1. Soundoff!
vol. 64 no. 2
OVEr ThE TOP
´
Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community January 12, 2012
Meade’s Combined
Federal Campaign exceeds
expectations by $100,000
Weld
page 3
Made
SCIENTIFIC Unique classes
Meade High School enhance skills
science fair motivates
students’ imaginations
at Auto Center
page 10
leonard Wilson
UPCOMING EVENTS sharpens his skills
with an arc welder
TOday, 11:30 a.M.-1 P.M.: during a welding
Martin Luther King Jr. Observance - course at the
McGill Training Center Automotive Skills
Center held Sunday
afternoon. Students
FrIday-MONday: of the Basic Welding
Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center 101 Course acquired
new skills through
CLOSED hands-on practice
and classroom
WEdNESday, 10 a.M.: instruction. The
KACC Protected Health Information Automotive Skills
Center offers several
Town Hall - McGill Training Center “do-it-yourself”
courses throughout
JaN. 19, 6-9 P.M.: the year including
car maintenance and
Karaoke Night - The Lanes air conditioning and
heating systems.
JaN. 27, 5-9 P.M.: For a schedule of
classes, see Page 9.
Mongolian Barbecue - Club Meade
photo by phil grout

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Editorial Staff
Garrison Commander
Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
´
Be cool, support your schools
Col. Edward C. rothstein After (more than) a few years away, I went back to award recognizes
Garrison Command school last month. the school’s efforts
Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Smith No, not to Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania, in helping students
Public affairs officer where I earned my degree in special education, but right be healthy and fit.
Chad t. Jones here on Fort Meade, where we have some of the most Manor View
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil outstanding schools you’ll find anywhere. Elementary and I
Chief, Command information I had the honor of being led on my trip by Dr. Kevin are old friends as
Philip H. Jones Maxwell, superintendent of Anne Arundel County I participated in
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil Public Schools. the Read Across
assistant Editor & Senior Writer For those of you who do not know, the schools of the America program
rona S. Hirsch “Meade cluster” — Meade High School, and the post’s by reading a book
Staff Writer lisa r. rhodes middle and elementary schools that feed into it — are to a third grade COL. Edward C.
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz not Department of Defense schools, but rather come class in my paja- rOthstEin
design Coordinator timothy davis under Anne Arundel County and Dr. Maxwell. mas. Mrs. O’Shea
Garrison Commander
Supplemental photography provided Dr. Maxwell is strongly committed to supporting gave a tour, which ended in the recently renovated
by Patuxent Publishing Co. Fort Meade and its military and civilian families, and media center completed by Heart of America and
graciously agreed to go with me for the tour. I also Target stores.
advErtiSinG brought Sarah Bonise, our schools liaison for Fort The new Pershing Hill Elementary is just as grand
General inquiries 410-332-6300 Meade, who works out of our Directorate of Family as it was at the opening ceremony on Aug. 23, 2011
allison thompson and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. — though not as shaky. Mrs. Green and I shared our
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com Sarah has established great relationships with our earthquake memories of that day. We saw children
Michele Griesbauer schools and is my “go-to” staff member on school engaged in creating power point stories and visited the
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com issues. It was nice to see a member of Team Meade Robotics Club.
greeted by administrators and teachers as warmly as The newly configured West Meade Early Education
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are Sarah was. Center showed off the classrooms for our youngest
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com.
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through I also brought Lt. Col. Ed Barrett, my Headquarters children, complete with SMART Boards, rocking chairs
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Battalion commander, who I have charged with building and a new playground.
better partnerships between our tenant units on Fort At Meade Heights Elementary School, just outside
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the Meade and the area schools — especially our Meade the gate, Lt. Col. Barrett and Sarah were able to watch
personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary cluster schools. young students working with Lego Robotics create soc-
of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday I have to tell you that what I saw out there really cer kickers and goalies and scoring with a touch of a
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 impressed me. My first stop was Meade High School. key on their laptops.
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, Meade has the distinction of having two different spe- Each school has much to brag about with com-
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-1361; DSN: 622-1361. cial programs. It is one of three schools in the county to puter labs, iPads, SMART Boards, Lego Robotics clubs,
offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program media centers, Signature Program and wellness initia-
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage course of instruction, or IB. tives, and especially teams of dedicated leadership in
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
As Dr. Maxwell explained, the IB course is set to an our principals and administrators, along with engaged
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. international curriculum, with academically challeng- teachers and school staff.
ing international standards. The curriculum is not any In all, the schools we visited each has a component
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department different than would be taught in a top-flight school in to support and mentor students who are struggling to
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are a European system. It is a very popular program that meet educational goals.
not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance draws from all over the county. In the near future, I will meet with all the principals
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of
the Army of the products or services advertised. At Meade, we are very lucky to also have the middle of the Meade feeder system to further explore our part-
years IB program at MacArthur Middle School and nership both inside and outside our fence line.
new this year, the primary years IB program at Manor So what can we do to help our students, to help our
View Elementary School. neighborhood schools? That was the question I asked
www.ftmeade.army.mil Another highlight at Meade High is the Homeland at each visit.
