Fort Meade Soundoff Jan. 24, 2013

taxingRibbon cutting ceremony officially opens tax center

page 8

UPCOMing EVEntSFriday: Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center CLOSED for mandatory trainingFEb. 3, 6 P.M.: Ravens Vs. 49ers Super Bowl Party - The LanesFEb. 8, 7 P.M.: Latin Night - The Conference CenterFEb. 14, 11:30 a.M.: Black History Month Observance - McGillFEb. 20, 11:30 a.M.: National Prayer Luncheon - The Conference Center

hOOP drEaMSNIOC Rubber Duckies squeaks out win over 29th IS Black Knights

page 12

Soundoff!́vol. 65 no. 3 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community January 24, 2013

photo by Marv lynchard

The U.S. Army Field Band, the musical ambassador of the Army, leads more than 100 elements of the Presidential Inaugural Parade that followed the obamas and Bidens down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House on Monday. The U.S. Army Field Band has traditionally held the prestigious role of leading the first division of the Inaugural Parade. The Inaugural Parade has been a tradition for American presidents since Thomas Jefferson’s second inauguration in 1805. For more inauguration news, see Page 3.

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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil� SOUNDOFF! January 24, 2013

Commander’s Column

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

CrimeWatch............... 17 Movies.................................19

Community................. 18 Classified.............................20

Editorial StaffGarrison Commander Col. Edward C. rothsteinGarrison 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 Patuxent Publishing Co.

advErtiSinGGeneral inquiries 410-332-6300

allison thompson 410-332-6850 [email protected]

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Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday 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.

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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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The past week was awesome.The highlight of the week had to be the grand

opening of the USO-Metro Fort Meade Center. It was an example of Team Meade at its best.

The 2,200-square-foot facility, located at 8612 6th Armored Cavalry Road at the corner of Mapes Road, replaces the USO-Metro center in Midway Commons.

The facility features a nine-seat theater room, snack bar, wireless computer space, two offices, stoveless kitchen, an outdoor patio and ample room for the organization’s food pantry.

And while the facility was provided by the installation, it would not have become the center it is without the support from the community. Sponsors include Computer Sciences Corpora-tion, Harkins Builders, Northrop Grumman and SAIC. Even Defense Information School students and Soldiers volunteered their time to paint the exterior of the building.

I’m especially happy that the center is located near the DINFOS student barracks and the bar-racks for single Soldiers. These service members will no longer have a hard time getting to the USO-Metro center.

The project is another wonderful way that our surrounding communities and businesses show their commitment and thanks to service members and their families by ensuring they have what they need.

I also had a lot of fun last week enjoying time with Fort Meade Airmen. Last week, as many of you now know, was Air Force Spirit Week at Fort Meade.

Spirit Week, whether it’s a weeklong activity sponsored by the Air Force, the Navy or any of our other branches of military service, is another way that we can find time for balance in our lives.

The pranks and practical jokes are all done in good nature and in the spirit of fun. And in the end, these Spirit Weeks go a long way in helping our partner units build stronger relation-ships with the garrison and other units at Fort Meade.

As you have heard me say many times, find-ing balance is an important part of maintaining a healthy life. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to finding ways to achieve balance between work and life.

The bottom line is, we all need to take time for mental and physical wellness. And keep in

mind, we are a team.

You probably have noticed that construc-tion has begun on the new state-of-the-art Exchange. The new Exchange is being built adjacent to the old PX. As con-struction moves forward, much of the existing parking lot cur-rently used by shoppers will be eliminated. The PXtra has already been demolished, creating an area for temporary parking for approximately 200 vehicles.

I know parking at the Exchange will be incon-venient and make shopping at the PX more dif-ficult throughout the construction period. But in the end, we will have a fantastic new shopping center.

In addition to the new Exchange, there are other construction projects that are either under way or will soon get started that also may impact parking and driving on post.

The Defense Information School had a ground-breaking ceremony Wednesday for its facility expansion. The DINFOS project will allow the school to increase its annual student load from 2,700 students to 3,500. Construction of the new Shoppette is expected to start in the near future as well.

These construction projects may be incon-venient and ugly, but the end result will be an improved, more efficient and beautiful installa-tion. We will continue to do everything possible to ease the inconvenience of these projects.

I just wanted to remind you that, for most of this year, inconvenience caused by construction projects will be a way of life on the installation.

Lastly, congratulations to the Baltimore Ravens for their victory against the New Eng-land Patriots to advance to the Super Bowl! And despite being a die-hard New York Giants fan, I enjoyed watching the game.

Now it’s time to show some real Team Meade spirit and rally behind the Ravens for a victory in New Orleans.

Have a great week!

A ‘spirited’ week of celebration, construction projects; Go Ravens!

COL. Edward C. rOthstEin

Garrison Commander

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 24, 2013 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By DISA Strategic CommunicationsThe Defense Information Systems

Agency’s Communications Manage-ment and Control Activity provided personnel and communications services to the U.S. Secret Service for the 57th presidential inauguration on Monday.

CMCA Army and Air Force com-munication technicians assisted the Secret Service with the installation and maintenance of radio networks sup-porting command posts for the event and at various points throughout the inaugural parade route.

CMCA personnel also supported communication requirements for the U.S Capitol, Secret Service headquar-

ters and Washington, D.C., field office, and the Multi-Agency Command Cen-ter — the central command and control post for representatives from the 42 federal and state agencies involved with the inauguration.

CMCA’s civilian and military per-sonnel have the responsibility to sup-port both the Secret Service and the Joint Director of Military Support for special activities such as the United Nations General Assembly; U.S. Navy Fleet Week; the Olympics; Special Olympics; DoD-sponsored national rehabilitative sporting competitions such as the National Disabled Veter-ans Winter and Summer Sports Clinics;

and a host of other DoD-sponsored special events.

DISA’s presidential inauguration support started with the inauguration of Richard Nixon in 1968.

CMCA provided protective com-munications for the presidential and vice presidential candidates during the 2012 presidential campaign and has also supported former presidents and visiting heads of state.

Planning for the inauguration began immediately after the election. How-ever, the communication requirements are predicated on when the Secret Ser-vice receives their requirements for the event. The telecommunication require-

ments are requested by the participat-ing federal, state and local agencies.

CMCA’s Inauguration Day duties commenced very early on Monday morning. The organization continued to provide communications support to ensure the safety of President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, state officials, other dignitaries and the pub-lic during the ceremony, parade, par-ties, balls, and other high-visibility events that took place on Inauguration Day and the days that followed.

After the inauguration events, equip-ment has to be recovered, accounted for and palletized, then prepared for the next mission.

DISA supports presidential inauguration

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service

The U.S. military takes great pride in the centuries-old tradition of support-ing the presidential inauguration and recognizing the president as commander in chief, said the deputy for inaugural support.

Prior to Monday’s inauguration, Air Force Brig. Gen. Jim Scanlan, with Joint Task Force National Capital Region, discussed the history of inaugu-ral support with The Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service, and offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the planning involved for the 57th presi-dential inauguration.

Military involvement in ceremonies welcoming a president “dates back to the very first inauguration, when the militia and Revolutionary War veterans escorted then-President [George] Wash-ington to New York for his inaugura-tion,” Scanlan said.

“President [John F.] Kennedy’s inau-guration, in 1961, is what’s known to be the largest where there were actually 30,000 participants — 15,000 of those being military.”

In contrast, the general said, the 57th presidential inauguration had about 5,000 service members involved and a total of 12,000 participants.

Scanlan called the inauguration a “showcase” event that demonstrates “what a great nation we have” to the world and recognizes the president, as

elected by the people.“It’s truly an honor for a service

member to have the opportunity [to participate in the inauguration],” he said. “This is the first time that I’ll ever have the opportunity in a 27-year career to support the inauguration.

“And … to have that opportunity to participate in an event, that really, we look at as something the entire world watches.”

Scanlan explained why inaugural sup-port remains “absolutely vital” and is still a relevant military mission today.

“It provides us an opportunity to rec-ognize the president as the commander in chief,” he said, “and it provides us an opportunity, as the 5,000 or so members that participate, to represent the more than 2 million total force members that are serving worldwide.”

Scanlan described how support for the ceremony usually works, noting the support alone is a weeklong process, and “it’s really not just one inaugura-tion proceeding.”

“The inauguration itself is a very long day,” he said.

It normally starts with a church service, he said, then proceeds through the procession down to the Capitol, followed by the swearing-in ceremony, a luncheon, a parade and finally an inaugural ball during the evening.

Scanlan also noted there are minor differences for an inauguration when a president has been re-elected.

“The big one being that there won’t be

a departure of the outgoing president,” he said. “It’s one of the things that we plan for. If there is a new president, we have to arrange for the departure of the outgoing president.

“But that’s not a factor [now]. Every-thing else is pretty much the same for the most part.”

The general discussed the primary duties of service members who are part of the inaugural support.

“We provide ceremonial support to all the events — that could be in the form of a color guard or a musical ensemble,” he said. “And then actually the day of the inauguration, ceremonial support in the form of a street cordon, and of course, the parade itself.”

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, Scanlan said, has guidelines on what ceremonial support the joint task force provides.

“The secretary of defense designated the commander of U.S. [Northern Com-mand] as the commander responsible for providing all the military support to the inauguration,” he said. “And then Joint Task Force National Capital Region is actually coordinating all of that.”

In these austere times, Scanlan said, the task force has gotten “more efficient and more effective over the years” in planning and providing support. Other challenges include the “sheer magnitude of the event,” potential weather changes and the crowd turnout, he added.

Due to these and other unforeseen circumstances, Scanlan said, planning began more than a year ago, with the first “augmentees” arriving in April and some arriving “as late” as Jan. 7.

So the military continues to carry on a long tradition of supporting and recognizing the commander in chief as the world looks on.

“It’s an honor to be here,” Scanlan said. “For all the service members, it’s just a great opportunity for us to rec-ognize the president as the commander in chief.”

Presidential inaugural support remains vital military mission

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News

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

For the first time in two years, the instal-lation’s list of off-limit areas and establish-ments has been updated, adding two more local businesses.

In addition to the four establishments and areas already on the list, two Exxon gas stations near Fort Meade have been added for selling synthetic marijuana, or Spice tobacco.

The list, signed by Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein in late December, was developed by the Fort Meade Armed Forces Disciplinary Board.

“[The list] provides the garrison com-mander with a tool to identify, investigate, report and act on conditions within our com-munity that in any way adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, morale and discipline of our armed forces,” said Lt. Col. Marion P. Bakalorz, president of the AFDB and commander of Headquarters Command Battalion. “It is a tool — one of many.”

The off-limits list applies to service mem-bers from all military branches at Fort Meade. Violations of the list are reported to the service member’s unit, who then deter-mines the disciplinary action.

“It’s up to the unit,” Bakalorz said of the

punishment.While the list does not apply to family

members and civilian employees, Bakalorz said they should be aware of the establish-ments listed.

The disciplinary board, which is made up of unit commanders and agency directors whose service members are directly affected, meets quarterly. Voting members are assisted by numerous advisory members with various backgrounds including law enforcement, legal, medical, health and environmental protection, alcohol and substance abuse, and fire and safety. Civil authorities can also be requested for subject matter expertise.

At each meeting, the board evaluates the list and investigates new businesses or establishments that are being considered for off-limits status.

Businesses and areas can be considered for the off-limits list for a large variety of reasons such as high crime rates, unethical business practices or unsafe areas due to water rapids. The establishments are inves-tigated for the safety of service members, Bakalorz said.

The board first tries to engage the owner of the business as well as community lead-ers before putting an establishment on the off-limits list.

“We send notice to the business that the board is looking at,” said Keith Willard, legal assistant with the Directorate of Emer-gency Services. “We try to give them about a month’s notice that they’re being considered for off-limits.”

Business owners can appear at the board and state their case. In October, one business under consideration for off-limits status due to selling Spice tobacco met with the board. The proprietor agreed to stop selling the syn-thetic marijuana, so board members voted against placing that business on the list.

“That’s the function of the board — to get results,” Willard said.

Once placed on the off-limits list, estab-lishments can again meet with the board to try and have their business removed from the list. But the board doesn’t check to see if the establishment has rectified the issue. It is up to the business to request and petition to appear before the board.

The two Exxon stations most recently added to the list are not the only establish-ments in the area under consideration for the selling of Spice tobacco. These businesses will be considered at the next board meeting in February.

“These are not the two only organizations we are looking at,” Willard said. “We are

Two businesses added to off-limits list Six off-limits areas and establishments, as of Dec. 21, 2012

• Meade Village, Reece Road, Severn (high crime area, according to the Anne Arundel County Police)

• Arwell Court, two-block area, formerly Pioneer City, Severn (high crime area, according to Anne Arundel County Police)

• Little Falls area, Potomac River, Washington, D.C., and Virginia (unsafe area due to water rapids)

• Around the Clock Locksmith, Pasadena (unethical business practices)

• Exxon gas station, 7898 Ridge Road, Hanover (selling Spice tobacco)

• Exxon gas station, 1318 Annapolis Road, Odenton (selling Spice tobacco)

investigating and considering organizations or businesses that are selling synthetic mari-juana. And when we locate them, we’re going to do the same thing. And, hopefully, they’ll stop selling — that’s the whole intent.”

By Dr. Anne BurnleyPreventive MedicineKimbrough Ambulatory Care Center

Influenza, the unwanted guest, arrived early this year along with other virus com-panions.

Most of the country is experiencing high levels of influenza-like illness. Some regions have peaked, while other parts of the country are still on the upswing. But there are specific actions you can take to protect yourself, your family and your community.

First, get vaccinated if you haven’t been vaccinated since August 2012 (for this sea-son). It’s a myth that it’s too late to vaccinate against the flu once the holidays are over. As long as flu viruses are spreading and causing illness, vaccination protects against the flu.

Since flu activity can last as late as May in the United States, it’s important to get a flu vaccine now if you haven’t already received one. This season’s vaccine provides excellent protection against the dominant flu type causing illness. Even when it doesn’t stop illness completely, it reduces the severity and duration of illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Pre-vention recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. Once vaccinated, it takes about two weeks for the body’s immune response to fully kick in. You can still get a flu vaccine even if you have had influenza-like-illness this season.

Second, use other common-sense mea-sures to reduce the spread of flu. These include frequent hand washing; coughing and sneezing into your elbow or tissue; and avoiding crowded living and sleeping spaces.

If you have an influenza-like illness, stay home from school or work and away from other group settings (such as church or movie theaters) to avoid spreading your ill-ness to others.

Third, know when to contact your health care provider for guidance or must receive urgent medical attention. Symptoms of flu include a fever of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. While the

symptoms are similar to cold symptoms, they tend to be worse with the flu.

Call your health care provider if you develop flu symptoms and you are pregnant or delivered within the past two weeks; if you are age 65 or older; or if your child is younger than 5 and develops flu symptoms.

People of any age with chronic medical conditions — such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, and those with compromised immune systems due to disease or medica-tion (such as cancer, HIV, AIDS, chronic steroid use) — should also seek medical attention if they develop flu symptoms.

