Fort Meade Soundoff Feb. 7, 2013

1. Soundoff!
vol. 65 no. 5 Published in the interest of the Fort Meade community
´
February 7, 2013
THE BIG
CHILL photo by tina miles
Staff Sgt. Kirston Smith, 781st Military Intelligence Battalion, 780th MI Brigade, quickly retreats from the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay after taking the plunge at the 17th
Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. Smith, along with another 781st MI NCO and family members, participated
in the event to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland. For the story, see Page 12.
safe haven growing pains UPCOMING EVENTS
Teen Center AWG breaks ground Friday, 7 p.m.: Latin Night - The Conference Center
provides youth on $31M headquarters Feb. 14, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Black History Month Observance - McGill
construction project Feb. 15, 7-10 p.m.: Lounge Party - The Lanes
room to grow
Feb. 20, 11:30 a.m.: National Prayer Luncheon - The Conference Center
page 8 page 3 Feb. 22, 4-6 p.m.: Right Arm Night - The Conference Center

2. Commander’s Column
Soundoff!
Editorial Staff
Garrison Commander
Guaranteed circulation:
11,285
´
Ravens Super Victory;
Col. Edward C. Rothstein
Teen Center underused
Garrison Command
Sgt. Maj. Thomas J. Latter
Public Affairs Officer
Chad T. Jones
Chad.T.Jones.civ@mail.mil
Chief, Command Information It was at the beginning of the fourth quarter They are well
Philip H. Jones when I said, “The Ravens could use a little help from behaved, have
Philip.H.Jones.civ@mail.mil Team Meade right about now.” supportive par-
Assistant Editor & Senior Writer And just like that, the Ravens seemed to catch ents and have an
Rona S. Hirsch their second wind and closed out the game the way opportunity to
Staff Writer Lisa R. Rhodes we all knew they were capable of doing. The end work with CYSS
Staff Writer Brandon Bieltz result was a 34-31 Super Bowl win over the San staffers who can
Design Coordinator Timothy Davis Francisco 49ers. help guide them
Supple­mental photography provided It was a much-deserved victory for head coach toward a reward-
by Patuxent Publishing Co. John Harbaugh, who has been a great supporter of ing future.
our service members, the entire Ravens organization What I find
Advertising and the City of Baltimore. most comforting COL. Edward c.
General Inquiries 410-332-6300 Congratulations Ravens. You made us proud! about the center Rothstein
Garrison Commander
Allison Thompson For the record: “Thanks Team Meade.” I’m is that parents
410-332-6850 Allison.Thompson@baltsun.com sure the Ravens appreciated your support during know their children are safe here. They are not being
Michele Griesbauer the game. We certainly appreciate the support that bullied. It’s a place where teens can feel comfortable
410-332-6381 Michele.Griesbauer@baltsun.com service members at Fort Meade receive from the being themselves in a environment where it’s OK to
Ravens each year. have dreams about succeeding in life and get the
If you would like information about receiving Soundoff! on Fort Meade or are This week, I’m calling on Team Meade again. I assistance of staffers who can help them make their
experiencing distribution issues, call 877-886-1206 or e-mail TP@baltsun.com. want to remind everyone that we have a great Teen dreams come true.
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday through
Sunday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Center on the installation. I had a chance to visit Most of the teens at the center are from Meade
the center last week and was surprised by the low High, although teens also come from North County,
Printed by offset method of reproduction as a civilian enterprise in the interest of the number of teenagers who take advantage of the Arundel, Old Mill and Annapolis high schools.
personnel at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, by the Patuxent Publishing Co., a subsidiary center and the resources it provides. Activities offered include a book club, weight lift-
of The Baltimore Sun Media Group, 501 N. Calvert St., Baltimore, MD 21278, every Thursday The Teen Center has more than 140 registered ing, a computer lab, a cooking class, the Boys and
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
youths in ninth through 12th grades, but only serves Girls Clubs of America and 4-H.
desired publication date. Mailing address: Post Public Affairs Office, Soundoff! IMME-MEA-PA, 40 to 45 teens each day. I can’t help but think that The center is also organizing activities for youths
Bldg. 4409, Fort Meade, MD 20755-5025. Telephone: 301-677-5602; DSN: 622-5602. there should be more youths there on a daily basis. with an interest in music and art. There also are
The Teen Center is located at 3102 MacArthur BGCA activities geared specifically for boys and
Everything advertised in this publication must be made available for purchase, use or patronage Road, less than 300 feet across from Meade High girls such as the Passport for Manhood Club and
without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, handicap or sex of purchaser, School. It is available to children of service members Smart Girls Club.
user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by an advertiser
will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. and DoD ID card holders who are registered with In addition, the center provides assistance in pre-
Child, Youth and School Services or sponsored by paring for SAT and ACT subject tests while helping
Printed by Patuxent Publishing Co., a private firm, in no way connected with the Department a registered teen. youths prepare for college.
of the Army. Opinions expressed by the publisher and writers herein are their own and are The center encourages high schoolers to be the There are even opportunities to perform commu-
not to be considered an official expression by the Department of the Army. The appearance best they can be and challenges them to achieve this nity service such as volunteering at Sarah’s House or
of advertisers in the publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Department of goal in a variety of ways. reading to younger children at one of Fort Meade’s
the Army of the products or services advertised.
Unfortunately, we live in an era where finding Child Development Centers.
“safe havens” for our kids is a high priority for So parents, if you forgot your child was enrolled
working parents. at the Teen Center, I ask that you revisit the facility
www.ftmeade.army.mil The Teen Center is just that — a safe haven for and explore how it can be a positive force in your
our youth. Under the direction of the Directorate child’s life.
You can also keep track of Fort Meade on Twitter at twitter.com/ftmeademd of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, the The center is teen friendly and teen driven. It’s a
and view the Fort Meade Live Blog at ftmeade.armylive.dodlive.mil. facility is managed by CYSS. The center is staffed great place for high school kids to hang out, social-
by five CYSS personnel who all have a commitment ize, play games, get their homework done and be an
to excellence. important part of our community.
Participants at the Teen Center are great kids. Have a great week!
Co n t e n t s
Commander’s Open Door
News.............................. 3 Sports................................... 13 Garrison Commander Col. Edward C. Rothstein has an open door policy.