Security Signature program, which features a course of Can we be part of the mentoring efforts to assist
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on twitter at twitter.com/meadetv study aimed at preparing students for careers in intel- struggling students? Can we provide support for the
and view the Fort Meade Blog at meadetv.wordpress.com. ligence, security and emergency preparedness. A team many service projects each school undertakes each year
of business and community members volunteer to such as mitten-, coat- and food drives? Can we support
support this program with strategic planning, resources the student and staff efforts to redesign school web-
and field trips. sites? Can we provide tutoring help? Can we share Fort
Co n t e n t s MacArthur Middle and Meade Middle schools
are developing pipeline programming to support this
Meade as an extension of each school campus? Can
we support the schools with guest speakers, field trips
Homeland Security initiative. and resources to support STEM (science, technology,
News ............................. 3 News to Use ......................... 7 While we were at Meade Middle School, Principal engineering and math) initiatives?
Bill Goodman and Beth Shakan, the Adequate Yearly Each school principal enthusiastically welcomed my
Trouble Ticket ............... 4 Sports .................................. 14 Progress School Performance coach and the school’s offer to partner. My charge to all of you is to actively
health and wellness coordinator, were presented with the participate in your own children’s education and extend a
Community ................. 12 Movies ................................. 16 Anne Arundel County Wellness Schools of Distinction hand of service in support of our schools and volunteer.
Award, one of only three presented in the county. This I know you will be welcomed in our schools.
SOUNDOFF! January 12, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
Meade CFC exceeds goal, raises more than $500,000
By Brandon Bieltz ly watched the cards to play out right. events to raise funds and awareness of
Staff Writer Around the middle of December I knew the campaign. DMA held a chili cook-
After three months of campaigning, that Sergeant First Class Maude was off to raise more than $600 while the
Fort Meade’s Combined Federal Cam- going to deliver on his goal,” Bahel said. leaders of the Defense Security Service
paign coordinators can boast a success- “He was going to prove me wrong.” raced on tricycles to raise more then
ful year of fundraising for the world’s With the campaign over but final $400.
largest workplace-giving campaign. donations still coming in, Maude said Installation CFC coordinators also
With donations still trickling in, around 1,700 people donated to the 2011 sponsored a bowling tournament and a
installation coordinator Sgt. 1st Class CFC, with pledges ranging from $1 to pumpkin carving contest.
Bryant Maude said the final count will thousands. “From a money perspective, it isn’t a
be around $525,000 — achieving 131 Maude credits the campaign’s success lot of money but it builds excitement,”
percent of its goal determined at the to the motivation of the units and their Maude said. “Every one will ultimately
campaign’s launch in October. coordinators. With the exception of the walk away and say, ‘Hey, that pledge slip
Through the annual campaign, fed- new Defense Media Activity, Maude is on my desk. I better get that done.’ ”
eral employees and service members can said, all 90 units who participated this Bahel attributed Fort Meade’s success
donate to more than 4,000 international, year also contributed last year. But this to Maude; Capt. David Blumenthal, ‘Good economy, bad
national and local charities through one- year, several units drastically increased Headquarters Command Battalion CFC
time donations and payroll deductions. their donations, including Navy Infor- representative; and Team Meade for economy, the needs don’t
While Fort Meade’s stated goal was
$400,000 — $50,000 more than last
mation Operations Command Mary-
land, which donated $40,000 after con-
their commitment and “for having the
courage to run crazy events like tricycle
stop. In fact, they’re greater
year — Maude expected to exceed that tributing $8,900 in 2010. races and pumpkin carving contests, than ever.’
amount from the start. “Our goal from the onset was to and for making the campaign personal
“I believed that Fort Meade should do engage as many individual units as we and fun.” Sgt. 1st Class Bryant Maude
more than that,” he said “On my tracker, could and to train them in a way to Fort Meade’s CFC contribution will Fort Meade CFC coordinator
I was always tracking half a million dol- expect to increase numbers,” Maude be combined with several other govern-
lars ... I always believed we could.” said. ment agencies in the CBACFC territory.
Amy Bahel, Fort Meade’s loaned During this year’s campaign, Maude For the past five years, the CBACFC has
executive from the Chesapeake Bay heavily pushed the use of online pledges, raised more than $6 million annually.
Area CFC, said she initially didn’t think which he said could have had an impact So far this year, the organization has lion goal.
$500,000 was attainable, but Maude’s on the increase in contributions. An aver- raised a total of $6,591,755, or 98 per- “Good economy, bad economy, the
“energy, enthusiasm and passion for the age paper pledge is around $167, he said, cent of its goal. Bahel said the campaign needs don’t stop. In fact, they’re greater
CFC” spurred the outpouring of dona- while online pledges are typically more has never been this close to its goal at than ever,” Maude said. “There’s a lot of
tions. than $400. this point in the campaign and predicts charities that will be happy next year to
“Over the past four months, I patient- In addition, units sponsored creative the CBACFC will surpass its $6.7 mil- receive that extra money.”