Seek urgent evaluation if you experience high or prolonged fever; difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen; near-fainting or faint-ing; confusion; severe or persistent vomiting; or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and a worse cough.

Seek urgent evaluation if your child expe-riences high or prolonged fever; fast breath-ing or trouble breathing; bluish skin color; discoloration of lips; dehydration; not wak-ing up or not interacting; being so irritable

that the child does not want to be held; sei-zures; or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

People who are otherwise healthy, older than age 5 and younger than 65 should stay home and do self-care. While at home with the flu, it is important to get plenty of rest, drink lots of clear liquids, and take over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and muscles aches. Use any other prescribed medications as directed by your health care provider.

Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center has sufficient flu vaccine for its enrolled TRICARE beneficiaries and DoD civilians. An express flu clinic is now available in the Immunization Clinic for beneficiaries during regular clinic hours.

Over-the-counter cold packs for adults and children are also available to TRICARE beneficiaries at the Kimbrough pharmacy during the flu peak.

Kimbrough’s TRICARE enrollees can call 301-677-8800 or use Relay Health to request to speak with a nurse to get informa-tion and assistance.

Still time to get vaccinated against influenza


News

Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Taikeila T. Chancey704th Military Intelligence BrigadePublic Affairs

When the time came to re-enlist, 12 Soldiers from the 704th Military Intelli-gence Brigade decided to do so in memo-rable fashion — by conducting their oath of re-enlistment at the 9/11 Memorial in New York City on Jan. 10.

The idea of honoring fallen comrades while re-enlisting at the memorial came about when Sgt. James Caldwell, of the 741st MI Battalion, 704th MI Brigade chose to stay Army and was given several options of places to re-enlist.

After careful consideration, Caldwell opted to make the road trip to New York.

“I chose the 9/11 Memorial because I have never been there, and when given the option to re-enlist there, so many memories of September 11, 2001 came to mind,” he said. “I was not a Soldier at the time, but that’s a day I will never forget.”

Sgt. 1st Class Tarsha Peele, a career counselor with the 741st MI loved the idea and immediately began planning collec-

tively with other career counselors.Master Sgt. Michael Gibson, senior

career counselor, 704th MI, agreed and felt this would be an effort to build esprit de corps and unit and family cohesion.

“We felt this would be an outstanding way for those who serve to honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice,” he said.

What began as a small, one-person re-enlistment ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial quickly expanded to include a dozen Sol-diers from across the brigade.

“Being afforded the opportunity to re-enlist at the 9/11 Memorial was an unfor-gettable experience; I loved it,” said Spc. Bettina Moore of Headquarters and Head-quarters Company, 704th MI. “When the attack took place 11 years ago, I was living in Germany and remember not being able to contact any of my family and friends in New York.”

To enhance the occasion, the unit extend-ed invitations to friends and family mem-bers of each Soldier who re-enlisted at the memorial. Not only was the trip a great opportunity to foster pride in those who serve, but by including friends and family

704th MI BDE Soldiers re-enlist at 9/11 Memorial

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Magnus Thorpe, property book officer for the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, administers the re-enlistment of Spc. Bettina Moore, a supply clerk for the 704th MI, at the 9/11 Memorial in New York on Jan. 10. A dozen Soldiers from across the brigade re-enlisted at the memorial.

members, it made for a truly memorable event.

“I didn’t plan on re-enlisting at the 9/11 Memorial, but when I heard about the offer, I decided it would be a good idea,” said

Spc. Raymond Gearhart, of the 742nd MI Battalion. “I hadn’t seen it yet, so I got to see it for the first time and re-enlist. Not too many people get to re-enlist there, so I felt privileged.”

Story and photo by Sgt. Amy Lane704th Military Intelligence BrigadePublic Affairs

Even as adults, many people are able to trace their values and inspiration back to their parents.

Capt. Wendy Stull, commander of Head-quarters and Headquarters Company, 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, grew up watching her father live the Army val-ues.

Stull assumed command of Headquar-ters and Headquarters Company from Capt. Lincoln Kaffenberger on Jan. 11 at McGill Training Center as her father watched proudly.

Stull, a military intelligence officer who grew up as an Army brat, said she was happy that her father was able to attend the change of command. She and her two sisters all followed in their father’s footsteps by joining the military. One was an Army nurse; the other is a helicopter pilot in the Marine Corps.

“My sisters and I grew up in a military environment,” Sull said. “We saw the cama-

raderie and the opportunities available and the mind-set of camaraderie and dedica-tion. That’s what we were familiar and comfortable with.”

Her father, retired Col. Lynn B. Stull, a Defense Threat Reduction Agency assistant liaison officer to U.S. Special Operations Command Applied Technology Applica-

tions, served in the Army for more than 30 years.

Stull said she talks to her father frequent-ly, picking his brain and talking command philosophy.

“My leadership style is very similar to my father’s,” she said. “We model interaction with people based on what we’re taught by

our parents. I think that shaped my priori-ties and people skills because that’s what I saw on a daily basis.”

The elder Stull confirmed that his daugh-ter’s leadership style is similar to his own.

“I think she is similar, in that she listens to people that are working with her, she focuses on core issues, is a problem solver, and is proficient in her specialty area,” he said. “A difference is, she is much more patient than I am and tends to see the good in people and their strengths, while I tend to see weaknesses in people.”

Stull said her father taught them integ-rity.

“One thing he ingrained in all of us was a strong sense of integrity, of doing the right thing — regardless of difficulty or consequences,” she said.

The elder Stull hopes that Soldiers will absorb this lesson from their new com-mander and work as a team.

“I hope the Soldiers in her command will learn to work cooperatively to achieve difficult goals and to capitalize on their strengths to help each other,” he said.

New company commander stresses values learned from dad

As the new company commander, Capt. Wendy Stull, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 704th Military Intelligence Brigade, addresses Soldiers in her first safety brief.


News

Story and photo by Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

After a month of training and prepara-tion, members of the Fort Meade Joint Installation Tax Center joined garrison leaders on Tuesday to officially open the center.

The ribbon cutting ceremony marked the beginning of tax season on Fort Meade. Located at 4217 Roberts Ave., the center provides free tax assistance for service members, retirees and their dependents through Tax Day on April 15. Staff will begin meeting with clients on Monday.

“That’s incredible for our service mem-bers and our community,” Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein said of the service. “It is pretty phenom-enal.”

Capt. William Biggers, officer-in-charge of the center, said the services are generally by appointment-only. The center will schedule appointments as far out as clients wish, but Biggers said spots will fill up quickly. Prior to the ribbon cutting, 40 appointments had already been scheduled.

When scheduling an appointment, individuals will be informed of what they need to bring. Required documents vary depending on the client.

“We encourage everyone to call our tax

number and we have somebody standing by who will walk you through everything you’ll need,” Biggers said. “At a bare minimum, everybody has to bring their military ID card, Social Security card or official copy.”

Appointment hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours every other Tuesday and Thursday when the center will remain open until 8 p.m. Services also will be offered one Saturday per month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Last year, the tax center generated $6.1 million in returns for its clients. But Biggers said any commercial tax service would provide the same refund; the differ-ence, however, is in the preparation fees.

“We saved clients over $540,000 in tax preparation fees because we do not charge for our services,” he said.

The tax center can prepare personal tax returns including 1040, 1040EZ and 1040A, as well as state taxes for all 50 states. Staff also can prepare amended returns dating back to 2010.

The staff, however, cannot prepare tax returns from business income such as ownership of more than one rental space or conducting more than nine stock transactions. The center also is unable to prepare nonresidential taxes.