All service members, retirees, government employees, family members and community members age 18
Crime Watch................ 10 Movies.................................. 19 or older are invited to address issues or concerns to the commander directly by visiting Rothstein’s office on
Mondays from 4 to 6 p.m. at garrison headquarters in Hodges Hall, Bldg. 4551, Llewellyn Avenue. Visitors are
seen on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary.
Community.................. 17 Classified.............................. 20 For more information, call 301-677-4844.
SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

3. News
AWG breaks ground on three-building project
Story and photo by Brandon Bieltz sory and solution-development sup-
Staff Writer port globally to the Army and Joint
Fort Meade continues to grow as Force Commanders to enhance Soldier
the Asymmetric Warfare Group pre- survivability and combat effectiveness,
pares for the construction of a three- and enable the defeat of current and
building complex that will feature a emerging threats in support of Unified
headquarters facility, visitor control Land Operations.
center, and a vehicle maintenance and The new complex will consist of
motor pool. a 75,000-square-foot headquarters
Col. Patrick J. Mahaney Jr., com- building; 2,700-square-foot visitor
mander of AWG, broke ground for the control center; and a 7,000-square-foot
new complex during a ceremony on Jan. maintenance facility and motor pool.
29. He was joined by Garrison Com- New facilities will provide office space
mander Col. Edward C. Rothstein; Lt. for operational support and staff sec-
Col. Brad Endres, deputy commander tions as well as conference rooms. The
of Baltimore District Army Corps of maintenance facility will have space
Engineers; and Joe Tierney, project to conduct vehicle maintenance and
executive with Skanska USA Building fabrication.
construction company. The contract was awarded on Oct.
The $31 million project is scheduled 30, 2012 to Skanska. The U.S. Army
to be completed in late 2015 to “replace Corps of Engineers Baltimore District
or complement the current aging facili- will manage the contract through its
ties,” said Lt. Col. Sonise Lumbaca, Bay Area Office in coordination with
public affairs officer for AWG. Fort Meade and AWG leaders.
When the unit stood up on Fort The three buildings will join current
Meade in 2006, AWG was moved into facilities used for operational squad-
an old jail near Huber Road. rons, warehouse and logistic opera-
“It was very interesting moving the tions, and a new 26,000-square-foot
unit into an old jail, but it served our indoor firing range, which underwent
purpose,” Mahaney said. construction last winter and is not yet
Since then, the unit and mission has completed.
“grown by leaps and bounds,” Mah- Garrison Commander Col. Edward Rothstein; Col. Patrick J. Mahaney Jr., commander Lumbaca said the new facilities will
aney said, making the construction of of the Asymmetric Warfare Group; Lt. Col. Brad Endres, deputy commander of “ensure that the AWG continues to
a new complex necessary. Baltimore District Army Corps of Engineers; and Joe Tierney, project executive meet its rapidly deployable global mis-
“The facility is just simply too with Skanska USA Building construction company, break ground for the new AWG sion and solution-development mis-
small,” he said. complex. The $31 million project will consist of a headquarters building, visitor control sion in support of Army and joint-
AWG provides operational advi- center, and vehicle maintenance and motor pool. force commanders.”
New veterans clinic opens at Fort Meade
By Department of Veterans Affairs rooms, one audiology booth, comfort- in delivering personalized attention to ily available clinic appointments, veter-
More than 80,000 veterans living in able patient waiting areas and state-of- meet the unique needs of veterans,” said ans will find the new clinic convenient
Anne Arundel and Howard counties the-art medical technology. Dennis H. Smith, director of the VA and accessible.
now have access to VA health care ser- Services include general outpatient Maryland Health Care System. For more information about the new
vices at the new Fort Meade VA Outpa- medical care, preventive health and “This clinic is an example of our Fort Meade VA Outpatient Clinic or to
tient Clinic, which opened Jan. 14. education services, various medical ongoing commitment to making VA schedule a primary care appointment,
The new clinic, located at 2479 5th screenings, TeleHealth services, and health care more accessible to veterans call 410-305-5300.
St. adjacent to Kimbrough Ambulatory referrals to specialized programs and where they live and work.” For information about VA health
Care Center, will be the sixth commu- inpatient services available throughout As the first VA outpatient clinic in care eligibility and enrollment or how
nity-based outpatient clinic throughout the VA Maryland Health Care System. the country to be Leadership in Energy to apply for a VA medical care hard-
the state that is operated by the VA “Veterans in Anne Arundel and and Environmental Design (LEED) ship to avoid future co-payments for VA
Maryland Health Care System. Howard counties can expect to receive Certified, the new facility has incorpo- health care, call the Enrollment Center
Designed by Nutec Group of York, exceptional health care services at the rated sustainable building design ele- for the VA Maryland Health Care Sys-
Pa., in collaboration with the Depart- new clinic that are coordinated by ments to meet federal green policy tem on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30
ment of Defense, the 13,300-square- experienced and compassionate clini- requirements. p.m. at 1-800-463-6295, ext. 7324 or
foot facility features 21 spacious exam cians and support staff who specialize With plenty of free parking and read- visit maryland.va.gov.
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF!

4. N ews
Sailor’s MLK poem
wins DINFOS contest
By Navy Seaman Apprentice read it out loud.”
Blagoj B. Petkovski Coover’s motivation to write the poem
Defense Information School came when fellow shipmate Mass Commu-
Navy Seaman Paul S. Coover, a student at nication Spc. Seaman Hansel Pintos, a for-
the Defense Information School, took first mer DINFOS student, addressed his fellow
place in a poetry contest that was part of sailors about the importance of the holiday
the school’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Jan. 18, before the Martin Luther King
observance. Jr. holiday weekend.
The event was hosted Jan. 29 by the Pintos wanted to remind people to reflect
Defense Equal Opportunity Management on King’s accomplishments.
Institute at DINFOS. After hearing Pintos speak, Coover
During the observance, Coover was thought about posters he had seen around
acknowledged by DINFOS Commandant the school advertising the 2013 Martin
Col. Jeremy Martin for his participation. Luther King Jr. observance and decided to
He received a certificate of appreciation write a poem.