Animal Control Office works to reduce strays on post
By Lisa R. Rhodes reproduce in the wild, usually in close associa- Arundel County Animal Shelter in Millersville. injured or sick, so it can be treated to prevent
Staff Writer tion with humans. The animal is placed in the shelter’s kennel for the spread of potential diseases.
John Butterfield, the installation’s Animal Cats that have not been spayed or neutered up to five days to allow the owner to pick it The installation requires residents to micro-
Control Officer with the Fort Meade Police, can have two to three litters per year, with four up, unless the stray is extremely aggressive, chip their pets, a procedure that provides a
said stray cats “are one of those problems you to eight kittens per litter, which can cause an seriously injured or suffering. The animal is permanent tracking system for lost pets. Pets
never seem to catch overpopulation problem. also tested for disease. can be microchipped at the Fort Meade Vet-
up with.” Butterfield is responsible for enforc- Feral cats can harbor and transmit a variety erinary Treatment Facility for a $20 fee. The
Strays, also ing the installation’s animal control of fatal and nonfatal diseases to domestic cats microchip is injected with a sterile applicator
known as feral cats, regulations as well as federal and state and other pets. In addition to rabies, outdoor under the skin between the animal’s shoulder
can often be found laws in this area. He also captures and cats risk exposure to fatal diseases such as blades. Each chip has an alphanumeric code
around the golf removes all stray animals on post. feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency unique to each animal.
course, and most All stray animals are captured using virus, or FIV. While vaccines are available for If the pet is lost, a veterinarian or animal
recently have been humane traps, Butterfield said. some diseases, they are not 100 percent effec- shelter can scan the pet to see the number,
concentrated in Stray cats and dogs are taken to the tive. A vaccine for FIV is not available. which is stored in a database with contact
residential housing kennel at the Directorate of Emergen- Butterfield said people should never try information that can be updated.
areas such as Heri- cy Services, where they are scanned to pet or feed any animal they do not know. Butterfield said he strives to do what is best
tage Park and Meuse for microchips to identify a possible People who encounter a stray or see any for the animal.
Forest. owner. The animals are kept at the unusual or unnatural activities involving ani- “We will do everything we can do to help
According to the kennel for up to two days to allow mals should contact the police desk at 301- out,” he said.
Fort Meade Envi- CourteSy photo owners to retrieve them. 677-6622. Editor’s note: Some information for this
ronmental Management Office, feral cats are If there is no microchip or an owner can- People should also call the police desk if article was taken from the May 20, 2004 and
no longer under human control, but live and not be located, the stray is taken to the Anne a domestic animal is missing or if a stray is Oct. 18, 2007 issues of Soundoff!
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 12, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Have you noticed an issue on post Community
Trouble
and wondered if anything is being
done to fix it? Email concerns and
issues to chad.t.jones.civ@mail.
Crime Watch
Ticket mil. Each week, Soundoff! will Compiled by the Fort Meade Directorate of Emergency Services
address issues identified on post
Jan. 4, Larceny of private proper- Services was notified by a unit
and describe what is being done to ty: The victim stated that while at of a disabled vehicle, which the
solve them. work, her BlackBerry cell phone officer stopped to assist. The unit
was taken from her desk, which observed a flat tire and a strong
was unsecured and unattended. odor of an alcoholic beverage
emitting from the driver. The unit
Jan. 7, Driving while under the administered standardized field
influence of alcohol, driving while sobriety tests, which the driver
impaired by alcohol, driver with prohibited failed. The driver rendered a breath test,
open container in passenger area of motor with results of .19 percent blood alcohol
vehicle: The Directorate of Emergency content.
Construction
Zone
Ongoing construction and renovations
on Fort Meade
Four scheduled projects will require will be closed Feb. 3 for asphalt work.
the closure of several installation • The right-turn lane on MacArthur
roads: Road onto westbound Mapes Road
• The side-entrance drive to the will be closed Feb. 4.
commissary will be closed Jan. 19 for Drivers should plan ahead and use
pipe crossing and asphalt work on alternative routes. All roads are sched-
Feb. 2. uled to reopen by 3 p.m. on the day of
• Both lanes of Rose Street will be the closures.
file photo closed Jan. 25 for pipe crossing and on The schedule is subject to change
Play equipment near the Boundless Playground is currently undergoing repairs. Feb. 2 for asphalt work. due to weather or other circumstanc-
• Both center lanes of MacArthur es. Changes will be posted on Fort
Road will be closed Jan. 28 and 29 for Meade’s Facebook page and official
pipeline construction. The lanes also website.
