Kaiserslautern American, March 27, 2020

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME Most of Europe will move its clocks forward by one hour when daylight saving time begins Sunday.

In Germany, daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. (set clocks forward to 3 a.m.).

FEATURE

NEWS

LIFESTYLES

Please see further COVID-19 related

Taming the flames on Ramstein’s new F-15 mobile trainer, Page 6

Fire in Otterberg, Page 10

March 27, 2020 | Volume 44, Number 12

Traveling without traveling, Page 14

information on Pages 8,9,12,13,17 & 21

Read the KA online at KaiserslauternAmerican.com

USAFE supports Italy COVID-19 response

A C-130J Super Hercules aircraft stationed out of Ramstein Air Base, delivers pallets of medical equipment to Aviano Air Base, Italy, March 20.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Rebeccah Woodrow

by Master Sgt. Renae Pittman U.S.Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs In response to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, an 86th Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules out of Ramstein Air Base, transported an En-Route Patient Staging System (ERPSS) to Aviano AB, Italy, for delivery to the Italian Ministry of Defense. This mobile, or fixed system, provides 10 patient holding/staging beds and can support a maximum throughput of 40 patients in a 24-hour period.

“The COVID-19 pandemic requires that we work with our allies and partners to meet the challenges together,” said U.S. Gen. Jeff Harrigian, commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe.

“This effort demonstrates our mutual support as we team together in response to this public health crisis. We are working closely with our Italian friends, the Department of State, and U.S. European Command to ensure we provide the right equipment in a safe and See ITALY, Page 2

Ramstein leaders host second virtual town hall

by Tech. Sgt. Jocelyn Ford 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Leadership from the 86th Airlift Wing hosted their second virtual town hall March 23 in an ongoing effort to address concerns associated with the coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19.

One day prior, German authorities announced increased restrictions on social gatherings in an effort to stop the spread of COVID19. German Chancellor Angela Merkel urged citizens to reduce contact with people outside their own families to the absolute minimum.

Personnel assigned to Ramstein

must abide by host nation laws, so to eliminate confusion and update the Ramstein community, U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Mark R. August, 86th Airlift Wing commander, and Command Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto J. Rendon Jr., went live on Facebook to address concerns.

August began by assuring the audience that the airlift mission continues despite COVID-19.

“Our mission is in full force across every single group,” said August.

The commander listed a series of missions accomplished over the weekend, to include launching a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to Italy bringing badly-needed medical

supplies in support of our allies.

August pointed out not only the importance of the mission, but also the Airmen and their families.

“Our job is to take care of Airmen and their families in addition to getting the mission done,” said August.

Rendon added that balancing mission with safety is our new normal for the time being.

“Stay informed, remain compliant, take care of yourself, take care of your family, take care of your teammates,” said Rendon.

After opening remarks, the command team responded to questions See COVID-19, Page 5

Kaiserslautern American

Page 2 ITALY from Page 1 timely manner,” said Harrigian.

“It’s our privilege to support the Italian response, and our continued commitment reflects the values of the American people to provide assistance whenever and wherever it is needed.”

The ERPSS system comes with

March 27, 2020

seven days of medical supplies, operates within two tents and can achieve initial operating capability within one hour of notification. This particular configuration includes a 15-day resupply pallet.

USAFE prepositioned the equipment at Aviano as a prudent measure to potentially support higher COVID-19 risk areas.

A C-130J Super Hercules aircraft stationed out of Ramstein Air Base delivers pallets of medical equipment to Aviano Air Base, Italy, March 20.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Rebeccah Woodrow

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Melinda J. Roth, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron cargo deployment function technician, helps load pallets of medical supplies onto a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, March 20. Airmen from the 86th Medical Group, 86th LRS and 721st Aerial Port Squadron coordinated efforts to expedite the transport of medical supplies to Aviano Air Base, Italy.

Photo by Airman 1st Class John R. Wright

A C-130J Super Hercules aircraft stationed out of Ramstein Air Base delivers pallets of medical equipment to Aviano Air Base, Italy, March 20.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Rebeccah Woodrow

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Kaiserslautern American

March 27, 2020

‘Close contact’ and COVID-19: What does it mean?

by Alofagia Oney Landstuhl Regional Medical Center With confirmed positive cases of the 2019 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, in the Kaiserslautern and Wiesbaden Military Communities, many concerned community members may be wondering whether or not they have been exposed to the virus if they had contact with infected patients or their families.

In order to dispel rumors and misinformation, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center public health officials want to share the process by which potentially impacted people are identified and notified.

According to U.S. Army Col. Rodney Coldren, chief of preventive medicine for Public Health Command Europe, the community is not at risk from someone who is a “close contact” of someone infected with COVID19, as long as they are not displaying symptoms themselves.

“The people who came into contact with family members (of infected COVID-19 patients) are at absolutely no additional risk beyond that of being out in the general community,” said Coldren. “Close Contacts of infected COVID-19 patients are quarantined so we can observe them to make sure they do not develop the illness and to rapidly identify them if they do. But these Contacts would not have been infectious prior to being placed in voluntary quarantine.”

WHAT IS A “CLOSE CONTACT?” When someone is confirmed as infected with COVID-19, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Laura Ricardo, chief of Preventive Medicine and the COVID-19 public health nurse lead at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, and her team of public health nurses first instruct the patient on isolation requirements, whether in the home or at a healthcare facility. They then immediately begin a process called Contact Tracing, which is kicked off with a notification to the patient’s (or sponsor’s) unit commander, the garrison Public Health Emergency Officer (PHEO) and the host nation public health authorities.

Next, the public health nurses begin by asking the infected

patient about his or her activities and the people around them since the onset of symptoms began. The purpose for this initial stage of questioning is to identify a “Close Contact.”

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, close contact is defined as: a) Being within approximately 6 feet (2 meters) of a COVID19 case for a prolonged period of time; close contact can occur while caring for, living with, visiting, or sharing a healthcare waiting area or room with a COVID-19 case — or — b) having direct contact with infectious secretions of a COVID19 case (e.g., being coughed on) “Close Contacts can be family members, coworkers, friends and healthcare providers,” said Ricardo. “People truly need to understand the difference between being a contact, and coming into contact with the infected patient.”

In accordance with the CDC definition of close contact, Ricardo explains that being a Contact requires both time and distance.

“You may have passed by a person with COVID-19 in a hallway, in which case you did come into contact and meet the distance criteria,” she explained. “But if you truly just passed each other, and the infected patient did not cough, sneeze or wipe his or her hands on you, then you don’t meet the ‘prolonged time’ requirement and therefore are not at risk of COVID-19 exposure.”

Once a Contact has been identify, the Contact Tracing process continues with notification measures.

within your living quarters, except to those areas where you may have another family member in isolation.”

Ricardo noted that even in quarantine, household members should continue to practice safe social distancing, or keeping at least six feet of separation between each other. Family members who are in quarantine with someone who is isolating in another part of the living quarters are able to deliver food and other items to the infected patient, but must thoroughly disinfect any products that are exchanged (e.g., used dishes, soiled towels and clothing), and follow up with proper hand washing.

During the isolation or quarantine period, the public health team will connect with the infected patient and Contacts for temperature and symptoms checks, and to discuss follow-on treatment options.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A “CLOSE CONTACT” HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED? The COVID-19 Public Health team will call all of the Contacts to discuss symptoms and provide instructions on isolation or quarantine.

“When we ask you to isolate, we mean that you should have your own bedroom and bathroom, and if you live with someone else, that you not go to any other part of the quarters except those two rooms,” said Ricardo. “Quarantine, on the other hand, means that you simply restrict your movement and stay

Military community members living in Germany who are concerned about their exposure risk to COVID-19 should call the TRICARE Nurse Advice Line at 0800-071-3516 to discuss any symptoms and seek advice on further instructions for care. Or visit https://rhce.amedd.army. mil/Families/nurse_advice_line. html for more NAL contact information. As always, if your conditions are life threatening, please call emergency services or visit the nearest emergency room.

DIGNITY AND RESPECT For Ricardo, the importance of remaining calm and treating each other with respect is paramount.

“COVID-19 has all but taken over every conversation and action happening in the military community right now,” she said.

“However, it is critical that we remember that those who are infected with COVID-19, and the Contacts who have been asked to quarantine, are still people. We should be respectful toward one another, and treat them and each other with empathy and compassion. With how quickly the virus spreads, any one of us could be the next to contract COVID-19 so we need to remember to be decent human beings.”

Page 3

COVID-19 Local Business Directory Alternate opening times and services During the COVID-19 outbreak, local businesses have altered their opening times and services. The Find-It Guide has collected information on these businesses to keep you informed.

Visit our webpage for the latest information: https://www.finditguide.com/ covid-19-community-outreach Are you a business that wants to tell the community about your change in service?

Visit the page below: https://www.advantipro.de/en/ See the covid-19-community-outreach/ siness Directory

ATTENTION PLEASE!