PHOTO by NAVY Mass Communication specialist seaman BRADLEY J. GEE
from Martin for his poem, “Memory of Coover has had a passion for writing and
the Fight.” journalism from a young age. Defense Information School Commandant Col. Jeremy Martin presents a certificate
The contest featured poems written by “Writing was the only subject that I was of appreciation to Navy Seaman Paul S. Coover, a student at DINFOS, for his poem,
service members from different branches any good at in school,” he said. “I wanted “Memory of the Fight.” Coover’s poem won first place in a poetry contest for the
of the military. Poems submitted by fourth- to be a journalist since I was in seventh Martin Luther King Jr. holiday observance hosted Jan. 29 by the Defense Equal
grade students from a local elementary grade.” Opportunity Management Institute at DINFOS.
school were also read as part of the day’s After earning a bachelor’s degree in jour-
events. nalism from Indiana University and teach- geant in charge of the event and actually and provide a means of remembrance for
The poems were read aloud to a crowd of ing in the public school system in California, reading the poem was unexpected, said King’s work and impact on society.
service members and civilians in the Hall of Coover joined the Navy to become a mass Coover. “It was not intended to be anything other
Heroes at DINFOS. communications specialist. Nor did he expect to win the competi- than a writing exercise and a good way to
“It was an honor to win,” Coover said. “It The whole course of events from writ- tion. The poem — Coover’s first — was a sort of force myself to remember why we
ended up being a good experience having to ing the poem, emailing it to the staff ser- way for him to keep his writing skills sharp have a day off in January,” Coover said.
DINFOS, WVU sign academic partnership
By West Virginia University that such a partnership will help both schools “The partnership with DINFOS will pro- To ease the financial burdens of prospec-
West Virginia University President Jim share and benchmark best practices. vide our students and faculty a unique insight tive veteran students, WVU has expanded its
Clements and Defense Information School “We believe this is a potential starting point into how the U.S. military tells its own story Yellow Ribbon Program to include graduate
Commandant Col. Jeremy Martin signed a for us to work together in the near future in the through multiple media and channels,” said programs in the School of Public Health, the
memorandum of understanding on Jan. 28, areas of mutual interests,” Martin said. “By School of Journalism Dean Maryanne Reed. Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, and the
formally establishing a first-of-its kind aca- partnering with West Virginia University, we “In addition, we look forward to having Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering
demic partnership between WVU’s P.I. Reed feel we have a partner who has a great history DINFOS students and graduates participate and Mineral Resources.
School of Journalism and the DINFOS. of working with military students and offers in our academic programs to further the The Yellow Ribbon program is an extension
The memorandum of understanding lays a wide variety of programs directly related to exchange of ideas between communications of the 9/11 GI Bill that pays all in-state tuition
the foundation for a mutually beneficial aca- our programs of training. professionals.” and fees at public colleges and universities for
demic partnership between DINFOS and the “Of course, we are pleased that our stu- The signing is a continuation of WVU’s eligible students. WVU has taken part in the
School of Journalism to provide professional dents will be offered a chance to use their commitment to students in the military and Yellow Ribbon program for undergraduate
development and programming for both insti- hard-earned credits to earn a degree at an student veterans and their families. out-of-state students for years, but this is the
tutions’ students, faculty and communications accredited institution that offers both online WVU was recently ranked 18th in the first year that the university has offered it to
professionals. and residency courses that meet the needs of Military Times’ Best for Vets list for 2013, and graduate students.
Clements and Martin signed the memoran- these students — no matter where they may be several major initiatives will be unveiled in the The new initiatives are an expansion of
dum during a 10 a.m. ceremony in Stewart stationed,” he said. coming year. previously established programs and policies
Hall. The alliance will include increasing the WVU’s Mountaineer to Mentor program, that have helped WVU gain a national reputa-
“The memorandum of understanding that availability of high-quality online and tradi- which pairs new student veterans coming to tion for accommodating veteran students and
we have signed is one way for us to continue tional educational opportunities for DINFOS WVU with other student vets who have suc- job-seekers in recent years.
to strive for excellence in our training mission graduates, offering convenient education access cessfully made the transition, was created last More than 800 veterans, military personnel
with the help of an established and well- for military men and women, and facilitating semester. It also will pair new student veterans or their dependents are currently studying at
respected partner like the Perly Isaac Reed the exchange of professional and scholarly with a faculty or staff member who will serve WVU, including nearly 100 new student vets
School of Journalism,” Martin said. “I believe knowledge between WVU and DINFOS. as a mentor. who were admitted this spring.
SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

5. N ews
Sponsorships benefit families, businesses
By Brandon Bieltz
Staff Writer
From banners spread throughout the
post to the large white letters above
the finish line of the Fort Meade Run
Series events, business sponsorship with
the Directorate of Family and Morale,
Welfare and Recreation are prevalent
throughout the installation.
The relationships with businesses,
donors and volunteers off post help
keep programs operational for service
members and their families. Businesses
also benefit from the relationship as they
spread their name across Fort Meade.
“It’s a good way to build a partner-
ship,” said Cara Masterson, marketing
manager with FMWR.
In fiscal year 2012, FMWR generated
$130,000, which has greatly impacted the
quality of life on post, Masterson said.
Sponsorships are one way businesses
and corporations off post help the Fort
Meade community, while expanding their
advertising and exposure to new clients.
“It’s a commercial venture,” Masterson
said. “It’s more corporations, businesses
that are trying to get exposure on Fort
Meade. They can sponsor any of our
events or they can have static advertising
like banners at Gaffney [Fitness Cen-
ter]. It helps us either underwrite some
costs or maybe give something extra that
we wouldn’t have been able to budget
through our normal budgeting process.”
The defense company SAIC has been
a three-year sponsor of the annual Run
Series. The partnership between Fort
Meade and SAIC allows FMWR to offer
low-cost races because the company pays
for the T-shirts and has helped purchase
a timing system and timing chips.
In return, the SAIC logo is on T-shirts,
flyers and even the inflatable finish-line
arch.
“Sponsorship helps us break even,”
Masterson said. “SAIC comes out and
gets exposure to customers, introducing file photo
them to the company.”
Another way individuals or businesses Runners cross the finish line of last year’s Ghost, Ghouls and Goblins 5K Run, which was sponsored by SAIC defense company.
help the installation is through gifts or Sponsors, donors and volunteers help the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation provide services for the Fort
donations, which can range from money Meade community.
for purchasing snacks for a party to the
donation of tickets by the Baltimore the military.” In many cases, volunteers bring ideas to welcome support and we’re always open
Orioles. Through Army Community Service, FMWR. to form new partnerships,” she said.