Issue: Plan: Status: The 2012 Fort Meade
The Installation Safety Office Repair the play equipment Repairs are under way
Welcome Guide is now
has deemed and marked so that it is functional online at www.ftmeade.army.
some play equipment at
mil/guide. It can be viewed
Burba Lake as unsafe
online or downloaded from the
website.
Community members Maintain a minimum of Golf operations are It is also available for
have concerns about golf 18 holes at current site; unchanged through distribution at the Fort Meade
course service availability in restoring golf operations March Public Affairs Office at 4409
light of Base Closure and on a site south of the Llewellyn Ave.
Realignment installation is also proposed Organizations that need just
a few post guides may stop
Renovate the Youth Services
by the Public Affairs Office.
Youth Services Sports Actual use of fields will be
Sports Complex
For more than 50 copies, a
Complex is in need of this fall to allow
scheduled pickup is required.
renovations grass to mature
For more information or to schedule a pickup, call 301-677-1109.
SOUNDOFF! January 12, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
New acting principal takes reins of Meade High
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes disproportionately.
Staff Writer Meade High is restructuring its school
Yolanda Clark, the new acting principal improvement plan to assess the data and
at Meade High School, greets visitors with a work as a team to devise strategies to address
warm smile and firm handshake. the problems. Clark said those strategies will
Clark, who replaced Daryl E. Kennedy, include increasing the school’s cultural-pro-
began her tenure Dec. 22 and is enthusiastic ficiency professional development, analyzing
about her new position. referral data on a weekly basis and restruc-
“I am excited about all the possibilities turing an existing program to be an in-school
that exist here at Meade High School,” Clark suspension program.
said. “It is my intention to maintain our cur- “I am a facilitative leader,” Clark said.
rent success while we elevate ourselves to new “I believe that in order to reach our school
levels of success.” improvement goals and eliminate the achieve-
After serving four years as an assistant ment gap, it’s going to take all hands on deck.
principal under Kennedy, Clark will serve as So I encourage everyone in the Meade family
acting principal until the end of the school to take part in its success.”
year. It is her hope that she will become A native of Annapolis, Clark graduated
the principal for the next school year and from Annapolis High School. She earned a
beyond. Bachelor of Arts degree in English education
Kennedy, who was Meade High’s principal at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore,
for a little more than four years, left last month Yolanda Clark, the new acting principal of Meade High School since Dec. 22, 2011, a master’s degree in counseling at Bowie State
to serve as executive director of principal sup- plans to maintain the school’s academic programs and has started “Talkalatte,” a University and a certificate in administration
port for the Baltimore City Public Schools. monthly informal meeting with parents and community members over coffee. from McDaniel College.
“It has been a seamless transition,” Clark Clark said that early on, her mother told
said of her first week of school after the lum to support Meade’s Homeland Security “Talkalatte” is Clark’s version of “Coffee her that teaching was her calling.
holiday break. “The teachers and students Signature Program. with the Principal,” a monthly event in which “Even as a child, I made family and friends
haven’t skipped a beat. I have received a lot Two new programs at the high school are parents and community members meet with sit while I taught them,” Clark said. “I believe
of good response about the positive energy in the Radical Hospitality Initiative launched her to receive updates on the school’s progress in empowering students to cultivate their
the building.” by Anne Arundel County Public Schools and voice support or concerns while enjoying best.”
Clark said her priorities are to maintain the Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maxwell and “Tal- coffee and light refreshments. In her spare time, the mother of two enjoys
school’s current academic programs, particu- kalatte.” The first “Talkalatte” will be held today at 3 reading, singing and dancing.
larly the International Baccalaureate Program The Radical Hospitality Initiative is “our and 6 p.m. in the school’s media center. “Any form of the arts is right up my alley,”
and the Middle Years Program, Project Lead mission to make sure students, parents, faculty, Clark said she is working to eliminate the she said.
The Way and AVID. staff and guests to Meade High School receive achievement gap at Meade. The high school Clark said she wanted to take over the
She said Meade High is also working to an overwhelming display of professionalism, did not make its 2011 Adequate Yearly Prog- leadership of the school because of her love
develop a kindergarten through eighth-grade helpfulness and warmth by every faculty and ress requirements under the federal Leave No for its students, faculty and staff.
program that focuses on preparing elementary staff member in the building,” Clark said. “I Child Behind Act for students with limited “I am excited about being the leader that
and middle school students for career oppor- do not believe in the idea that you have to proficiency in English and special education takes Meade to the next level. ... My admin-
tunities in homeland security. give respect to get respect. I believe that you students. istrative team is committed and focused, and
Both MacArthur Middle and Meade Mid- give respect freely and abundantly and that The school also has a “great disparity,” the teachers are on board and ready to go,”
dle schools are currently working on curricu- everyone deserves radical hospitality.” she said, with black males being disciplined she said.
Kimbrough Corner: Practice self-care for a healthy life
By Megan Hayden, RN cdc.gov/ when possible and practice saying “no” them or whether they are out of your
Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center • Forming healthy friendships to added responsibilities that can cause control.