Bu on Page 17

Coronavirus Testing The American Medical Center and the MVZ Westpfalz in Landstuhl have opened a COVID-19 testing and treatment center.

Address: AMC building at 104 Bahnstrasse Landstuhl Available to: AMC patients, GS employees, Contractors, Tricare retirees.

(Active Duty should still seek treatment on the military base) Due to the potential shortage of testing kits it is important that you are only tested IF symptoms are present: » Cough » Fever » Shortness of Breath » Fatigue To schedule an appointment call the following numbers: MVZ Westpfalz 06371• 49 50 21 or email: corona@mvz-westpfalz.com As for regular visits we are still offering telemedicine and some face- to-face visits.

American Medical Center 06371• 49 50 20 or email: info@american-care.com

Kaiserslautern American

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KMC BLOTTER

COMPILED BY THE 569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS

MARCH 16 11:20 a.m.: Damage to government property at the Vogelweh Library 1:02 p.m.: Damage to private property in Kaiserslautern 9:01 p.m.: Damage to private property in Landstuhl MARCH 17 9:40 a.m.: Larceny of unsecured, private property in Ramstein-Miesenbach 1:11 p.m.: Driving on a suspended license in Kindsbach 6:26 p.m.: Damage to private property in Vogelweh Family Housing MARCH 18 1:02 p.m.: Attempted house break-in in Kaiserslautern 3:05 p.m.: Major traffic collision on L369, between Kollweiler and Schwedelbach 6:55 p.m.: Larceny of secured, government and private property in Kaiserslautern

Photo by Schmidt_Alex / Shutterstock.com

TAKE NOTE

MARCH 19 11:10 a.m.: Accidental damage to government property at Pulaski Express/gas station 1:01 p.m.: Damage to private property in Vogelweh Family Housing

COVID-19 updates for KMC Personnel looking for updated information regarding coronavirus and changes to base facilities can visit www.ramstein. af.mil/COVID-19/

MARCH 20 12:24 a.m.: Assault and failing to obey lawful order in Kaiserslautern

ATTENTION ALL RETIREES and SURVIVING SPOUSES The 86 AW Retiree Activities Office (RAO) is closed until further notice. For urgent situations (until we re-open our doors) that would normally be addressed to the RAO, you can email jim.barrante@fcgh.net.

MARCH 21 1:15 a.m.: Driving Under the Influence in Kaiserslautern 6:37 p.m.: Major traffic collision in Ramstein-Miesenbach 10:58 p.m.: Driving under the influence in Kaiserslautern 10:05 a.m.: Major traffic collision in Kaiserslautern MARCH 22 7:15 p.m.: Major traffic collision in Kaiserslautern

Editor’s note: The purpose of the weekly blotter is to deliver a chronological listing of criminal activity in the KMC. The information contained in the blotter is not indicative of crime trends or the targeting of service members or their dependents. The location and nature of the entries is dependent upon where the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place.

OHA Survey throughout March U.S. Service Members are encouraged to participate in the annual overseas Housing Allowance Survey for Germany. Results of the survey directly impact the amount of OHA members receive. For more information, please contact 314-537-1071, or commercial 0611-143-537-1071.

Community Strengths and Needs Assessment If you want to see changes in your military community take a few minutes to complete the Community Strengths

March 27, 2020

Photo by Golubovy / Shutterstock.com

and Needs Assessment! It is an easy online survey open to Soldiers, civilians, and family members. The survey is designed to capture the qualitative “pulse” of community members’ feelings on quality of life, health, safety, and satisfaction within the environment of an Army installation. Let your voice be heard by going to: https:// usaphcapps.amedd.army.mil/Sur vey/ se.ashx?s=25113745218B31B9.

RAO director, KMC retiree council co-chair needed The Retiree Activities Office, a volunteer-based organization that supports retirees, active-duty members, and spouses throughout the KMC, has an immediate opening for a new director. The RAO functions as a liaison between the retiree population and the 86th AW commander.

Separately, the KMC retiree council needs a volunteer to be the co-chair. The KMC retiree council focuses on outreach to the KMC retiree community and their families. For more information about these positions or how to volunteer, please contact the RAO office at 86aw.rao@us.af.mil or DSN 4805486 or civ 06371-47-5486.

THE HOUSING HYPE

The Housing Office will continue to handle special cases by taking appointments, as necessary. For any housing issues, including those that may be unique or require in-person appointments, please e-mail your questions/requests to KMChousing@us.af.mil. Alternatively, you may call: Assistance Section: 0631-536-6671 or DSN 489-6671 Facilities Section (on base): 0631-536-7108 or DSN 489-7108 Housing Referral Office (off base): 0631-55319/6643/6659 or DSN 489-6643/6659 For any furnishings or appliances questions/requests, please email 86ces.cehffmo@us.af.mil or contact via phone at DSN 489-6153/6018 or 0631-536-6153/6018.

Photo courtesy of the Housing Office

The KMC Housing Office and Furnishings Management Section are closely monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation and continue to follow Ramstein AB guidelines and health recommendations. Currently, we have implemented increased sanitary/health precautions within both offices in order to protect all personnel — our goal is to operate in a healthy and safe environment while protecting our customers and housing employees! Specifically, the following offices are utilizing remote/online resources in order to support our customers: Assistance Section/Customer Service, Facilities Section (on base), Housing Referral Office (off base) operations and the Furnishings Management Section

Kaiserslautern American

Page 5 Photo by Andrii Vodolazhskyi/Shutterstock.com

March 27, 2020

COVID-19 from Page 1 gathered from the Kaiserslautern Military Community and addressed the ongoing challenges associated with combating the pandemic and the importance of social distancing.

Below are some questions and answers from the virtual town hall.

For a full list of FAQs, including ones that were not addressed live, visit https://www.ramstein.af.mil/ COVID-19/.

Any talks of relaxing hair regulations during this lockdown like the Navy did? Or will Air Force members be expected to maintain hair regulations from home?

With barber shops and hair salons closed, this is a topic of discussion. Guidance will be coming soon.

How does the “no more than two” rule affect mission essential offices?

Mission essential activities will remain open. Each leadership team knows exactly what it takes to run their operations. We will not dictate to them how many

people they can have at work, however we encourage the use of electronic means where possible.

Is it okay to run, walk or bike outdoors as long as we maintain social distance guidelines? What’s the advice for those of us living in stairwell housing on base without our own backyard?

Perfectly okay at this time. The good news is, it’s not lockdown. If you are out by yourself, or no more than two, then good-to-go to do those things.

Are there any positive cases on RAB? Yes. Check https://www. ramstein.af.mil/COVID-19 for the most up-to-date number.

Is there a non-emergency number to call to report an American having a party off base?

If you have concerns dial 1-1-2.

No one will prevent you from calling

emergency services. We don’t need police efforts, what we really need is compliance. We need the Airmen to know why these guidelines are being pushed out. We are trying to lower the curve and reduce the spread of COVID-19 so it doesn’t outpace our medical capacity.

What about on-base policy when it comes to social distancing?

On base policy reflects that of the CDC and host nation. Maintain two-meter spacing and groups are to be no larger than two individuals unless residing in the same household.

Any updates on college dependents in the states getting here?

The U.S. Embassy is working on that specific issue. More information to come.

Will the commissary limit shoppers by assigning scheduled shopping days like what has been done in

Korea? Will they limit one person per family shopping at a time?

The Mission Support Group commander continues to work closely with our DeCA team, exploring what options are available for us to continue to meet the needs of the community and help people remain protected. We ask that you make sure you are doing everything you can to help protect yourself.

Are there any plans for the Vehicle Control Center to stop sign-ins for visitors?

Not at this time.

Some information may change as the situation develops, please continue to check the site for the most up-to-date information. Visit the Ramstein homepage (www.ramstein. af.mil) and go to the COVID-19 tab at the upper right side of the page.

ADVERTISEMENT

For service members who are intransit to our final destination, but are affected by stop movement here, is there any way that rooms on base can be opened up at zero cost to the member?

Unfortunately no. There is some great guidance on the financial front allowing certain entitlements to individuals during this unique time. Please visit https://www.ramstein.af.mil/ COVID-19/ and view the Comptroller Policy Memo for more information.

Are space available opportunities to CONUS impacted?

All Space-A travel has been terminated, with one exception.

If you are on emergency leave with non-funded travel approved, Space-A is available to you.

TKS continues Internet, Mobile, TV service during coronavirus outbreak Although the coronavirus outbreak has touched all the military communities in Europe, TKS has adjusted its business operation to ensure all services can continue for customers on post/base and off.

Out of safety for customers and TKS staff members, all shops have been closed to do their part in mitigating the spread of COVID-19. With these closures, TKS has brought all their in-store representatives into their customer support center to assist customers with their service and purchase needs.

Customers can still make purchases for all products by calling 0631-3522499 or emailing service@tkscable.com or with the live chat on their website, www.tkscable.com.

It should be made clear that all services for current customers will not be interrupted during the COVID-19 outbreak. If additional restrictions are put in place for restricted movements, there will also be no disruption of service. TKS is committed to keeping you connected during these trying times.