“Gifts and donations can be either individuals or companies can sign up to “We’re totally open to finding ways to “With Fort Meade growing, we definitely
from personal individuals or corpora- volunteer to assist on Fort Meade. This make our community better,” she said. want to connect with the outside more.
tions [who] just want to give some- can include interning at an office or help- Masterson said FMWR is open to It’s a good way to build a partnership.”
thing out of the goodness of their heart ing to build a playground. long-term relationships or working Editor’s note: For more information
to benefit a program,” Masterson said. Volunteering on post, Masterson said, together on one-time events. about sponsorship, donating or volunteer-
“They want to do something good for is a way to network and gain experience. “Whether it’s large or small, we always ing, call 301-677-2988.
SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

6. N ews
Teen Center: A safe place, a fun place
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes
Staff Writer
When Ashley Vega, a senior at Meade
High School, talks about the Fort Meade
Teen Center to her friends, many are
unfamiliar with the facility.
“Every time I talk about the Teen
Center, they say ‘What is that?’,” said
Ashley, 16, the newly elected president
of the center’s Keystone Club, its form
of student government.
But the Teen Center’s five-member
staff want to change all that.
Alonzo Coley, Middle School/Teen
Center facility director, said he wants
teens and their parents to know that
the Teen Center is “a great place, a safe
place, a fun place.”
High school students registered with
Child, Youth and School Services are
eligible to attend the Teen Center, which
is open Mondays to Thursdays from 2 to
8 p.m. and Fridays from 2 to 10 p.m.
For those not registered with CYSS,
youths must pay a $2 fee and be spon-
sored by a registered teen.
The center serves about 40 to 45 teens
daily, although more than 140 teens are
registered for its programs.
Most of the teens attend Meade
High, while others attend North County,
Arundel, Old Mill and Annapolis high
schools.
“We have great kids here,” Coley said.
“They’re well-behaved kids. When their
kids are here, [parents know] they are
safe. They won’t come here and be bul-
lied.”
Several of the center’s programs are
sponsored by the Boys Girls Clubs of Fourteen-year-old Edwin Rodriquez, (left), a freshman at Meade High School, and Chance Peterson, 16, a junior at the school,
America and 4-H. The BGCA programs prepare a dish of sweet potatoes in the kitchen at the Teen Center on Monday afternoon to celebrate Black History Month.
include the Keystone Club, which pro-
motes youth leadership and community eligible to receive a learner’s permit. with friends. right.”
service; Passport to Manhood, a program Last summer, the center received a “The people are really nice,” he said. The center also participates in the
that encourages character, leadership $5,000 grant from Taco Bell that was Darmont also participates in Passport Army Youth Leadership Forum, where
and positive behavior among adolescent used to fund a fall tour of three area to Manhood. Army youths meet with youths from
boys; and the Smart Girls Club, which colleges: Georgetown University, How- “You learn how you can be a man other garrisons to discuss the most
seeks to develop healthy attitudes and ard University and the University of yourself and help others,” he said. important issues for youths Armywide.
lifestyles among adolescent girls. Maryland. The newly elected officers of the Key- These issues may be incorporated into
The facility also offers free tutoring In addition to the tour, the teens also stone Club have proposed several volun- the Solider Family Action Plan process
and homework help including tutoring attended a University of Maryland foot- teer projects for the year including read- and presented to the Department of the
for standardized tests such as the SAT ball game. ing to children at the Child Development Army. Youths from each installation also
Prep and ACT Prep. Students can also William Morris, a homework Child Centers and preparing meals at Sarah’s present their issues to their respective
use the computer lab for homework. and Youth Program assistant, is current- House, a transitional housing program. garrison commander.
For recreation, there is a pool table ly organizing a college fair at the center. As the club’s new president, Ashley Coley said the Teen Center is a viable
and pingpong table, age-appropriate A trip to the Defense Media Activity is said community service is important to option for parents who want their teens
video games and music videos, a weight- planned for March. young people. engaged in productive activities after
lifting room, a library, a chess club and Darmont Russell, 16, a sophomore at “We’re kind of the future,” she said. school.
a cooking class. Meade High, comes to the center every “Sure, some people need to be indepen- “Why not have them come here where
Fort Meade’s SKIES program spon- day after school to do his homework, dent, but a lot of people in the world they are supervised and with their
sors a driver’s education class for students lift weights, play video games and talk need help and helping others is what’s friends?” he said.
SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

7. N ews
Tax exclusion allowed 780th MI course offers
on combat zone income financial peace of mind
By Capt. William Biggers you made in a month you served in a By Tina Miles good finance handling and who would be
Legal Assistance Division combat zone Public Affairs Officer good mentors to other Soldiers,” Harris
If you are a member of the U.S. 7. Student loan repayments that are 780th Military Intelligence Brigade said.
Armed Forces who has served in a des- attributable to your period of service According to recent financial surveys, The current facilitator is Staff Sgt. Ryan
ignated combat zone, you can exclude in a combat zone, provided that a full many Americans have never calculated for Flore of the 781st MI Battalion.
certain pay from your income. year’s service is performed to earn the retirement, yet the many have hopes of being “I started the program right after I got
Enlisted personnel, warrant offi- repayment financially comfortable upon retirement. married in 2011,” said Flore, who has cut
cers and commissioned officers can You do not have to receive the pay The paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle is dan- his debt in half since then. “I have been very
exclude the following amounts from while you are in a combat zone, are gerous to many Americans, but service mem- successful using the lessons and encourage
their income: hospitalized, or in the same year you bers face particularly difficult challenges. others to take the class.”
1. Active-duty pay earned in any served in a combat zone. Members of the military have been popu- The facilitated video course is open to
month you served in a combat zone However, your entitlement to the pay lar targets for financial scams and unethical all brigade members, Soldiers and civilians
2. Imminent danger/hostile fire pay must have fully accrued in a month loan practices such as payday advance loans alike, regardless of age or marital status.