Last year I focused on weight loss • Caring for your own needs stress. • Laugh daily by watching a comedy or
through exercise and healthy eating. This Managing stress can be accomplished • Practice relaxation techniques such as sharing jokes.
year I will focus on two other important in many ways. Here are a few to consider; deep breathing. Inhale through your nose • Start a hobby or make time for leisure
healthy self components: self-care and most take a bit of practice before they and focus on your abdomen rising (not just activities that you enjoy.
managing stress in a healthy manner. become truly helpful: your chest). As you exhale through your • Ask for help from a friend or family
Self-care includes: • Exercise regularly to reduce and pre- mouth, focus on your abdomen falling. member if you need it. You should also
• Keeping appointments and partnering vent the effects of stress. Aim for 30 min- It may help to count as you breathe in speak with your provider if you believe
with your primary care provider utes, five days a week. and out. Practice this exercise a few min- your stress is causing depression.
• Taking medications as prescribed to • Get enough sleep by aiming for seven- utes, several times a day. Other relaxation • Don’t invite negative or self-defeating
control health conditions to eight hours a night. Fatigue can cause techniques you can practice include medita- thoughts in, and don’t allow them to stay.
• Being an informed and prepared health you to think irrationally. tion, guided imagery, yoga and massage. You can aim for your best quality of
care consumer. Reputable health informa- • Make a list of necessary tasks to • Write down a daily list of joys and/or life by being a responsible participant in
tion can be obtained by visiting http://www. accomplish, prioritize them and cross them stressors in your life. When writing about your health and responding to your body’s
nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ and http://www. off as you finish. Reduce your obligations stressors, make a list of ways to overcome needs. A healthy lifestyle is your key.
SOUNDOFF! January 12, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

6. N ews
News To Use Do I look like a
grown-up to you?
Rules restrict political NOW OPEN
I need a specialist.
activity by DoD personnel
A Children’s Consignment Store For Children 0 -10
Selling and consigning children’s clothing,
maternity apparel and baby gear (strollers, high chairs, etc.)
700 South Hammonds Ferry Road, Second Floor,
By Donna Miles political meetings Linthicum, Md 21090
American Forces Press Service or rallies only as (410) 993-1558 • www.dapper-n-dainty.com
With election activity steadily picking up, spectators and
defense officials are in the process of issu- not in uniform.
ing regular election-year guidance to remind They’re not per- Our board-certified
military and Defense Department civilians that mitted to make pediatric specialists
they’re subject to rules regulating their involve- public political and kid-friendly
ment in political activities. speeches, serve office put everyone
This issue — one the department regularly in any official at ease and we offer
addresses during election periods — came to capacity in par- financial solutions
light earlier this week after an Army Reserve tisan groups, or for every budget.
Soldier in uniform appeared endorsing a politi- participate in
cal candidate. partisan political 401-760-1212
Several sets of rules help to protect the campaigns or conventions. pdom.net
integrity of the political process, DoD officials They also are barred from engaging in any Find Fort Meade Barry D. Lyon,
said. DoD Directive 1344.10 applies to mem- political activities while in uniform.
bers of the armed forces, whether they serve A combat engineer assigned to the 416th on Facebook at DDS Associates
Pediatric Specialists
on active duty, as members of the Reserve Theater Engineer Company potentially vio- Facebook.com/ 7704 Quarterfield Road
components not on active duty, as National lated these rules Jan. 3 when he stepped onto Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Guard members in a nonfederal status, and a stage at Ron Paul’s headquarters in Ankeny, ftmeade
military retirees. Iowa, during the Iowa Caucus to offer a per-
In addition, the Hatch Act applies to federal sonal endorsement. Although he was wearing
civilian employees. And employees also are his uniform, the Soldier was not in an active
subject to widely published DoD guidance that
discusses participation in political campaigns
and elections.
status at the time, Maj. Angela Wallace, an
Army Reserve spokeswoman, confirmed.
Wallace emphasized that the Soldier “stands Proud
to serve
These rules are designed to prevent the alone in his opinions regarding his political
participation of military members and federal affiliation and beliefs, and his statements and
civilian employees in political activities that beliefs in no way reflect that of the Army
you.
imply — or even appear to imply — official Reserve.”
sponsorship, approval or endorsement, offi- His chain of command is aware of the issue
cials said. The concern, they explained, is that and is considering appropriate disciplinary
actual or perceived partisanship could under- action to take, she said.
mine the legitimacy of the military profession Most civilian DoD employees, whose politi- 50% discount for military
and department. cal activities are governed by the Hatch Act, personnel and their families.*
That’s not to imply, however, that military are permitted to be active in and speak before
members and civilian employees can’t partici- political gatherings and serve as officers of
pate in politics. In fact, DoD has a long-stand- political parties or partisan groups, officials Of all the sacrifices you and your family make, your health shouldn’t be one of them.