Services such as easy TV, easy TV GO, easyConnect and all other services are available through the TKS Hotline.

“We are there for you” has been TKS’s message throughout the crisis and it will continue to remain so in the future. TKS wishes the entire military family health and safety.

Kaiserslautern American

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March 27, 2020

Taming the flames on Ramstein’s new F-15 mobile trainer Story & photos by Airman 1st Class Taylor D. Slater 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

ing the week. They also learned about potential hazards on F-15 and C-130 aircraft.

“It’s a little difficult in some respects with the language barrier,” Welborn said, “but every country has someone that speaks English to translate and make it work.”

The NATO Firefighter Fundamentals Course is held three to four times per year. Welborn hopes assets like the F-15 MAFT will continue to attract more NATO countries in the future to further strengthen partnerships.

One of the key advantages of the MAFT asset is its mobility, said Tech. Sgt. Frank Butler, 435th CTS fire rescue and contingency training noncommissioned officer in charge.

Unlike the fixed location of the C-130 mockup fire trainer near the flight line, Airmen can transport the MAFT asset to multiple locations using a trailer. This allows the 435th CTS to conduct more training opportunities in the future.

The F-15 MAFT asset will be used for future training such as U.S. European Command, NATO and partnered-nation exercises.

NATO firefighters prepare to extinguish an F-15 Mobile Aircraft Fire Trainer during the NATO Firefighter Fundamentals Course at Ramstein Air Base, March 11. This was the first ever F-15 MAFT asset used on Ramstein. Firefighters from Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic came to Ramstein to receive certification on extracting pilots and extinguishing aircraft fires.

NATO firefighters extinguish flames on a F-15 Mobile Aircraft Fire Trainer during the NATO Firefighter Fundamentals Course at Ramstein Air Base, March 11. The F-15 MAFT asset has been in production since 2018. Firefighters from Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic came to Ramstein to receive certification on extracting pilots and extinguishing aircraft fires.

NATO firefighters extinguish flames on a C-130 mock-up fire trainer during the NATO Firefighters Fundamentals Course at Ramstein Air Base, March 10. The firefighters utilized the 86th Civil Engineer Squadron’s fire trucks to extinguish the aircraft fires. Each truck contains anywhere from 750 to 3,000 gallons of water. Firefighters from Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic came to Ramstein to receive certification on extracting pilots and extinguishing aircraft fires.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Welborn, 435th Construction and Training Squadron fire rescue and contingency training instructor, left, instructs NATO firefighters on the F-15 Mobile Aircraft Fire Training asset during the NATO Firefighter Fundamentals Course at Ramstein Air Base, March 11. The F-15 MAFT asset is useful for multiple agencies to train on such as Explosive Ordnance and Disposal. Firefighters from Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic came to Ramstein to receive certification on extracting pilots and extinguishing aircraft fires.

NATO firefighters pose for a photo during the NATO Firefighter Fundamentals Course at Ramstein Air Base, March 10. The firefighters practiced various flame extinguishing maneuvers and hazard mitigation techniques in the event of aircraft mishaps on the airfield. Firefighters from Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic came to Ramstein to receive certification on extracting pilots and extinguishing aircraft fires.

The 435th Construction and Training Squadron hosted the NATO Firefighter Fundamentals Course March 9-13 to train for aircraft mishaps and pilot extraction scenarios.

Twenty-two NATO firefighters from Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic were the first to train on Ramstein’s new F-15 Mobile Aircraft Fire Training asset, a mock-up aircraft in development since 2018. This capability allowed them to share new knowledge with their respective countries’ military forces.

“We have students from all over the world coming to train,” said Staff Sgt. Robert Wellborn, 435th CTS fire rescue and contingency training instructor. “A lot of them have these aircraft at their base.

Some might not, but they get the opportunity to train before they (are reassigned) to another base with the aircraft.”

Firefighters trained for multiple aircraft crash scenarios dur-

March 27, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

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Kaiserslautern American

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by Meghan Lindeman 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs A recent survey found that more than onethird of military families reported they had no one to ask for a favor, suggesting many military families experience a sense of disconnection with the community in which they live.

Blue Star Families’ Military Family LifeStyle survey also found that military families report isolation as one of their most prominent stressors. It is easy to imagine the prominence of isolation is exacerbated in our overseas community where time differences and geo-

Photo by Tatomirov/Shutterstock.com

Cyber Bullying: Be KIND online

March 27, 2020

graphic distance can further isolate military families from their friends and family back home. Although all members of military families are at risk of experiencing isolation, military spouses might be at a particularly high risk of feeling lonely. Many military spouses have turned to social media groups to connect with others in the community who have shared experiences and concerns.

Social media can be a wonderful tool for connecting people, but sometimes these platforms can actually worsen the experience of loneliness. This is in part because people online have a tendency to behave

differently than they would in face-to-face interactions. The norms online seem to differ from those that govern in-person interaction, which can cause a birth of toxicity in social media groups. This especially happens when the norms of certain groups take a turn toward aggressive and judgmental interactions between members.

When these toxic norms become prevalent in a group, social media goes from being a useful tool for spouses looking to connect with others to a platform that perpetuates feelings of isolation.

Importantly, when it comes to norms,

the people help establish the culture, which means that each and every member plays an important role in creating an inclusive online community so members feel welcome and valued. One helpful acronym that can remind you to make a warm community for all participants is KIND: Know the rules in the group that you are participating in and follow the norms set out by the administrators.

Interact as you would in a face-to-face interaction. Before you post something, take a moment to imagine yourself making the comment to someone at the commissary. If you would not say it to a stranger at the commissary, don’t say it online.

Notice other people’s behavior in the group and if you see concerning behavior, find a way to help by either: • Directly intervening • Delegating intervention to someone else by asking an administrator or peer to step in • Distracting by turning the conversation away from the toxicity towards more helpful topics.

Don’t be afraid to report harmful comments or individuals who you notice are repeatedly behaving unkindly to others in the group. You can report concerning behavior to group administrators and if you witness potentially illegal behavior, call Security Forces at DSN 480-2050 or commercial 06371-47-2050.

Let’s remember, connected and inclusive communities are built when all members are KIND to one another online or in person.

CID cautions teleworkers to adhere to IT best practices

by United States Army Criminal Investigation Command As the military community continues to encourage teleworking, the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command reminds users about cyber adversaries and the importance of keeping all information on the networks safe.

Network users play an important role in protecting the Department of Defense Information Network. CID encourages users to follow department-issued guidance and

best practices as well as those developed by DOD. This information will help ensure users maintain secure use of common capabilities and continue to operate effectively during telework status.

CID officials also remind the military community that your government-furnished equipment is for official government use only and is to be used only by authorized users. It is important to remind family members the computer is for work only and not to be used for other purposes. Users are encouraged to utilize good practices such as locking and removing their CAC and maintaining the physical security of their GFE. Additional important reminders for government teleworkers: • The use of Government Furnished Equipment is ALWAYS the preferred method for connecting to DOD Resources • Adhere to your organizationspecific Telework User Guidance • Use your organization’s

official connection services while conducting official business (e.g., VPN, MobiKEY, Skype for Business, and VidyoDesktop etc.) and log off from connection at the end of the work day or during idle times when you are not directly interacting with network resources • While connected to the NIPRNet, use of streaming video/audio and internet access is not authorized except for official business • Study and follow the Acceptable Use Policy for government systems • Use your organization’s approved communication and collaboration methods for official business • Work offline whenever possible In addition, the Criminal Investigation Command’s Major Cybercrime Unit continues to warn the military community of ongoing Coronavirus-themed phishing attacks impersonating organizations with the end goal of stealing information and delivering malware.

“Cybercriminals are innovative and will take advantage of current browsing trends to conduct social engineering attacks,” said Edward Labarge, Director, Major Cybercrime Unit, USACIDC. “We have already seen this with malware-infected COVID-19 maps and phishing emails related to the pandemic.”

Labarge recommends always inspecting the URL and ensuring you know where the link will take you, because criminals are disguising themselves in an effort to steal money and/or sensitive information.

“When conducting research on COVID-19 or any other topic, you want to ensure you use good cybersecurity best practices,” he said. “This includes keeping your browser, operating system, and antivirus software up to date.

Additionally, you should never click on an unknown link. You can check the link by hovering your mouse over the URL to see where it leads.”

Some trusted sources available for use: • DAF COVID-19 Webpage:

https://www.af.mil/News/ Coronavirus-Disease-2019/ • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ index.html • USAF COVID-19 Information Page: https://www.af.mil/News/ Coronavirus-Disease-2019/ • World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/ Please continue to exercise proper cyber hygiene while utilizing VPN and government computers as well as personal devices.

For additional information please visit: https://cyber.mil or https://public.cyber.mil For more information about computer security, other computer-related scams, and to review previous cybercrime alert notices and cyber-crime prevention flyers visit the Army CID MCU website at https://www.cid. army.mil/mcu-advisories.html.

