was a decision Johnson was delighted she made.

“Every service member that spends time on Fort Meade is important,” John-son said. ”But when you have a Soldier that goes on to be commanding general of the allied forces in World War II and then to become president, having artifacts of their time here becomes that much more important.”

Beginning at the end of August, the letter will be on display in the Fort Meade Museum, located at 4674 Griffin Ave. Hours are Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A piece of history comes to Fort Meade

Submitted photoS

A letter written in 1970 by former first lady Mamie Eisenhower, wife of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, was donated to the Fort Meade Museum on Friday. The letter was initially written to local author Catherine L. O’Malley.

Sun safety: Protect your natural body armorBy Lt. Col. Kari BruleyArmy Public Health Nurse, U.S. Army Public Health

Attention sunbathers, golfers and outdoor enthusiasts!Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the

United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed annually.

Ninety percent of all skin cancer diagnoses are associated with sun exposure.

If you think your risk for developing skin cancer is low, the fact that one in five Americans is diagnosed in their lifetime may prompt you to better care for your own skin and that of your family members.

You and your family can still enjoy the great outdoors this summer while protecting yourselves from excess risks associ-ated with sun exposure if you simply take a few precautions. These precautions are extremely important at the beach and swimming pools since water and sand are known to reflect up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays, which elevates your overall sun exposure.

Take the following precautions:• Wear clothing that covers skin (including a wide-brimmed

hat and sunglasses that advertise ultra-violet radiation protec-tion).

• Wear protective clothing that contains a UV Protection Factor of 30 or greater (a UPF 30 garment allows 1/30th of the sun’s UV radiation to penetrate the cloth).

• Spend periodic time under a UPF umbrella.

• Take advantage of shaded areas when possible, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is the most intense. (On overcast days, 70-80 percent of UV rays penetrate through the clouds.)

Use plenty of sunscreen. Here are some tips:• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA/UVB).• Choose a water-resistant sunscreen.• Select a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor 30 or higher.

(SPF 30 provides protection from 97 percent of UVB rays.)• Apply it to the entire body (before you put on a bathing suit

to ensure full coverage) 30 minutes before sun exposure.• Re-apply every two hours or immediately after swimming,

toweling off or excessive sweating.• Sunscreen is recommended for use on infants age 6 months

or older.Proper and routine sunscreen use helps prevent sunburn,

reduce skin cancer risk and helps prevent early signs of skin aging.

In addition to sun exposure protection, the American Cancer Society and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommend avoiding UV tanning booths, examining your skin once per month and seeing a physician once per year for a professional skin evalu-ation.

During the monthly self-examination, look for the following:• Spots or sores that itch, hurt, scab or bleed• An open sore that does not heal within two weeks• A skin growth, mole, brown spot or beauty mark that

changes in color or texture; increases in size or thickness; is asymmetrical or irregular in border; is larger than 6 millimeters (size of a pencil eraser); or appears after age 21.

Reducing your risk of skin cancer should become a matter of habit, part of your daily routine.


News

Water main flushing continues

American Water is continuing its 2014 Annual Water Main Flushing Pro-gram on Monday.

The purpose of the program is to provide the best quality water avail-able to you, the customer, by removing any buildup of sediment that may have occurred in the water lines.

Flushing may result in some tempo-rary discoloration and the presence of sediment in your water. These condi-tions are not harmful and should be of very short duration.

During the hours between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., limit your use of water to help prevent discolored water reaching your service lines to your residence. Should you notice an increase in discolored water at your residence, flush all fau-cets inside for 15 minutes.

If the water does not clear up, call the Water Treatment Plant at 443-591-0909. This number is monitored 24/7, should you have any additional ques-tions or concerns.

Areas that may be affected by planned flushing from Monday through Aug. 8:

• Reece Road• Annapolis Road• Patton Drive• Sidman Court• Fox Lane• Scott Lane• Cain Circle• Mackall Court• Howard Court• 19th Street• 20th Street• 20 1/2 Street• 21st Street• H Street• I Street• G Line Road

Streets adjacent to Annapolis Road and Reece Road may see a temporary change in their water during flushing activities. Signs will be posted ahead of any flushing activities to notify customers.

Public noticeThe Supplemental Programmatic Envi-

ronmental Assessment for Army 2020 Force Structure Realignment and Draft Finding of No Significant Impact are available for review and comment.

The Army’s proposed action is to reduce the Army’s active component end-strength from 562,000, as of the end of fiscal year 2012, to 420,000.

Installations that were included in the SPEA are those that could experience a change in Soldiers and civilians that exceeds 1,000 personnel.

Fort Meade was one of the 30 analyzed

in the SPEA. No significant environmen-tal impacts are anticipated as a result of implementing Army 2020 alternatives, though socioeconomic impacts at most installations could be significant.

Alternatives considered in the SPEA evaluate the greatest force-reduction sce-narios that could occur as a result of Army force drawdown. Final decisions as to which installations will see reduc-tions or unit realignments have not been made.

All interested members of the public, federally recognized Indian tribes, Native Alaskans, Native Hawaiian groups, fed-eral, state and local agencies are invited to review and provide comments.

A copy of the SPEA and Draft FNSI are available at: http://aec.army.mil/Ser-vices/Support/NEPA/Documents.aspx and in the following local libraries:

• Medal of Honor Memorial Library, 4418 Llewellyn Ave., Fort Meade

• West County Area Library, 1325 Annapolis Road, Odenton

The Army will accept comments until Aug. 25.