ing policy of encouraging members to carry said. These activities, however, cannot involve That’s why the Medifast Center personalized weight loss program is designed to help
out the obligations of citizenship, officials said. fundraising. you take the weight off and learn how to keep it off, long-term. Recommended by over
DoD encourages its military and civilian mem- Civilian employees also are permitted to 20,000 doctors since 1980, Medifast is simple, safe, effective, sustainable, and proven to
bers to register to vote and vote as they choose, manage campaigns, distribute literature, write help you lose weight. So stop sacrificing and start saving at a center near you.
they said. Both groups can sign nominating political articles or serve as a spokesperson for Get your 50% Military discount off program fees when you enroll.*
petitions for candidates and express their per- a party or candidate.
sonal opinions about candidates and issues. There are, however, exceptions to this, Schedule your FREE personal weight-loss profile online at
However, officials emphasized, they can do including but not limited to Senior Executive MedifastCenters.com or call 888-621-8746
so only if they don’t act as, or aren’t perceived Service.
as, representatives of the armed forces in car- While the do’s and dont’s concerning politi-
rying out these activities. cal activity may vary, the basic tenets hold true
Beyond that, the list of do’s and dont’s for all DoD employees.
differs depending on whether the employee is The bottom line, officials said, is that they 10 CENTERS IN THE MARYLAND, DC AREA
a member of the armed forces, a career civil should steer clear of any activity that may Annapolis | Bel Air | Bethesda | Bowie | Columbia | Gaithersburg
service employee, a political appointee or a be reasonably viewed as directly or indirectly Glen Burnie | Pikesville | Rockville | Silver Spring Or scan this.
member of the career Senior Executive Service, associating DoD or the military with a partisan *Offer valid for all active and inactive members of the U.S. Military. Must show Military ID.
officials said. political activity, or that “is otherwise contrary Cannot be combined with any other offers or dicounts.
Military members, for example, may attend to the spirit or intent” of the rules described.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 12, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

7. N ews
Do-it-yourself classes
Upcoming courses offered at the Automotive Skills Center:
• “How to replace brake pads and shoes,” Jan. 22
• “How to change transmission fluid and filter,” Feb. 5
• “How to change oil and maintain your vehicle,” March 11
• “How to change wheel bearings,” March 25
• “Proper procedures for replacing timing belts,” April 22
• “How to replace drive belts and antifreeze,” April 8
• “How to replace brake pads and shoes,” May 6
• “How to change constant velocity boots/axles,” June 3
• “Understanding air conditioning and heating systems,” June 17
Classes are held from 1 to 3 p.m. at 6530 Taylor Ave.
The cost for each course is $10.
For more information, call 301-677-5542.
ABOVE LEFT: Instructor Steve Oreutt (right)
shows Harley Clinton how to adjust the
flame on the oxy-acetelene torch before
making his first weld Sunday afternoon at
the Automotive Skills Center’s Basic Weld-
ing 101 Course. During the two-hour course,
students learned the fundamentals of weld-
ing including using the welding torch, metal
inert gas welding and arc welding.
The hands of Mitchell Gordon guide the
arc-welding torch during the Basic Welding
101 Course that was offered Sunday at the
Automotive Skills Center.
photos by phil grout
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http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 12, 2012 SOUNDOFF!

8. N ews
Meade High science
projects advance to
county competition
By Lisa R. Rhodes Regional Science and Engineering Fair
Staff Writer on March 3.
For two years, Vanessa Cox has been The first-place students were among
using a hydroponic system in her home more than 300 other teens to participate
to grow vegetables. in the science fair, which was judged by
When her son, Hunter, a junior at teachers from the high school’s science
Meade High School, needed a project department, military personnel from
idea for the school’s annual science fair, the Air Force and Coast Guard, and
the 16-year-old decided to use a hydro- personnel from the National Security
ponic system to prove his hypothesis. Agency, Lockheed Martin, Northrop
Hunter’s project, “Soil Optional,” Grumman, the University of Maryland
was among the three first-place winners University College, Praxis Engineering,
in this year’s science fair held Jan. 5 and Booz Allen Hamilton and Johns Hop-
photo by lisa r. rhodes 6 in the school’s media center. kins Applied Physics Laboratory.
Melody Zuniga, 16; McKenna Thomas-Franz, 14; and Hunter Cox, 16, are the three Hunter, as well as McKenna Thomas- “I was surprised,” said Hunter of the
first-place winners in Meade High School’s annual science fair held Jan. 5 and 6. They Franz and Melody Zuniga, are invited win. “I did a science fair when I was
are invited to represent Meade High in the Anne Arundel County Public Schools 2012 to represent Meade High at the Anne in my freshman year and didn’t win. I
Regional Science and Engineering Fair on March 3. Arundel County Public Schools 2012 wasn’t expecting to win.”
Twenty students — including five
second-place finishers, seven third-
place finishers and five honorable men-
tions — were judged the best among the
entries. They will receive a gift bag with
prizes donated by many of the organi-
zations that sent the 45 judges to the
event. Prizes include gift cards, savings
bonds, electronics and T-shirts.