“We’re limited by VITA [Volunteer Income Tax Assistance] regulations,” Big-

Tax Center opens for 2013 season

Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein (center) and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas E. Latter (far right) join members of the Fort Meade Joint Installation Tax Center on Tuesday to officially open the center for the 2013 tax season. Located at 4217 Roberts Ave, the center provides free tax assistance for service members, retirees and their dependents through April 15.

gers said. “They give our left and right limits as far as what kind of returns we do.”

A 30-member staff of service members and civilians working part time comprise the force behind the tax center. While several staff members have experience in tax preparation, Biggers said training sessions bring everybody up to speed on the tax code and prepare them for tax season.

“The entire month of January is dedi-

cated to training,” he said. “Everybody is certified through VITA.”

Service members preparing tax forms also provides another advantage to off-post tax services.

“We are more aware of military-spe-cific tax issues than most places,” Biggers said. “We’re a little more in tune with the military benefits.”

To schedule an appointment at the Fort Meade Joint Installation Tax Center at 4217 Roberts Ave., call 301-677-9366.

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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 24, 2013 SOUNDOFF! �

News

By Jane Winand, ChiefLegal Assistance Division

Clients seeking tax assistance at the Fort Meade Tax Center are frequently uncer-tain about state income tax liability.

Many Soldiers must file a state income tax return, even if it is to get a full refund of any monies that were withheld and paid to the state during the tax year.Taxpayers may have ques-tions about which state they should file their income tax return with. The starting point in making this determi-nation is what state appears on the W-2 as withholding state income tax. This is likely the home of record and is the state to which the taxpayer has some permanent connection.

Additional factors to consider are where the individual votes, owns real estate, has a driver’s license, and has a motor vehicle registered.

The Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act, or SCRA, allows active-duty ser-vice members to claim their perma-nent residency state despite current limited ties to that state. This exempts those stationed in the National Capital Region from filing with the state they presently live in because of their cur-rent military assignment.

In many cases, it is to the service member’s advantage to avoid taxation in the state he or she may temporarily live because of a military assignment. Be advised that the District of Colum-bia has one of the highest tax rates in the country.

Maryland has not only a state income tax, but also a local tax, which varies from county to county. Service mem-bers serving at Fort Meade who have claimed a state different from Wash-

ington, D,C., Maryland or Virginia as their state of residence, need not file with D.C., Maryland or Virginia because of the protections afforded by the SCRA.

(There are additional protections from taxation for spouses of military members which will be covered in a follow-up article in Soundoff!)

As an example, consider “Maj. Tax-payer” who entered the military from Arizona and is now stationed at Fort Meade. She owns property in Arizona, and is registered to vote there, although she currently lives in Maryland because of her military assignment.

Maj. Taxpayer has listed Arizona as her residence state on her Leave and Earnings Statement, and state with-holdings are withdrawn regularly from her pay and paid to Arizona. Where must she file?

Maj. Taxpayer must file a federal return with the IRS and a state return with Arizona. Some states exempt active-duty military pay from state tax. If Maj. Taxpayer’s permanent state of residence was one of those states, state filing would be unnecessary.

The state you claim ultimately has a huge impact on your tax liability. There are details and intricacies in getting the proper state refund, espe-cially from those states that offer a full rebate.

The Fort Meade Tax Center at 4217 Roberts Ave., Room 123 will open for business on Jan. 28 January at 8 a.m.

To schedule an appointment, call the Fort Meade Tax Center at 301-677-9366 for assistance with the prepara-tion and electronic filing of federal and state income tax returns.

Service members must file state income tax returns

To advertiseor subscribe410.332.6517ChesapeakeHomeandLiving.com

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+home livingA BALTIMORE SUN MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil10 SOUNDOFF! January 10, 2013 January 24, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 10

News

By Renée M. PetrinaDefense Information School

The gymnasium at Waugh Chapel Elemen-tary School in Odenton was crowded with tables of wares during last month’s holiday open house.

For the children, there was a face-painting booth and Santa was due to arrive at 11 a.m.

For the parents, there were plenty of gift options provided by owners of home-based businesses.

At one booth, bright floral designs on plastic kitchen storage containers mirrored the mauve of the seller’s fleece jacket. Her name tag read: “Dorthe Laurel, Consultant.”

At the next table, a woman in a blue wrap slid delicately crafted greeting cards into clear sleeves. Linda Caler had combined textures, stamps, ribbons and even a touch of sparkle to make handmade cards into keepsakes.

The placement of their adjacent booths was happenstance, but both had been selling their products for more than 12 years. And both are spouses of active-duty service members.

Many military spouses try direct sales. How-ever, starting a new business isn’t easy.

Potential sellers should consider two impor-tant things before signing up: their motivation and the effects of change.

The direct-sales market was a nearly $30 bil-lion industry in 2011, according to the Direct Selling Association, a trade group.

“On paper, they all look great,” said Ryan Yarnell, a personal financial specialist with Army Community Service on Fort Meade.

But potential consultants must conduct research.

Both Yarnell and the DSA recommend checking out the parent company with the Better Business Bureau. Yarnell said people can search online for complaints, too.

“That’s the great thing about the Internet now,” he said. “If there’s a scam, they’re gonna yell it from the rooftop.”

Laurel also advises that those considering direct sales do their homework before signing up.

“Don’t feel the pressure to say yes,” she said.

Caler said each potential seller should know her “why” - why she wants to work for that company. Personal motivation is essential. It can’t be simply to get rich quick because that’s not going to happen without effort.

The motivation that brought Laurel and Caler to Waugh Chapel Elementary came from personal belief in the products they sell.

Spirit of the entrepreneur

Many military spouses start their own businesses

“You should never, ever sign up for a com-pany that you are not 100 percent in love with their product,” Caler said.

Both women joined their companies because of past good experiences with the products. Laurel’s family was stationed overseas when she started selling the same brand of kitchen storage items that she knew and trusted from growing up in Denmark.

Twelve years later, the Air Force spouse has two rooms in her basement stocked with inven-tory and sells regularly from a booth at Fort Meade’s Exchange.

“I still enjoy it,” she said. “I stand by the company.”

Caler started her business when her Coast Guard husband received orders to leave her home state of Washington. She was already crazy about paper crafting, and her favorite craft stores didn’t have locations in Guam.

“So I became a craft store,” Caler said. As she met other crafters on the island,

Caler built a clientele and recruited sellers who share her creative passion. They make up her “downline,” meaning she gets commission on their sales.

But commissions don’t appear out of thin air. Making money takes work and adapt-ability, Caler said repeatedly. The ever-chang-ing military environment presents additional challenges.

Change can sink a home-based business, as Melissa Thurber found out.

Thurber thought her business could easily move to Fort Meade. But after two years selling bakeware and kitchen gadgets, she’ll hang up her hat at the end of the month.

Thurber started selling while her husband was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif. She met many fellow military families and had connections with neighbors whose children shared the same school.

But when they arrived at Fort Meade in August, the network and the neighborhoods were different. Thurber just wasn’t making the links to find new clients.

“You sell a lot more if you can get it in front of people,” she said.

Caler also has had to adapt to the Fort Meade environment. Due to heavy traffic, people here are less inclined to go to a week-night party or show, she said. It’s also harder to

Business SenseThinking about getting into direct

sales? Here are some tips:• Research.Get to know the company. Does it

have sales quotas?Research the rules. If you live on

post, certain rules may apply to you. The Fort Meade Legal Assistance Divi-sion can advise you.

Consider meeting with Army Com-munity Service to go over your business concept. ACS or its partner support elements in the Navy and Air Force can provide objective financial counseling.

Trained specialists can tell you whether this new venture has profit potential or not.

The Direct Selling Association also provides guidance online at directsell-ing411.com.

• Plan.You need a budget. How much ini-

tial money do you need, and can you earn it back?

You need a schedule. How much can you commit to the business?

You need flexibility. What is your plan for success after a PCS move?

You need goals. Make sure you set realistic ones.

• Commit.Ensure your spouse and children are

on board.You’ll need a sitter when you host

parties. You will also need a supporter if your new venture is stressful.

Seek advice and don’t give up easily.

get customers to leave post for an event.Caler is adjusting her business model accord-

ingly. “You have to be able to deal with change,”

she said. “Companies change, products change, environment changes, life changes.”

As Caler continued to slide cards into clear holders, her husband and young daughter dropped by. The girl proudly showed off what she had made: a pair of glittering gingerbread-man ornaments.

A touch of sparkle, just like Mommy’s cards.

Editor’s note: Renée M. Petrina is an instruc-tor at DINFOS.

photo by lisa r. rhodes

Ryan Yarnell, personal financial readiness specialist at Army Community Service and an accredited financial counselor, recommends that military spouses interested in becoming involved in the direct sales market do research on the parent company through the Better Business Bureau.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil12 SOUNDOFF! January 24, 2013

SportS

was a result of a shallow bench.“In the first two games we couldn’t sub,”

Shaw said before the game. “Now we have a few more bodies and we’re excited about this one.”

Even with few members on the roster, Mauricio said the team stayed in games until the end, when players began to wear out.

“We’re lacking people, but competing,” he said.

While NIOC was still digging for its first win, the 29th IS started the season 2-0. Coach Thomas Taylor said the team’s success comes from playing a smart and team-oriented sys-tem. With the mixture of speed and size on

By Brandon BieltzStaff Writer

For the first two games of the intramural basketball season, the Fire Breathing Rubber Duckies of Navy Information Operations Command Maryland barely had enough players to get through the 40-minute game.

With a newly extended roster, the players

fought through two overtime periods to cap-ture their first win of the season on Jan. 17 at Murphy Field House.

Nick Koletar’s 18 points — including five in overtime — helped lead NIOC to the 57-53 victory over the 29th Intelligence Squadron Black Knights.

“It’s pretty exciting, especially since it went

into double overtime,” said Zamar Shaw of NIOC. “It was pretty exhausting, but it was worth the effort. It’s really satisfying.”

NIOC entered last week’s game with a 0-2 record, having lost to the 741st Military Intelligence Battalion and the 7th IS by a combined 26 points. Shaw and teammate Kevin Mauricio said the early-season stumble

Rubber Duckies squeak out win, edges 29th IS in double OT

Zamar Shaw of Navy Information Operations Command Maryland jumps up and at Anthony Dunlap of the 29th Intelligence Squadron during an intramural basketball game Jan. 17 at Murphy Field House. NIOC captured its first win in double overtime, 57-53.

http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 24, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 13

photos by jen rynda

Gregory Taggart of the NIOC Fire Breathing Rubber Duckies tries to move through 29th IS defenders.

LEFT: Jay Snow of the 29th IS Black Knights battles for the ball during last week’s intramural basketball game. The 29th IS was defeated by NIOC, 57-53.

BELOW: The 29th IS Black Knights huddle before the intramural basketball game at Murphy Field House.

the roster, the 29th IS has been able to exploit other teams using its motion offense.

“We’re not an up-and-down team unless we can get the opportunity for a fast break,” Taylor said. “We mostly play in a half-court system since we’re bigger than most teams.”

When the two teams met last week, the 29th IS took a quick lead for the first 13 minutes of the game. But NIOC never trailed by more than three and tied it up 14-14 at 7:20. NIOC pulled into the lead and created a distance from the 29th IS at the end of the half.

With a 25-18 lead at the start of the second half, NIOC continued to maintain a five-point lead until midway through the half. Two free throws by David Jenkins tied the game at 34-34.

The 29th IS stepped up with a more aggres-sive defense to force turnovers and took a 37-36 lead off a Anthony Dunlap three-pointer with less than four minutes left.

Down by two with 10 seconds left on the clock, Shaw forced a turnover at half court, and Mauricio’s layup tied the game at 42 as time expired.

In the first three-minute overtime period,

the lead changed five times before Jenkins tied the game at 48-48 with a last-second layup to force a second overtime.

NIOC sunk three, three-pointers in the second overtime to lead the team to the 57-53 victory. Koletar’s 18-point night and Gregory Taggart’s six overtime points led NIOC to its first win. Jenkins scored a team-high 16 points for the 29th IS.

Shaw said the victory could be credited to fresh legs on the court late in the game.

“The endurance and stamina definitely came into play,” he said. “Having those extra bodies didn’t wear us down in the beginning of the half. We were able to come out there with a lot of energy and keep up the good work.”

With plenty of games remaining in the sea-son, Shaw said he thinks NIOC can bounce back from the early season struggles and continue to win with the extended roster.

“We’re coming out of the two-game slump, we finally got our first win,” he said. “We’re going to keep the momentum going. This is one of the most challenging teams in the league, so we’re going to take this win for what it is.”


SportS

Obviously there isn’t much I’d rather talk about than the Ravens’ impending Super Bowl championship.

And I guess now is as good a time as any to request your best recipes for this year’s Super Bowl party. Just remember, no pork; no booze; plenty of sauce; and, of course, spice.

Get me your recipes NLT Tuesday so we can share with the masses in next week’s Soundoff! and on the Facebook page.

But since we have next week to cover both of those topics, I believe it is pru-dent to talk about some more pressing matters.

Namely, before it gets stale, why does Bill Belichick act like such a jerk?

Apparently, Ravens coach John Har-baugh said he was all class after the game, and nobody expects him to be happy after losing another champion-ship game. But did you see his postgame press conference? bit.ly/WHYkYq

I know during the Olympics I gave gymnast McKayla Maroney a hard time about her gas face after win-ning the Silver, but she was at least a teenager.

Billy is a grown man and a mil-lionaire.

Plus, it’s not our fault that he hasn’t won a championship since being bust-ed for “Spygate.”

No, I didn’t just write that.Oh yes I did!Now most people would tell you

that Belichick is a bona fide, first-bal-lot Hall of Fame coach. Their proof would be his three Super Bowl rings, two additional AFC championships, plus everything he did as a coordina-tor.

In fact, it wasn’t that long ago when commentators questioned whether Bill might be the greatest coach in NFL history.

But facts, like numbers, never lie, and the fact is that ever since “Spy-gate,” the Patriots have put up a lot of points, won a lot of games, and even made it to the Big Game twice, but they

haven’t hoisted the Lombardi Trophy.

Certainly, if Belichick was a player, his lega-cy would be tarnished by the fact that his performance went south after he was caught cheating.

So it is only fair to ask what his legacy is … besides being a grumpy cuss.

On its own, Belichick’s resume would put him right up there with the greats like Tom Landry, Don Shula or even Vince Lombardi: 151-57 since joining the Patriots, 17-7 in the playoffs.

But again, even though Landry, Shula and Lombardi had their own advantages, none of them were caught cheating, so you certainly can’t put Belichick on the Mount Rushmore of coaches.

Maybe he’s on par with his former boss Bill Parcells. “The Hoodie” has more rings as a head coach and was the defensive coordinator for both of the “Big Tuna’s” titles.

Similarly, Belichick also has an extensive coaching tree that includes seven current or former NFL head coaches and former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis.

However, upon further review, out-side of Nick Saban, the fruit on Belich-ick’s coaching tree is pretty rotten compared to Parcells’: Eric Mangini, not so good. Josh McDaniels, way worse. Weiss and Romeo Crennel were nice guys, but even nicer for opposing coaches’ records.

So where does that leave us?Maybe he’s Tom Flores, possibly

Joe Gibbs? I’ll still put him ahead of Chuck Noll on principle.

But after another year without a ring, it’s only fair to question if Belich-ick’s legacy should be about his record on the field or off it.

If you have comments on this or any-thing to do with sports, contact me at [email protected].

What’s under the hoodie!

Chad T. Jones, Public Affairs

Officer

Jibber Jabber - OpiniOnSports ShortsSuper Bowl party

The Lanes is hosting a Super Bowl party on Feb. 3 at 6 p.m. as the Baltimore Ravens take on the San Fransisco 49ers.

The party will include game specials and prizes throughout the evening.For more information call, 301-677-5541.

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.

EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member program is sponsoring its monthly bowling

event on Feb. 20 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 [email protected].

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.

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

Available now!Copies of the 2013 Fort Meade Welcome Guide are available now. Please call 301-677-5602 or email [email protected] to request guides for your organization.


News

By Air Force 1st Lt. Logan A. ClarkU.S. Cyber Command Public Affairs

Command Sgt. Maj. Patrick Alston, senior enlisted leader for U.S. Strategic Command, visited U.S. Cyber Command on Dec. 14 for command familiarization and to recognize several enlisted person-nel for outstanding performance.

Alston spent a part of the morn-ing speaking with enlisted leaders from USCYBERCOM and Army Cyber Com-mand. But he spent the majority of the trip meeting with members of the com-mand and learning about their missions.

During his visit, Alston also recog-nized 10 enlisted personnel who had been nominated by their respective services for exceptional work to promote the mission of the operation and defense of DoD networks. He presented them with a letter of appreciation and the USSTRATCOM senior enlisted leader’s coin.

“Now, the services didn’t nominate you just for their work in the past,” he said of those he coined. “They nominated you because of your potential for the future.”

Alston also encouraged the service

members to view the recognition as not a reason to slack off but to work harder than ever, and to meet and exceed the potential for which the service members were recognized.

Alston, a big believer in the adage “Mission First, People Always,” com-mented on his emphasis on taking the time to meet and recognize outstanding people in the organization.

“People are the most important plat-form we have in keeping our country free,” he said.

Alston also coined on the spot several personnel he met during his visit, based on his conversations with them and their supervisors’ comments.

The 10 personnel Alston recognized on behalf of the services are:

• Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Andrew Barker, cyber operations specialist

• Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Katyma-rie Barnosky, intelligence specialist

• Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle Black, information systems techni-cian

• Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jonathan Butler, computer network operations

Strategic Command CSM visits Cyber Command

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Command Sgt. Maj. Patrick Alston, senior enlisted leader at U.S. Strategic Command, met with personnel at U.S. Cyber Command on Dec. 14 to learn more about the mission and recognize outstanding performers.

technician• Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Sammy

Davis Jr., J37 exercise lead• Army Pfc. Tyler Goodman, intel-

ligence analyst• Air Force Master Sgt. Racquel James,

global information grid operations mis-sion lead

• Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Amanda Morton, intelligence analyst

• Army Sgt. Jennifer Perry, cyber readi-ness planner

By Installation Safety OfficeAlthough the temperature is falling, the time is

coming to prepare for warmer and brighter days. As we dust off, gas up and get ready to hit the road, we must remember the dangers of riding a motorcycle.

Motorcyclists need to keep their riding skills sharp and their attention focused at all times. To aid military motorcyclists, the Installation Safety Office is sponsoring Motorcycle Safety Foundation basic rider courses, experienced rider courses and military sportbike riders courses.

Training will be provided at no cost to military personnel.

Training is not authorized for civilian personnel unless their specific government work duties dictate the use of a motorcycle.

All courses have limited registration on a first-come, first-served basis. An approved MSF is man-datory in accordance with Army Regulation 385-10, and Department of Defense Instruction 6055.4, DoD Traffic Safety Program, for all military person-nel who ride.

Participants will receive training in controllable

and noncontrollable risk, safety equipment, braking, traction and the best techniques for riding safely. The riding portion gives instruction in all areas and allows the instructor to evaluate the operator’s ability.

Riders must satisfactorily complete a written and hands-on evaluation.

If students are taking the ERC or MSRC, they must bring their own motorcycle with a fully charged battery and a full tank of gas, and a valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement, proof of insur-ance and registration.

Several motorcycles will be provided for the BRC. Students must bring a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement (if you are using your own bike), proof of insurance and registration.

Scheduled training dates are:• Basic Riders Course: March 19 to 20; April 16 to

17; May 14 to 15; June 18 to 19; July 16 to 17; Aug. 20 to 21; Sept. 17 to 18; and Oct. 15 to 16

• Military Sportbike Riders Course: March 21, April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18, Aug. 22 and Sept. 19

• Experienced Riders Course: March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Oct. 17 and Nov. 7

To register, visit the Army IMCOM Registration System at https://apps.imcom.army.mil/AIRS/usg_disclaimer.aspx.

Motorcycle, sportbike training to begin in March


News

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO — The Depart-ment of the Army has completed a final Program-matic Environmental Assessment and draft Finding of No Significant Impact for Army force structure reductions and realignments that may occur from fiscal years 2013 to 2020.

The PEA evaluates and assesses the environmental impacts of potential adjustments to Army forces at 21 installations. The Army has completed the analysis to support future anticipated changes and reductions to its forces that are necessary to reduce spending while maintaining critical national defense capabilities.

The Army’s proposed action evaluated in the PEA is to reduce the Army’s active duty end-strength from 562,000 at the end of FY 2012 to 490,000 by FY 2020.

The PEA analyzes two primary alternatives:• Alternative No. 1: Implement force reductions

by inactivating a minimum of eight brigade combat teams and realign other combat, combat support, and service support units between FY 2013 and FY 2020.

• Alternative No. 2: Implement Alternative 1, inactivate additional brigade combat teams and reor-ganize remaining brigade combat teams by adding an additional combat maneuver battalion and other units.

The PEA also analyzes a No Action alternative, under which the Army would not reduce the size of the force.

The implementation of Army force realignment will occur over the course of several years to arrive at an optimally configured force in 2020. Reductions in Army Soldiers will also be accompanied by some reduction in civil service employees.

These actions are being undertaken to reshape the Army’s forces to meet more effectively national security requirements while reducing the Army’s end-strength. Force realignment and some level of force reduction will impact most major Army installations.

The implementation of this force rebalancing is necessary to allow the Army to operate in a reduced budget climate, while ensuring the Army can continue to support the nation’s critical defense missions.

After 10 years of war, our nation is facing new chal-lenges and opportunities that call for reshaping our defense priorities. Concurrent with a reduction and realignment of the force, the Army proposes to reor-ganize and restructure its forces using lessons learned over the past 10 years; information about what the

future global security environment will be like; and results of previous brigade combat team studies to reshape the Army into a force capable of supporting the full spectrum of military operations.

In the PEA, the Army has evaluated the environ-mental impacts that may occur at 21 installations that will likely experience changes in Soldier populations as part of Army 2020 force structure realignments and force reduction decisions.

Force reductions that may occur as part of the pro-posed action include the inactivation of Army BCTs and combat support and combat service support units at Army and joint-base stationing locations. The decisions on how to best implement Army force reductions and force structure changes from FY 2013-2020 will be made over the course of several years to arrive at an optimally configured force in 2020.

Alternatives considered in the PEA evaluate the largest growth potential scenarios at installations that may occur from BCT restructuring, as well as the greatest force reduction scenarios that could occur as a result of Army force drawdown.

The range of potential installation reduction and growth (ranging from maximum losses of 8,000 military personnel to maximum increases of 3,000 at the Army’s largest installations) was chosen for the environmental analysis to provide flexibility as future force structure realignment decisions are made.

The PEA is designed to inform decision-makers of potential socioeconomic and environmental impacts associated with proposed actions as these stationing decisions are made in the coming years. The specific locations where changes will occur have not been decided.

Stationing sites that were included in the PEA are those sites that could experience a change in Soldiers and civilians that exceeds at total of plus or minus 1,000 military personnel. Sites considered in the PEA include: Fort Benning, Ga.; Fort Bliss, Texas; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Carson, Colo.; Fort Drum, N.Y.; Fort Gordon, Ga.; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Irwin, Calif.; Joint Base Elmendorf-Rich-ardson, Alaska; Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.; Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; Fort Knox, Ky.; Fort Lee, Va.; Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; Fort Polk, La.; Fort Riley, Kan.; Fort Sill, Okla.; Fort Stewart, Ga.; U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii; and U.S. Army Gar-rison Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

Environmental impacts associated with implemen-tation of alternatives evaluated in the PEA include

impacts to air quality, airspace, cultural and bio-logical resources, noise, soil erosion, wetlands, water resources, facilities, socioeconomics, energy demand, land use, hazardous materials and waste, and traffic and transportation.

No significant environmental impacts are anticipat-ed as a result of implementing either alternative asso-ciated with the proposed action, with the exception of socioeconomic impacts. Socioeconomic impacts are of particular concern to the Army because they affect communities around Army installations. Therefore, the PEA has a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic impacts to inform the decision-makers and communities.

Impacts could include reduced employment, income, regional population and sales. Some of these impacts could be significant.

The completion of an environmental assessment results in one of two outcomes: either significant environmental impacts are identified and a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Army 2020 PEA Statement is issued, or, no significant environmental impacts are identified and a FNSI is signed. Significant socioeconomic impacts alone do not require preparation of an EIS.

The Army study finds that there are no significant environmental impacts with either alternative evalu-ated in the PEA; accordingly a draft FNSI has been prepared.

Final decisions as to which alternative to imple-ment and which installations will see reductions or unit realignments have not yet been made. Those decisions will be made based on mission-related criteria and other factors in light of the information contained in the PEA.

The public can review the PEA and draft FNSI and submit comments on the draft FNSI until Feb. 17. An electronic version of the PEA and draft FNSI are available at http://aec.army.mil/usaec/nepa/top-ics00.html.

Submit your comments or questions on the PEA to: Public Comments USAEC, Attn: IMPA-AE (Army 2020 PEA), 2450 Connell Road (Bldg. 2264), Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234-7664, or email [email protected].

For additional information about this PEA, call 210-466-1590 or email [email protected].

For more information on the U.S. Army Environmen-tal Command, visit http://aec.army.mil/USAEC.

Public notice

Army releases Programmatic Environmental Assessment


News

Jan. 6, Driving while impaired by alcohol: The Directorate of Emergency Services was noti-fied of a traffic accident. Dur-ing the course of the investiga-tion, the odor of alcohol was emanating from the driver. A unit conducted a Standard-ized Field Sobriety Test. It was determined that the driver was impaired and was transported to the DES for suspicion of DUI. He submitted to a test on the intoximeter, rendering a result of 0.14.

Jan. 13, Simple assault: The victim stated that she and her husband were involved in a verbal alter-cation, which turned physical when he pushed her head into the driver’s side window and twisted her right arm behind her back.

Jan. 16, Simple assault, consummated by a bat-tery: The subject stated that her husband forced her to the ground and restrained her after an argument, in which she slapped him after he fol-lowed her and took her car keys.

Jan. 19, Driving vehicle while impared by alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to equip vehicle with required rear stop-lamp: A unit responded to a possible DUI. An investigation revealed a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from the vehicle and an unsteady and stumbling driver. A police officer administered the Standardized Field Sobriety Test to the driver, which she failed.

Jan. 19, Larceny of private property: Unknown persons by unknown means removed an iPhone 4 with case containing a USAA credit card and military Common Access Card from an unse-cured and unattended vehicle.

CommunityCommunityCrime Watch

Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services

photo by lisa r. rhodes

CERTIFIED NATIONALLYJennifer Swiech (left), coordinator of the Advancement Via Individual Determination at Meade Middle School, and April Umile, coordinator of school testing at Meade High School, were presented with their National Board certifications by the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards on Jan. 17 in a ceremony at Annapolis High School. National Board-certified status is the highest teaching credential in the country.

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Community news & notes

The deadline for Soundoff! community “News and Notes” is Friday at noon. All submissions are posted at the editor’s dis-cretion 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.

Kimbrough closureKimbrough Ambulatory Care Center

will be closed Friday for mandatory training.

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.

Marriage Enrichment Group

Army Community Service is offering a Marriage Enrichment Group on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

The next meeting will be Feb. 13.The goal is to introduce couples to

the processes of growth in marriage while speaking with other couples; to provide effective ways to deal with conflict; maintain personal boundaries; and establish effective communication to maintain a healthy relationship.

For more information, call Celena Flowers or Jessica Hobgood at 301-677-5590.

Employment Readiness classes

The Employment Readiness Program is offering the following programs at Army Community Service, 830 Chisholm Ave.

• Get Ready! Employment Orienta-tion: Today, 9 a.m. to noon

The orientation will help you get reg-istered with the state job board; discover websites to help in your job search; and receive schedules of career classes and job fairs.

Tap into the Fort Meade Military & Spouse Employment Job Club for net-working and increasing your job skills.

• Career Exploration Class: Tuesday, 9 a.m. to noon

Achieve personal and professional suc-cess by exploring a variety of career and personality assessments.

For more information, call Vikki Tor-rence at 301-677-6658 or email at [email protected].

Pre-K at West MeadeWest Meade Early Education Center is

accepting Pre-K applications beginning Feb. 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Children applying for pre-kindergarten must be 4 by Sept. 1.

Documentation of income eligibil-ity for Category 1 applicants is required when registering. Bring the following:

Original birth certificate, copy of immu-nization record, two proofs of residency, Federal 1040 Income Tax Return for 2012 or current award letter for Temporary Cash Assistance, food stamps or WIC.

Career, financial classesArmy Community Service and the

Fleet and Family Support Center offer free classes at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave., 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.• Transition Assistant Program-GPS:

Feb. 4 to 8 at 4 p.m.• Resume Writing: Feb. 5 from 9 a.m.

to noon• Dollars and Sense: Feb. 5 from

1 to 3 p.m. This course will help you better understand your relationship with money. Topics include: Basic Budgeting, Financial Goals and Priorities, Saving and Investing, and Managing Your Credit.

For more information, call 301-677-5590 or 301-677-9014.

Discussion on marriageThe Exceptional Family Member

Program is sponsoring “Let’s Talk About Marriage: A Discussion” on Feb. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Readiness Center, 830 Chisholm Ave.

The discussion will focus on what

is needed for a strong and healthy marriage.

The event is open to the community. Registration is required.

To register or for more information, call 301-677-4473 or email [email protected].

Preschool openingsThe Little Meade Mustangs, Meade

High School’s preschool program, has openings for ages 4 and 5.

The preschool will be held one to two days per week. The program reopens the first week of February and ends in May.

The fee is $30 per semester.For more information, email Amanda

Bolt at [email protected].

Story TimeThe Medal of Honor Memorial Library

offers pre-kindergarten Story Time on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10 a.m. or 10:30 to 11 a.m.

• Today: “Touchdown!” - a football-themed story time

• Jan. 31: “Ice is Nice” - a story time focusing on penguins and polar bears

For more information, call 301-677-5522 or 301-677-4509 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

Grilling and ChillingGrilling and Chilling will be offered

for grades six to eight on Friday from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Youth Center.

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

1437.