To report a crime to Army CID, visit www.cid.army.mil

Kaiserslautern American

March 27, 2020

Page 9

LRMC’s process for COVID-19 testing

Col. Michael Weber and Command Sgt. Maj. Thurman Reynolds, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center command team, speak with Dr. Michael Koenig, technical supervisor, Virology Laboratory, to learn about LRMC’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2019-Novel Coronavirus Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase Diagnostic Panel, a CDCdeveloped laboratory test kit to detect 2019 novel coronavirus.

Story & photo by Marcy Sanchez Landstuhl Regional Medical Center On Saturday, March 14, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center opened the doors to its COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) Screening Center in an effort to reduce risk exposure and spread of the virus.

While LRMC is equipped with the 2019-Novel Coronavirus Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase Diagnostic Panel, and is the only U.S. military medical treatment facility in Europe with diagnostic testing capabilities, the opening of the clinic has left many questions for individuals eager to get tested for COVID-19 confirmation.

“The COVID-19 Screening Center is available for evaluating and assessing those who meet the criteria to be tested in order to maximize our resources,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Laura Ricardo, chief of Preventive Medicine and the COVID-19 public health nurse lead at LRMC. “It’s imperative we prioritize using the COVID tests for people who have either had direct contact with someone who is positive for COVID-19 and are symptomatic.”

As the medical community finds out more about symptoms and spread regarding COVID-19,

LRMC continues to follow screening procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The screening and testing process Individuals with a fever at or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit AND cold symptoms (cough, congestion, runny nose, shortness of breath) should proceed to the COVID-19 Screening Clinic, located next to the LRMC Emergency Room. Once the testing is complete, patients will be instructed to return home and self-quarantine until they are called back with results.

If people who are tested have other conditions for which they need to be evaluated in a different clinic or department of the hospital, they will be given a note to take with them to the follow-on clinic that states they have been screened and tested. They will be instructed to keep a mask on at all times and to sanitize their hands frequently.

Individuals who do not meet both the fever and cold symptoms criteria will not be tested. This includes people who may believe they have been exposed to or were around people who may have test-

ed positive for COVID-19 but are without symptoms.

“We need the population with flu-like symptoms to stay home, practice social distancing and self– isolation until they feel (as with a flu) they need clinical evaluation,” said Ricardo. “People who do not meet both testing criteria or those who have other urgent/ emergent needs should not go to the COVID-19 Screening Clinic as it may expose them to other people who may actually have the coronavirus.”

When the results are in Once the testing is completed and individuals are instructed to go home and self-quarantine, the results are typically returned within 24-48 hours. Service members who are instructed to quarantine will work with the clinic staff to ensure their leadership are aware of the medical guidance.

If a test is positive, the patient is immediately contacted by Ricardo and her team of public health nurses to start the Contact Tracing process and identify those with whom they may have come into Close Contact (read more about Close Contacts on page 3 or at https://

go.usa.gov/xdt26). Patients with positive tests will be instructed on how to properly isolate themselves within their homes.

If a test is negative, the patient will be contacted by the on-call COVID response team with further instructions on how to best recover from their flu-like symptoms.

What the CDC says For most people, the immediate risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus that causes COVID-

19 is thought to be low. Some international destinations (including most European countries) now have ongoing community spread.

Community spread means some people have been infected and it is not known how or where they became exposed.

Older adults and people of any age with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, or heart disease, are at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

“We want to relay that flu-like symptoms for the majority of the population is likely due to having the flu,” states Ricardo. “We want everyone to know the COVID-19 Screening Clinic is available for everyone in our military community, but to be tested for a sense of security is not going to be useful.

Testing just for peace of mind is a quick way to deplete available resources for those who truly need to be tested.”

Ultimately, the medical provider at the COVID-19 Screening Clinic determines the need for testing.

The CDC does not recommend testing, symptom monitoring or special management for those who may have been exposed to asymptomatic people with potential exposures to COVID-19.

Military community members living in Germany who are concerned about their exposure risk to COVID-19 should call the TRICARE Nurse Advice Line at 0800-071-3516 to discuss any symptoms and seek advice on further instructions for care. Or visit https://rhce.amedd.army. mil/Families/nurse_advice_line. html for more NAL contact information. As always, if your conditions are life threatening, please call emergency services or visit the nearest emergency room.

Page 10

Kaiserslautern American

March 27, 2020

Ramstein Fire Department, local authorities fight fire with interoperability

by Airman 1st Class Jennifer Gonzales 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

A German firefighter sprays water on a burning factory in Otterberg, near Kaiserslautern, March 23. The building had been on fire since approximately 2 p.m. the previous day and the 86th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency services responded at about 4 p.m. to assist with water resupply.

U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Jordan Boyd, 86th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergencies deputy fire chief, speaks with a German firefighter on-scene in Otterberg, March 23. They discussed how the incoming fire trucks from Ramstein Air Base would access the cordoned-off area of the burning automotive plant.

Smoke billows into the sky behind two firetrucks from the Kaiserslautern and Ramstein Air Base fire departments in Otterberg, March 23. Ramstein assisted the German fire department by providing and transporting more than 6,000 gallons of water from the base to Otterberg in the effort to extinguish the burning automotive plant.

Three firefighters prepare to attach hoses from one truck to the other in Otterberg, March 23. Ramstein Air Base fire trucks hold approximately 6,000 gallons of water and were called upon to assist with the automotive plant fire that had been burning for more than 22 hours.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Jackson Bird, 86th Civil Engineer Fire and Emergencies firefighter, speaks with his German counterpart in Otterberg, March 23. Bird positioned the vehicle near available hose outlets on the German firetruck to resupply water for the ongoing fire at the automotive plant.

March 27, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

Page 11

Kaiserslautern American

Page 12

March 27, 2020

Miesau Army Depot Child Development Center goes deep with cleaning

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Nicole Radek, Miesau Army Depot Child Development Center staff member, replaces decorations that were scraped off of furniture in a CDC classroom during deep cleaning as a precaution against COVID-19.

Story & photo by Keith Pannell U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Parents spend a good part of their lives cleaning up after their children. This week, the staff of the Child Development Center here have been cleaning up for “their” children.

The staff of the Miesau CDC, in line with efforts at all garrison CDCs, is looking high and low and getting into every nook and cranny to wipe away every germ and possible virus that could harm any of the staff and clientele.

“What’s different now is we have the ability to go in and use stronger bleach and do more cleaning that we couldn’t if the children were here in the facility,” said Tammy

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Shields, Miesau CDC director. “We were very proactive even before any guidance came out. We started cleaning more and using a stronger detergent several times a day when the children were outside.”

With no children to care for, garrison CDC staffs are cleaning, literally, from the top to the bottom of the facility, inside and out. In addition, CDC staff are also using the opportunity to complete and stay current on child care procedures and information via in-house and online training.

“Even now, in the midst of such a challenging and stressful time, they are staying upbeat and making the best of this situation, seizing the opportunity to improve our learning environments and overall quality of our programs,” said Jason Etchell, USAG RP Child and Youth Services director.

As Stevie Ray Vaughn’s guitar blares from a speaker in the CDC playground, several staff members clean the playground equipment and tend to a small garden the children planted just before the closure. Three young men even replace potting soil around the plants to make sure the children are safe when they return.

In the meantime, the CDC staff is sending curriculum via email to parents to keep the children on some kind of routine.

“Consistency with the kids is

very important,” said Chad Chason, acting classroom lead. “They thrive on routine. If they know what to expect, everything is easier for them. They still need their nap and playtime and everything else.”

There are 322 children in seven child development centers across the garrison footprint. Miesau has 33 youngsters enrolled. Shields said it wouldn’t matter if there was only one child enrolled at the facility, the children deserve a safe environment.

“When we found out we were closing, it gave us the opportunity to take everything off shelves, turn tables and chairs upside down and really get the chance to deep clean,” she said. “We’re also calling all of the parents and asking if there’s anything they need from us like additional resources and our daily schedule so they can see what their child’s day is like. They seem to appreciate us just checking in.”

“This is such a resilient team of people full of heart, driven to serve and motivated to do all they can to enrich the quality of life in the garrison,” said Etchell.

One thing everyone agrees on is, it’s all about the children.

“They come up and give me hugs and tell me they love what we do,” Chason said. “Honestly, they brighten my day and do as much for me as I do for them.”