3. A re-enlistment bonus if the volun- during which you served in the combat and auto loans. Each participant receives a member kit
tary extension or re-enlistment occurs zone or were hospitalized as a result Because of the young Soldiers’ steady that contains a “Financial Peace” work-
in a month you served in a combat of wounds, disease or injury incurred income and strong desire for the latest and book, audio library, budgeting guide forms
zone. while serving in the combat zone. greatest cars and gadgets, financial sharks and a cash management envelope system to
4. Pay for accrued leave earned in any This also means that the days of leave began swarming the perimeter of military help participants organize their money and
month you served in a combat zone you accrued during your service in the posts, hoping for a taste of a service mem- stay on budget.
The DoD must determine that the combat zone will be treated as tax free ber’s LES (Leave and Earnings Statement). “It’s never too early or too late to start,”
unused leave was earned during that when you take that leave or cash it in, The problem became so severe that some Harris said.
period. even if you do not use those leave days service members found themselves paying up For more information about future train-
5. Pay received for duties as a mem- until the following tax year. to 800 percent interest on loans and jeopar- ing, call Chaplain (Maj.) Kent Harris, 780th
ber of the U.S. Armed Forces in clubs, For more information about income dizing their careers. MI Brigade, at 301-677-4897 or email Ken-
messes, post and station theaters, and exclusion or to schedule a tax appoint- The FY 2007 Military Authorization Act neth.d.harris82.mil@mail.mil.
other nonappropriated fund activities ment, call the Fort Meade Tax Center made such unbalanced targeting of service
Community
The pay must be earned in a month at 301-677-9366. members illegal. But the problem of poor
you served in a combat zone. Tax appointments are still available financial decision-making and planning was
6. Awards for suggestions, inven- but are filling up quickly. A limit- often just as much the fault of the service
Crime Watch
tions or scientific achievements you ed number of evening and weekend members who signed up for the loans due
are entitled to because of a submission appointments are still available. to their lack of education or experience with
finances.
There are, however, positive educational Compiled by the Fort Meade
opportunities for Soldiers, military families Directorate of Emergency Services
and personnel, one of which the 780th Mili-
tary Intelligence Brigade has discovered to Jan. 30, Larceny of private
be most successful. property: The victim stated that
The brigade is offering financial educa- when she arrived home from
work she noticed her motor-
tion to their Soldiers and civilians to ensure cycle cover missing from her
they have brighter, debt-free futures. motorcycle, which was parked
The 13-week course, spearheaded by Maj. in the parking spot next to her
Kenneth Harris, chaplain of the 780th MI, residence.
is a back-to-basics financial planning pro-
gram, “Financial Peace (Military Edition),” Feb. 1, Larceny of private property: Unknown
designed for military personnel by money person(s) by unknown means removed $350 from
management expert Dave Ramsey. an unsecured and unattended purse.
“It’s a common-sense class about dollars
and cents,” Harris said. “I took the course Feb. 3, Driving vehicle while impaired by alcohol, driv-
three years ago and have reduced my debt by ing while under the influence of alcohol, possession
about $45,000. It retrains us in how we look of open container in passenger area of motor vehicle,
at money. It has taught me things I wish I failure to stop at traffic light: While conducting
had learned much earlier in life.” mobile patrol, a unit observed a vehicle traveling at
Harris selected noncommissioned officers a high rate of speed, stop and then proceed through
from within each of the brigade’s subordi- a red traffic light. The unit initiated a traffic stop and
nate units’ companies and trained them to smelled an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting
from the vehicle. The unit administered a Standard-
be course facilitators. ized Field Sobriety Test, which the driver performed
“The NCOs chosen had reputations for poorly, then refused to submit to a breath test.
10 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

8. N ews
AER campaign aims to raise awareness, funds
Story and photo by Brandon Bieltz who are empowered to make decisions
Staff Writer on how and when to provide a loan or
Fort Meade kicked off its annual Army grant.
Emergency Relief campaign fundraiser “Their motto is, ‘Find a way to say
with a visit from the organization’s direc- yes’,” Foley said. “We have the resources,
tor. we have the money, and what I’m trying
Retired Lt. Gen. Robert F. Foley was to do is put the money in the hands of
the guest speaker at the Partner Com- Soldiers who need it. They’ll know what
manders Luncheon, held Jan. 31 at the to do with it.”
Conference Center, officially launching AER can also assist during the repay-
the 75-day campaign. ment of the loan by converting the loan to
The fundraiser begins March 1 and a grant or deferring payments.
ends May 15. Foley discussed the importance of pro-
The campaign raises money and aware- moting AER and the assistance it can pro-
ness for the AER fund that helps active- vide, as many Soldiers will turn to high-
duty Soldiers, National Guardsmen, Army interest loans to raise the needed cash.
Reservists, retirees and their families in “Why should a Soldier go and pay 500
financial emergencies by providing inter- percent APR when they could come to
est-free loans or grants. AER and get free money?” Foley asked.
“Our mission is basically providing Fort Meade AER Officer Turner Wal-
financial assistance to Soldiers and fami- lace said while the campaign helps raise
lies,” Foley said. “We have provided about money for the greater fund, it also pro-
$80 million a year for the last five years. Retired Lt. Gen. Robert F. Foley, director of Army Emergency Relief, talks to Fort motes awareness of the program and what
We have provided over $700 million since Meade leaders on Jan. 31 at the Conference Center. Foley’s presentation officially is offers.
9/11. Ninety percent of what we do is inter- kicked off the AER campaign, which runs from March 1 to May 25 with a fundraising “It’s helping Soldiers, retirees and mili-
est-free loans, 10 percent [are] grants.” goal of $90,000. tary families with emergency financial
This year’s campaign coordinators have needs,” he said. “It provides an oppor-
set a goal of $90,000 after breaking last and their families. or car payments, and medical expenses. tunity for Soldiers to help their fellow
year’s goal of $85,000 by more than Loans and grants can be issued for There is no cap on how much can be Soldiers, and it also creates a great
$25,000. For every dollar donated, 89 a variety of reasons including funeral loaned. awareness and understanding of AER
cents goes to the fund that helps Soldiers expenses, emergency transportation, rent Funds are distributed by AER officers, programs and benefits.”