Submit written comments or addition-al information to: U.S. Army Environ-mental Command, ATTN: SPEA Public Comments, 2450 Connell Road (Building 2264), Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-7664; or by email to [email protected].

photo by by Navy Mass CoMMuNiCatioN spC. 2Nd Class ZaCh allaN

GUARDIAN AWARDSgt. 1st Class James Wilson (center), noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center pharmacy, tells how Chief Warrant Officer 3 Cenise Ellison (left) of First Army Division East and Staff Sgt. Karen O’Sullivan, an instructor at the Defense Information School, saved the lives of himself and Lt. Col. Michael Yapp after a severe automobile accident on April 18, 2013. Ellison and O’Sullivan each received the U.S. Army Safety Guardian Award for their quick response after witnessing the accident.


News


Diana Lynn Durner was just being herself.

When Jason Spahlinger struggled to find the words to describe how much Durner, the Religious Services Office secretary, has meant to him, she stood by his side and placed her hand on his back.

Spahlinger, a retired sergeant and for-mer chaplain assistant, was one of several members of the Fort Meade community who spoke about Durner’s compassion and generosity as they bid a bittersweet farewell during her retirement luncheon on July 23 at Club Meade.

Durner retires after serving 41 years as a federal government employee, includ-ing 37 years as the garrison chaplain secretary. Since 1977, Durner has served with 22 garrison chaplains.

Today is Durner’s last day at Fort Meade. She will officially retire on Oct. 3.

About 140 people attended the 90-minute event, which included a videog-rapher who recorded personal messages to Durner, a slide show of memorable photos, a recording of Frank Sinatra songs, and a saxophone solo of “Jesus, You’re the Center of My Joy” by retired Master Sgt. Melvin L. Robinson Sr.

The luncheon, which began with the playing of the popular song “Happy,” by Pharrell Williams, featured tables with paper baskets filled with candy, along with a hand-written message of thanks from Durner.

“When I walked in this room today, there were no words to express how I felt when I saw all of you here,” a tearful Durner said in her remarks. “My smile said it all. I am touched by your kind

‘Bedrock’ of Religious Services OfficeDiana Lynn Durner, garrison chaplain secretary, retires after 37 years

words and gifts.“Today felt more like a reunion than a

farewell. I couldn’t be more honored by today’s ceremony.”

Durner was joined at the event by her husband, Bill; daughter Jamie Durner-Knieriem and son-in-law Steve Knier-iem; her mother Fay Cofflin; her broth-ers Kenny Cofflin and Gary Cofflin; and neighbors and friends.

Several chaplains, former chaplain assistants, RSO colleagues and leaders of Fort Meade’s religious congregations spoke of Durner’s grace, kindness and friendship; her example as a mother and person of faith; and her unwavering dedication to her work.

Garrison Chaplain Col. Warren Kirby, the new installation chaplain, said he

first met Durner 15 years ago when he was assigned to Fort Meade for train-ing.

“She is the same sweet, wonderful person,” Kirby said in his remarks. “I just want to thank you, from the bot-tom of my heart, on behalf of the Chief of Chaplains Office, on behalf of all the chaplains you’ve worked for and on behalf of Fort Meade, this wonderful community.”

A native of Baltimore, Durner applied for a federal government position after graduating from Brooklyn Park High School in 1972.

A year later, she was offered a GS civilian position at the National Security Agency and Fort Meade. She chose Fort Meade, where her mother worked for

35 years.“I guess I wanted to follow in her

footsteps,” Durner said before the lun-cheon.

Durner began working at Fort Meade on Sept. 10, 1973 as a temporary employ-ee with the 97th U.S. Army Reserve Command as a clerk typist. In April 1974, she accepted a job as a supply clerk with the USA Communications Com-mand Agency.

A few months later, Durner returned to the 97th Reserve Command for three years before accepting a promotion as the secretary to the garrison chaplain.

During the luncheon, Durner received many awards and gifts including certifi-cates of appreciation from Gov. Martin O’Malley, Anne Arundel County Execu-

‘Today felt more like a reunion than a farewell. I couldn’t be more honored by today’s ceremony.’

Diana Lynn Durner Religious Services Office secretary

Diana Lynn Durner shares a laugh with Garrison Chaplain Col. Warren E. Kirby during her retirement luncheon. Durner, who has served with 22 garrison chaplains, was praised by garrison leaders, chaplains, RSO colleagues, leaders of Fort Meade’s religious congregations, and friends, for her kindness, generosity and commitment to her work.

phOtOS by phiL gROut

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 31, 2014 SOUNDOFF! �

News

tive Laura Newman, Garrison Com-mander Col. Brian P. Foley and the RSO.

She also received a personal note and paperweight from the Installation Man-agement Command Religious Support Office. In addition, Durner was pre-sented a flag that was flown over Capitol Hill and Fort Meade, as well as gifts from each of the installation’s religious congregations.

Deputy Garrison Commander John Moeller, who presented Durner with her awards, called Durner the “bedrock” and “anchor” of RSO, and praised her com-mitment to the Fort Meade community, citing the many years she worked with volunteers to sponsor the annual Christ-mas tree lighting.

“You will always be part of the Fort Meade family,” Moeller said.

Spahlinger spoke of Durner’s kind words of encouragement after he was diagnosed with a serious illness in 2010.

“You are one of the most genuine people I have ever met in life,” said Spahlinger, who served as a chaplain

assistant at RSO for six years before he was medically retired. “You served as a great support system.”

