Special edition April - September 2018
Welcome to Wiesbaden
OUR HOME IN
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WELCOME TO GERMANY Special edition April - Sept. 2018 U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Command Garrison Commander Col. Todd J. Fish Garrison CSM Command Sgt. Maj. Chad L. Pinkston
Newspaper staff Public Affairs Officer Jacob Corbin, DSN 548-2001 Deputy Public Affairs Officer Anna Morelock, DSN 548-2002 Editor Emily Jennings, DSN 548-2004
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 biweekly newspaper published by AdvantiPro GmbH and printed by Oggersheimer Druckzentrum. Circulation is 6,000 copies. For display advertising rates: call Jaqueline Samad at civ (0631) 3033 5537, email ads@herald-union.com; Editorial offices are in Building 1205 on Clay Kaserne. Address: USAG Wiesbaden, Herald Union, Unit 29623 Box 60, APO AE 090059623; Telephone: mil 548-2002; civ (0611) 143-548-2002; Email: army. wiesbadenpao@mail.mil; Home page: www.wiesbaden.army.mil.
Religious Support Office promotes unit, Family readiness Anna Morelock USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Many new arrivals to U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden stay in Army Lodging on Hainerberg. One of their best resources lies right across the street — Hainerberg Chapel. USAG Wiesbaden’s Religious Support Office provides religious support for those who want to exercise their first amendment right to worship according to their conscience. They also are a conduit to connect community members to each other, as well as to garrison resources. “We’re very much a part of building a ready and resilient community because our programs and our organizations allow for people to connect with other people,” said garrison chaplain, Lt. Col. Matthew Kreider. While worship services are the mainstay of the RSO, strong child, youth and spouse programs keep community members connected. Services, bulletins and announcements are keys to staying informed in the chapel community. The chaplains also are available for pastoral counseling and have an on-call chaplain for emergencies. Auxiliary ministries include Catholic and Protestant women of the chapel groups, homeschool and youth groups. The RSO’s youth programs provide an opportunity for the youth to connect with one another at a deeper relational level,
Cover photo by Emily Jennings, 2017
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Bldg. 1019 (0611) 143-548-5178 Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Saturdays and U.S. federal holidays
Hainerberg Chapel
Bldg. 7779 (0611) 143-548-5174 Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Saturdays and U.S. federal holidays
Kreider said. “Growing up in the military or being a part of a military environment comes with unique challenges for our youth,” Kreider said. “We provide them not just an atmosphere of fun and excitement, we also provide them opportunities to serve the community. We give them opportunities to express their faith and to grow in their faith.” The youth programs include service days, international service and mission trips. Most recently the youth went on a mission trip to Hungary to deliver clothing and school supplies to an orphanage. Another way to become involved is volunteering to support RSO programs including the mission trips, child and youth ministries, and weekly worship services.
Paid positions also exist for providing child care during services and auxiliary group meeting times. The RSO also makes sure Soldiers and Families are connected with their Unit Ministry Teams, which consist of a chaplain — or multiple chaplains for larger commands — and a religious affairs specialist. Outside of RSO activities, the UMTs promote various events within their own units such as worship groups and activities. They also support the RSO in providing weekly community services. Weekly Protestant, Catholic and Jewish services are offered at Hainerberg Chapel and Clay Kaserne Chapel, which is also where the RSO is located. A Muslim prayer room is available during open hours at the Clay Chapel. For Families seeking other religious services or support, the RSO is available to connect them with community resources. The chapel community offers an opportunity to build relationships. When you have good interpersonal relationships, Kreider said, you’re more resilient and better able to cope with the challenges and stressors of life. “If Wiesbaden is our home in Germany, this can be your home chapel while Germany is your home,” Kreider said. For more details about RSO services and auxiliary ministries, visit www.wiesbaden. army.mil/chaplain.
Employee Assistance Program offers help with personal, workplace challenges Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
The German-American Friendship Festival begins at the end of June.
Clay Kaserne Chapel
Many people can recall a time when they experienced a stressful situation at work or wanted to give advice to a colleague going through a difficult time. But what people may not know is community members have a resource to get help right here at U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden. The Employee Assistance Program offers free, confidential counseling and referral services for Family members, civilians and retirees. The pro-
gram is here to help employees work through various life challenges that may impact job performance, health or personal well-being. Employees can be self-referred to the program, referred by a peer or their supervisor, but don’t need a referral to go — and using the service is always voluntary, said Dr. John Kaiser, Employee Assistance Program coordinator. When a person decides to use EAP, they will receive an initial assessment, fill out paperwork and then receive up to four solution-focused counsel-
ing sessions. During the initial assessment, Kaiser works with the employee to identify the issue and the desired outcome. Subsequent counseling sessions may consist of counseling, coaching and education, and assigned homework. If necessary, a referral may be made for extended treatment or medical care, in which case the employee would then use his or her medical insurance. Reasons for seeking help from EAP include both jobrelated and personal issues such as grief, divorce, job perfor-
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
Learn more
For more information about EAP at USAG Wiesbaden, call (0611)143548-1402 or stop by Bldg. 1023 East, Room 168.
mance issues, substance abuse, financial issues and stress. For supervisors whose employees’ work performance is suffering, EAP can be a resource for early intervention. EAP is covered under AR 600-85, the Army Substance Abuse Program.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
License needed to drive on, off post Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
U.S. military personnel, civilian employees and Family members who plan to operate a privately owned vehicle while stationed in Germany will need a U.S. Forces Certificate of License, or USAREUR license.This license allows drivers to drive on and off post within Germany by passing a written test, proving they understand the road rules and signs. The test can be taken in person or online. Either way, the driver will need to bring documentation to the Drivers Training and Testing Station on Clay Kaserne and pay the required $20 fee for the license, said Michael Leyba, transportation specialist at the DTTS. Once a driver passes the test, they are eligible for a temporary license. The permanent license will be mailed to the driver’s CMR address within 60 days and is valid for five years, when signed and accompanied by a valid stateside license for the same class of vehicle, said Hans-Peter Moosberger, driver’s training instructor at the DTTS. Authorization to drive a POV in Germany is a privilege, not a right, as outlined in the Driver’s Handbook and
What you need
Please have the following items and information available when attending orientation and training for a driver’s license: • Valid stateside license or any other valid civilian or country driver’s license.
Online
CAC login: Personnel can take the USAREUR driver’s test online at https://jkodirect.jten.mil/. Family member login: Those without a CAC can take the test online at https://jkodirect. jten.mil/Atlas2/faces/page/login/Login.seam. Click the link “non-government/sponsored account registration”on JKO’s website. Once a user ID and password is received from JKO, users must enter this into JKO to take the test. Search the course catalogue for USA-007 for the course and USA-007B for the test. Users will be prompted to put in their DoD ID number before taking the training and test. NOTE: Family members may not use a sponsor’s CAC to log into JKO, as USAREUR will not accept the scores.