Protect your heart during winter weather
By Laura Vasquez risk. Being male or having a family his- your heart. Warning signs of a heart attack:
Program Evaluator tory of heart disease also puts you at a • Don’t drink alcohol before or imme- • Chest pain or discomfort
U.S. Army Public Health Command greater risk. diately after shoveling. • Discomfort in upper body including
Every year, heart attacks claim thou- Some risk factors are within your • Be aware of the dangers of hypo- arms, back, neck, jaw or shoulder
sands of lives during harsh winter control to change by adjusting your thermia. • Shortness of breath
weather. lifestyle or taking medications. These • Consult your doctor prior to exer- • Nausea, lightheadedness, cold sweats
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of include quitting smoking, exercising cising in cold weather. If these signs are present, call 911
both men and women in the United regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, • Learn CPR to increase a victim’s immediately.
States. and controlling high blood pressure or chances of survival. This winter, make sure to take pre-
Winter weather and winter weather cholesterol. • Learn heart attack warning signs. cautions to prevent a heart attack.
activities, particularly shoveling snow, This winter, before heading out to Warning signs of a heart attack are Know your risk factors, check on your
increase a person’s risk of a heart shovel snow, consider your risk factors often ignored or overlooked. Heart elderly neighbors and learn the warning
attack due to overexertion. Cold weath- and take appropriate precautions. Tak- attacks often start slowly with mild signs of a heart attack.
er, combined with a sudden change in ing certain precautions can be the dif- symptoms. Many people do not know Remember, prevention and early
physical activity, increases the heart’s ference between life and death. the warning signs and often wait too action save lives.
workload. long before getting help. For more information and tips on
February is American Heart Month Winter weather tips for the heart: Minutes matter during a heart attack; preventing heart attacks, visit the fol-
and a good time to learn how to prevent • Take frequent breaks when shovel- early treatment greatly increases the lowing websites:
or react to a heart attack, particularly ing snow. chances of survival. Learn the signs of • American Heart Association, http://
during the winter months. • Use a small shovel or snow blow- a heart attack and you can help save www.heart.org
It’s important to know your risk fac- er. a life. • U.S. Centers for Disease Control
tors for a heart attack. The elderly and • Don’t eat a heavy meal prior to and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/
those with heart disease are at highest shoveling to avoid the extra load on heartdisease/heart_attack.htm
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 11

9. C over S tory
Sgt. 1st Class
Jason Fischer,
operations
noncommissioned
officer for the
780th Military
Intelligence
Brigade, his
daughter Kireina
and sister-in-law
Allyne Castillo
brave the cold as
they plunge into
the 35-degree
waters of the
Chesapeake Bay
during the 17th
Annual Maryland
State Police Polar
Bear Plunge on
Jan. 26 at Sandy
Point State Park
in Annapolis. The
charity event
raised $2.1 million.
780th MI NCOs take the Plunge
Story and photo by Tina Miles offers year-round sport training and com- noncommissioned officer for the 780th alongside her father.
Public Affairs Officer petition to individuals with intellectual MI, his daughter Kireina and his sister- “It was cold,” she said, teeth chatter-
780th Military Intelligence Brigade disabilities. in-law Allyne Castillo. ing, “but I’m glad I supported something
It may be hard to believe anyone in The annual Maryland State Police “As this was my first experience, I important.”
their right mind would voluntarily decide Polar Bear Plunge was established in 1997 wasn’t sure what to expect, but I had a Also participating from a subordinate
to take a dip in Maryland’s frosty January when approximately 350 participants first great time,” Fischer said. “It was a lot unit of the 780th MI was Staff Sgt. Kir-
waters, let alone pay to do so. plunged into the icy waters of the Chesa- of fun supporting such a well-deserving ston Smith, information management
But every year for the past 17 years, peake Bay and raised $75,000 that year. cause along with a notably broad slice NCO for the 781st MI Battalion.
thousands of sane people do exactly As of 2012, approximately 72,000 peo- of society.” For her, it’s personal.
that. This year, two brave Soldiers from ple have taken the plunge over the years Although Fischer said his family “The Special Olympics hold a special
the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade and raised more than $20 million. doesn’t actively support any particular place in my heart because my brother has
and their families were enticed to join “Our numbers for 2013 so far are charity, they have volunteered for other cerebral palsy,” Smith said.
the crowd. 13,000 Plungers and $2.1 million raised,” charities. This was Smith’s second year of plung-
The annual event that has become a said Linda Ellingsworth, director of com- “It’s never hard to get involved in well ing and she vowed to return again.
winter-time tradition is the Maryland munications and marketing for Special coordinated and enjoyable fundraising “I love doing things to support children
State Police Polar Bear Plunge, held this Olympics Maryland. “We are still col- events like the MSP Polar Plunge,” he and I will be there again next year plung-
year on Jan. 26 at Sandy Point State Park lecting and processing donations from said. “I would gladly take the plunge ing for the kids,” said Smith, a regular
in Annapolis. [Jan. 26].” again, and thanks very much to all the volunteer with the Fort Meade Partners
For $50 in pledges, participants plunged Among the estimated 12,000 people family and friends who pledged their in Education program within the brigade.
into the 35-degree waters of the Chesa- who participated in one of the state’s larg- support.” “I love volunteering and supporting any-
peake Bay to raise money for Special est fundraisers were first-time Plungers Despite the freezing temperature, thing that can help anyone and give back
Olympics Maryland. The organization Sgt. 1st Class Jason Fischer, operations Kireina was proud to be a participant to the community.”
12 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

10. S ports
55th Combat Camera overpowers MEDDAC
By Brandon Bieltz
Staff Writer
With six lead changes in the final 10 min-
utes of the first half of Monday’s intramural
basketball game, 55th Combat Camera was
neck-in-neck with U.S. Army Medical Activity
at halftime.
But a 31-point second half powered by
Combat Camera’s balanced offense attack
pulled the team to a 64-54 victory over MED-
DAC at Murphy Field House. Three Combat
Camera players scored double digit points to
help them overcome the game-high 26 points
scored by MEDDAC’s Llewellyn Smalley.
Atiba Laroche led Combat Camera in scor-
ing with 19, while John McMillan and Ernest
Henderson each added an additional 15 points
in the victory that improved the team’s record
to 6-1.
“We’re feeling pretty good as a team,”
Laroche said. “We’re very confident with our
team.”
Combat Camera entered Monday’s game on
a dominating four-game win streak, outscoring
its opponents by a combined 56 points.