“The purpose of the fair is to teach
students how scientists work,” said Don-
ald Ziegler, chair of the high school’s
science department and event orga-
nizer. “It exposes them to all the steps
in the scientific method, experiment
design and writing research reports.”
Entries must follow the rules and
guidelines established by the Interna-
tional Science and Engineering Fair. All
projects included a purpose, hypothesis,
observation, overview, conclusion and
research references.
Students could develop their own
ideas or tie the project to the sci-
ence curriculum. Projects ranged from
Lisa Natale, a Department of Defense
volunteer judge, makes notes as she
judges a project about solar-powered
salt removal during Meade High
School’s annual science fair. More than
300 students participated in the two-day
event.
photo by brian krista
10 SOUNDOFF! January 12, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

9. N ews
“Testing the Iron Content in Different
Cereals” and “Gaming Addiction” to
“Indoor vs. Outdoor Air Quality” and
“Robotics in the Military.”
Hunter used a hydrophonic system to
prove his hypothesis that plants grown
in the system would generate faster
than plants grown with Miracle-Gro,
a commercial plant food. Hydroponics
is a method of growing plants using
mineral nutrient solutions in water
without soil.
In his experiment, Hunter planted
beans both in the system and with Mir-
acle-Gro and watched their progress
for 16 days. He found that the beans in
the hydroponic system did grow faster.
Nutrients in a hydroponic system are
mixed with the water and sent directly
to the root system. The plant does not
have to search in the soil for the nutri-
ents that it requires.
Hunter said the system is efficient.
“I did a lot of research and I wasn’t
really surprised by the results,” he
said.
Melody, a junior, said her project
“Gel Electrophoresis” was an ama-
teur attempt to replicate the scientific
principles used in forensics to deter-
mine whether DNA from a crime scene
matches the DNA of a suspect.
Gel electrophoresis is a method used
in clinical chemistry to separate pro-
teins and is used in forensics. Melody’s
hypothesis was that different colors
have an effect on proteins during gel
electrophoresis. To prove that, the 16-
year-old needed to determine which
food colorings have the most proteins.
For her experiment, Melody used a
plastic soap box, Chinese guard gel,
baking soda, water and the electric
charge from batteries to create an ama-
teur gel electrophoresis apparatus to
separate the proteins in dark and light
food coloring. She discovered that dark
food coloring, specifically red and blue,
photo by brian krista
have more proteins than light food col-
oring such as green and yellow. Michael Walsh of the U.S. Coast Guard represents one of many organizations that sent 45 volunteer judges to Meade High
“I thought they would be the same,” School’s annual two-day science fair. Judges also participated from the National Security Agency, Air Force, Coast Guard and
Melody said. “I was surprised.” numerous businesses.
McKenna, a freshman, used her
interest in social science to prove her
hypothesis that age affects how people agement from my mother, I decided to Those age 45 and older, however, because they use Facebook as a tool to
use privacy settings on Facebook. collect data that could measure specific are less likely to check their privacy find jobs and are subject to scrutiny by
For her project, “Facebook Privacy responses.” settings when Facebook changes them, employers.
Preferences,” the 14-year-old created McKenna found that her hypothesis McKenna said. As a result, their per- After the judging, Jeffrey Kubik, a
a questionnaire about privacy settings was correct. sonal information is just as likely to be project manager with Praxis Engineer-
and distributed it to about 200 friends “People age 18 to 25 are most lenient exposed as that of a younger user. ing in Annapolis Junction, said he was
and associates who are Facebook users. about individual privacy,” she said, Facebook users who are more cau- impressed with the winning entries.
The age range of the experiment pool noting that her survey showed that tious about their privacy settings range “It was a positive experience,” said
was under age 15 to over 50. young adults were most likely to post in age from 26 to 35. McKenna said Kubik, who judged the fair for the first
“I know how important Facebook their address and telephone number on her experiment found that people in time. “It gave me the opportunity to
is,” McKenna said. “And with encour- Facebook. this age group use more discretion give back to the next generation.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil January 12, 2012 SOUNDOFF! 11

10. C ommunity n ews n otes
The deadline for Soundoff! community
“News and Notes” is Friday at noon. All
Saturday hours at ID Card
submissions are posted at the editor’s dis- Section
cretion and may be edited for space and The Identification Card Section is
grammar. Look for additional community now open the first Saturday of every
events on the Fort Meade website at www. month from 8 a.m. to noon on a walk-in
ftmeade.army.mil and the Meade TV Blog basis only at the Max J. Beilke Human
at http://meadetv.wordpress.com. Resource Center at 2234 Huber Road
For more information or to submit an For more information, call 301-677-
announcement, email philip.h. jones.civ@ 9586.
mail.mil or call 301-677-5602.
Vet clinic renovations
NEWS EVENTS The Fort Meade Veterinary Treatment
Facility is undergoing renovations this
month.