March 27, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

Page 13

On the front lines: 86 MDG COVID-19 Operations

by Airman 1st Class Taylor Slater 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alejandro Gutierrez, 86th Medical Group aerospace medical technician, waits for patients at the Ramstein Medical Clinic, Ramstein Air Base, March 19. Gutierrez utilized masks, gloves, hand sanitizer and tissues to safely screen incoming patients. The 86th MDG transformed their operations on the medical campus to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

A U.S. Air Force medical technician assigned to the 86th Medical Group, right, receives materials from a colleague at the Ramstein Medical Clinic, Ramstein Air Base, March 19. The 86th MDG kept patients who were displaying symptoms of COVID-19 in a separate building from other patients to prevent the spread of the illness. Units across Ramstein are implementing similar procedures to enable mission continuation during the pandemic.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Sharmayne Campbell, 86th Medical Group aerospace medical technician, takes a patient’s temperature at the Ramstein Medical Clinic, Ramstein Air Base, March 19. To enter the clinic, each patient received fever assessments. The 86th MDG transformed their operations on the medical campus to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

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Kaiserslautern American

Page 14

March 27, 2020

Traveling without traveling Photo by Bohbeh/Shutterstock.com

Kaiserslautern Evangelical

Lutheran Church 8:30 am Worship & Holy Communion Sunday School Following

Service in English

Meeting in Ev.-Luth. St. Michaelis Church, Karpfenstr. 7, 67655 Kaiserslautern Email: KaiserslauternLutheran@gmail.com or call 0152-54677961 for directions.

Joe Asher, Pastor

www.KELC.eu

by Aaron T. Grogg contributing writer to MilitaryinGermany.com For those of us who have decided to “shelter in place” for the foreseeable future, here are a few tips to keep you entertained, maybe even educate a little, and all-around help fight off boredom.

Parks (https://totallythebomb.com/heres-33-nationalpark-tours-you-can-take-virtually-from-the-comfortof-your-home).

VR Travel apps

Museums

Photo by Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com

Spring 2020 Religious Celebrations ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY 27 Mar – 1700 – 4th Salutations 29 Mar - Sunday of Saint John Climacus 0850 – Divine Liturgy 1 Apr – 1700 – Presanctified Liturgy 3 Apr – 1700 – The Akathist Hymn 5 Apr – Sunday of Saint Mary of Egypt 0850 – Divine Liturgy 8 Apr – 1700 – Presanctified Liturgy 11 Apr – Lazarus Saturday; 0900 Liturgy; Memorial for the departed 12 Apr – Palm Sunday – 0850 – Liturgy 13 Apr – Holy Monday – 1700 – Bridegroom Matins 14 Apr – Holy Tuesday – 1700 - Bridegroom Matins 15 Apr – Holy Wednesday – 1700 – Unction, Sacrament of Healing 16 Apr – Holy Thursday 0900 – Vesperal Liturgy 1800 – 12 Gospel Readings (Passions Srv) 17 Apr – Holy Friday 0900 – Royal Hours 1730 – Unnailing Vespers (the Body of Christ is taken down from the Cross) 1900 – Lamentations – Epitafios (Funeral); Procession around the Church 18 Apr – Holy Saturday – 0900 – Divine Liturgy 18 Apr – 2330 – Holy Pascha/Holy Resurrection Canon 19 Apr – Holy Resurrection 0000 – Resurrection Gospel outside the church; “Christ Is Risen!”; continued up to 0200 with the Divine Liturgy of the Resurrection 1200 – Agape Vespers/Gospel in foreign languages (Offsite) – 2nd celebration of the Resurrection, followed by Luncheon 26 Apr – 0850 Thomas Sunday Liturgy: then Community Picnic at the Upper Pulaski Park Confessions available upon request. For more information, please contact Rev. Fr. Ioan I. Dumitrascu at 0174-475-4086 or ioan.dumitrascu.1@us.af.mil PROTESTANT Palm Sunday 5 Apr – 0930 – Palm Sunday, Ramstein South Chapel 1100 – Contemporary Service, Ramstein North Chapel 1100 – Gospel Service, Vogelweh Chapel Maundy Thursday 9 Apr – 1800 – Maundy Thursday Service w/Holy Communion, Ramstein South Chapel Good Friday 10 Apr – 1800 – Good Friday Service, Ramstein South Chapel Easter Sunday 12 Apr – 0930 – Easter Sunday Service w/Easter Brunch & Egg Hunt, Ramstein South Chapel 1100 – Contemporary Service with Communion, Ramstein North Chapel 1100 – Gospel Service, Vogelweh Chapel

CATHOLIC Lenten Confessions 30 Mar – 1630-1830, Ramstein North Chapel Fridays of Lent ** Days of Abstinence 27 Mar and 3 Apr – 1730 – Stations of the Cross followed by Lenten Soup Supper, Ramstein North Chapel Holy Week & Sacred Triduum Palm Sunday 5 Apr – 0900, 1300, 1700 – Masses, Ramstein North Chapel Holy Thursday 9 Apr – 1730 – Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Ramstein North Chapel Good Friday ** Day of Fast and Abstinence 10 Apr – 1730 – Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion, Ramstein North Chapel Holy Saturday 11 Apr – 2000 – Easter Vigil, Ramstein North Chapel Easter Sunday 12 Apr – 0900, 1300 – Masses, Ramstein North Chapel EARTH BASED RELIGIONS 11 Apr – Full Moon Ritual 2 May – Beltane Ritual All rituals begin at 1900.

For anyone interested it is best to contact us through our Vogelweh Open Circle Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/groups/2159413781013306/ EPISCOPAL ANGLICAN ST. ALBAN 25 Apr – 1045 – Palm Sunday Service, Kapaun Chapel 10 Apr – 1730 – Good Friday Service, Kapaun Chapel 12 Apr – 1045 – Easter Service, Kapaun Chapel 19 Apr – 1000 – Service with Bishop Carl Wright officiating; luncheon at Burgschänke For more information, please contact Kara Craven 0160-90197367 or email Tonya Parham at meschats2@ gmail.com ISLAMIC SERVICES 23 Apr (±2 days) – Ramadan begins 23 May (±2 days) – Ramadan ends 24 May (±1 days) – Eid al-Fitr JEWISH COMMUNITY 8 Apr – Passover Seder, First Night – Wed 1730-2130 hrs, Southside Chapel 9 Apr – Passover Seder, Second Night – Thur, 1730-2130 hrs, email for location All are welcome! For more information and to RSVP (NLT 1 April) email Rabbi Schechter at sarah.schechter@ us.af.mil

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of modern and contemporary art, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, opened in October 1959.

Photo by Tinnaporn Sathapornnanont/Shutterstock.com

Google Arts & Culture(https://artsandculture. google.com/) offers a seemingly endless list of museums from around the world that you can click, drag and virtually wander through. From New York’s Guggenheim Museum (https://artsandculture.google. com/partner/solomon-r-guggenheim-museum?hl=en) to Florence’s Uffizi (https://artsandculture.google. com/partner/uffizi-gallery?hl=en) to Paris’ Musée d’Orsay (https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/ musee-dorsay-paris?hl=en). Note that the home page loads more options as you scroll, so you might want to use the site search (icon located in the top-right corner) and check-out all the options in the menu (three-bar icon in the top-left corner).

Virtual Tours If you are more the walk-about type, have a look at the 157 virtual tours of European cities(https:// www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_h8TPChQYqbcQ5uwHstEBuOo6CUpCd9R). The collection of cities is impressive and, even though all the videos are just transitioning photographs, you definitely see the beauty present in these wondrous locations.

Or, if you are more the artistic type, you might enjoy this collection of avant-garde travel videos (https://www.bucketlistly.blog/posts/10-most-creativeinspiring-travel-videos). Faster transitions, mystic narration, and evoking more of the spirit of these far-off locales.

Or maybe you are looking for more of the traditional “guided tour” videos (https://expertvagabond. com/youtube-travel-videos/)?

You can also virtually roam these 33 National

Or maybe you are a next-generation traveler. In that case, strap on your VR goggles and start traveling with these Virtual Reality Travel Apps (https://www. wheretraveler.com/shop/coming-your-phone-virtualreality-travel-apps)!

Podcasts

Photo by Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock.com

If you prefer to travel while listening, Intrepid Travel (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/ best-travel-podcasts/) and Wanderlust (https://www. wanderlust.co.uk/content/top-travel-podcasts-youneed-to-listen-to/) both offer their lists of the top travel podcasts. Whether you want to sit calmly, watching the birds dance around your back yard, or need something to listen to while on the treadmill or getting started on your Spring cleaning, surely you can find something to listen to!

Time Travel Why not try out some time travel? (Sort of.) The Radioooo App (iOS, Android) allows you to pick a country, then pick a decade (starting in 1900), and listen to music from that country & decade. Wish I could find something that allowed me to do this with movies!

But whatever you love doing to keep yourself entertained, we wish you and yours good health!

Kaiserslautern American

March 27, 2020

Page 15

STEM Night at Landstuhl Elementary Middle School

by Gabriele Arseneault Public Affairs Office Landstuhl Elementary Middle School Landstuhl Elementary Middle School recently hosted STEM Night, a free event that allowed visitors to see student projects within the realms of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

In the first week of March students who attended the event got a chance to learn by using handson techniques at each station.

Public Health Command attended with its entomologist (the hissing Madagascar Cockroach), and children really enjoyed learning

and handling the roaches. The USO served pizza and drinks.

Teacher Ms. Verdi talked about animals and their habitats. The LRMC Lab attendants presented the basics of blood chemistry.