Coach Cain Bassett said the team still needs
to focus on its on-court communication, but
with strong shooters and fast tempo, players
have been able to string together a series of
wins.
Following a 101-65 defeat to the undefeated
Surface Forces Logistic Center on Jan. 23,
MEDDAC entered the game having regained
its winning ways.
“They [SFLC] were a more experienced
team, they play together all the time,” said
Charles Jackson, coach of MEDDAC.
Since then, the team put together two
straight victories by more than 20 points.
Jackson said he sees his team advancing to photo by sarah Pastrana
the championship as players continue to com- Mikki Sprenkle and Atiba Laroche of 55th Combat Camera go after a rebound during Monday’s intramural basketball game against U.S.
municate and improve. Army Medical Activity. Laroche’s 19 points led Combat Camera to a 64-54 victory.
“We are coming together as a team,” Jackson
said. “Right now we’re working on rebounds
and pushing the ball.” at the start of the second half, but MED-
MEDDAC’s win streak appeared to be DAC was never able to take an outright lead.
coming to an end early in Monday’s game, Midway through the half, Combat Camera
extended its lead by seven points.
Find schedules, scores, standings
as Combat Camera opened on a fast 7-0 run
using crisp and accurate passing. Despite suc- A desperate MEDDAC team changed its
strategy and began to force fouls, hoping
and upcoming seasons for
cess from the perimeter, MEDDAC continued
to battle inside the paint with little luck. to get the ball back with enough time for a
MEDDAC fought back to take a 13-12 comeback. But the team was unable to pull • Basketball • Softball
lead. The two teams then engaged in a back- out a win as Combat Camera sealed its 64-54 • Football • Soccer
and-forth battle, which included 10 lead chang- victory.
Following the game, Laroche said his team And more, plus
es before Combat Camera took a 33-31 lead
into halftime. was feeling confident in defeating the high-
powered offense of MEDDAC. He credited All-Army athletics, new sports and special events at
Smalley’s 18-point half kept MEDDAC in
the game, as Combat Camera spread the scor- the team’s defense for the success, but said they
ing around with Laroche’s 12, Henderson’s 8 need to continue to improve in their own end.
“Defense is the key,” he said. “If we stop
www.quickscores.com/ftmeadesports.
and McMillan’s 7.
The point-for-point trade-off continued them, we score.”
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 13

11. S ports
ultimate
fighter
Ultimate Fighting Championship
mixed martial arts fighter Jay
Dee “B.J.” Penn signs an auto-
graph for Capt. William Montoya,
commander of U.S. Army Signal
School Detachment, during a
“meet and great” Monday at the
USO-Metro Fort Meade Center.
Penn, a winner of the World Jiu-
Jitsu Championship in the black
belt category, is a former UFC
Lightweight Champion and UFC
Welterweight Champion.
photo by sgt. walter Reeves
Sports Shorts
Old Joe Golf Tournament
The Fort Meade Officers’ Spouses Club is sponsoring the 8th Annual Old
Joe Golf Tournament on April 12 at Eisenhower Golf Course, 1576 Generals
Highway, Crownsville.
Shotgun start will be at 8:30 a.m.
Cost is $70 for active-duty service members, retirees and family members,
and $75 for everyone else.
Registration and payment are due by March 29.
Registration includes green fees and cart, putting contest, continental
breakfast, barbecue lunch, two beverage tickets, door prizes, snacks and player
goodie bags.
Proceeds benefit the Fort Meade OSC Scholarships and Welfare Programs.
For more information, email Lorin Neslony at 2ndVice@fortmeadeosc.org
or visit fortmeadeosc.org.
EFMP bowling
The Exceptional Family Member program is sponsoring its monthly bowling
event on Feb. 20 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Lanes.
photo by noah Scialom
Exceptional family members will receive a free game and shoe rental. Other
SUPER bowl PARTY
family members will receive discounted games and shoe rental.
To register, call 301-677-4473 or email kelly.g.burger@us.army.mil.
Service members watch Super Bowl XLVII on Sunday at the USO-
Spring sports registration Metro Fort Meade Center. Approximately 145 members from all service
Registration for spring sports is under way at Parent Central Services, 1900 branches attended the free Super Bowl party, which featured a festively
Reece Road. decorated center, 300 slices of pizza, 400 chicken wings, nachos and
Spring sports include soccer, T-ball, baseball, softball, track, indoor football beverages throughout the game. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San
and basketball. Francisco 49ers 34-31.
For more information, call 301-677-1149 or 1156.
14 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil

12. S ports
Jibber Jabber - Opinion
‘I want winners’
OK, Fort Meade Facebook fan Jona- wanted winners. • Individual and Business
than Ferguson, we’ve got beef. yo u t u b e. c o m /
I’m sure you’re a great guy, Jon. Your
profile picture makes me believe you are
watch?v=EB5-
yJM3vJc
Tax Preparation
an outstanding father. The fact you are In fairness to
studying law enforcement makes me think
you have a servant’s heart. And since you
Jon, he is not
the only person
• Walk in, Appointments
are following the page, I can only assume
you have decent taste in your online com-
in my life who
believes in bare-
Chad T. Jones,
Public Affairs or Drop Off Available
munication venues. ly winning. Our Officer
However, it’s your most recent post I Command Infor- Will review
have issue with. mation Chief Philip Jones started spewing • Fast, Accurate your prior
On Monday morning, Fort Meade similar nonsense on Wednesday when
posted a congratulatory note to the Balti-
more Ravens for winning the Super Bowl.
describing Michigan’s victory over Ohio
on Tuesday.
and Affordable 3 returns
In particular, the post pointed out Coach I think his rant went something like
for errors
or missed
John Harbaugh for winning since he was
a “big supporter of the military.”
“Bladdy, bladdy, blah, Aaron Craft was
fouled. Bladdy, bladdy, Michigan barely
• E File, Wire Transfer, money!
Your response: “He barely won.”
I’m not even sure what that means, Mr.
won.”
You barely whiners (I mean winners) Debit Card or
Ferguson. It’s professional football, so need to learn to take your lumps with
there is no barely winning. some dignity and stop appeasing your dis- Checks available
The fact is, it doesn’t matter whether appointment with false hope and fiction.
Baltimore won by 3 or 33, they still had When your team loses, say that they
a victory parade on Tuesday, youtube. lost, and then hope they do better next
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com/watch?v=Knlhbd27i7Q, and Mr. time.
Lombardi’s trophy will be chilling in “The This column may seem a bit harsh
Castle” this year. about the concept of disparaging close
Now, upon further review of your victory, especially since everyone com-
profile, Jon, I guess I could chalk up ments about how close games are. Plus,
your comment to the fact that you are if Baltimore would have given up the 22-
from Pittsburgh, and as we all know from point lead, this column probably would
Doug Wise, Steelers fans are particularly be about choking as opposed to Jon and Receive $30 off your tax preparation with this coupon
bitter toward every other thing not related Phil’s misguided attitude. only. One coupon per person.
to the Steel City. However, Baltimore didn’t give up their
Case in point, your fellow FGGM lead, and as a society, it’s important we
Facebook follower, Christopher Brett, learn to recognize barely winning as
followed your post by writing, “Steelers winning. Because if we don’t, it won’t
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still have a better average on Super Bowl be long before criticizing barely winning
victories!” becomes praising barely losing, which
Of course, this is untrue: Steelers are 6-2 then becomes praising effort, regardless
(.750 winning percentage), the Ravens are of consequence or outcome.
2-0 (1.000 winning percentage). Appar- And that is not how we do things in
ently, Steelers fans aren’t real good at Jabber Nation.
math either, so we’ll give Chris a pass. If you have comments on this or any-
Jon doesn’t get that luxury. thing to do with sports, contact me at Bring a friend and receive $30 off your tax preparation
That’s because his comment isn’t just chad.t.jones.civ@mail.mil. and a $25 referral bonus. One coupon per person.
hateful, it’s also illogical. Hello, you play
to win the game. At least that’s what
Herman Edwards said: youtube.com/
watch?v=6uTLtBGgSAM. Follow Fort
When Vince Lombardi said, “Winning 10760 Hickory Ridge Rd Unit 121
Meade on
isn’t everything, it’s the only thing,” he Columbia, MD 21044
didn’t caveat that by including a margin Twitter.com
of victory. /ftmeademd 410-772-2274
Similarly, “Iron” Mike Singletary www.atlanticcashandtaxservices.com
didn’t want triers or good guys, he
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil February 7, 2013 SOUNDOFF! 15

13. E ducation
Meade High senior vies for prestigious scholarship
Story and photo by Lisa R. Rhodes to about 1,500 four-year colleges and
Staff Writer universities.
Phylesia Fralin said she is proud to Phylesia, who is a member of the
be a semifinalist for a National Achieve- National Honor Society and aspires to
ment Scholarship, which is awarded to become an accountant, also is consider-
exceptional black high school students, ing the University of Pennsylvania and
and is aware that previous generations of Howard University.
accomplished black students did not have She visited Florida AM University
the same opportunities. two weeks ago with her family.
“I think it’s very exciting that they have “I really liked it,” Phylesia said, noting
this scholarship,” said the 17-year-old that she has applied for admission. “I’m
senior at Meade High School. “I work as seriously considering it.”
hard and as much as anybody else. I know Phylesia commended the university’s
my grandmother and great-grandmother “sense of community.”
would not [have been] recognized even if At Meade High, Phylesia plays the vio-
they had good grades.” lin and vibraphone. She has been a mem-
Phylesia is enrolled in Meade High’s ber of the school orchestra and marching
International Baccalaureate Programme band for four years. She most recently was
and has a 4.541 G.P.A. the section leader of the marching band’s
The National Achievement Scholar- front ensemble.
ship Program is an academic competition “She is a talented young lady who works
established in 1964 to provide recogni- very hard. She is reliable and always per-
tion for outstanding black high school severes,” said Eric Kilby, a music teacher
students and is conducted concurrently and faculty adviser to the orchestra and
with the National Merit Scholarship Pro- marching band. “I have a lot of respect
gram. and admiration for Phylesia.”
The two scholarships are administered This year, Phylesia was elected vice
by the National Merit Scholarship Cor- president of the school’s Model United
poration, which recognizes academical- Nations Club, an international issues club
ly talented students across the United that debates solutions to transnational
States. problems.
According to the organization’s web- Masami Stratton, a social studies
site, black students may enter both the teacher who instructs senior IB students,
National Achievement Program and the is a club adviser.
National Merit Program by taking the “Phylesia is a model student and a
Preliminary SAT/National Merit Schol- great person,” Stratton said. “She is dili-
arship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) gent and hard-working, on top of being
and meeting other requirements for par- bright and enthusiastic — truly a winning
ticipation. The two annual programs are combination.”
operated and funded separately. Phylesia said she hopes she is selected
A student’s standing is determined as a finalist for the scholarship
independently in each program. Black stu- “I think I turned in a strong applica-
dents can qualify for recognition and be tion,” she said. “I do hope I can get it.”
honored as scholars in both the National
Merit Program and the National Achieve-
ment Program, but can receive only one
monetary award from NMSC. Phylesia Fralin, 17, a senior at Meade High School, is a semifinalist for the National
About 1,600 National Achievement Achievement Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding black high school students
Scholarship semifinalists throughout the nationwide.
country compete for a $2,500 single pay-
ment scholarship, which is awarded on a About 1,300 finalists are expected to be about Phylesia’s selection as a semifinal-
regional basis. announced shortly. Eight hundred win- ist.
Phylesia qualified as a semifinalist ners will be notified later this month. “My role as a school counselor is to
based on her scores on the PSAT exam, Jonathan Putt, chair of Meade High’s stay off camera and allow the student to
which she took in her junior year. She was
notified of her status as a semifinalist last
Guidance Department, said the last stu- shine,” Putt said. Connect with
dent to be recognized as a National Merit In addition to her status as a semifinal-
September. semifinalist was three to four years ago. ist, Phylesia was offered a scholarship to Fort Meade at
Semifinalists are the highest-scoring
participants in their state. They advance
The last National Merit finalist dates
back seven years.
Florida AM University in Tallahassee
through the National Achievement Schol-
Facebook.com/
to finalist standing by meeting high aca-
demic standards and other requirements.
Putt said he feels a great deal of pride arship Program, which refers participants ftmeade
16 SOUNDOFF! February 7, 2013 http://www.ftmeade.army.mil