The clinic’s regular weekday hours of 8
Kimbrough closure a.m. to 3 p.m. will be maintained, with the
Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center exception of unexpected closings due to
will be closed Friday through Monday for construction. file photo
the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday For more information, call 301-677-1300. KING DAY OBSERVANCE
weekend. The installation’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance will be
Karaoke Night held today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McGill Training Center, 8452
Protected Health Info The 11th Frame Lounge at the Lanes
Zimborski Ave. The event, offered by the installation command and
Equal Opportunity Office, is sponsored by the 902nd Military Intelligence
briefing is hosting a free Karaoke Night on the Group. The free event will feature food samplings.
third Thursday of the month.
The Army Implementation of The theme is “A Day On, Not A Day Off!” The keynote speaker is the
The next Karaoke Night will be Jan.
Protected Health Information Town Rev. Walter E. Fauntroy, a minister and civil rights activist. In 1971, he
19 from 7 to 10 p.m. The general public
Hall will be held Wednesday at 10 was elected to Congress as the first representative from the District of
is invited.
a.m. at McGill Training Center, 8452 Columbia in 100 years and served for nearly two decades.
For more information, call 301-677-
Zimborski Ave.
5541. Fauntroy also was the Washington, D.C., coordinator of the historic
Commanders are required to promote
and safeguard the health and well- 1963 March on Washington and was a founding member of the Con-
being of their Soldiers. They must have EDUCATION gressional Black Caucus.
sufficient information to make informed All Fort Meade service members and civilians are encouraged to attend
decisions about their Soldiers’ fitness with supervisory approval and without charge to annual leave. Admin-
and duty limitations. istrative leave is authorized. For more information, call Sgt. 1st Class
Therefore, Kimbrough Ambulatory Fleet Center classes Lukowski at 301-677-2162 or Sgt. 1st Class Bass at 301-677-6687.
Care Center will conduct a Protected Anyone in need of a sign language interpreter should contact the EEO
The Fleet and Family Support Center at Office at 301-677-6298/3660.
Health Information briefing that will 830 Chisholm Ave. offers classes that are
inform the garrison command about the open to DoD identification cardholders.
limitations and type of information that Classes are held at the Community the military or looking to improve their tify the application process for federal
can be released. Readiness Center, unless otherwise noted. job readiness skills to participate in the employment
The briefing also will review the Advanced registration is required. following programs: • Career Exploration, Jan. 31, 9 a.m.
standards and limitations regarding • DTAP (Disability Transition Assistance • Military Spouse Forum/Hiring to noon, Army Community Service, 830
behavior health, the Medical Program): Jan. 23, 9 a.m. to noon Fair, Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Chisholm Ave.
Management Center and the Integrated • Federal Employment: Jan. 24, 9 a.m. Washington Convention Center, 801 • BRAC 101 Employment Training
Disability Evaluation System process. to noon: This free workshop is designed to Mount Vernon Place NW, Washington, Orientation, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,
The briefing is mandatory for all teach the basics of the federal employment D.C. Soldier and Family Assistance Center,
Army commanders and their enlisted system. • Veterans Career Fair and 85th Medical Battalion Avenue
counterparts, per ALARACT message • Hearts Apart support group: Jan. 25, 4 Expo, Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., The Employment Readiness Program
405/2011/ ALARACT HQDA EXORD to 8 p.m. Washington Convention Center, 801 helps the military community with job
270-11. It is also open to all other • Home buying: Jan. 26, 1 to 3 p.m. Mount Vernon Place NW, Washington, readiness by providing employment
commanders and their senior enlisted • Medical Records Review: Have your D.C. consultations/coaching, career classes
counterparts on Fort Meade. medical records reviewed by Joseph • Military Spouse Employment and assessments, and job search/
For more information, call Lt. Thornton of AMVETS. An appointment Support Group, Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. interview preparation assistance.
Michelle Labrie at 301-677-8311 or is required. to 1 p.m., Potomac Place Neighborhood For more information, call Vikki
email michelle.labrie@us.army.mil. To register or for more information, call Center Torrence, Employment Readiness
301-677-9017 or 9018. • Employment Orientation, Jan. 19, 9 Program manager, or Jamesinaez
Club Meade delivers a.m. to noon, Army Community Service, James at 301-677-5590 or email vikki.
Club Meade is now offering food Job search strategies 830 Chisholm Ave.: Overview of tips and
resources to enhance your job search
torrence@us.army.mil.
delivery.
Customers must allow one hour for
The Fort Meade Employment • Federal Employment class, Jan. 24, 9 ACS financial programs
Readiness Program encourages those a.m. to noon, Army Community Service,
service. Minimum order is $30. seeking employment, transitioning from Army Community Service is offering
For more information, call 301-677-6969. 830 Chisholm Ave.: Learn to demys-
the following programs in January at
12 SOUNDOFF! January 12, 2012 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil