Herald Union - July 2021

U.S. ARMY GARRISON WIESBADEN

HERALD UNION herald-union.com

July 15, 2021

New Garrison Provost Marshal shares the secret to their partner relationships Courtesy Story U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden

Photo by Nadine Bower

U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Military Police officer and a member of the German Polizei patrol the streets of an off-post housing area.

Recently Lt. Col. Jon Jackson, the new U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Director of Emergency Services and Provost Marshal, shared his thoughts regarding partnerships with host nation first responders.

Jackson stated, “The USAG Wiesbaden Directorate of Emergency Services continues to enhance strong working relationships with a wide variety of law enforcement organizations both on and off post. These relationships are critical to the safety and security of the Wiesbaden Military Community, which is comprised of over 15,000 personnel and their dependents operating at over a dozen separate sites.”

Jackson explained his directorate is charged with the safety and security of the Wiesbaden Military Community.

He emphasized that partnerships and communication are key to maintaining existing relationships. “The DES continuously builds on the foundation of existing relationships and forges new commitments with key organic and non-organic emergency services organizations,” he said.

By incorporating law enforcement

leaders from all jurisdictions surrounding the USAG Wiesbaden Community, Jackson explained that the DES can better support community readiness through enhanced emergency response, joint training events, and positive partnerships through regular engagements with various first responder and law enforcement agencies.

On post partners include: 529th Military Police Company, 709th Military Police Battalion and the 18th Military Police Brigade, 571st Military Police Company on rotation from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, 522nd Military Police Military Working Dog Company, the Wiesbaden Field Office (Counter Intelligence), USAREUR-AF Provost Marshal and G3/4 Protection, US Forces Customs–Europe, US Army Criminal Investigation Command and POND Security.

Off post US Agency partners include: The U.S. Consulate Frankfurt (State Department), U.S. Secret Service, FBI, U.S. Marshal Service and The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms.

See ‘Provost Marshal’ on Page 2

The Army adjutant Visits Wiesbaden community The Army’s Adjutant General visited Wiesbaden during her European tour June 21 and stopped by to see firsthand the newly renovated post office building. Brig.

Gen. Hope C. Rampy is also the Executive Director of the Military Postal Service Agency in addition to being the Adjutant General.

During a 45-minute tour, James E. McKee Jr., Supervisory Postal Program Specialist for the Wiesbaden Postal Service Center briefed Rampy on many of the major changes that support the future vision of postal operations.

Some of the highlights were, a structured plan for employee and leadership development, cordless

scanners for processing and delivering packages and the approved extension of the current conveyor belt to measurably reduce manual labor throughout the facility.

Other topics included the International Exchange Office, current postal regulations and policies and advertisement mail.

Before leaving the Wiesbaden community, Rampy went to visit her old high school, Wiesbaden High School on Hainerberg Kaserne. She graduated from the high school in 1991 and took to the time to tour the high school and visited with the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps cadets.

Photo by Connie Dickey

Brig. Gen. Hope C. Rampy, the Army’s Adjutant General, speaks with Chris Pittman, Directorate of Human Resources, during her tour of the post office while James McKee, supervisory postal program specialist, waits for his turn to brief the general.

66TH MILITARY INTELLIGENCE ORGANIZATION DAY

WIESBADEN COMMUNITY CELEBRATES JULY 4

STRESS FREE TRAVEL

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Pages 8-9

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NEWS & FEATURES Vol. XXIII, No. 11

PROVOST MARSHAL Continued from page 1

U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Command Commander Col. Mario A. Washington Command Sergeant Major Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Truchon

Newspaper staff Public Affairs Director Laurri Garcia, DSN 548-2001 Editor Connie Dickey, DSN 548-2004 Public Affairs Specialists Ila Dermanoski, DSN 548-2005 Nadine Bower, DSN 548-2000

HERALD UNION published by

The Herald Union, printed exclusively for members of U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden, is an authorized, unofficial Army newspaper published under the provisions of AR 360-1. Contents are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. government or the Department of Defense. The editorial content is the responsibility of the USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs Office. No payment is made for contributions. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for sale, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. This is a monthly newspaper published

by AdvantiPro GmbH and printed by Oggersheimer Druckzentrum. Circulation is 6,000 copies.

For display advertising rates: call AdvantiPro at (0631) 3033 5537, email ads@herald-union.com; Editorial offices are in Bldg. 1205 on Clay Kaserne. Address: USAG Wiesbaden, Herald Union, Unit 29623 Box 60, APO AE 09005-9623; Telephone: (0611) 143-548-2002; Email: usarmy.wiesbaden.imcom-europe.list. public-affairs-office@mail.mil; Home page: home.army.mil/wiesbaden.

Host Nation partners Include: Polizeipräsidium Westhessen, Polizeidirektion Wiesbaden, Polizeipräsidium Darmstadt, Polizeipräsidium Mainz, Autobahnpolizei, Ordnungsamt, Verkehrspolizei and the Zoll.

Jackson was quick to point out, “The most important relationship the DES has is with the Polizei.The Polizei critically support USAG Wiesbaden on a daily basis and are an integral part of the overall protection response plan. The DES and Polizei are integrated at many different levels (operational, administrative, training, and

on a personal level).”

The DES and Polizei conduct monthly meetings, alternating between the MP Station, 2nd Polizei Precinct and the Polizeidirektion Wiesbaden. Typical discussion topics often include current threats and planned mitigation, Aukamm and Crestview security, policing statistics, problem areas/trends, planned demonstrations, Polizei patrol schedules of U.S. bus routes, abandoned pets, drones, laser incidents, joint patrol efforts, training opportunities, communication challenges, best practices, and ongoing investigations.

Jackson further stated, “In addition to monthly meetings, the Military Police and Polizei

conduct several training events and drills throughout the year.

The two agencies could not work effectively together without regular training. Recent training events included the annual Force Protection Exercise, K9 training and Active Shooter training at the High School.”

Military Police also routinely team with Polizei Officers at various on and off-post events, some of which include nightclub patrols, fest patrols, Halloween in the USAG Wiesbaden Housing areas, the German-American Friendship Fest on Hainerberg, the annual Holiday Concert, 4th of July, Berlin Airlift Anniversaries and High School Graduations.

The Polizeifliegerstaffel Westhessen fly regular patrols

City of Wiesbaden intern spends day at Clay Kaserne Nadine Bower U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden

Newsletter Sign up for the Herald Union newsletter and be the first to read stories that affect U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden.

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Herald Union

over Clay Kaserne as part of their protection measures in support of the USAG Wiesbaden Community.

The DES and Polizei not only have a strong operational relationship, but they also rely on each other administratively.

Requests for information are submitted daily f rom the Polizei to DES and from the DES to the Polizei.

Examples include speeding tickets, police reports, witness statements, toxicology reports, and court records. The DES Desk Sergeant, the Installation Access Control System Office, Vehicle Registration Section, Translation Team, Police Liaison and Police Records Section play a pivotal part in this process.

Photo by Nadine Bower

Wiesbaden City Intern, Laurenz Breitinger, talks with U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Provost Marshal, Lt. Col. Jon Jackson, during his time at the garrison Directorate of Emergency Services.

School Bus Transportation

July 15, 2021

Avoid the last minute rush at the beginning of the school year and if you have not registered your student for school bus transportation for School Year 21-22, please do so at your earliest convenience.

If you registered your student for school attendance, they are not automatically registered for the school bus, it is a separate registration process.

On July 2, German High School student Laurenz Breitinger, who was in the middle of his internship with the administration of the city of Wiesbaden, spent a day on Clay Kaserne, learning about the different areas of the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden and its role in the partnership with the city of Wiesbaden. Breitinger spent time at the Directorate of Emergency Services fire station and military police station as well as the local national staff of the Directorate of Public Works’ Master Planning, Engineering and Environmental Division.

The day ended in a tour of the airfield.

“I never expected this during my internship with the city,” said Breitinger. In his eyes, the best part of the day was learning about the different jobs,the professional development of the people and their journey through the different assignments in the U.S.Army.

The Wiesbaden Student Transportation Office (Bus Office) located at the Wiesbaden Middle School is open throughout the summer for school bus transportation registration.

Hours are 0800-1200 & 1300-1500 daily. You can contact us at wiesbaden.sto@dodea. edu or DSN 545-2038, civilian: 0611 143 545 2038.

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

NEWS & FEATURES Ila Dermanoski U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Soldiers and families from the 66th Military Intelligence Brigade Celebrated its 77th birthday July 1 with a fun-filled organization day at North Clay.

Soldiers and special guests participated in games of corn hole, ultimate Frisbee, kickball and football. Some participants tested their strength by deadlifting and others experienced the thrill of moving weights with a truck.

Small children found hours of entertainment in the bouncy houses.

The USO provided hamburgers, hotdogs and condiments and the soldiers brought sides to share.

According to the 66th MI Brigade’s webpage, the unit was activated at Camp Rucker, Ala., July 1, 1944, as the 66th Counter Intelligence

66th Military Intelligence organization day builds teams and relationships

Photo by Ila Dermanoski

Despite the cloudy day, the 66th Military Intelligence Brigade organization day brought Soldiers and family members out to Clay North to enjoy time together.

Corps Detachment.The 66th MI Brigade continues to “Power Forward”conducting multi-discipline intelligence operations, making it the cornerstone of the United States Army Europe and Africa’s Intelligence Corps.

Photo by Ila Dermanoski

One of the events during organization day allowed for family members to use an Army wrecker to move weights.

Photo by Ila Dermanoski

The bouncy area was popular with the families during organization day.

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

Photo by Ila Dermanoski

The organization day’s frisbee toss showcased many of the family members’ skills.

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o u r y or r s e f m m p u i T S

Kids ective)

Background by Yganko/Shutterstock.com

l persp (from a developmenta

Lisa Helenius contributing writer Summer is almost here, which means great opportunities for family fun! But did you know that many (if not most) of our favorite (and some less-than-favorite) summer activities can also help your child to develop in a healthy, age-appropriate fashion?

Here is a list of activities that will help make this summer a winner – both in terms of great memories and child development.

Hike

We all know taking a family hike is great for the body and mind. But, developing your visual system? Game changer! In this day and age of 2-dimensional screens, going out in nature offers amazing benefits to one’s visual system, especially for babies and young

c h i d re n with developing nervous systems. Being in the woods supports your eyes being able to focus between distances (accommodation), seeing in 3-D (depth perception), following a moving target (tracking – hi birdie!) and allowing both eyes to focus together on an object at the same time (convergence).

Pee

If your tot is still working on potty training, summer is the perfect time to increase his / her awareness.

Simply playing outside “in the buff ” will allow your toddler to, let’s face it, pee in the yard and visually see how things work. By eliminating the mystery, they will feel empowered to be free with the pee! Then, give them a target (a frisbee?) and eventually put the potty chair out there!

For the older ones, give them some gum and have a bubble blowing contest! For the little ones,use regular bubbles for the contest (they can still chew the gum!). Improving oral-motor coordination can positively impact speech development.

Swim

Swimming is your “one stop shop” for building up your kiddo. First, being in the water provides body pressure (proprioception), which calms the body and brain. Swimming also promotes body awareness and motor planning, which are needed to function in PE class as well as in the grocery store!

Besides improving strength and coordination of the big muscles in the body, swimming also improves oral motor strength and coordination!

Crowds

If you have a very sensitive tween or teen,attending a county fair, Fourth of July festival or even going bowling can be overstimulating. Lots of teens wear ear buds, hats, hoodies or sunglasses for a reason. They are trying to reduce visual and auditory stimuli that might stress them out. Choose your battles.

Does it really matter if your teen is wearing ear buds in a crowd or if your 12-year-old wears her hoodie like a permanent extension of her body?

Rocks

Need a summer craft project? Collect rocks and paint them. You can decorate your garden, give them to friends and neighbors or even take a

walk in the woods and leave one to surprise a fellow hiker.

While you’re there, have your kid build a fairy house using rocks, sticks, moss, leaves, pinecones, etc. It’s a “thing” these days. Really! Check it out online.

Clouds

When was the last time you really stopped and looked up at the clouds? Well, this summer make it a whole event for your kids! Pack a picnic, bring a huge sheet or blanket and make the announcement that you are taking a trip (to the backyard! to the park! to the roof!) to search for pictures in the sky.

What shapes do you see? Does anyone see an animal? I see an ice cream cone!

Bubbles

Want the simplest, cheapest activity that will actually help develop your kids’mouth muscles and calm their nervous systems?

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July 15, 2021

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Photo by YanLev/Shutterstock.com

LIFESTYLE

LIFESTYLE Drink

Stay hydrated! It’s tough to get kids to drink enough. Did you know fresh fruit is a natural way to hydrate the body? Especially watermelon, which is 92% water – wow! Other high hydration options are strawberries, peaches, cantaloupes and oranges. Sports bottles and crazy straws can also motivate kids to drink water.

Fireworks

We all seem to have an extreme reaction to fireworks.

Most of us are thrilled by them, but a select few who have sensory defensiveness can become really distressed. Think “Fight or Flight” response. If your kiddo is in the this category, here are some things to help him cope. Create a “social story” with the goal of preparing your youngster for what she is about to experience. Maybe look at fireworks videos online and talk about them beforehand.

Emphasize that they will start and then they will end. While

you’re watching the actual fireworks, help your child focus on something other than the noise. Example: do you think the next one will be white or red? How many swirly ones can you count? Chewing gum or eating a chewy snack can muffle the sound, as can noise cancelling headphones or ear buds with music. Simply snuggling your child and holding him in a deep bear hug can help him feel calmer. Or, give him something heavy to hold, like a heavy backpack or a younger sibling!

Play

Go to the playground!

(Thank you, captain obvious!).

But, seriously, it’s the best thing you can do on a consistent basis to support your child’s motor development, social skills, problem solving and the list goes on! Monkey bars strengthen the shoulder girdle and postural muscles as well as develop the arches in the

hands for fine motor work.

Swinging and sliding stimulate the vestibular system which is connected to speech development and organized motor movements. Digging in the sandbox stimulates the tactile system and promotes creative thinking. Playground yay!!!

Author’s prof ile: Lisa is a practicing occupational therapist with 25 years of pediatric experience. She currently is a partner at Growing Up Therapy. See https:// growinguptherapy.com for more information.

Photo by MNStudio/Shutterstock.com

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

July 15, 2021

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LIFESTYLE Photo by Urbanscape/Shutterstock.com

Traveling Story and photo by Leonie Milde contributing writer “I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.”

— Mark Twain People often ask me if I get bored when I travel alone. The answer is always no. Sometimes it’s people-watching over expensive hot chocolate, sometimes it’s whiskey with strangers at hostel bars and other times it’s just an early night with a good book. I have met some pretty amazing humans on the road that I would have never encountered had I sat next to a friend.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I have traveled extensively with friends and family and nothing compares to the sweet privilege of sharing travel memories with a loved one. But every once in a while, I pack a tiny pink suitcase and ask Ryanair or DB where to go next. Even Opening Hours: Mon– Fri 9.30 –19.00 Sat 9.30 –18.00 Special arrangements possible

though more than a year of “house arrest” may not put you in a solo traveling mood, there are so many benefits to it, especially after a period of time where your own company may have become more of a nuisance to you.

Now that you’re in Europe, the next metropolis is never more than a train or plane ride away. If you look out for deals, this trip won’t blow a dent in your wallet either. First you should decide on a type of trip (city trip, spa, camping/ hiking), means of transportation (plane, bus, train, car), type of accommodation (camping, hostel, Airbnb, hotel) and off you go!

Here are some great perks to travelling away from your comfort zone, straight into an adventure: • Become a problem solver.

You will inevitably be faced with unforeseeable situations and there will be no safety net to take care of it. Thankfully, you’re

•

• •

•

smart and fearless and just needed a little nudge.

Go on a tech detox. You may want to use social media as a crutch to feel less alone at first and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that but once you get the hang of being by yourself, you might want to consider blocking electronic distractions and truly enjoying your time off. This will feel amazing after potentially having been glued to your screen throughout the pandemic.

Learn to love and appreciate yourself more as you become more self-aware.

Learn the language. You will hear a lot more of it once you’re not surrounded by fellow English speakers.

Meet new people.This one sounds like a cliché but it’s true nonetheless and there hasn’t been a lot of that in the past 15 months.

alone

• Go at your own pace.

Breakfast at 2? Dinner at 5? It’s all up to you!

• Find out what you like doing. Whether it’s shopping, museum visits, sightseeing, picture taking or sitting in a park with a magazine, nobody can reschedule your plans for you.

• Become more decisive and boost your confidence as a result.

As you can see, some of these are quite obvious and some are simply inevitable. You can’t go a whole weekend without eating by yourself at least once or trying to understand a foreigner at some point (unless you go to an English speaking country).

Waiters will give you a certain look when you ask for a table for one but once you remind yourself that alone does not equal lonely, you will feel independent and liberated rather than lost and stood-up.

Lastly, some tips to avoid feeling lonely: • Plan your itinerary in advance. A packed schedule will not leave room for self pity.

• Set goals for your trip. Do you want to learn how to take amazing photos?

Read three books? Try as many pains au chocolat as possible? Follow your mission and keep your mind occupied.

• Follow your gut. If you feel unsafe, stick to more crowded areas.

• Don’t feel bad if your screen time increases. Our phones provide comfort in unfamiliar situations and that’s okay.

There’s a chance you won’t like it. There’s also a chance you’ll never want to travel with a friend ever again. The most likely outcome, however, is that you will have simply spent a nice weekend in a wonderful city.

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July 15, 2021

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LIFESTYLE

Background by Audrius Merfeldas/Shutterstock.com

Because after all, July is national ice cream month.

About 98 percent of household homes that consume dairy products also regularly purchase ice cream.The average American consumes more than 23 quarts a year, and children ages 2 to 12 years old and people over the age of 45 eat the most ice cream in our country.

An average plain ice cream cone costs around $2.50. This means that moms and dads will shell out many coins in the name of ice cream in the course of a summer. It is estimated that the U.S. ice cream industry generates more than $21 billion annually.

In addition to our finances, this treat can add up on our waistlines as well. An average cone comes in at about 250 calories and 7 grams of fat. Over the course of a summer, one can easily consume more than a week’s worth of your body’s dietary needs on ice cream alone.

Ice cream is definitely a treat we should savor.

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

H oney Lavender with Walnuts Ingredients • 2 cups whole milk • 1/4 cup dried lavender • 1/3 cup honey • 5 large egg yolks • 1/4 cup sugar • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 cup chopped walnuts Directions Combine milk,lavender and honey, and steep or infuse overnight.The next day,place in a medium saucepan.Bring to a gentle boil, cover and remove from heat. Let steep for 5 minutes. Strain mixture using a cheesecloth, reserving milk and discarding lavender.

Combine egg yolks and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed until very thick and pale yellow, 3 to 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, return milk to a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.

Add half the milk to egg-yolk mixture, and whisk until blended.

Stir mixture into remaining milk, and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon.

Remove from heat, and immediately stir in cream. Strain mixture into a medium mixing bowl that has been chilled (either in freezer or in an ice bath). Add in walnuts. Either place “batter” into an ice cream maker or in small trays to freeze and re-blend.

Here are recipes for three very different variations. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, the best way to prepare the mix it to blend the ingredients in a high speed blender, then pour the batter into ice cube trays or in 6 to 8 freezer ziplock bags. Freeze for 30 minutes and then re-blend. The consistency is similar to soft serve. All recipes make 8 half cup servings.

HEALTHY:

Vegan Cake Batter Ingredients • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1/4 teaspoon salt (don‘t omit) • 5 tablespoons brown sugar • 4 cups almond milk • 4 tablespoons coconut butter • (Sprinkles!)

Directions This recipe is easy! Mix all the ingredients, and freeze accordingly.

Best served with sprinkles!

Photo by M. Unal Ozmen/Shutterstock.com

TRENDY:

July 15, 2021

Photo by MaraZe/Shutterstock.com

“You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream!”

Ice cream is a commodity we should spend wisely.

Despite these costs, summer wouldn’t be summer without this beloved treat.

There’s something we get from ice cream beyond its succulent, edible richness. It’s the feeling of freedom, the memory of long days of sunlight spent frolicking in our youth, and the momentary understanding that life can be simple and good. Straight from the bowl on a hot summer evening, brought to a barbecue or birthday party, or saved as the best date night indulgence, it wouldn’t feel like a proper summer without its presence.

Whether it is a healthy option, an exotic version or a classic rendition, the following recipes offer a range of tastes suited to salute your sweet tooth.

Photo by gresei/Shutterstock.com

Krystal White contributing writer

Photo by K505/Shutterstock.com

Scream for ice cream!

CLASSIC:

Strawberry Ingredients • 1 cup strawberries, chopped • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt • 2 cups whole milk • 1/3 cup honey • 5 large egg yolks • 1/4 cup sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • (The divine “batter” takes two days to marinate the flavors, which will impress you!)

Directions Marinate the strawberries in the honey, chill for 30 minutes. Add the Greek yogurt to this mixture. Chill overnight.

In a separate sauce pan, heat the milk and the sugar over gentle heat until it comes to a simmer. In a separate bowl, stir together the egg yolks. Then gradually pour some of the milk into the yolks, whisking constantly as you pour. Scrape the warmed yolks and milk back into the saucepan.

Cook over low heat, stirring constantly and scraping the bottom with a heat-resistant spatula until the batter thickens enough to coat the spatula. Leave to be refrigerated overnight to chill.

In a blender, whizz the marinated strawberries together with the Greek yogurt. Mix in the batter with this strawberry mixture.

Pour the mixture into an ice cream machine and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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NEWS & FEATURES

The Garrison Wiesbaden Fire Department brought out one of its trucks for the community to explore during the July 4 fest.

Wiesbaden community The bungee jump was a popular ride at the fest.

One of the many rides at the fest.

The firework display lit up the sky during the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden July 4 celebration.

The fireworks were the big finish to a 2-day Independence Day celebration.

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July 15, 2021

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NEWS & FEATURES Many community members took advantage of exploring the fest.

y celebrates with a fest

After more than a year of a lockdown due to the COVID 19 pandemic, the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden community was out in full-force over the July 3 and 4 weekend.

The 2-day celebration was held on the Wiesbaden airfield and the community was able to enjoy sunshine, comraderie, rides, purchase food and drinks.

Berlin Airlift time witness, Vera Mitschrich, visited the Independence Day Event July 4. She was accompanied by two fellow members of the Luftbrücke Frankfurt-Berlin Verein, Michael Seidenberg and Klaus Bönning.

Mitschrich was happy to visit USAG Wiesbaden again, which she has visited two years ago during the 70th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, re-counting her experience receiving supplies and candy from the Americans. “I enjoy visiting my American friends, because it brings back positive memories and feelings.”

Photo by Savanevich Viktar/Shutterstock.com

Story and photos by Connie Dickey U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden

“Such an important event after 15 months of lockdown!

Fun, stress relieve and normalcy, exactly what the community needed,” said Gregory Holzinger, Programs Director with Family Morale Welfare and Recreation. “The fireworks spectacular piece truly made it feel like a 4th of July celebration.”

Snippets of conversations around the fest were “I can’t believe we are back to normal.”

“This is so great to be able to come out and enjoy something like this.” “The fireworks are great!”

Berlin Airlift time witness Vera Mitschrich with Michael Seidenberg and Klaus Bönning visited the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden July 4 celebration and enjoyed the fireworks.

The fest illuminates the night during the evening portion of the July 4 celebration fest.

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NEWS & FEATURES

Hiking through the Fairy Tale Forest

Nadine Bower U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden The area around Wiesbaden has a lot to offer – even during COVID-19 times.The ‘Obrunnschlucht-Märchenpfad’ (Obrunn gorge fairytale trail) is located around an hour’s drive away from Clay Kaserne and offers a nice alternative for families with children to get around and enjoy Germany.

The valley of the Obrunnbach creek between Höchst and Rimhorn in the Odenwald is a popular destination among German families, because it not only has a trail that runs along the small creek, it also offers a surprise for young children behind every corner.

Numerous small-scale replicas of fairytale buildings are built along the 2-mile-long path, including a swan castle,

a tower in the water, a church, mills, beautiful half-timbered houses as well as various fairy tale and animal figures. The small creek is shallow enough that small hikers can enjoy playing in the fresh water on hot days.

The path is great for children over 3 years of age since the walkways are not difficult to walk. However, even though strollers can be used there, the path does include some steps here and there.

Additionally, there are several beautifully designed picnic areas for taking short breaks and enjoying a packed lunch. It is helpful to plan around 3 hours to really experience the path with all its small and big surprises and to give children enough time to play and enjoy this unique environment, which can be accessed free of charge.

Current COVID-19 restrictions apply. It is a good idea to wear a mask on busy days, because the path sometimes does not allow very much space between hikers.

The best way to navigate to the Obrunnschlucht is to use the GPS address “Rimhorner Strasse L 3106” at Höchst im Odenwald. Once there, follow the signs “Obrunnschlucht” and look for small parking lots along the street.

Visitors who did not get enough after walking the trail can drive to the nearby castle ‘Burg Breuberg’, which is an 850 year-old castle, sitting on top of a hill, overlooking the area. Cars can park on a small parking lot right below the castle and then walk up a short path through the woods.

Children should definitely look for even more surprises along the path up to the castle.

Photo by Nadine Bower

The swan castle sits on top of a small hill.

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Hochheimerstrasse 111 55246 Kastel/Kostheim  Phone 06134-3381 Page 10

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The Church of St. Augustine of Canterbury English speaking Episcopal church in the center of Wiesbaden (since 1864) Welcoming all nationalities & denominations.

Sunday worship (Holy Eucharist) at 10 a.m. including Sunday School & fellowship Wednesday Worship at 11.00 a.m. followed by Bible Study

Upcoming Special Services and Events

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, we require pre-registration for concerts.

Please also check the website for updates / last-minute changes.

Wednesday 21st July: Lunchtime Recital 1:00 pm

Wednesday 18th August: Lunchtime Recital 1:00 pm

Sunday 29th August:

Outdoor Service and Parish Picnic: 11:00 am

Herzlic

ch Willkomm en!

Frankfurter Strasse 3 • 65189 Wiesbaden • 0611 30 66 74 www.staugustines.de • parish@staugustines.de

Photo by Nadine Bower

A replica of a lighthouse in the middle of the Obrunnbach.

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

NEWS & FEATURES

Despite pandemic lockdown school age children program still providing care Connie Dickey U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden

The school age services program on Hainerberg Kaserne has about 30 children in its program now but is slowly getting to full operation after the lockdown f rom the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I have always wanted to work with children and I have been here for almost two years now. I have really enjoyed working in this program and with the children,” said Anias Atwood, assistant director of the School Age Center, Child and Youth Services on Hainerberg.

Vaughn Bryan The program, which is geared to children from 6-12 years old, offers before and after school programs, weekend activities during the school year and summer care and camps during school vacations. Care is provided by trained staff and operations are subject to Department of Defense certification.

The program also has part- their own pods, or designated nerships with 4-H and Boys areas. and Girls Clubs of America, “We sanitize all the surfaces and helps children learn to and toys the children come into work with their strengths, contact with. We clean before interests and each other. They and after the children leave, so offer programs in the core areas Jonathan Thompson Jr. Luca Viamonte of leisure, recreation and the arts; sport and fitness; life skills, program, it is good here, I theme for all the children. citizenship and leadership; like that I can play tech time “I like that I can play a lot and mentoring and support with my friend Luca, and we here! I also like the teachers services. do free choice and art activity,” here. They are nice to us. My Atwood explained that since said Jonathan Thompson Jr. favorite things I like to do here the COVID-19 lockdown the Milani Hernandez said, is to play with Barbies and to program has been open mainly “I like that you can see your play with my friends,” said Courtesy Photos friends and play with them. Elizabeth “Emy” Dutton. for priority care families. The lockdown required that only Elizabeth “Emy” Dutton My favorite things here is “I like that we can do tech a limited number of spaces be to play with others and our time, play outside and that we available at the center. that is something that we will Barbies during free choice.” get to play with our Beyblades continue to do,” Atwood said.

“I like that I am not bored during free choice,” Vaughn She and her staff are gearing all day. I also like that I can be Bryan said. “I also like movie to a full operation of services able to play with my friends day every Thursday and water but that will depend on the and there’s a lot of stuff and play every Friday.”

Health Protection Conditions things I can do and play in the Luca Viamonte said, “I of the base. program,” Elizabeth “Ellie” like playing with my friends Although the program is Gardner said. and the bouncy house. I also restrictive now, the children “My favorite things to do like playing Beyblades during say they like the program here is during arts and crafts. free choice and the modeling and the chance to play with Teachers always provide art behavior chart, where we can Elizabeth “Ellie” Gardner their friends. activities that I like to do,” get rewards. My favorite things “What I like about the she said. to do here is playing with my “It has been challenging, but Play time is a recurring friends and playing tech time.” we can and do provide care,” Atwood said. The children wear masks, the children have U.S. & GERMAN ATTORNEYS U.S. & GERMAN DIVORCES • SUPPORT ISSUES • EEO their temperature taken before WILLS & PROBATE • EMPLOYMENT • PERSONAL INJURY MSPB • CONTRACTOR ISSUES • TAX ADVISORS they are allowed inside and the FULL SERVICE LAW & TAX FIRM parents can no longer come Call 06151-3 84 40 64 inside the building. maiss@b-co.legal www.b-co.com The children are also not allowed to flow freely through the center and must stay within Milani Hernandez

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July 15, 2021

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NEWS & FEATURES Local National workforce receives their second dose of COVID-19 vaccination

Nadine Bower U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Deputy Commander of the Wiesbaden Army Health Clinic, Col. Christian Olson, described the event as a tremendous success. “We even had local nationals come to tears because they were so appreciative for this opportunity to get vaccinated,” Olson said. Pavel Michalek from the Directorate of Public Works, Mechanical Brand, left the event with a very happy smile on his face. “This is great! I’m glad the U.S. Army offered this to us, because most of us would have had to wait for a long time to get an appointment on the German side,” Michalek said.

Photo by Nadine Bower

On Friday, June 25, employees of the local national workforce had the chance to get their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination.

Traffic offenses on the rise: Don’t get flashed and lose your privileges Courtesy Story U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden As with many European Union countries, Germany enforces many of its traffic laws with stationary cameras. We have seen a rise in the issuance of traffic tickets to US Forces personnel while driving on the

Autobahn, near construction zones and within city limits.

Be aware and strictly observe traffic signs and speed limits, otherwise you may get flashed by a stationary camera and if the offense is serious enough, or if you accumulate sufficient points, you could lose your driving privileges.

The City of Wiesbaden has stationary cameras prominently posted as you enter the city and within the city. If you approach a speed limit sign displaying a 50 kilometer limit, then drive no more than 50 kilometers. It is not unusual to receive a ticket for driving a few kilometers over the speed limit.

In accordance with Army Europe Regulation 190-1/ CNE-CAN-C6F Instruction 11240.6AB and USAFE Instruction 31-202 (18 June 2020), there are several ways you could have your USAREUR-AF license suspended for traffic violations on and off post.

If you are found “texting” or using a cell phone or computer while operating a privately owned vehicle, not wearing or improperly using a seatbelt while operating a POV or not requiring passengers to wear

Photo courtesy of Dreamstime.com

The city of Wiesbaden uses cameras to catch traffic violations. seatbelts or restraining devices while riding in a POV and failing to wear proper protective clothing while riding a motorcycle (including passengers), you could have your license suspended for seven days.

If you are found operating any vehicle (motorized or nonmotorized) with a blood alcohol content range of between

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WIESBADEN Page 12

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July 15, 2021

0.05 percent to 0.079 percent (measured in grams (g) per 100 milliliters (mL)); or operating at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour or greater over the posted speed limit on U.S. installations, you could have your license suspended for 30 days.

If you accumulate 12 or more traffic points in a 1-year period, or 18 traffic points in a 2-year period, you could have your license suspended for 180 days.

Traffic points can also be assessed against drivers who park their POV in prohibited areas.

If you require legal advice in relation to a traffic offense, make an appointment to see a legal assistance attorney by emailing us at: USARMY. WIESBADEN.USAREUR. MBX.OJA-WLC-LEGALASSISTANCE-CALENDAR@MAIL.MIL.

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

NEWS & FEATURES

Beware of the yellow envelope: Garnishment in Germany Courtesy Story U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden It has happened to some.

You place an order and purchase an item through the Internet, or receive a service or medical treatment from a local national physician or medical clinic, and then you receive an invoice requesting payment a few days later, but in the hectic hustle and bustle of everyday life you forget to pay before the deadline.

Reminders to pay may or may not reach your mailbox or APO box. Eventually, your case is referred to a local collection agency and you may receive a warning letter demanding payment of the amount owed, plus fees, including attorney’s fees. The fees are sometimes greater than the amount owed.

In the event you forget to pay, or somehow the invoice, reminder to pay, or warning letter from a collection agency never reaches you, never ignore the yellow envelop, especially if the document in the yellow envelope is either a Mahnbescheid or a Vollstreckungsbescheid. Both documents are orders issued by a German court at the request of the creditor, but one is more serious than the other.

A Mahnbescheid, just like the Vollstreckungsbescheid, is a double-sided, large-format document that is either sent in a yellow envelope with proof of delivery by the German Post Office, or personally served to you by the command or someone within the USAREUR-AF OJA International Law Division.

It bears the heading Mahnbescheid in the middle of the double-sided page. In addition to the original claim of the creditor, the Mahnbescheid will

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Receiving a yellow envelope in the German mail usually signals garnishment. also list associated fees to process, including attorney’s fees of the creditor or a commissioned debt collection company.

Additionally, other fees will be listed (e.g., application and issuance of the Mahnbescheid, and all other costs (admin and late fees). Very often these fees far exceed the amount originally owed.

If you do not resolve the Mahnbescheid, your creditor can request a Vollstreckungsbescheid from the Court which

is the equivalent of an enforcement order. If the Vollstreckungsbescheid is not appealed within the statutory period, the Vollstreckungsbescheid automatically comes into effect and there is no legal remedy.

A Vollstreckungsbescheid,

just like the Mahnbescheid, will list many additional fees separate from the original amount owed.

If you receive a Yellow Envelope containing a Mahnbescheid or a Vollstreckungsbescheid, or are not sure how

to react to a warning letter, make an appointment to see a legal assistance attorney by emailing us at: USARMY. WIESBADEN.USAREUR. MBX.OJA-WLC-LEGALASSISTANCE-CALENDAR@MAIL.MIL

INVEST IN YOUR OWN FUTURE • Individual planning, Germany wide and Benelux etc.

• Use your LQA, OHA and other allowances for your own home • Mortgages available to service members, DoD civilians, contractors • Also to EU/ UN / NATO employees, non-German tax-payers and expatriates • More than 20 years of experience

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1 min train station, AAFES/ Commissary and DOD School.

Contact: Tina 0176-7018-0774

home.army.mil/wiesbaden

martin.sattelberger@mlp.de Tel: 06 21 - 15 03 00 58

July 15, 2021

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LIFESTYLE

Along the Rheingau Riesling Route Beer drinkers may enjoy a good pub beer crawl, but wine aficionados will love the Rheingau Riesling Route! The route runs from the town of Flörsheim to Lorch, which is close to the city of Wiesbaden. The beautiful drive is 70 kilometers in total and sign-posted throughout. This drive is great for the whole family because, besides being able to purchase wine in the Riesling center of the world, you also pass beautiful vineyards, famous castles, historic manors, and picture-perfect views of the Rhein River.

1. The Route On the map that is sign-posted by the region, you can find the route for driving (thick line), walking/biking trails (dotted lines), and also the wine stands (black wine glasses).

I suggest you head to the Seilbahn (cable car) to go up and see Germania at the ‘Niederwalddenkmal Monument’.

However, since this is the Riesling tour, make sure you buy a small bottle of Riesling Sekt from the cable car and drink it while taking in the extraordinary view high above the vineyards. Enjoy the absolute silence as you ascend higher away from the town. The only sounds you will hear are the faint popping noises from your bubbly Sekt and any Sekt glass clinking! Cheers!

5&6. Schloss Johannisberg Next on the route, there is the mustsee castle: Schloss Johannisberg! This impressive castle has a wine shop, café, and incredible views of the Rhein. It is also the perfect spot to sip a glass of the Schloss Johannisberg Riesling, which they have been making for over 900 years. They are also known for creating the first late harvest wine, called Spätlese, which is a popular sweet-tasting wine.

5 7&8. Eltville The route then weaves around the enchanting town of Eltville, which feels like a fairytale town... with wine!

There are many small wineries open for tastings and wine purchases. Just like you’ll find in any good fairytale town, Eltville has an incredible castle from the 14th century called the Electoral Castle. After you enter the gift shop, for a small fee, you can walk to the top of the tower for views of the river and beautiful castle gardens.

Customize your experience!

The Rheingauer Riesling Route continues through the city of Wiesbaden and then a longer stretch of road winds

1 2&3. Rüdesheim am Rhein The beautiful route from Lorch along the Rhein River will make you feel like you are driving in a scenic painting. A great place to stop is in the romantic Altstadt (Old Town) of Rüdesheim am Rhein. You could get lost exploring the winding cobblestone streets all day!

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4 Photo by Sina Ettmer Photography/Shutterstock.com

4. Oestrich-Winkel Nowadays, we are lucky enough to be able to load the trunks of our SUVs with this amazing wine. But more than 250 years ago, this area was used for loading wine barrels onto decks of ships traveling along the river. In OestrichWinkel there is a crane that was built in 1744on the bank of the river and along the route. Now a protected monument, the construction inside consists of two massive mill wheels. Interestingly, it is based on a 2000-year-old technology used during the Roman era.The inside is open to the public during certain times of the year, which is posted at the crane.

There are also many wineries to discover in this special town.

July 15, 2021

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Photo by Daniel Malinowski/Shutterstock.com

Story & photos by Gemma McGowan contributing writer

through smaller picturesque wine towns like Hochheim. Whether you explore the Riesling Route all in one day or only visit a few towns, or if you sampled at the wine stands or filled your car with boxes of wine: the Rheingauer Riesling Route is an absolute delight that should not be missed during your time in Germany!

Just think, years down the road when you order a glass of German Riesling in another part of the world, you can confidently say, “Oh, I’ve been there!”

Author’s Profile: Gemma is ‘A Jersey Broad Abroad’ blogger and podcaster living in Wiesbaden, Germany. She is either found spending time with her family or planning her next adventure.

8 home.army.mil/wiesbaden

NEWS & FEATURES

Planning is crucial for

stress-free travel this summer Ila Dermanoski U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Summer is in full-swing, COVID-19 restrictions have been loosened and many people are taking advantage of the opportunity to travel.

Whether planning a trip within Germany,Europe or elsewhere, finding accurate information and entry requirements for your destination can be a challenge.

Travel restrictions in Europe change rapidly, many times with little or no advance notice.

When travel requirements are not met it can turn any trip into a disaster, especially when traveling internationally. One local family recently reported they were denied entry into Greece because they incorrectly completed the Passenger Locator Form.

Here are some helpful travel tips to help with planning the perfect summer vacation, even as the COVID-19 Delta

Variant looms like the summer humidity.

Starting July 1,every country in Europe began using the EU Digital COVID Certificate.

This proof of vaccination is available in several forms: a piece of paper, a QR code and a phone application. This certificate is important to have, even if staying local.

The Reopen EU website https://reopeneuropa.eu/en, is a valuable resource for travel planning within the European Union and non-EU. Schengen countries Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway, it is also available as a phone application. The site has up-to-date, clear and detailed information on testing requirements, entry requirements, quarantine rules and more.

Another helpful website when planning travel is the European Commission’s website on pandemic travel, https://ec.europa.eu/info/ live-work-travel-eu/coronavirus-response/travel-duringcoronavirus-pandemic_en When traveling internationally do not forget you need to come back to “Our home in Germany,” a helpful website for returning to Germany is www.einreiseanmeldung.de.

This site guides the user based on answers provided to a series of questions.

Photo by NAPA/Shutterstock.com

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