In an interview before the luncheon, Durner said working at Fort Meade was “one of the best decisions I have made in my life.”

Durner said she has tried to live her life according to a quote by the late author and poet Maya Angelou:

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

As a retiree, Durner said she plans to work in her garden, remodel her Crowns-ville home and travel with her husband.

In her remarks, Durner thanked the chaplains and chaplain assistants who have crossed her path, in addition to Fort Meade’s diverse ministries, volunteers and congregation members.

“I will miss working with such com-passionate, competent and caring indi-viduals,” Durner said. “I know without your support and love, I could not be the person I am today.”

Diana Lynn Durner, the Religious Services Office secretary, listens to the farewell messages at her retirement luncheon on July 23 at Club Meade. Durner retires after 41 years of federal government service, including 37 years of service for the RSO. Today is her last day at Fort Meade.

FORT MEADE ARMY EDUCATION CENTER: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. FridayAdvising hours: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday or call 410-672-2117Claudia Velazquez, Coordinator of College Services www.aacc.edu

Visit our office at the Fort Meade Army Education Center to learn about AACC’s many education programs for active duty, veterans and dependents:

• Opportunities for spouses and dependents, including the Military Spouse Career Advancement Account “MyCAA” program that provides up to $4,000 in financial assistance to eligible military spouses.

• Transfer options allow you to complete a four-year degree.

• Career advising and workforce training for continued career development.

• Interest-free tuition payment plans and other payment options.

• Online, weekend and evening classes for flexible scheduling.

• Early College Access Program classes for high school students.

• AACC Military and Veteran Resource Center.

• Classes at Fort Meade High School, AACC at Arundel Mills, Center for Cyber and Professional Training, Glen Burnie Town Center, AACC’s Arnold campus and many other locations in the county.

For a challenging education that directly applies to the real world, look no further than AACC.

SPOUSES WELCOME.Just one of the ways we’re “military friendly.”

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! July 31, 2014

News

Under the SCRA, service members can suspend or cancel long-term mobile phone contracts without penalties or extra fees when deployed for 90 days or longer. This also applies when per-manent transfer in a change of duty results in an inability to use the service or an inability to satisfy the terms of the contract.

Service members deployed overseas for more than 90 days also may suspend their contracts at no charge until the end of their deployment without being required to extend the length of the original contract term.

They also are entitled to retain their phone numbers if they plan to resub-scribe to the service following cancella-tion and deployment.

Additionally, if the service member is part of a family plan, the SCRA allows for individual line cancellations or, in cases in which the service member’s fam-ily plans to accompany him or her over-seas, all lines on the service member’s plan may be canceled without charge.

To exercise these rights, service mem-bers must provide their mobile phone service contractors with copies of their military orders. Upon receiving a request for termination or suspension of service, the telephone service contractors must comply without imposing an early ter-mination fee or a reactivation fee for suspended contracts.

A template letter for request to termi-nate or suspend a mobile phone contract under the SCRA is available at http://statesidelegal.org/interactive-form-cell-phone-service-contract-termination.

If you believe that your Servicemem-bers Civil Relief Act benefits have been reduced or withheld, call the Fort Meade Legal Assistance Office at 301-677-9504 or 301-677-9536 to schedule an appoint-ment to speak with an attorney.

Your case may be eligible for Depart-ment of Justice review, but only if you have sought help from your local Legal Assistance Program office first.

Information about possible benefits and protections, as well as additional resources and enforcement options, is available in a pamphlet published at http://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/documents/docs/scra_notice.pdf.

By Austin J. ShortLegal Assistance Intern

As a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, National Guard or other uniformed services, you and your family are entitled to a number of dif-ferent legal protections under the Ser-vicemembers Civil Relief Act if you are active duty or are called into active-duty military service.

The SCRA is generally known for protecting service members with rental agreements, security deposits, leases,

loan interest rates, mortgages and other similar issues.

The bill also allows service members to terminate or suspend their mobile phone contracts if their military ser-vice interferes with their ability to use the phone service. Understanding who qualifies for these benefits and how to take advantage of them is important for any service member faced with a deploy-ment or transfer, making it difficult or impossible to continue to use their cur-rent mobile phone service.

Mobile phone service rights and benefits for service members

July 23, Larceny of private property: The victim stated that unknown person(s) gained entry into her unlocked vehi-cle and stole a handicapped placard while the vehicle was parked in front of her resi-dence.

July 23, Shoplifting: AAFES loss prevention per-sonnel at the Exchange stated that she observed a woman select and conceal five items of costume jewelry and attempt to leave the store without rendering payment.

CommunityCommunityCrime Watch

Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services

For week of July 21-27:• Moving violations: 23• Nonmoving violations: 3• Verbal warnings for traffic stops: 12• Traffic accidents: 13• Driving on suspended license: 0• Driving on suspended registration: 1• Driving without a license: 0

On the lookout

The Directorate of Emergency Servic-es is actively work-ing to keep neigh-borhoods safe.

Families resid-ing on post should remember to ensure that windows and doors to homes, cars and garages are locked at all times, regardless of time of day.

Although the crime rate in mili-tary housing is lower than off post, it is important to remember that Fort Meade is not immune to crime. To protect your family and belongings, remember to take an active role in deterring crime.

Remain aware of your sur-roundings and immediately report any suspicious activity to the Fort Meade Police at 301-677-6622 or 6623.

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Cover Story


The one thing Nathan Crane loves about the theater is that he can make people laugh.

“I’m more introverted, but I can be more extroverted and animated,” said Nathan, a home-schooled student who lives in Severn. “You have to be confident in what you’re doing when you’re on stage. That’s theater.”

Nathan, 15, and Jace Gibson, 13, a freshman at Arundel High School, were the lead actors in the Missoula Children’s

Theatre production of “Hansel and Gre-tel” on Saturday.

The one-hour musical, performed at McGill Training Center, featured nearly 50 Fort Meade children and teens.

Each year, Fort Meade hosts Missoula, which sponsors a weeklong theater day camp for ages 5 to 17. This year’s camp was held July 21 through Saturday at McGill.

During the first day of camp, partici-pants auditioned for parts. By noon, the cast and crew were selected by Abbie Birchwell and Josiah Miller, tour actors

Play TimeFort Meade children

perform ‘Hansel and Gretel’

photos by daniel kucin jr.

Missoula actor/director Josiah Miller portrays Uncle Wally in the children’s theater production of “Hansel and Gretel.” Fort Meade hosts the traveling theater company each summer.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil July 31, 2014 SOUNDOFF! 13

and directors for Missoula.For the remainder of the day and week,

the children participated in daily rehearsals that led up to Saturday’s performance.

“Our mission is to teach life skills through the performing arts,” Birchwell said. “We teach team work and the impor-tance of responsibility and commitment, all practical things you need to do well in life and in the real world.”

Children learn real theater skills such as how to portray a character, how to sing before an audience and how to follow a choreographed dance routine.

Miller said that when selecting actors, he looks for “children with loud and clear voices, expressive bodies and faces, and how well they follow directions.”

Missoula, which is based in Montana, provides the set design and costumes for the performance.

Jace, daughter of retired Maj. Matthew Gibson and a resident of Gambrills, said she has been participating in Missoula for more than five years.

“We do Missoula everywhere we move,” she said. “It’s not really about how big your part is, but how well you do it.”

Nathan, son of Col. Kenneth Crane, said that being chosen to portray Hansel was “overwhelming but fun.”

“[Hansel] sings a lot, I like singing a lot,” said Nathan during Friday’s lunch break. “I’m nervous and I’m anxious. ... There will be no script.”

Jace said that in the course of the performance, Gretel learns to believe in herself.

“She’s worried in the beginning. She’s not very secure in herself,” Jace said. “But in the end, she knows everything will be fine.”

Miller said he hopes Missoula instills more self-confidence in participants. Birchwell said working well with others is an important skill both cast and crew must utilize before and during the production.

“We can’t put the show on with one child,” she said. “No one is better than anyone else. A lot of it is about team work.”

Wildwood Witch’s cooks perform during “Hansel and Gretel.” The costumes and set design are provided by Missoula Children’s Theatre.

BELOW RIGHT: Gretel, portrayed by Jace Gibson (left), and Granny, portrayed by Shannon Crane, perform during the production of “Hansel and Gretel” on Saturday afternoon at McGill Training Center. Missoula Children’s Theatre held a weeklong camp at McGill for auditions and rehearsals, while teaching Fort Meade children life skills and theater techniques.

LEFT: A forest full of gingerbread cookies appear during “Hansel and Gretel” on Saturday afternoon. About 50 Fort Meade children, ages 5-17, made up the cast and crew of the hourlong musical.


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 [email protected] or call 301-677-5602.

DINFOS Alumni DayThe Defense Information School

is hosting its first Alumni Day on Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of the school’s 50th anniversary celebration.

The theme is “Excellent Pasts Make Excellent Futures.”

Visiting alumni will be able to observe classes, talk to instructors and staff, view the collection of imagery in the hallways, and see how the school has evolved in more than 50 years of service.

The main event will feature a panel of DINFOS graduates discussing how they used their military training to achieve success in the civilian world.

The panel discussion will take place from 12:30-2:10 p.m. in the school’s graduation room.

Timothy Paynter, director of communications for Military Aircraft Systems at Northrop Grumman Corporation, will moderate the panel featuring Robert Hastings, former principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs and now senior vice president, Communications and Government Affairs and chief of staff for Bell Helicopter; Joe Wojtecki, assistant director, Center for Risk Communication; and Sunny Anderson, Food Network host and author of a New York Times best-selling cookbook.

Visitors should enter the school, located at 6500 Mapes Road, at the main student/visitor entrance.

For more information, call 301-677-2173.

Kimbrough town hallDr. (Col.) Michael J. Zapor, deputy

chief of Clinical Services for the Fort Meade Medical Department Activity, will conduct a mini town hall meeting on Aug. 21 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center pharmacy lobby.

The purpose of this forum is to disseminate information, answer questions and discuss concerns regarding Kimbrough.

All beneficiaries are invited to attend.

Kimbrough change of command

Col. Danny B.N. Jaghab will relinquish command of the U.S. Army Medical Department Activity and Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center to Col. Laura Renee Trinkle during a change of command ceremony on Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. at McGlachlin Parade Field.

In inclement weather, the event will be

moved to McGill Training Center.

Kimbrough change in hours

Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center is modifying its hours of operation on Tuesday and Aug. 7.

These changes are to facilitate events associated with its upcoming change of command.

On Tuesday, Kimbrough will be open from 7:30 a.m. to noon and closed from noon to 4 p.m.

On Aug. 7, Kimbrough will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and open from 1 to 4 p.m.

Summer Concert SeriesThe U.S. Army Field Band’s free

Summer Concert Series is performed Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Constitution Park.

Each week, members of the Army Field Band and special guests perform a new lineup of music spanning contemporary pop to jazz classics.

Final concert is Aug. 23.• Tonight: The VolunteersSince its formation in 1981, The

Volunteers has been telling the Army story through rock, pop, country and patriotic music.

• Aug. 7: The Jazz Ambassadors of the U.S. Army Field Band

The 19-member ensemble is the official

file photo

NatioNal Night out oN tuesdayThe 31th Annual National Night Out, America’s night out against crime, will be held Tuesday at McGlachlin Parade

Field.The convoy through the neighborhoods will be from 5-6 p.m.The event, sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, is designed to heighten crime- and drug-prevention

awareness; generate support for local anticrime programs; and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police–community partnerships.

The free event will feature: Child ID services; moon bounces and inflatables; Boot Camp Obstacle Course; face painting; free hot dogs, cotton candy and funnel cakes; laser tag; rock walls; a DJ; and raffle prizes and giveaways.

Local police demonstrations include K–9 and Force Protection; NSA S.W.A.T; Pentagon Police; driver safety; child safety seat installation; Anne Arundel County Police helicopter landing; and U.S. Capitol Police.

For more information, go to the Fort Meade Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FtMeade.

NEWS & EVENTS


Community news & notes

touring big band of the U.S. Army.No tickets required. Bring a folding chair

or blanket for seating.In inclement weather, the performance

will take place at the Pavilion. The decision will be made at 3 p.m. on the day of each performance.

For updates, check armyfieldband.com or the Fort Meade Facebook page at facebook.com/ftmeade.

All visitors should enter Fort Meade via the main gate at Route 175 and Reece Road. Visitors are subject to an identification check and vehicle inspection.

For more information, call 301-677-6586.

Farmers marketThe Fort Meade Farmers Market

is held every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Nov. 12 in the Smallwood Hall parking lot, across from McGlachlin Parade Field.

The Fort Meade community will have access to fresh and local fruits and vegetables, free-range meats, quality heirloom vegetables, herbs and annuals, flowers, jams, baked goods and breads.

For more information, go to ftmeademwr.com.

Lunch and Learn seriesKimbrough Ambulatory Care

Center hosts a monthly brown bag Lunch and Learn Series on the second Tuesday of the month on the first floor of the Rascon Building, adjacent to Kimbrough.

The next session will be held Aug. 12 at noon. All sessions are open to the public.

The topic is Lyme disease and will be presented by infectious diseases physician Col. Michael Zapor.

The lecture will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

For more information, call Maj. Anne Spillane at 301-677-8463.

AARP driving courseThe American Association of Retired

Persons Safe Driving Course, sponsored by Anne Arundel Community College’s Center on Aging, will be offered Aug. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Learn defensive driving techniques, proven

safety strategies and new traffic laws. Upon completion, participants could be eligible for a multi-year discount on their car insurance.

Course fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for nonmembers, and includes a continental breakfast.

To register, call AARP at 410-647-8667.For more information, visit www.aacc.

edu/aging/events.cfm.

Host families neededVisiting students, ages 15-18, from

around the world including Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Thailand are seeking host families in and around Fort Meade for the 2014-2015 academic school year.

Host families are needed for the fall semester and full school year.

Families interested in hosting this year must apply by Aug. 15.

Host families (traditional families, singles, empty-nesters) serve as mentors and a home base for their student.

Visiting students participate as active members of the family and integrate into their host’s daily routines and traditions just like any other family member.

The sponsoring program, iE-USA, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting education and understanding through intercultural and academic exchange.

iE-USA is certified by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel and strictly adheres to all U.S. Department of State Student Exchange Program regulations and guidelines.

Exchange student participants undergo an extensive application and orientation process in their home country prior to being accepted into iE-USA’s program. Each student is responsible for his/her own spending money and full health insurance coverage.

Host families may review prospective student profiles online at iE-USA.org.

For more information, contact iE Maryland representative Joe Bissell at [email protected] or 517-388-8948.

Math enrichmentChild, Youth and School Services is

offering summer classes in math enrichment for CYSS youths entering grades eight to 12.

Session Three: Pre-Calculus, Monday-Aug. 8

Session Four: AP Physics, Aug. 11-15 All classes meet from 2-4 p.m., with a

break from 2:50-3:05 p.m.To register, call the Teen Center at 301-

677-6054 or 301-677-6093 or the Youth Center at 301-677-1437 or 301-677-1603.

StorytimeThe Children’s Library at Kuhn Hall

offers pre-kindergarten Storytime on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at the Children’s Library in Kuhn Hall, 4415 Llewellyn Ave.

The free event features stories, songs or a finger-puppet theme.

• Today: “Beach Party” - beach and ocean-themes

There is no Storytime in August.For more information, call 301-677-

5522.

Out & About• The annual Howard County Fair

will be held Saturday through Aug. 9 at the Howard County Fairgrounds, 2210 Fairground Road, West Friendship.

Admission costs $5 for ages 10 and older; $2 for seniors; and free for children under 10.

Armed Forces Day is on the first Saturday when admission is free with a valid military ID and includes spouse and children under age 18.

Senior Day is Tuesday when admission is free for ages 62 and older.

“Dollar Ride Day” is Thursday, when rides cost $1 each.

Entertainment includes the Shazam Magic Show, square dancing demo, pro bull riding, cowboy shootout, and several bands.

Hours for rides and games: Monday to Friday from 2-11 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 11 p.m.

“Kids and Critters” barn hours are daily from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., but closed from 2-4 p.m.

Pig races are at noon, and 3, 6 and 8 p.m. Pony rides are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Bingo hall opens daily at 6 p.m.

For a complete schedule or more information, call 410-442-1022 or go to howardcountyfair.org.

• Families Dealing with Deployment meets the first and third Monday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Meuse Forest Neighborhood Center.

file photo

suMMeR CoNCeRt seRiesThe U.S. Army Field Band’s free Summer Concert Series is performed

Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Constitution Park.• Tonight: The VolunteersSince its formation in 1981, The Volunteers has been telling the Army story

through rock, pop, country and patriotic music.• Aug. 7: The Jazz Ambassadors of the U.S. Army Field BandThe 19-member ensemble is the official touring big band of the U.S. Army. For more information, see the brief below or call 301-677-6586.

EDUCATION

YOUTH

RECREATION

MEETINGS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16


movies Community news & notes

Children welcome. The next meeting is Monday. For more information, call 301-677-5590 or email [email protected].

• Monthly Prayer Breakfast, hosted by the Garrison Chaplain’s Office, is held the first Thursday of every month at 7 a.m. at Club Meade.

The next prayer breakfast is Aug. 7.There is no cost for the buffet; donations

are optional. All Fort Meade employees, family members, and civilian and military personnel are invited.

For more information, call Diana Durner at 301-677-6703 or email [email protected].

• Calling All Dads meets the second and fourth Monday of every month from 4 to 5 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center, 4998 2nd Corps Blvd. The next meeting is Aug.11.

The group is for expecting fathers, and fathers with children of all ages. Children welcome. For more information, call 301-677-5590 or email [email protected].

• Single Parent Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at School Age Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next meeting is Aug. 11. Free child care is provided onsite.

For more information, call 301-677-5590 or email [email protected].

• Marriage Enrichment Group, sponsored by Army Community Service, meets the second and fourth Monday of every month from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. The next meeting is Aug. 11. For more information, call Celena Flowers or Jessica Hobgood at 301-677-5590.

• Meade Rod and Gun Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at Perry’s Restaurant and Odie’s Pub at 1210 Annapolis Road, Odenton, in the banquet hall in back of the building. The next meeting is Aug. 7. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. For more information, call 410-674-4000.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness of Anne Arundel County offers a free support group for families with a loved one suffering from mental illness on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Odenton (West County) Library, 1325 Annapolis Road. The next meeting is Aug. 7. For more information, visit namiaac.org.

• Fort Meade E9 Association meets the second Friday of every month at 7 a.m. in

the Pin Deck Cafe at the Lanes. The next meeting is Aug. 8. The association is open to active, retired, Reserve and National Guard E9s of any uniformed service. All E9s in this area are invited to attend a breakfast and meet the membership. For more information, go to e9association.org.

• Meade Branch 212 of the Fleet Reserve Association meets the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at VFW Post 160, 2597 Dorsey Road, Glen Burnie. The next meeting is Aug. 9. Active-duty, Reserve and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are invited.

For more information, call 443-604-2474 or 410-768-6288.

• New Spouse Connection meets the second Monday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave. The next meeting is Aug. 11. The program provides an opportunity for all spouses new to the military or to Fort Meade to meet and get connected. For more information, contact Pia Morales at [email protected] or 301-677-4110.

• Fort Meade TOP III Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m. at the Courses. The next meeting is Aug. 13. The association is open to all Air Force active-duty and retired senior noncommissioned officers. For more information, call Master Sgt. Jonathan Jacob at 443-479-0616 or email [email protected].

• Women’s Empowerment Group meets Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. to provide a safe, confidential arena for the support, education and empowerment of women who have experienced past or present family violence.

Location is only disclosed to participants. To register, call Samantha Herring, victim advocate, at 301-677-4124 or Katherine Lamourt, victim advocate, at 301-677-4117.

• Moms Walking Group, sponsored by Parent Support, meets Thursdays from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. To register, call Colaina Townsend or Michelle Pineda at 301-677-5590.

• Project Healing Waters meets Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Soldiers and Family Assistance Center, 2462 85th Medical Battalion Ave.

The project is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of wounded warriors and veterans through fly fishing, fly tying and outings.

For more information, call Larry Vawter, program leader, at 443-535-5074 or email [email protected].

• Dancing with the Heroes, free ballroom

dance lessons for the Warrior Transition Unit, meets Thursdays at 6 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center in the seminar room.

Participants should wear loose clothing, comfortable shoes with leather soles. No super high heels or flip-flops.

• Spanish Christian Service is conducted Sundays at 1 p.m. at the Cavalry Chapel located at 8465 Simonds St. and 6th Armored Cavalry Road.

For more information, call Elias Mendez at 301-677-7314 or 407-350-8749.

• Cub Scout Pack 377 invites boys in first through fifth grades, or ages 7 to 10, to attend its weekly Monday meetings at 6 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center.

For more information, email Cubmaster Christopher Lassiter at [email protected] or Committee Chairperson Marco Cilibert at [email protected].

• Boy Scout Troop 379 meets Mondays at 7 p.m. at Argonne Hills Chapel Center on Rockenbach Road. The troop is actively recruiting boys age 11 to 18. For more information, email Lisa Yetman, at [email protected] or Wendall Lawrence, Scoutmaster, at [email protected].

• Military Council for Catholic Women is open to all women ages 18 and older for prayer, faith, fellowship and service at Argonne Hills Chapel Center, 7100 Rockenbach Road. The Catholic Women of the Chapel meets Tuesdays from 9:45 a.m. to noon when Anne Arundel County schools are in session. Monthly programs are held Mondays from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

For more information, email Loretta Endres at [email protected].

• American Legion Post 276 is open to veterans and active-duty service members at 8068 Quarterfield Road in Severn. Breakfast may be purchased beginning at 9 a.m. Lunches may be purchased from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Happy Hour is from 4 to 6 p.m. Dinner may be purchased at 6 p.m. on Fridays and the fourth Sunday of every month.

Membership discounts are offered for active-duty military. For more information, call 410-969-8028 or visit americanlegionpost276.org.

• Odenton Masonic Center, located at 1206 Stehlik Drive, invites the community, local military, fire/emergency services and local businesses to enjoy its reasonably priced breakfast and specialty dinners.

The center offers a fundraising “all-you-can-eat” breakfast every second Sunday from 7-11 a.m. Fundraising specialty dinners are held the third Friday of the month from 5-7 p.m.

Menus vary and are listed on its website at odentonlodge209.net.

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 Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. (The Fort Meade Theater will no longer be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays.)

PRICES: Tickets are $5.50 for adults (12 and older) and $3 for children. 3D Movies: $7.50 adults, $5 children.

Today through Aug. 10

Aug. 1: “How To Train Your Dragon 2” (PG). When Hiccup and Toothless discover an ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace. With the voices of Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler.

Aug. 2: FREE SCREENING - “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.” Tickets available at the Exchange Food Court. Seating open to non-ticket holders 30 minutes prior to showtime.

Aug. 3: “Think Like a Man Too” (PG-13). All the couples are back for a wedding in Las Vegas, but plans for a romantic weekend go awry when their various misadventures get them into some compromising situations that threaten to derail the big event. With Kevin Hart, Gabrielle Union, Wendi McLendon-Covey.

Aug. 8 & 9: “Earth to Echo” (PG). After receiving a bizarre series of encrypted messages, a group of kids embark on an adventure with an alien who needs their help. With Teo Halm, Astro, Reese Hartwig.

Aug. 10: “Tammy” (R). After losing her job and learning that her husband has been unfaithful, a woman hits the road with her profane, hard-drinking grandmother. With Melissa McCarthy, Susan Sarandon, Kathy Bates.

MEETINGS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15


SportS

NFL PuNt, Pass

& KicK tuesday

Child, Youth and School Ser-vices’ Youth Sports will host a local NFL Punt, Pass and Kick

competition during the National Night Out on Tuesday

at McGlachlin Parade Field. The free nationwide skills

competition is open to boys and girls ages 6 to 15. In five separate age divisions (6-7,

8-9, 10-11, 12-13, and 14-15), youngsters compete against

each other in punting, passing and place kicking.

file photo

By David J. HilberDoctor of OptometryU.S. Army Public Health Command

Sports are an everyday activity for many Americans and for many Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines.

Sports are also a leading cause of eye inju-ries, but not an activity where use of safety eyewear has completely taken hold.

The military uses a variety of sports activi-ties to aid in physical fitness training and to stimulate competition. Increased participa-tion in sports has been accompanied by an increase in injuries in general and eye injuries in particular.

Sports and eye injuriesPrevent Blindness America, or PBA,

reports that more than 40,000 athletes suffer an eye injury while playing sports every year. And, every 13 minutes, an emergency room in the United States treats a sports-related eye injury.

PBA has estimated that 90 percent of all eye injuries are preventable, including sports-related eye injuries.

In the DoD, during the period of 2000 to 2012, among active-duty service members, sports accounted for 8 percent overall and 5 percent of inpatient-treated eye injuries where the cause was reported.

In nearly all of these cases, no protective eyewear was worn.

Which sports cause the most eye injuries?

According to PBA, around 6,000 Ameri-cans report eye injuries each year from basket-ball — making it the leading cause of sport-related eye injuries and the leading cause of all eye injuries among people over the age of 15.

The most common types of eye injuries from basketball are abrasions caused by fin-gers.

Water and pool activities are the second leading cause, followed by guns (air, BB), which are the leading cause of eye injuries in people age 14 and under.

Baseball/softball and exercise/weightlifting round out the top five.

Preventing eye injuries from sportsJust as with military and industrial activi-

ties, it is important to have the right safety eyewear. With sports it is important to note that in some cases, specific types of eyewear are needed to fully protect the eye.

National standards for protective eyewear developed by ASTM International exist for a number of sports programs.

Many sports organizations have also devel-oped requirements to wear protective equip-

ment for participation in their sports pro-grams.

What protection is generally accepted for commonly played sports? Here is a partial list of suggested eye protection from ASTM International:

• Baseball and softball: Polycarbonate face shield (attached to helmet) in combination with sports spectacles with polycarbonate lenses worn under the face shield for batting and running bases

ASTM F910-04(2010) covers eye and face protection for youth players (batting/base run-ning). ASTM F803-11 covers protection for all other players (fielding).

• Basketball: Sports eye guard with polycar-bonate lenses and side shields

Frames without side shields are not recom-mended because of the possibility of a finger entering the open spaces in the frame and injuring the eye.

• Football: Polycarbonate shield attached over a wire face guard

Sports spectacles with polycarbonate lenses under the shield will provide additional protec-tion.

• Ice hockey and field hockey: Protectors meeting ASTM F513-00(2007) and F1587-99(2005) standards for eye and face protection for ice hockey players

ASTM F2713-09 covers players of field

hockey. • Paintball: Protectors meeting ASTM

F1776-10 apply for paintball players. • Skiing (Alpine): Protectors meeting

ASTM F659-10 applies to participants in alpine skiing.

• Racquet sports: Protectors meeting ASTM F803-11 apply to players of racquet sports. The U.S. Army Public Health Command’s Tri-Service Vision Conservation and Readiness Program recommends only protectors with polycarbonate lenses for racquet sports.

• Soccer: Sports spectacles with polycarbon-ate lenses are recommended.

Players of any sport with potential to cause eye injury should wear protective eyewear designed for that sport.

Polycarbonate lenses must be used with protectors that meet or exceed the require-ments of ASTM International.

Individuals with only one functional eye should always wear sports spectacles with polycarbonate lenses if there is the slightest chance of injury to the eye.

Polycarbonate eyewear is 10 times more impact resistant than other plastics, accord-ing to the National Eye Institute.

All it takes is a random elbow or swipe of a fingernail across the eye during that platoon basketball tournament to take you out of the action.

Protect your eyes in sports — just like you do in combat


SportS

When I took this staff writer position at Soundoff! four years ago, I had abso-lutely no idea what I was getting myself into.

But fresh out of college and very much unemployed, I jumped at the opportunity to actually use my journalism degree and write for a newspaper.

When I started, I figured I would be interviewing uniformed service members, covering community events and writ-ing military news. And while I worked plenty of those stories, my job description changed pretty quickly.

Instead of spending my entire day asking for ranks and titles, a bulk of my work time was spent after Retreat, when fatigues and boots were swapped for foot-ball jerseys and cleats.

After four years of sitting on Fort Meade’s bleachers, my last day as the Soundoff! sports writer will be Friday. I will be heading to North Carolina, where I will once again forfeit my weekends and evenings to cover sports as a freelancer.

If you’re wondering why I’m leaving a full-time job to freelance in North Carolina, it can be attributed to my girl-friend who will be working hard toward a doctorate at the University of North Carolina.

I had always agreed to go with her to whatever school she wanted, so after a two-month toss-up between UNC and the University of Wisconsin, I am thank-fully Chapel Hill-bound with a stack of boxes.

An interesting part about packing up a reporter’s desk is the pile of press passes stuffed in a drawer that serves as a visual history of the job.

As I sort through my collection, I am reminded that this job has taken me to places every kid who wants to be a sports writer dreams about: Standing at the 50-yard line of Lincoln Financial Field for the Army-Navy Game, diving out of the way of a throwing Robert Griffin III, and awkwardly saying hello to Bill Belichick in a hallway at FedEx Field.

I was not expecting to do any of these things at a military newspaper. But from the start, I was given plenty of leeway with this sports section. Chad “Jibber Jabber” Jones told me if I could find the slightest tie to Fort Meade, to just go with it.

That go-ahead gave me the chance to

take our sports section outside the gates of Fort Meade to places it hadn’t been before. In turn, it allowed me to tell stories that still hadn’t been told.

Phil Jones, the Soundoff! editor, then gave me the shot to take this oppor-tunity one step further and move into high school sports. The paper’s venture into Meade High sports — and my frantic attempts to figure out what I was sup-posed to do — is what I am most proud of during my time here.

But, as with any newspaper, the stories I covered were only as good as the people involved, and it was the members of the Fort Meade community that made this job fun and motivated me to work hard.

Spending time with service members and their families during off-hours let me see a unique, personal side of military life that very few get to see. That perspective always spurred me to produce the best work I could, because it’s what I felt the community deserves.

My time spent on Fort Meade’s fields is what I will miss most. Yes, even those freezing and raining nights I stood on the sidelines, not at all prepared for the weather.

To the coaches and athletes from the intramural leagues, youth teams and high school teams: Thank you for taking time away from your team’s celebration after a championship win to answer my ques-tions, and allowing me to pry you for a quote when you lost.

I also want to thank everybody involved in the newspaper for taking the time to break me in as a reporter and help shape me as a writer. Nobody did this more than our assistant editor Rona Hirsch, who edited every single story with me and bolded EVERY mistake and misstep.

I will always be appreciative of the efforts of Chad, Phil, Rona, Lisa Rhodes and Tim Davis to help develop my skills.

I can pretty safely say my next four years will not be as interesting as my time at Fort Meade, but I won’t need three lay-ers of clothing to cover a football game in October. So I’ll take it.

Farewell from the bleachers

Brandon Bieltz, Staff Writer

Jibber Jabber - OpiniOn Sports ShortsFall sports

Registration for fall sports is underway at Parent Central Services, 1900 Reece Road.

Fall sports include football, soccer, cheerleading, swim team and flag football.

Participants can register at the CYSS Central Registration Office at 1900 Reece Road or online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/meadecyms.html.

For more information, call 301-677-1149 or 1156.

Coaches neededChild, Youth and School Services’ Youth Sports is looking for coaches for

fall sports.For more information, call 301-677-1329 or 301-677-1179.

Intramural flag football meetingA coaches meeting for intramural flag football will be held Aug. 6 at 1 p.m.

at Murphy Field House.A team representative must be present at the meeting to submit a roster.Only active-duty service members are allowed to compete in the league.For more information, call 301-677-3318 or email beth.d.downs.naf@mail.

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NearFort

Meade!

Copies of the 2014 Fort Meade

Welcome Guide are available now. Please call 301-677-5602 or email [email protected] to request guides for your organization.

soundoff july 31, 2014

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