There were many activities to include a station that used boxes to build structures, a recycle make-it station where children used clean recyclables to build robots, a toothpick/marshmallow building station, an audiologist station, a slime station, and much more. With about 200 people in attendance it was a complete hit with many smiles and much laughing throughout the evening.

Top: On STEM Night, Lily Dingmann has fun at the Marshmallow Challenge activity.

Right: On STEM Night, Gabriele Arseneault (right) and Crystal Fitts (left) PTSA President, show no fear handling the hissing Madagascar cockroach.

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On STEM Night, several LEMS students absorb themselves in creating toothpick/marshmallow structures.

ARMY POC for Miesau, Landstuhl, and Daenner is the USAG R-P Chaplain’s Office in Bldg 3213 on Kleber Kaserne, DSN 541-2105, CIV 0611143-541-2105.

Jewish Services

AIR FORCE POC for Ramstein North, Ramstein South, Vogelweh, and Kapaun is the USAF Chaplain Corps, Bldg 1201 on Ramstein, DSN 480-6148, CIV 06371-47-6148.

Messianic Jewish Services

Buddhist (SGI)

Kapaun Chapel (Bldg 2781) Divine Liturgy: 9:00 a.m. Sundays Confessions by appointment

Islamic Services

Service: 7:00 p.m. Saturdays

Ramstein South Chapel Jewish Shul Area (Bldg 2403) Shabbat Evening Service: 6:00 p.m. Fridays Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Service: 10:00 a.m. Saturdays

Orthodox Christian Services

Ramstein North Chapel Conference Room (Bldg 1201) Protestant Services Service: 10:30 a.m., 4th Saturday Service: 12:00 p.m., 3rd Thursday at LRMC Chapel Landstuhl Community Chapel (Bldg 3773) For more info: ktownsgibuddhism@gmail.com Worship: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Children’s Youth Church: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Catholic Services Daenner Community Chapel (Bldg 3150) Daenner Community Chapel (Bldg 3150) Chapel Next Sunday Mass: 12:30 p.m. (all year round) Worship: Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Confession: 11:45 p.m.

Children’s Church: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Landstuhl Community Chapel Seventh-Day Adventist Worship Sabbath School: 9:30 a.m. Saturdays (Bldg 3773) Worship: 11:00 a.m. Saturdays Tue, Wed, Fri: 12 p.m.

Small Group: 6:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday Sunday: 9 a.m.

Ramstein North Chapel (Bldg 1201) Confession: 8 a.m.

Contemporary Service: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Ramstein North Chapel (Bldg 1201) Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Daily Mass: 11:30 a.m. Monday-Thursday Traditional with Communion: 9:30 a.m. Sundays Sunday Masses: 9 a.m., 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.

Vogelweh Chapel (Bldg 2063) Confession: RNC or by appt. 4 p.m.- 4:45 p.m.

Gospel Service: 11:00 a.m. Sundays.

Sundays For more info: facebook.com\vogelwehgospelservice or email Episcopal (Anglican) rvgsfacebook@gmail.com (St. Albans) Kapaun Chapel (Bldg 2781) Wiccan Service: 10:30 a.m. Sundays Kapaun Annex (Bldg 2782)

During STEM Night, Timothy Brown looks excited about learning how to hold the hissing Madagascar cockroach.

At the slime station during STEM Night, Lily Dingmann and Hailee Angle do their very important work as scientists with rubber gloves and protection glasses.

Ramstein South Chapel Mosque Area (Bldg 2403) Jummah Prayers: 1:15 p.m. Fridays Daily Prayers: 1:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Service: 4:00 p.m. 2nd & 4th Sundays

Kaiserslautern American

Page 16

March 27, 2020

Photo by Ivanova Tetyana/Shutterstock.com

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by Ramstein Dental Clinic Editor’s Note: This article was published in a previous edition of the Kaiserslautern American and the information has been updated.

We live in a fast-paced world with children often sipping on drinks other than water and snacking on sugary or starchy foods throughout the course of a day.

One of the risk factors for early childhood cavities is frequent and prolonged exposure of a baby’s teeth to liquids such as fruit juice, milk or formula, which all contain sugar.

Americans are consuming foods and drinks high in sugar and starches more often and in larger portions than ever before.

Junk foods and drinks gradually have replaced nutritious beverages and foods for many people.

Alarmingly, the average teenage boy in the U.S. consumes 81 gallons of soft drinks each year.

A steady diet of sugary foods and drinks can ruin teeth. Sugar on teeth provides food for plaque bacteria, which produce acid.

The acid in turn can eat away the enamel on teeth, creating cavities.

Almost all foods have some type of sugar that cannot and should not be eliminated from our diets. Many of these foods contain important nutrients and add enjoyment to eating, but there is a risk for tooth decay from a diet high in sugars and starches.

Starches can be found in everything from bread to pretzels to salad dressing, so read labels and plan carefully for a balanced, nutritious diet for you and your kids.

Here are some ways to reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay: • Sugary foods and drinks should be consumed with meals. Saliva production increases during meals and helps neutralize acid production and rinse food particles from the mouth.

• Limit between-meal snacks.

If kids crave a snack, offer them nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables and cheese.

• If your child chews gum, make it sugarless. Chewing

•

•

•

• •

sugarless gum after eating can increase saliva flow and help wash out food and decay-producing acid. There are some great options available that list xylitol as the first ingredient, which is preferred over the sugar substitute sorbitol.

Monitor beverage consumption. Instead of soft drinks, juices and sports drinks, children should consume water and low-fat milk.

Help your children develop good brushing and flossing habits. Parents need to help children brush twice and floss once daily.

Infants should always finish their bedtime bottle or nursing, brush teeth and then be placed in bed.

Encourage your children to drink from a cup by their first birthday.

Schedule regular dental visits.

The American Dental Association says that it is beneficial for the first dental visit to occur within six months of the appearance of the first tooth and no later than the child’s first birthday.

Kaiserslautern American

March 27, 2020

Business Directory During Coronavirus Crisis These businesses have changed their service for you!

Abdullah and Meghdir Gbr City: Ramstein Phone: 01731986676 Category: Accessories-services We are offering a antibacterial and antimicrobial wash for all kinds of Carpets at promotion prices.

Please make appointments under aandmshop@ hotmail.com for drop off the Rugs you like us to clean at our main Store in Ramstein City Best contact method: Phone or WhatsApp American Medical Center and the MVZ Westpfalz City: Landstuhl Phone: 06371495021 Category: medical We have opened a COVID testing/treatment center.

Available to: AMC patients, GS employees, Contractors, Tricare retirees. Active Duty should seek treatment on the military base. Only call if you have Cough, Fever, Shortness of Breath or Fatigue Best contact method: Phone Autoservice Schliebusch City: Kaiserslautern Phone: 063189292766 Category: Auto-car We are open from Monday-Thursday from 7:4517:30, Friday from 7:45-17:00 Best contact method: Phone, Email Burgschänke Kaiserslautern City: Kaiserslautern-Hohenecken Phone: 0631351530 Category: Restaurants From now we offer a delivery and pick up service.

Call us from 11:30 am to 7 pm to order your delicious meal!

Best contact method: Phone Cafe Konditorei Hotel Goldinger City: Landstuhl Phone: 0637192490 Category: Food-grocery-store Pastry Shop, Cakes, pies, chocolates, Easter presents.Hours during the corona crisis: Daily 8:00 - 17:00; Tuesdays closed Best contact method: Phone or email Chacarero Steakhouse City: Kaiserslautern Phone: 015226030778 Category: restaurants Take away home dining with the finest Best contact method: Phone Dexheimer Motorradzentrum BMW Military Sales City: Kaiserslautern Phone: 0631-36190811 Category: Motorcycle WE ARE STILL HERE FOR YOU! Our workshop will remain open to ensure that your motorcycle will receive the best possible care. You can reach our sales and service team via phone 0631-361 908 11 or by email at info@motorradsale24.de. Stay healthy!

Best contact method: Phone Eschenfelder City:Kaiserslautern Phone: 063172549

Category: Office-supplies We are still there for you. Stamps, accessories, signs, trophies can be ordered by email.

Best contact method: Email

Phone: 063712967 Category: Catering-party-service Lunch delivery and pick-up service: Mon-Fri, 11:30 - 14:00, delivery possible in Ramstein & surroundings. 2 daily menus to choose from, consisting of starters, main courses and desserts.

Order by 2 p.m. one day in advance.

Best contact method: Phone, Email

Exchange City: Ramstein Phone: 063714079602 Category: shopping In an abundance of caution, several closures of and adjustments to Exchange operations in the KMC and Baumholder are currently in effect, until further notice. For a current list, go to facebook. com/RamsteinKMCCExchange/ Best contact method: Facebook or Phone

Pizzeria Casa dell´Arte City: Kaiserslautern Phone: 063189247104 Category: Restaurants Still open for delivery and pick-up! Pizza, pasta and more! Monday - Saturday: 11:30 - 14:00, 17:30 - 23:00, Sunday: 11:00 - 23:00.

Best contact method: Phone

Fischer Fertigrasen City: Maßweiler Phone: 06336839989 Category: Gardening Sales of products for creating and maintaining lawns. Advice and ordering only by phone or email. Pickup only after prior arrangement.

Best contact method: Telephone, Email

Practice for Hypnotherapy Stefan Fiebig City: Kaiserslautern Phone: 017672412015 Category: Medical The practice is open for urgent issues. Special offer: Having problems at home with this difficult situation now? Couple and Family Counseling and various other issues online via Skype. Please contact us via Email. Dates by arrangement.

Best contact method: Email

Lenhardt Jeweler City: Landstuhl Phone: 0637117200 Category: Jewelry-watches Office daliy open to the regular times. 10-12:30 and 14-18:00. Also we have an online shoping window you can reserve the jewelry or watches.

Inquirys about Engagementrings is still possible please call us or send us an Email.

Best contact method: Email MagSoft® Computer und Software City: Pirmasens Phone: 0633192788 Category: Computer-sales-services We are offering fast and qualifed technical Service for PCs, Notebooks, Peripherals and any ITEquipment since 1988. Duty time Mo-Fr. 08:00-17:00h. Please do not visit us without an appointment. We offer pickup & delivery and onsite-service.

Best contact method: Phone, Mail NP Autocenter Hndels GmbH City: Kaiserslautern Phone: 06313107640 Category: Auto-car We are still open for vehicle repairs, accident repairs and towing service, but only via window.

No sales of spare parts and unfortunately NO entering the company premises.

Best contact method: Phone Partyservice Scheidt City: Ramstein-Miesenbach

Page 17

Reifen Gundacker City: Hochspeyer Phone: 063057154100 Category: Auto-car Tire service, car repairs, car glass repairs, oil changes, inspections, car service, brakes, exhaust, rims. We have taken all necessary security measures to prevent, infecttion or spread the virus: our sales rooms are not accessible; orders are accepted completely contactless behind a window; we also work contactlessly in the workshop, but we offer 100% full service for our customers. We work Monday-Friday from 8:00 to 17:00. Sales, advice and appointments only by phone.

Best contact method: Phone or WhatsApp Röhricht Druck und Design - Printing and Designs City: Ramstein Phone: 0637149550 Category: Print-services Advertising agency, Prints of all kinds, Signs, Poster, Banner, Tshirts, Mugs. Advice & order by phone/email. Quick turnarounds guaranteed.

Pickup by arrangement. Payment: phone or bank transfer Get in touch over phone: Mo-Fr from 8:00 - 18:00 or E-mail.

Best contact method: Phone, email

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Kaiserslautern American

Page 18

March 27, 2020

Driving in Germany

• • • • • •

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by The Find-It Guide For more useful information about living in Germany, read the Find-It Guide 2020 KMC Edition or visit FindItGuide.com

ADAC — “The Yellow Angels” The German equivalent of AAA (American Automobile Association) is ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil Club). ADAC offers many services for drivers, the most visible of which are the yellow road patrols throughout Germany.

More than 1,600 “Yellow Angels” are employed by ADAC, so help is usually nearby no matter where or when you run into trouble.

By cooperative arrangement with the automobile clubs in other European countries, your ADAC membership covers many services.

It gives you emergency ser-

DEEP INTERIOR DISINFECTION

Photo by Philip Lange/shutterstock.com

vice throughout Europe as well as return to Germany from anywhere in the world in case of illness.

An ADAC subscription gives you the services of the road patrol, a monthly magazine, and tourist information.

Your ADAC office can provide computer printouts of the best driving routes, names of hotels and emergency medical service when you’re on the road. They also sell the toll stickers for driving in Austria and Switzerland and toll cards for Italy.

One further service is the loan of tire chains for your ski vacation.

If you break down, mechanics provide free labor and towing services for ADAC members. You pay only for spare parts.

For more information, call 0180510 11 12. For ADAC service call 22 22 22 from your cell phone or 0180-2 22 22 22 from a landline.

Operators speak English as well as German.

Autobahn driving Before pulling into the left lane to pass, check the rear view mirror very carefully as far back as you can see. Cars travelling at 160-180 km per hour approach suddenly, so when passing, do so quickly and then quickly return to the right

lane. Some impatient drivers flash their headlights, use their blinker, and tailgate to pressure slower cars ahead into moving out of the way.

These practices have been outlawed recently, and it is best to ignore this behavior if it is directed at you. (Within the city a driver may flash his lights at you as a signal that you may turn into the street or turn left across his lane of traffic, but do so with caution.)

In case of a breakdown, look for arrows at the top of the white posts lining the road. They’ll lead you to the nearest emergency call box, located every 1.5 to 3 km along the Autobahns. Merely lift the handle and an operator will answer.

Black Ice or “Glatteis” A particular hazard of driving in Europe in the winter time is the danger of “black ice” or “Glatteis.”

The best way to recognize black ice is by surface reflection, but that dull patch just ahead might be ice also.

Be especially wary in the early morning or late evening and near or on bridges. If you see the patch, take your foot off the gas quickly.

Once on an icy section, do not accelerate, brake, gear down or make any sudden change in direc-

Kaiserslautern American is different than American law.

It must be understood, however, that there are many variables which alter the effects of alcohol upon a person, i.e., weight of the person, type of alcoholic beverage consumed, etc.

It is therefore difficult to list all conditions and aspects of what constitutes drunken driving.

The important thing is NOT TO DRINK AND DRIVE. Under German law it is illegal to operate a vehicle if the blood level is 0.5 per mill or higher. The law imposes a penalty and the withdrawal of the driver’s license for specified periods of time depending upon the gravity of each violation.

Photo by XXLPhoto/Shutterstock.com

Parking Most city parking in Germany is paid or restricted to residents.

Large cities have large signs to direct you to garages, and some show how many spaces are available at any given time. “Besetzt” means the garage is full; “Frei” means that spaces are available, not that parking is free.

Using the parking garages

tion. Keep well behind other cars.

If starting to lose control, steer toward the edge of the road where residues of sand and salt might help.

Drinking & driving German law concerning what constitutes driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol

Drive through the entrance marked “Einfahrt.” Take a ticket from the automatic ticket dispenser by pushing the button.

Keep the ticket with you when you leave the car, because you must pay before returning to your car.

Pay at the machine (Kassenautomat) or at a window (Kasse).

If you want a receipt, push the “Quittung” button after your paid ticket comes back out of the machine. You have about 15 minutes to drive out. Drive to the gate and insert the ticket to open the barrier.

Parking Meters

In many towns you must buy a ticket in advance for the time you think you will park. Look for the “Parkschein Automat” (a parking ticket vending machine), where it also says “Hier Parkschein lösen” (get your parking ticket here).

A sign on the machine shows the coins the machine accepts and the price of each time unit, usually in 30-minute increments. Put in the money, press the button for the ticket, and place the ticket face up on the dashboard on the driver’s side of your car. Don’t forget what time you have to be back as most cities are very efficient at writing tickets for cars parked over their allotted time.

Parkscheibe — Parking disk

Some parking areas require you to have a “Parkscheibe” (parking disk). Usually street signs show you an image of the parking disk with a time frame, for example “2 Std” — this means you are allowed to park for two hours without paying. Set your parking disk to the time you arrived, and put it on the dashboard. You can buy Parkscheiben at gas stations, hardware stores and auto parts stores.

Photo by r.classen / Shutterstock.com

March 27, 2020

Right of way Vehicles coming from the right

Page 19 have the right of way unless signs are posted otherwise. Pedestrians have the right of way as soon as they step into the crosswalk.

Beware of cyclists on the bike paths, particularly when you are making a right turn.

except where marked (but a top speed of 130 km/h is recommended by German authorities). To convert kilometers to miles; drop the 0 and multiply by 6, e.g. 40 KMH equals 4x6 or roughly 24 MPH.

Snow chains Snow chains can be rented from gas stations midway through your journey and then dropped off at another station further down the road. Sometimes membership in the German Automobile Club ADAC is necessary for this service, but not always.

The cost is low and is based on kilometers travelled. Stop as soon as you think you may need the chains, because supplies are limited at each station.

It is against the law to wash your car at home, because chemicals in the soap seep into the ground water.

Speed limits Speed limits are 50 km per hour in cities and towns, unless otherwise marked. Shown below is the Spielstrasse, or playing street, sign, which means you are only allowed to drive at walking pace.

100 km/h is the limit on state roads unless otherwise marked.

There is no speed limit on the Autobahn,

Washing your car

Other cautions Germans are very sensitive to any damage to their cars, so be sure to avoid bumping them. Remember that causing any damage whatsoever to another vehicle is considered an accident, and you should not leave the scene until the owner or a policeman has come. Leaving a note on the windshield of the damaged car with your name and phone number is not an accepted practice here. If you should leave the scene, you might be charged with a “hit and run.”

Photo by EggHeadPhoto / Shutterstock.com

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Kaiserslautern American

Page 20

March 27, 2020

TODAY: Lamb Roast with Parsnips, Carrots, Onions & Leek

B omb ay

Restau rant

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Ingredients

(for 4 people)

• 3 pound leg of lamb off bone, wrapped in netting (in freezer section of commissary) • 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced • 1-2 parsnips peeled and sliced • 2-3 onions, peeled and sliced • 1 leek, washed and sliced • 1 tablespoon margarine • ½-1 teaspoon salt • ½-1 teaspoon ground white pepper • ½-1 teaspoon sweet paprika • ½-1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence • 1 teaspoon tomato paste • ½-1 cup red wine • 2 cups water Spice rub for lamb • 2 teaspoons minced garlic (less if you aren’t a big garlic fanatic) • 1½ teaspoons salt • 1½ teaspoons fresh ground black pepper • ½ teaspoons Herbes de Provence

1. Rub lamb with all spices and let it sit overnight in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

2. Melt margarine in a pan on medium heat.

Roast the lamb from all sides, until it has a nice brown color.

3. Take out the lamb. Set it aside.

4. Add all sliced vegetables. Let them roast in the pan with the meat juices adding flavor to the vegetables.

5. Add tomato paste. Let it roast slightly as well.

Add red wine. Let the liquid cook off. Add 2 cups water.

6. Move vegetables in bottom of roasting pan.

7. Add lamb on top of vegetables. Put in a 300F oven for approximately 3 hours.

8. Every 30 minutes turn the meat over to keep it moist. The meat should be very soft at the end of 3 hours.

9. Take the netting off and slice into ½ inch slices.

Nice side dishes are pommes boulangère (see next page) and sautéed green beans or ratatouille.

Photos by jabiru / Shutterstock.com

Weilerbacher Str. 85 | 67661 Kaiserslautern | Bombay-kl.com Mon-Fri 11 am - 2 pm & 5 - 10 pm, Sat 2 - 10 pm, Sun 4 - 10 pm

Kaiserslautern American

March 27, 2020

Page 21

USAG RP Emergency Operations Center a guiding force during COVID-19

by Keith Pannell USAG Rheinland-Pfalz Public Affairs The COVID-19 pandemic is creating a new normal for U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz and the world. The garrison Emergency Operations Center is guiding the garrison through the changing circumstances.

Ashley Bryles, the emergency manager who has been on the job just over two months here, had a very short learning curve before being plunged into the COVID-19 crisis.

“My job as an emergency manager is to bring order out of chaos,” Bryles said. “This being a new virus, it’s pretty chaotic because everyone is trying to figure it out and get ahead of it before it causes more chaos.”

The EOC is made up of representatives from the garrison directorates, to include police, fire, safety, public works and other key agencies. They come together when the situation warrants and are the action officers on behalf of their directors.

“It is imperative that all EOC

Ashley Bryles, USAG Rheinland-Pfalz emergency operations manager, answers questions for Command Sgt. Maj. Brett Waterhouse, USAG RP command sergeant major, in the garrison emergency operations center.

members contribute to the discussion,” said Bill Dial, garrison S3/5/7 chief of operations. “Without the coordination and synchronization of our team we can’t ensure their safety and peace of mind that we are doing everything we can to resolve the situation.”

SIDE DISH: Pommes Boulangère & Turnips

Ingredients

(for 4 people)

Pommes Boulangére • 1 ½ pounds of potatoes peeled and diced in ½ inch cubes • 2 small onions finely diced • 6 cups of lamb broth (a dish often served with lamb) • ¼ teaspoon thyme • ¼ teaspoon minced garlic • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ ground white pepper • 1 tablespoon butter

Bryles served six years in the U.S. Air Force in the emergency management field and came to the garrison after a stint as an emergency manager for a Naval installation.

During her time as an Air Force civilian employee, she was awarded the Air Combat Command David

1. Melt the butter in a pot on medium heat. Add onions and stir until they are glassy. Add potatoes and spices. Stir 3-4 minutes.

2. Add lamb sauce and let it simmer for 40 minutes.

3. Watch that you don’t run out of liquid in the pot and that the potatoes don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Turnips • 8 turnips, peeled and sliced • 1 onion fine diced • 1 ½ tablespoon butter • ¼ teaspoon salt • ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper • 2 tablespoons broth

O. Cooke Excellence in Public Service Award. The award recognizes a DOD employee with three to 10 years of federal service who occupies a non-managerial position and exhibits great potential as a future federal executive. Bryles will compete at the Air Force level later this year.

There are challenges during the current crisis that EOC members don’t usually have to face, according to Bryles.

“The biggest challenge is the operational planning. We didn’t have operational plans in place for COVID-19, which didn’t exist a few months ago,” Bryles said.

“We’re creating those plans as we go, which isn’t necessarily a bad

thing. Sometimes creating plans under pressure, especially in an unknown environment like this, helps get them out to the force.”

The unknown, far-reaching aspect of the COVID-19 crisis is driving long hours and daily meetings of the EOC. “In normal EOC events, we are tackling one single event that happened in our community, such as a weather-related event or a terrorist attack,” Dial explained.

“With COVID-19, it is an invisible and elusive enemy that we have to combat. We have to identify the threat, respond to the threat, predict where the threat might appear next, and then eliminate the threat before it can spread further.”

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1. Melt butter in a pan. Add onions. Let the onions get glassy before adding the turnips.

2. Add spices and broth. Remember that broth also has spices in it, so go easy with the pepper and salt until you have tasted the sauce.

3. Put a lid on the pan and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes.

Photos by Shebeko & cynoclub / Shutterstock.com

DELIVER

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We deliver now to the westgate or to your home outside of the base.

Please check our homepage for our menue: alom-dee.com We operate daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Kaiserslautern American

Page 22

March 27, 2020

HOME CINEMA HIGHLIGHTS

Photo by repbone / Shutterstock.com

classics! These are just a few …

Now’s the time to stream or rent some of the allfortime availability.

Check your streaming service

ANIMATION, ADVENTURE, DRAMA

Poster by Jensen Farley Pictures

The Last Unicorn (1982) A brave unicorn (Mia Farrow) and a magician (Alan Arkin) fight an evil King (Sir Christopher Lee), who is obsessed with attempting to capture the world’s unicorns.

Starring: Jeff Bridges, Mia Farrow, Angela Lansbury Directors: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Jr.

ADVENTURE, COMEDY, SCI-FI

FAMILY, SCI-FI

Poster by Universal Pictures

E.T. the Extra Terrestrial (1982) A troubled child summons the courage to help a friendly alien escape Earth and return to his home world.

Starring: Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Peter Coyote, Dee Wallace Director: Steven Spielberg FILM-NOIR, MYSTERY, THRILLER

DRAMA, MYSTERY

Poster by Universal Pictures

DRAMA, ROMANCE

Poster by Columbia Pictures

Poster by Paramount Pictures

Back to the Future (1985)

Forrest Gump (1994)

Marty McFly, a 17-year-old high school student, is accidentally sent thirty years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his close friend, the eccentric scientist Doc Brown.

Starring: Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson Director: Robert Zemeckis

The presidencies of Kennedy and Johnson, the events of Vietnam, Watergate, and other historical events unfold through the perspective of an Alabama man with an IQ of 75, whose only desire is to be reunited with his childhood sweetheart.

Starring: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise, Sally Field Director: Robert Zemeckis

ACTION, ADVENTURE, DRAMA

DRAMA

The Shawshank Redemption (1994) Two imprisoned men bond over a number of years, finding solace and eventual redemption through acts of common decency.

Starring: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler Director: Frank Darabont CRIME, DRAMA

MYSTERY, THRILLER

Poster by Mercury Productions

Poster by London Film Productions

Citizen Kane (1941)

The third man (1949)

Following the death of publishing tycoon Charles Foster Kane, reporters scramble to uncover the meaning of his final utterance; ‘Rosebud’.

Starring: Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten, Dorothy Comingore, Agnes Moorehead Director: Orson Welles

Pulp novelist Holly Martins travels to shadowy, postwar Vienna, only to find himself investigating the mysterious death of an old friend, Harry Lime.

Starring: Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, Trevor Howard Director: Carol Reed

Poster by Toho Company

Seven Samurai (1954) A poor village under attack by bandits recruits seven unemployed samurai to help them defend themselves.

Starring: Toshirô Mifune, Takashi Shimura, Keiko Tsushima Director: Akira Kurosawa

Poster by Paramount Pictures Poster by Paramount Pictures

Rear Window (1954) A wheelchair-bound photographer spies on his neighbors from his apartment window and becomes convinced one of them has committed murder.

Starring: James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey, Thelma Ritter Director: Alfred Hitchcock

The Godfather (1972) The aging patriarch of an organized crime dynasty transfers control of his clandestine empire to his reluctant son.

Starring: Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Diane Keaton Director: Francis Ford Coppola

Ramstein

For reservations & information call 06371-937037 For all movies and showtimes visit

w w w. b r o a d w a y k i n o . c o m / k m c

Photo by Monkey Business Images/SHutterstock.com

March 27, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

Page 23