Romp ‘n StompRomp ‘n Stomp playgroup for parents

and their children up to age 5 meets Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., when school is in session, at the Youth Center gym.

For more information, call Kimberly McKay, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-7823.

Out & About• U.S. Naval Academy Wind Ensemble

Concert Band will perform a free concert on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. on the Severn campus of Annapolis Christian School at the

Kerr Center for the Arts, 101 Buchanan Road.

Lt. Cmdr. Bruce McDonald will con-duct a program of well-known works including “Lincolnshire Posy,” “Memo-rial to Lidice” and “Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite March” as well as a transcrip-tion from the orchestral repertoire of Beethoven’s “Egmont Overture.” Ensign Patrick Hill will conduct “Four Scottish Dances.”

For more information, call 410-293-1262 or visit usna.edu/USNABand or facebook.com/USNABand.

• Celebrate Babe’s Birthday Bash, the 118th anniversary of the birth of Babe Ruth in Baltimore, on Feb. 8 and 9 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Sports Legends Museum at Camden Yards, 301 W. Camden St., Baltimore.

The event includes admission to the museum’s galleries; unlimited ballpark-inspired food and beverages; a silent auction; appearances by local professional and amateur athletes; and free parking at Camden Yards.

Tickets cost $55 and are available by calling Whitney Edmonds at 410-727-1539 ext. 3033 or online at http://baberuthbash2013.ticketleap.com/buytickets/.

• Celebrate the Chinese New Year on Feb. 10 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Walters Art Museum 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore. In celebration of the Year of the Snake, events include a tour of snake attributes as seen in works of art at noon and 2:30 p.m.; a performance by the Baltimore Chinese School at 12:30 and 1:30 p.m.; and a presentation by the Johns Hopkins University Lion Dance Troupe at 1 and 2 p.m.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 410-547-9000 ext. 323.

• The Wizard of Oz at Port Discovery Children’s Museum will be featured Saturday to Sept. 15 at Port Discovery Children’s Museum, 35 Market Place, Baltimore. Follow the Yellow Brick Road to the educational exhibit based on the beloved movie classic.

Hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Admission costs $13.95 for ages 2 and older.

For more information, call 410-727-8120 or visit portdiscovery.org.

• Leisure Travel Services is offering monthly bus trips to New York City on Feb. 9 and March 23, with discounts to attractions. Bus cost is $55. For more information, call 301-677-7354 or visit ftmeademwr.com.

NEWS & EVENTS

EDUCATION

YOUTH

RECREATION


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 Feb. 17

Today & Friday: “Flight” (R). An airline pilot makes a heroic landing, but faces a level of scru-tiny he didn’t expect. With Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Kelly Reilly, John Goodman, Bruce Greenwood, Brian Geraghty, Tamara Tunie, Nadine Velazquez, Peter Gerety, Garcelle Beauvais, Melissa Leo.

Saturday & Sunday: “Red Dawn” (PG-13). Young Americans fight back against foreign invad-ers. With Chris Hemsworth, Josh Peck, Josh Hutcherson.

Wednesday & Feb. 2-3: “Skyfall” (PG-13). James Bond must track down and destroy a mysterious threat to MI6. With Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris.

Jan. 31, Feb. 1: “Playing For Keeps” (PG-13). A former sports star who’s fallen on hard times starts coaching his son’s soccer team as a way to get his life together. His attempts to become an adult are met with challenges from the attrac-tive soccer moms who pursue him at every turn. With Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Uma Thurman, Dennis Quaid.

Feb. 6, 9, 10: “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Jour-ney” (PG-13). Bilbo Baggins begins a journey to reclaim a stolen treasure. With Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage.

Feb. 7, 8: “This Is 40” (R). A husband and wife pursue ways to deal with their approaching middle age. With Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, John Lithgow.

Feb. 13, 16, 17: “Rise of the Guardians” (PG). An evil spirit schemes against the immortal Guard-ians (Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman). Voices of Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Jude Law.

• Society of Military Widows meets for brunch the fourth Sunday of the month at 11 a.m. at the Lanes. The next meeting is Sunday. For more information, call Betty Jones at 410-730-0127.

• Single Parent Support Group meets the second and fourth Monday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at School Age Services, 1900 Reece Road. The next meeting is Monday. Free child care will be provided on site.

For more information, call Rikki Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or email [email protected].

• 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. The next meeting is Feb. 4. For more information, call Rikki Ford, Parent Support coordinator, at 301-677-3617 or email [email protected].

• 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 Feb. 5. The group is geared for parents of children ages 5 to 12. For more information, call 301-677-5590.

• Monthly Prayer Breakfast, hosted by the Garrison Chaplain’s Office, is held the first Thursday of every month at 7 a.m. at The Conference Center. The next prayer breakfast is Feb. 7.

The guest speaker is retired Lt. Col. Rich-ard H. Barnes, Association for Christian Con-ferences, Teaching, and Service staff member for Eastern and Central Europe.

All Fort Meade employees, family members, and civilian and military personnel are invited. There is no cost for the buffet; donations are optional. For more information, call 301-677-6703 or email [email protected].

• 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. The next meeting is Feb. 7 in the banquet hall in back of the building. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. For more information, call 410-674-4000.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness of Anne Arundel County conducts 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 Feb. 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 Feb. 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, visit e9association.org or call 410-551-7953.

• Enlisted Spouses Club meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Feb. 11. For more information, visit ftmeadeesc.org or email [email protected].

• Bridging the Gap deployment support group, sponsored by Army Community Service, meets the second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood Center. The next meeting is Feb. 12. For more information, call Sharon Collins at 301-667-4116 or email [email protected].

• Spouse Connection meets the second Tuesday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Potomac Place Neighborhood, 4998 Second Corps Blvd. The next meeting is Feb. 12. The program provides an opportunity for all spouses in the Fort Meade community and surrounding area to meet and get connected. For more information, call 301-677-4110 or email [email protected].

• Military Council for Catholic Women is open to all women ages 18 and older for prayer, faith, fellowship and service at the Main Post Chapel.

Mother’s Prayer & Apologetics meets Tues-days from 9:45 a.m. to noon when Anne Arun-del County schools are in session. Monthly programs are held Mondays from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

For more information, email Beth Wright, president, at [email protected] or call 305-240-1559.

• Fort Meade Homeschool Co-op meets Fridays at 9:30 a.m. at 1900 Reece Road. For more information, call Kelli Stricker at 410-674-0297 or email [email protected].

• 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 Tom Johnston at [email protected] or Committee Chairperson Elizabeth Johnston 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].

• 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.

• Fort Meade TOP III Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m. at the Courses. The next meeting is Feb. 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].

• Meade Branch 212 of the Fleet Reserve Association meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at VFW Post 160 on Route 170 in Glen Burnie. The next meeting is Feb. 13. Active-duty, Reserve and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are invited. For more information, call 410-761-7046 or 301-262-6556.

• Patient/Family Advisory Council meets the third Tuesday of each month at 3 p.m. at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center. The next meeting will be Feb. 19 in Kimbrough’s main conference room on the third floor, room 3C03.

For more information or to become a council member, call Becky Mays Jenkins, coordinator of Patient and Family Centered Care, at 301-677-8261.

• Gen. George G. Meade Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars meets the third Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. at The Conference Center. The next monthly luncheon will be Feb. 19. Cost is $15.

MOWW is a veterans service organization open to all active, retired and former officers of the uniformed services, their spouses and offspring.

For more information, contact retired Air Force Lt. Col. Sheldon A. Goldberg at 301-572-6168 or email [email protected].

MEETINGS

Chaplain’s WordLIFE’S JOURNEY

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”— Lao-tzu, Ancient Chinese Philosopher

Fort Meade Soundoff Jan. 24, 2013

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