Examination Manual for Germany (AE Pam 190-34/USAFE Pam 31-206). Driving privileges may be withdrawn for offenses committed while operating a vehicle.
• DoD ID card • Sponsor’s social security number and DoD ID card number • $20 check, money order, credit card or debit card (no cash) • Glasses or contacts (if needed to pass eye test)
Completing the training: The course number and orientation are USA-007 and USA007B. After taking the test, it will take 48 hours for the DTTS to receive the final score. Bring the two certificates (USA-007 and USA-007B), a valid ID card, valid stateside or country driver’s license and $20 (no cash accepted). Orientation and test results are valid for 60 days after taking the class and test. If a driver fails the online test, they can take it again the same day. Prepare for the test by reviewing the driver’s handbook at: www.eur.army.mil/rmv/ Drivers_Handbook/default.htm and taking a practice test at www.usareurpracticetest.com. A current eye test by an optometrist (within 60 days) is required for applicants over 65 who are applying for an initial or replacement U.S. Forces Certificate of License.
• Unit (Company, Battalion, Detachment, DoDEA, AAFES, or whatever applies) • Full CMR address (Must be driver’s mailing address, not somebody else’s or a unit address) • DSN (Work phone of sponsor) or other contact telephone number
In person
To take the test in person, customers should attend one of the regularly scheduled orientation and testing times: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at 7:25 a.m. in Bldg. 1023W, Room 324 on Clay Kaserne. The DTTS is closed on German and American holidays. No appointment is necessary, but the DTTS can be reached at (0611) 143-5466077/6076 for further information. If a driver fails the test, they may retake it the next day the testing is offered, arriving at 10:30 a.m. (skipping the orientation). Prepare for the test by reviewing the driver’s handbook at: www.eur.army.mil/ rmv/Drivers_Handbook/default.htm and taking a practice test at www.usareurpracticetest.com.
International license required outside Germany
U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Public Affairs Defense Department personnel stationed in Germany need an international driver’s license, in addition to a U.S. Forces Certificate of License (also known as a USAREUR license) and a valid stateside driver’s license to drive outside the country. Applicants should ensure they have the proper documentation in hand when they go to the USAG Wiesbaden Drivers Training and Testing Station before their next road trip. “For incoming personnel and Family members the priority is to get a U.S. Forces Certificate of License, to operate a privately owned vehicle on and off installations in Germany,” said Hans-Peter Moosberger, driver’s training instructor at the DTTS. However, at the start of every POV orientation Wiesbaden’s instructors tell students to not delay getting their IDLs, and obtaining the signed application from their office is the first step.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
“Every student who completes the POV orientation here, passes the written test and receives their permanent certificate of license should return to our offices for an IDL application if they plan to drive outside Germany’s borders,” Moosberger said. An IDL can’t be obtained using the temporary certificate of license issued immediately after passing the written test. To apply, visit the Wiesbaden DTTS located on Clay Kaserne, Bldg. 1023W, Room 324. Applicants should bring their USAREUR license and a valid stateside license. The application must be completed in person and signed by DTTS personnel. It takes approximately 10 minutes. No appointment is required; however, applicants can call ahead to determine staff availability at (0611) 143-5466076/6077. Next, bring the signed application, a single passport photo, your U.S. Forces Certificate of License, official or tourist passport (red or blue), valid
stateside driver’s license, Department of Defense ID card and 15 euros to the off-post KFZ-Zulassungsstelle (the German equivalent of the Department of Motor Vehicles) located in Wiesbaden-Schierstein. “No additional driver’s test is required to get an IDL; just some paperwork, valid documentation and 15 euros,” said Michael Leyba, transportation specialist at the DTTS. Some navigation systems may direct drivers past the facility to the “Federal Mogul” building; however, the vehicle entrance to the KFZZulassungsstelle is immediately past the blue sign for “TÜV Hessen Service Center” on the right-hand side of the street. Free parking is available. “They offer extended evening hours until 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, which makes it a convenient time to visit the facility,” Moosberger said. When entering the building, get a number from the small electronic kiosk in the waiting area.The kiosk screen will read, “Warteticket.” Press the orange
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
button with the word “Fahrerlaubnisbehörde.” A paper ticket will print with a customer number that begins with the letter “F.” Pay attention to the screens on the wall. When the number comes up on the screen, the appointment will be upstairs on the second floor (1. Stock, in German) in the room (Raum) indicated on the screen. After processing, applicants return downstairs to pay at the “Kassenautomat,”a self-service pay station,before the IDL will be issued. The license costs 15 euros and must be paid in cash or with an EC card, no credit cards. Passport photos can be taken at self-service photo booths located at the food court on Clay Kaserne and the Hainerberg Exchange Mall. A booth is also located in the entrance of the KFZ-Zulassungsstelle, for those who forget to bring one. Four photos cost 5 euros. Don’t forget scissors to cut one photo from the page. The IDL is valid for a maximum of three years, or as long as the accompanying stateside license is valid.
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
ACS offers assistance with employment Karl Weisel U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Family and MWR
Finding rewarding volunteer or income opportunities can be a major quality of life issue for newcomers to Germany. Making Army Community Service one of their first stops upon arriving in the Wiesbaden military community will ensure a wealth of assistance in that endeavor. Besides offering regular monthly classes in resume writing and how to successfully navigate and use the federal jobs website — USAJobs.gov — ACS’s Employment Readiness Program provides outreach through its Java and Jobs program, interview skills training, career fairs and more. “One of the things we do at Employment Readiness is interview techniques training, said Lewis Boatner, Employment Readiness Program manager. “It’s just like a mock interview.” During the training people are given
the chance to engage with interviewers, giving them a first-hand look at the interview process, Boatner said. “We tell them to just be confident,” Boatner said, adding that learning how to relax, be an active listener, present a positive attitude and know when to listen and not talk are all part of getting ready for a potential job interview. “We teach them how to pay attention to people and use strategic pauses.” The Employment Readiness Program produces a weekly jobs listing, which is posted on the Wiesbaden Family and MWR home page, wiesbaden. armymwr.com. Community members are invited to browse through the weekly
listing to see the job opportunities in and around the Wiesbaden military community. Community members can also find a list of free training opportunities on the website under the calendar link. “The resume class is designed to show participants the different types of resumes, the sections that make up the resume and which is the best type of resume to use,”Boatner said.“Participants are also shown how to use career library websites to gather information in order to create the ultimate resume.” Participants in the USAJobs class learn how to create an account, the importance of knowledge, skills and
abilities, and how to track job prospects and applications. A recent addition to the Employment Readiness Program’s many offerings is its Java and Jobs outreach effort. Most Mondays of the month community members can find an Employment Readiness Program representative at one of the many coffee locales across U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden. Community members are invited to discuss the entire job search process in a relaxed setting with an employment expert. Army Community Service officials also advise newcomers to take advantage of the many volunteer opportunities available in Wiesbaden. Not only do they offer professional development and growth potential – they are also an ideal way to gain valuable experience toward future employment. For more information on the Army Volunteer Corps and Employment Readiness Program stop by Army Community Service in Bldg. 7790 on Hainerberg or call (0611) 143-548-9201.
Volunteering: give back, connect, gain experience Lena Stange USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Volunteering can be a very rewarding activity, and people volunteer for very different reasons. Some may want to make new friends, while others wish to give back to the community. Some people may just be bored, and for others job experience is the important thing. “The reason for volunteering is very individual. But if for whatever reason people like to volunteer; whatever their motivation is, I’d like them to know that there is a place for them,” said Mary Cheney, Army Community Service volunteer coordinator. Tisha McConnell is a volunteer in Cheney’s office. She retired from the Air Force in 2014. Now she lives as a dependent in Wiesbaden. Being a dependent is much different from being active duty, she said. Everything was so structured, and then after retirement she suddenly had so much free time. “I need a sense of purpose; I need to be part of something,” McConnell said.“This is my life saver. I get to meet people; the
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other people at ACS are wonderful. You come over and there is always something to do.” McConnell volunteers as Cheney’s assistant doing schedules, reaching out to people and helping her organize. “Oh, I love that. The main thing about working with Mary is, if you come to her, she would stop what she’s doing and talk to you,” McConnell said. Cheney runs several programs and appreciates the help she receives. Cheney and McConnell agreed they are a good team. “She kind of keeps me straight,” Cheney said. When it comes to volunteering, people can choose from a variety of positions. They can
search the Volunteer Management Information System online at www.myarmyonesource. com. Volunteer positions are posted along with detailed descriptions and the possibility to apply online. Cheney said she is also happy to assist with the search. She knows what positions are open and has the connections to help when preferences are not easily met. One man wanted to cook, Cheney said. Unfortunately, she did not know of any open volunteer position. Nevertheless, she was still able to organize him a volunteer position at the Wiesbaden Dining Facility. “We take volunteers for
pretty much ever ything,” Cheney said. Open volunteer positions that need to be filled currently are bus monitors on the school buses, spouse sponsors and positions in the mailroom sorting mail. However, nearly everything is possible. Cheney also issues volunteer access cards for positions that require computer access and email addresses. Volunteer work counts as job experience. If the voluntary hours are logged, a volunteer service record is created. This record can be added to a resume and helps when it comes to searching for a new job.“Volunteering is a pay status,” Cheney pointed out.”Even though your
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
salary is $0 per hour, you’re still doing work for this organization. At the volunteer recognition ceremony, we always do a symbolic check because they put a monetary value on each volunteer hour.” For the last volunteer year, volunteer hours added up to 86,317.6. According to the department of labor, each volunteer hour is worth approximately $24. So the monetary value of all logged volunteer work was $2,083,706.86. Volunteer work is an opportunity, especially when finding work is difficult. It is a way of keeping gaps out of the resume. “I started my career as a volunteer,” Cheney said.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Keep Germany beautiful — dispose of trash properly Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
In Germany, virtually everything that can be recycled, is. Properly sorting waste into recyclable fractions saves energy, reduces air pollution, decreases greenhouse gas emissions and saves money. Personnel new to the area will need to learn how to properly sort their household garbage for recycling. That task is made easier with the use of color-coded garbage bins—yellow for plastic and metal packaging, blue for paper and cardboard, brown or green for biodegradable waste (not
available in all areas) and black for non-recyclable items. Items that do not fit in one of these categories, i.e., hazardous waste, batteries, bulk waste, electronics, clothing and shoes can be taken to the Recycling Center on Clay Kaserne for on-post residents or to public ELW Recycling Centers in the city for those living off post. Recycling containers for glass, separated by color, can be found in housing areas and at the Recycle Center on Clay Kaserne. Besides benefitting the environment, recycling saves money, said Heinz Peter Schneider, solid waste man-
ager with the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Directorate of Public Works. “If we don’t recycle, we have to pay much more,” he said, explaining that the garrison receives refunds for certain types of recyclable material and when not properly separated, that money is lost. If trash is found improperly separated, bins will not be picked up, Schneider said.This applies both on and off post. For on-post trash pick-up schedules and a list of city of Wiesbaden recycling centers, visit www.wiesbaden.army. mil/trash/index.html.
date, Flirt, love Find yoUr perFect match in wiesbaden, stuttgart & K-town
Meet people at u.S. love’S SingleS MixerS
Trash separation quick reference
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Books Brochures Cardboard (flattened) Catalogues Magazines Newspaper Office paper Paper packaging Writing paper
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
For more info and sign-up, please see www.USLoveWiesbaden.com
BIO Coffee grounds with filter paper Tea bags Food leftovers Eggshells, bones, hair Fruits and vegetables Leaves and grass Tree/hedge cuttings Paper towels/napkins
PLASTICS Aluminum foil Beverage cans Plastic bottles and cups Plastic bags Cling wrap Styrofoam Tetra packs Tins and cans
SingleS SocialS individual Match Making
connecting single service members of the U.S. Forces with German and american singles
www.USLoveWiesbaden.com
50 Years in business
COLLISON CENTER We at Auto Hollmann would like to invite you to stop by and visit our Collision Center. We have seven collision/paint technicians with a combined experience of years which enables us to fix your vehicle right the first time. We at Hollmann feel that our employees are our strongest asset so we work very hard to keep up to date with our training standards. Our techs are factory trained along with various accomplishments from the major paint manufactures.
Direct repair shop with most major insurance companies.
Climate controlled paint booth and prep station.
Bulk trash items, such as untreated wood, clothing, shoes, electronics, furniture, household batteries, etc., can be dropped off at the recycling center, Bldg. 2450 on Clay Kaserne, or with the city of Wiesbaden. For more information and on-post trash pickup schedules, visit the garrison website at: www.wiesbaden.army.mil/trash. Clothing and shoes still in usable condition can be dropped off in Aukamm at Hessenstr. 10, Westfalenstr. 25 or Württembergstr. 31; in Crestview at Plutoweg 17 or Saturnstr. 13; on Hainerberg at the Chapel (Bldg. 7779) or at the Wiesbaden Community Spouses’ Club Thrift Shop, Bldg. 2450 on Mainz-Kastel Station. Hazardous waste, such as antifreeze, cleaning agents, energy-saving light bulbs, old medicine and chemicals can be dropped off at the Hazardous Waste Storage Area, Bldg. 1224 on Clay Kaserne.
Drive-on frame and unibody straightening rack for both full frame and custom made vehicles. We have our own paint mixing system to match even the toughest colored vehicles. We offer a complete line of repair including alignments. 24 hour towing at 0171-6538059
(USAA 5 Star Shop) + We offer repairs on all makes and models + Lifetime warranty on all workmanship + Inexpensive transportation/loaner vehicle + Accurate Measuring System + All OEM Parts shipped directly from USA (US Warranty) Deliveries each week + We offer many more services + We work for all major insurance companies
Call or swing by Monday to Friday from 7 am to 7 pm or look us up on www.hollmann.us
Hochheimerstrasse 111 55246 Kastel/Kostheim Phone 06134-3381
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
Fender benders in Germany – What to do
I
t happens so fast. Your bumper scrapes another car while you are trying to fit your Americansized vehicle into a tiny German parking spot. What next? Do you act like nothing happened, because you’re sure that nobody saw it, or do you wait around, risking that it may take hours for the owner of the damaged vehicle to appear? Do you leave a note on the other car, because you have an urgent appointment to get to? “The worst thing you can do is to drive off,” said Birthe Fink, police senior inspector with the Westhesse Police Directorate, 4th Precinct. “Driving off without notifying the German police, the U.S. military police or the owner of the damaged vehicle is a criminal offense and can be punished with up to three years in prison or with a monetary fine, depending on the circumstances.” Even if the damage is very minor and if you cannot find the owner of the vehicle, you should call the local German police, and they will let you know what to do. “Here in Wiesbaden, you can call the nonemergency number of the police, which is 0611-3450 and they will notify the responsible precinct,” Fink said. However, if you don’t have this number handy, Fink emphasized that it is never wrong to call the emergency line “110.”
tommaso79/Shutterstock
Always have the emergency phone number of the German police and the U.S. Military Police programmed in your phone and call them — even when in doubt. The German police phone number is 0611-3450 for non-emergencies, or 110 for emergencies. In most cases, the police will send a vehicle to check out the damage, but sometimes they might just ask you for your information and the details of the accident and allow you to leave. However, if you do not speak German or if the police operator on the phone does not speak enough English, you can also call your local U.S. military police station. “It is very important that you actively try to report the accident either to the German police or
to the MPs,” Fink said. “The MPs will establish the connection to the German Polizei.” Looking for witnesses and documenting their names and contact information can also help. Important documents that you should always have with you besides your driver’s license are your vehicle registration and your vehicle inspection paperwork. “U.S Forces drivers should also carry the Army in Europe Form 190-1Y with their registra-
tion. This single-page form provides drivers with basic instructions of what to do if involved in a traffic accident and has a place to fill in local emergency numbers. If leaving Germany, drivers should also carry their green proof of insurance cards provided by their insurance company,” said Richard Jungmann, law enforcement operations officer with the USAG Wiesbaden Directorate of Emergency Services, Law Enforcement Branch. AER 190-1 also states that drivers must report the accident to the MPs within 72 hours. “This will help drivers if they have to appear in court and when insurance companies need information,” Jungmann said. Accidents of any kind always have to be reported to the German police and the U.S. military police. However, when you are involved in an accident, make sure you properly secure the accident site, so that you or others are not in danger. When there is only minor damage, move your vehicle to the side after taking detailed pictures of the accident. Always make sure that you have the emergency phone number of the German police and the U.S. military police programmed in your phone and call them — even when in doubt. _________________________ Story by Nadine Bower, U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Public Affairs.
Self-Help Store empowers on-post residents’ repair efforts Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
The expanded self help program is designed to use available manpower resources more effectively by encouraging troop units and government housing occupants to conserve utilities, follow good housekeeping practices, and perform simple maintenance and repair work (within their capabilities) to supplement maintenance and repair efforts. “Our mission is to help U.S. Army Family members to live comfortably in housing areas,” said Miah Azad, supervisory supply specialist with the SelfHelp Store. The Self-Help Store allows residents to accomplish minor upkeep and repair work in a
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timely manner at their convenience. Participation in the self help program is mandatory. No electrical work is authorized except as specified, i.e. replacing light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, fuses and user preventive maintenance of appliances and kitchen equipment. “There are some things the customer can do for himself, and for technical work, they contact DPW customer service,”Azad said. He encouraged newcomers living in government housing to attend self help training every Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Self-Help Store. No registration is necessary. When residents perform the minor maintenance of their housing, it allows the Directorate of Public Works
Self-Help Store
Hainerberg, Bldg. 7802, (0611) 143-548-4072, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to noon and 12:45 to 3:30 p.m. Closed U.S. and German federal holidays
maintenance workers to be available to perform repairs requiring professional skills in a more timely fashion. Flowerbeds may be planted as a self-help beautification effort in designated areas. The planting of trees and shrubs is prohibited, as stated in the housing handbook. Planting of trees, shrubs and hedges is
Emily Jennings/USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Supplies and tools for cleanup and simple maintenance and repairs are available at the Self-Help Store. the responsibility of DPW and will be accomplished as part of the landscape program, in accordance with the Installation Design Guide. Vegetable gardens are not authorized in Army Fam-
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
ily housing areas; unattended gardens present a health hazard and attract rodents that will enter into housing buildings. Residents can grow vegetables but they must utilize flower pots or flower boxes.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Sponsors are compass for newcomers Lena Stange USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
It can be confusing, if not overwhelming, when nearly everything in life is new. Relying on some kind of compass to navigate the new environment can be very helpful. The sponsorship programs for spouses, civilians, adolescents and Soldiers are exactly that: a kind of compass that helps newcomers transition smoothly into their new lives. While Soldiers and civilian employees normally start out their work pretty quickly after arrival, and thus have the possibility to have questions answered by coworkers, spouses often stay at home and have to struggle with the obstacles of daily life in a new country. “We constantly need spouse sponsors,” said Gigi Wilson, the Relocation Readiness Program manager, who is responsible for the Spouse Sponsorship Program. If the sponsorship program is run the right way, newcomers feel welcome and part of the community, she said. When people know there is someone, they are not alone; lots of problems can be prevented. Sponsors can make a big difference, and on average, newcomers get used to their new homes within some weeks. Potential sponsors receive a one-hour online training, and a one- to two-hour face-to-face training to make them feel comfortable helping spouses integrate
Soldier Sponsorship Program
Spouse Sponsorship Program
Contact gaining unit.
Contact Army Community Service: 0611-143-548 9202
Youth Sponsorship Program Contact the School Liaison Officer in advance:
Maurice Walter maurice.j.walter.ctr@mail.mil Gigi Wilson geraldine.g.wilson.civ@mail.mil
Peter Witmer peter.g.witmer.naf@mail.mil Civilian Sponsorship Program Contact gaining unit.
Triff/Shutterstock.com
into their new lives. If questions or problems arise that the sponsor cannot handle, ACS is always a good resource for help. They have counselors who help with transitional depressions, Family issues and other problems. Sponsors are expected to give a warm welcome, answer lots of questions on daily life and give tours of the garrison
and the surrounding areas. If sponsors put themselves in the shoes of the newcomers, and remember their own arrival, they are probably doing the right thing, said Maurice Walter, Army Community Service sponsorship coordinator. However, not only the spouses benefit from the program: new and long-lasting friendships might arise, and every spon-
sor is registered in the ACS volunteer program, the hours are tracked, and a volunteer service record is created, which can be added to the resume.When searching for a new job, this can be of great help. Soldiers and civilians who change duty stations within the Army usually receive a Sponsorship Program Counseling and Information Sheet where they can request a sponsor for themselves. Walter said if the spouse also needs a sponsor, that can be indicated in the additional comments section; however, new spouses are always welcome to contact the ACS Spouse Sponsorship Program to have a sponsor assigned. Sponsors and spouses are normally matched to be in similar life situations. For spouses who accompany their husbands or wives for the first time, there are additional opportunities to get used to Army life abroad. They can, for example, take part in Army Family Team Building trainings to learn about military life. The sponsorship program is also a chance to meet people and get involved. ACS Volunteer Coordinator Mary Cheney used to be a spouse sponsor. “I enjoyed being a sponsor because I like to be able to share the knowledge that I have gained having been here. And it made me feel good to be able to make the transition easier for people who come here. Moving to a new place can be very scary, especially when you do not speak the language,” Cheney said.
Garrison commander OKs businesses to operate on post Anna Morelock USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Whether baking cakes, preparing taxes, teaching languages, or selling skin care products, home-based businesses can be a good way for Family members to maintain employment during multiple moves with their Soldiers. However, Family members wanting to operate a business need to ensure they have the proper approval as a home-based business. The best place to start is with the home-based business checklist on the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden website, said Donald Rosenkrans, Commercial Affairs officer.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
Uber Images/Shutterstock
Home-based businesses must register with the garrison and host nation.
Approval from the garrison commander takes about a week once the packet is complete, he said. One of the most important pieces of the process is ensuring business owners are properly registered with the host nation, Rosenkrans said. The cost is approximately 33 euros to register for a German tax identification number, and that takes four to five weeks. That’s the longest part of the
process, he said. Rosenkrans said those working through the process are always welcome to call him with questions. Current HBB operators also have a group on social media where they network and answer each other’s questions, he said. For more information on home-based business approval, visit www.wiesbaden. army.mil/employment or call (0611) 143-548-1003.
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
PCS can be Positive Change in School
P
arents, no one knows your needs or your Family’s needs more than you, so prepare in advance for your move, your PCS—Positive Change in School. Start with this simple Get ready, Get set, Go! checklist
and ESL records as applicable • Contact information for two local emergency contacts.
Internet resources
Get ready – to leave!
• Learn about school acceleration, and find out if your child qualifies, 30 to 90 days in advance. • Learn end of year and semester completion requirements. • Allow at least two weeks to complete withdrawal paperwork and request current official transcripts. Official transcripts may not be available immediately at the end of the school year. • Ask early for teacher, coach or counselor recommendations. • Request an appointment with the school’s guidance counselor. This is especially important for high school students.
Get ready – to arrive!
• Reach out, gather information and don’t assume you know the answers. • Reach forward, use available resources; school liaison officers exist around the world to assist with information and resources. • Research to select a school before you select a home, as enrollment is likely tied to your address. Be aware that if attending school when in a hotel, your child will attend the school zoned for the hotel. • Request a housing assignment letter, off-post lease agreement or lodging receipt to determine school zone.
Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock
School officials recommend allowing at least two weeks to complete withdrawal paperwork. • Get a youth sponsor (sixth through 12th grade). Contact the SLO at the gaining installation. • Downloading the new school’s registration packet, if possible. • Inquire about extra-curricular and sports tryout information. • Avoid roadblocks. All 50 states and Washington, D.C., are signatories to the Military Interstate Compact Commission to make transitions easier for military children. Find out how it works and is implemented in your new state: www.mic3.net/.
Get set!
• Confirm gaining school immunization requirements. • Return books and equipment. • Take school exit surveys. • Gather JROTC or other records. • Close out school lunch account. • Assemble free or reduced lunch status documentation. If moving to another duty station you should begin your PCS process about six months from your report date.
• Sign up for before and after school care, sports, and other activities. Contact Parent Central Services about transferring your registration. • Leave postage to cover shipping if you are due items such as yearbooks.
Go!
Hand carry the following items: • Birth certificate, passport and immunization record • Health records and sports physical • Legal documents (i.e. custody papers) • Sponsor’s orders (or verification of employment letter, contract, and personnel action) • Proof of command sponsorship • Copy of transcripts and cumulative folder • Current school schedule and course descriptions • Report card, withdrawal grades and progress reports • Test scores and formal assessments • Up-to-date individualized education plan (IEP), 504 Plan, IFSP,
Use the resources below to learn about and evaluate stateside schools. • School Liaison Officer page wiesbaden.armymwr.com/programs/ school-liaison-officer-slo • Military One Source - www.militaryonesource.mil • School Quest - www.schoolquest.org • Great Schools - www.greatschools. org (Be aware that unfiltered parent comments are posted on this site and may be inaccurate. However, this site does provided some good data.) • Neighborhood Scout - www. neighborhoodscout.com • School Digger - www.schooldigger. com • National Assessment of Educational Progress - https://nces.ed.gov/ nationsreportcard
Homeschool students
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 U.S. states; however, each state has its own requirements and legal structure. The Homeschool Legal Defense Association website, www.hslda.org/ laws, will help homeschool Families identify low, moderate and high regulation and no regulation states. A number of active homeschooling groups exist in Wiesbaden for Families here under SOFA. _________________________ This article was written by Peter Witmer, USAG Wiesbaden School Liaison Officer. Contact the School Liaison Office at (0611)143-548-9305.
Make vehicle registration appointments online Anna Morelock USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
In the states and overseas, drivers must register their vehicles to enjoy the privilege of driving on and off post. It’s a box to check when settling in as a newcomer, and a task that not many enjoy. Over the past couple of years, Mike Jungmann, the operations officer for the Directorate of Emergency Services, has been working with his team to make the vehicle registration process less cumbersome for U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden. In February, the office moved to an online appointment system customers can access using their common access
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cards.When prompted to choose a CAC certificate, users should choose their email certificate, or they may receive an error message when logging in to the system. Appointments can be made online for new registrations, plate turn-in, replacement of lost or stolen plates and registrations, transferring or selling vehicles, and other registration-related items. DES also offers checklists on its webpage to help guide customers through the various vehicle registration processes. One tip Jungmann stressed for customers who will be re-registering their vehicles is to remember they can update their registrations well in advance of its
expiration. Notices are sent to vehicle owners 75 days prior to registration expiration. Some people think if they re-register their vehicle on day 74, they are losing time on their new registration. That is not true, Jungmann said. In fact, the sooner vehicles are re-registered, the easier it will be if the owner faces any issues with the inspection. If a vehicle needs to be repaired before it passes inspection, that can hold up the registration process. Making sure inspection and repairs are completed in a timely manner will cut down the chances the vehicle has to be parked because the registration has expired. If owners re-register their vehicles
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
early, they will just have two registrations – one, which will expire on the original date, and the new one, which will expire a year from that date. Changes in the Vehicle Registration appointment process have taken the office’s customer satisfaction rating from the mid-teens to around 85 percent, Jungmann said. “The garrison as a whole is a customer service business,” Jungmann said. “If we can make something like this that is required a little easier to deal with, it helps the whole community.” For more information on Vehicle Registration and a link to the online appointment system, visit www.wiesbaden. army.mil/vehicleregistration.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Pet owners should be aware of local laws Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Anyone who’s brought a pet overseas has already jumped through several hoops — making sure they’re microchipped and vaccinated, obtaining a health certificate and complying with airline regulations. But once here, there are still some things pet owners must take care of and some laws to be aware of. Pet owners living on post or off must register their pets at the Veterinary Treatment Facility on Clay Kaserne within two weeks of arriving in Germany, said Capt. Melissa Dugan, DVM, officer in charge at the VTF. Failure to register with the garrison could potentially result in hundreds of euros in overdue registration fees if caught. The good news is, it’s free to register pets with the garrison and it only needs to be done once at the duty station where the pet resides. Pets must have been vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days before arriving in Germany, regardless of age, Dugan said. This applies to pets even from another country within the European Union. A
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
pet purchased outside of Germany in the EU will need a pet passport with current rabies vaccine and microchip information. Airlines may have additional requirements. The VTF is open to all DoD ID card holders, however, services are limited at this time. Personal pets are secondary to the military working dog mission. The VTF can administer vaccines and health certificates, but is not doing surgeries or boarding. The facility has a very limited number of openings for dental and sick call appointments, but the goal of these types of procedures is for the Veterinary Corps officers and military technicians to maintain their clinical proficiency. The VTF provides an in-briefing for pet owners, which includes information on off-post veterinarians, boarding, grooming, obedience training and other services. The clinic is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday from 8 a.m. to noon and Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. They are closed federal holidays. Call (0611)143546-0700 to make an appointment.
Know the rules in Germany Some German laws that dog owners should be aware of: 1. The use of electrical devices for disciplinary purposes is not allowed. 2. A dog may only be kept in a crate a maximum of two hours per day. 3. Dogs up to 50 cm tall need a minimum of six square meters of floor space, 50 to 65 cm need eight and more than 65 cm need 10. 4. Tie outs must allow a dog to move at least six meters, five meters side-to-side, and be attached so that the dog may go to its dog house, lie down, turn around and move freely without risk of injury. Only wide harnesses or collars that do not tighten themselves can be used. Tie outs are prohibited for dogs that are younger than 12 months, ill or pregnant. 5. If a dog is kept outdoors, it must have a dog house made of thermally insulating material. The dog house must be big enough so the dog can turn around and lie comfortably and keep the shelter warm with its own body heat if there is no heating. 6. At least twice a day, a dog must have at least two hours of contact with its owner or care
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
provider, such as play, walking or dog school. 7. Twice a day for one hour, dogs must have a chance to run freely, if kept in a kennel otherwise. 8. Dogs must be kept on a leash inside developed areas at all times. Outside developed areas, dogs must automatically be put on a leash if other people are approaching. Violating this rule may be punished by fines up to 5,000 euros. 9. Owners must dispose of pet waste properly. 10. During quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m., dog owners must ensure neighbors are not disturbed by barking, whining or howling. Outside these hours, dog owners must ensure dog noises last no longer than 10 minutes in a row, or exceed 30 minutes cumulatively per day. 11. Pets are not allowed to run free. The owner may be held liable for any bodily injuries or property damage that the pet may cause. German law imposes strict liability on the owner for damages, regardless of whether the pet is in the possession of the owner. Therefore, it is recommended that pet owners obtain liability insurance.
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
Missing something in your life?
FIND HUNDREDS OF NEW AND USED CARS 24/7.
CARS Page 10
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Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Passports: What you need to know Electronic Foreign Clearance Guide (www.fcg.pentagon.mil). This website lists every country in the world and what is needed to travel there; whether for leisure travel or official travel. Please note, this website can only be accessed from a U.S. government computer.
Military Personnel Division Supervisor Gary Beatty answers some frequently-asked questions about tourist and official passports.
How long does it take to get a tourist passport? It could take anywhere from three to six weeks depending on the time of year. Peak travel season is the summer time, so more people apply for passports in that time. Being overseas is also a factor when PCS season is at its highest. How long does it take to get an official passport? This one takes a bit longer. It can take between four and 10 weeks. Which passport should people carry when traveling outside of Germany on leisure? The traveler must always have two things in their possession when traveling outside of Germany for leisure purposes; their tourist passport and
Do babies need a passport? Absolutely. Anyone traveling to another nation requires a passport, regardless of age.
Emily Jennings/USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Summer is peak travel season, so people planning vacations should factor in more time for processing a tourist passport during this time. proof of their SOFA status. In some cases, the SOFA is stamped inside of the official passport, which means the traveler will have to have both the tourist and official, but the tourist passport should be used exclusively while on leisure travel.
Is it ok to use your tourist passport when you’re on orders? Or vice versa? There are many different answers to that question depending on what country the traveler is visiting. We encourage anyone planning travel who has these questions to check the
Do I need a passport to cross over into another EU country, such as Strasbourg, France? Yes. EU citizens have specific IDs that they may use to cross into any EU country, but non-EU citizens must have a valid passport before crossing any border. While the EU does have open borders, there are check points at each border crossing point, and the authorities from that nation can perform random checks.
2018 BOYS SOCCER COLLEGE SHOWCASE CAMP BITBURG, GERMANY 1 – 3 JUNE 2018 • College coaches will run 6-8 sessions (field – classroom sessions), provide individual feedback • to players and give a presentation about athletics at universities, leadership and being a student athlete. Additionally, the coaches will provide information about the registration process with the NCAA Eligibility Center. • Follow up on our Facebook and our new website pages for updates and where to add your personal video to showcase your skills. • Facility Sportschule Bitburg http://sportschule-bitburg.de/ • Cost 330 Euro – includes room, board and training from college coaches • Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ CollegeSoccerShowcaseCamp • Website http://soccercampeurope.wix.com/soccercampeurope • For additional information and registration please email collegesoccercamp@gmx.de
COLLEGES COMMITTED TO ATTENDING: • • • • •
United States Military Academy – West Point (NCAA Div I) United States Naval Academy (NCAA Div I) United States Merchant Marine Academy (NCAA Div III) Brown University (NCAA Div I) Jacksonville University (NCAA Div I)
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
• • • • •
University of Dubuque (NCAA Div III) University of Wisconsin (NCAA Div I) University at Albany (NCAA Div I) University of Pittsburgh (NCAA Div I) University of Vermont (NCAA Div I)
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
• • • •
Concordia College - Moorhead (NCAA Div III) Benedictine College (NAIA) Santa Clara University (NCAA Div I) Hawaii Pacific University (NCAA Div II)
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ROADMAP
Passports and ID
Get tourist passports ports, SOFA cards and pendent ID cards in Bld Clay Kaserne. The U.S. consulate does not process tourist plications for DoD ID car passport applications mu the passport office on Cl Get answers to freq questions on Page 11 of Find out more at ww army.mil/passports.
to inprocessing
Getting around
• USAG Wiesbaden has a free shuttle service that runs between Aukamm, Crestview, Hainerberg, Clay Kaserne and Mainz Kastel. • To view city bus routes and buy tickets, go to rmv.de. A one-way adult bus ticket within the area runs €2.80, but riders can save money if going only a few stops or buying a round-trip ticket or group ticket. Buy bus tickets online, using the RMV app, at kiosks at some bus stops or directly from bus drivers. • One authorized taxi company currently services U.S. Army installations in Wiesbaden. They can be reached at 0611-444-444. Learn more about getting around the area at www.wiesbaden.army.mil/transportation.
Register your vehicle
Vehicles brought from the U.S., or purchased locally, must be registered with USAREUR. Pick up your vehicle and get it inspected and registered at Mainz Kastel Station, Bldg. 4013. Learn more about vehicle pickup at pcsmypov.com. Vehicle registration is by appointment only Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is closed American and German holidays and the last work day of the month. To schedule an appointment online, go to www.wiesbaden.army.mil/vehicleregistration. Read more about online vehicle registration on Page 8. For more information, call (0611)143-548-7815.
Enroll your kids in school
USAG Wiesbaden has four schools. Aukamm and Hainerberg elementary schools serve students through fifth grade; Wiesbaden Middle School is for students in sixth through eighth and Wiesbaden High School is for ninth through 12th grades. School Liaison Officer Peter Witmer offers tips on a smooth PCS on Page 8.
Register your pets
Any pets you own while in Germany must be registered with the Veterinary Treatment Facility on post. Failure to register them could lead to fines by the city. Read more on Page 9.
Obtain a U.S. Forces driver’s license
To drive your car on and off post in Germany, you’ll need a U.S. Forces Certificate of License (also known as a USAREUR license). Take the test in Bldg. 1023 West, Room 324 on Clay Kaserne, or online. Call 0611-143-546-6076/6077. Learn more about the exam requirements, cost and what documents to bring on Page 3 of this issue.
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Welcome to Germany - April to September 2018
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
Graphic by Emily Jennings Background by SceneNature, Shutterstock.com
cards
s, official passCAC and dedg. 1023E on
Health clinic
Make appointments at www.tricareonline.com or call 06371-9464-5762. The Wiesbaden Army Health Clinic does not provide emergency care. For medical emergencies, go to the nearest hospital. Find out more on Page 22 of this issue.
in Frankfurt t passport aprd holders. All ust go through lay Kaserne. quently-asked f this issue. ww.wiesbaden.
Army Community Service classes
Housing
Families and Soldiers who will be living on post should attend a housing briefing upon arrival. Visit the lending closet at ACS for items you may need while your household goods are in transit. Civilians should visit the off-post housing office for help with finding a home. Find out more at www.wiesbaden.army.mil/housing.
ACS offers classes and assistance to help with employment, sponsorship, transition, life skills and acclimation to German culture. ACS offers: • Host nation orientation • Positive guidance • Lending closet • DoD blended retirement system • Master Resiliency Training • Thrift Savings Plan • Relocation tours • Couples’ communication • Money management • Spouse sponsorship • Army Family Team Building ___________________________ • Employment readiness Stop by ACS in Bldg. 7790 on Hainerberg or call (0611)143-548-9201 for • Volunteer opportunities more information or to sign up for • Anger management classes. • Stress management
Household goods
Check with the Household Goods office, Bldg. 1023W on Clay Kaserne, and move.mil to coordinate the delivery of your belongings.
W
elcome to Wiesbaden, “Our home in Ger- units of any type are not allowed in on-post housing many.” Take it one day at a time. Your first without a special waiver. German standing fans are month will be a learning curve, but every your best bet, and fairly inexpensive to acquire. They day gets easier. might be found at the Recycle and Reuse Center. Establish a network of friends. It helps with the tran- • Do not use public transportation without a ticket. sition and settling in. Your sponsor and your Family The ticket checkers are hard to spot, and it will cost readiness coordinator are great places to start. you an immediate fine. Have fun! Wiesbaden is a great place to live,with wonder- • Cell phone and electric toothbrushes generally work ful opportunities to travel and experience other cultures. in German plugs with a simple adapter. When in doubt, check the appliance. If your computer is dual voltage, you can plug it into both 220v and 110v; the Things to know: • Most German houses do not have air conditioning latter requires a plug adapter for 220v sockets. You will likely have to flip a switch (from 110v to 220v) (nor does on-post housing). While most of the year on your computer before you turn it on. is fairly temperate, it does get hot for some weeks in the summer. Window air conditioning units and • Visit the online newcomers guide at www.wiesbaden. fans from the states will use a lot of electricity with a army.mil/newcomers for more information and helptransformer (off-post) and window air conditioning ful links.
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Welcome to Germany - April to September 2018
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WELCOME TO GERMANY News and features Stay connected, Your protection begins with you know your resources Personal and Family protective measures Anna Morelock USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Information comes from all directions these days. Knowing where to go and who to call can make all the difference when moving to a new community. Everyone at USAG Wiesbaden was a newcomer at one point and can help. Remember though, unofficial information abounds on the web. Make sure you have the correct information; ensure your news comes from an official source. A few ways to ensure you know what’s going on: Sign up for AtHoc. Soldiers and civilian employees are required to sign up for AtHoc alerts for emergency notifications. Family members are strongly encouraged to sign up, as well. AtHoc provides mass warnings via email,text or phone. For instructions on how to sign up for AtHoc, click the link at www.wiesbaden.army.mil. Find Garrison Wiesbaden online at www.wiesbaden.army. mil. For FMWR activities, visit mil www.wiesbaden.armymwr.com. Like us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/usagwiesbaden and www.facebook.com/WiesbadenArmyMWR. Herald Union in print and online: The Herald Union is published monthly and distributed to offices and services across post. It is also available online. Looking for the answer to a question about USAG Wi-
esbaden? Try searching at www. herald-union.com. Chances are there’s a story in the archive on just that topic. Check out photos from garrison events on Flickr: www. flickr.com/photos/wpao. Ask the Commander: Listen to the garrison commander’s radio spot on Armed Forces Network radio. AFN (103.7 FM) will post a notice the night before on its Facebook page. Add your questions to the post to be answered on air. CIE: Come to the Community Information Exchange, another forum to learn about community events, and ask questions of garrison leaders. The CIE is held most months and includes information from the schools, health clinic, garrison directorates, FMWR and more. If you miss the event, slides are always available on the USAG Wiesbaden website and the Herald Union online. Provide feedback: USAG Wiesbaden directorates always want to hear about your experiences. The garrison is here to support Soldiers and their Families. If you’ve received great service, send them kudos via the Interactive Customer Evaluation system. If your experience wasn’t so great, they want to know that, as well. Submit an ICE comment and be sure to include contact information for a response.
U.S. & GERMAN ATTORNEYS FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM
US & German Divorces • Support Issues Wills and Probate • Employment • EEO • MSPB Personal Injury • Contractor Issues • Tax
CALL 069-299-2069-0 email: maiss@up12legal.de
Festivals, markets and public events • • • •
Avoid high traffic or peak times Pay close attention to vehicle entry and exit points Know where emergency evacuation points are located Establish a predetermined family or group rally point
Airports • • • • •
Arrive early enough to avoid rushing, but not so early you are waiting for long periods Keep watch for suspicious or unattended bags Avoid broadcasting your DoD affiliation Stay aware of emergency escape exit points When using public transportation, aisle seats may provide shelter from external threats
• • • • •
Communication plan • •
For all trips • • • • • •
Travel in small groups and vary routes Let your unit, coworker, Family or battle buddy know where you’re going and your exptected return Be inconspicuous Do not wear clothing with U.S. or DoD markings Avoid talking loudly or drawing attention to yourself Be aware of your surroundings and potential safe havens
Rally points •
Select easily recognizable primary and
alternate meeting spots near home Also consider points near schools or other frequented locations Look for rally points that offer additional protection, such as walls, trees and barriers Make sure everyone in the Family knows where to go and what to do, and share the plan with a trusted neighbor Draw a map and discuss with Family members When traveling, identify local safe havens such as hospitals, police stations, embassies, Red Cross or the local equivalent, protected hotels, military bases and industrial complexes
• • • •
Establish an easily understood communication plan Your Family may not be together when a disaster or emergency strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review what you will do in different situations Consider a plan where Family members call or email the same friend or relative FEMA provides examples at www. fema.gov Program cell phones with emergency information Create a contact card and ensure all members have access to the card and understand how to use it.
For more information, contact the U.S. Army Europe Antiterrorism Division at (0611)143-537-3130.
Save gas money with fuel card USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
USAG Wiesbaden service members and civilian employees must have a fuel ration card to purchase tax-free gas on post and off post at designated ESSO stations. Eligible vehicles must be registered with U.S. Army Europe. Fuel cards are opened under the sponsor’s information, and rations are designated to specific
vehicles. Only the card holder can purchase tax-free fuel under the fuel card program. The ESSO Fuel Ration Card only works in Germany. Short-term fuel cards are available for up to 30 days for rental cars and vehicles registered outside of Germany. To obtain a short-term fuel card, eligible personnel will need AE Form 550-175L from
the military Customs Office or Military Police desk. The Customs Office for Wiesbaden is located in Bldg. 1025 on Clay Kaserne. The MP desk is in Bldg. 1006 on Clay Kaserne. ESSO cards for USAG Wiesbaden can be obtained at the Hainerberg Express. Learn more about the Fuel Ration Program at www.aafes. com/exchange-stores/overseas/ germany-fuel-ration/ germany-fuel-ration/.
Find resources at wiesbaden.army.mil Page 14
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Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Community notes Spouse orientation
Newcomers are invited for an in-depth look at garrison resources during the Spouse Orientation Program. Topics covered include Tricare, Child and Youth Services, housing, schools, transportation and more. Free child care is provided. Check with Army Community Service for times and dates of upcoming programs or visit wiesbaden.armymwr.com.
Job search help
Army Community Service’s Employment Readiness Program offers a wide range of classes and services to assist in finding employment. Employment Readiness can also help with mock interviews. For more information and to reserve a seat call (0611) 143-548-9201.
Red Cross orientation
American Red Cross Wiesbaden holds orientation class the second Wednesday of every month at 11:30 a.m. in Bldg. 1201 on Clay Kaserne (first floor, Red Cross conference room). Orientation lasts 45 minutes and is mandatory to become a Red Cross volunteer. For more information, call (0611)143-548-1760.
BOSS Commissary and Exchange shuttle
Single and unaccompanied service members are invited to hop on board the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers free shuttle bus to go shopping at the Wiesbaden Commissary and Exchange.The shuttle runs the first and third Thursday of every month and departs from the Warrior Zone at 6 p.m. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early.
Discover Germany
The USO Discover Germany program helps orient
newcomers to their new home. The program offers local tours with emphasis on topics such as public transportation and shopping on the economy. For more information, check out the USO’s Facebook page, USO Wiesbaden, or drop by or call one of their offices: the Exchange, open Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (0611) 9411-9306; Clay Kaserne, Bldg. 1023W, open Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., (0611)-9411-7005; or USO Wiesbaden Cottage, Washingtonstrasse 18, Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., (0611)-9411-9340.
DFAC on Facebook
Follow the Strong Europe Café – Wiesbaden Dining Facility’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/strongeuropecafe to find out what’s cooking. Themed menus are rotated throughout the week and include Mexican-style, surf and turf, soul food and more. Operating hours are Monday to Friday, 7 to 8:30 a.m.; 11:30 to 1 p.m.; and 4:30 to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Get to know the area
Wiesbaden Army Community Service invites newcomers to get an in-depth look at their home away from home
in Germany during Host Nation Orientation on Tuesdays starting at 9 a.m. at the Wiesbaden Entertainment Center on Hainerberg. Learn about German culture, language, public transportation and more. Stop by ACS in Bldg. 7790 on Hainerberg or call (0611) 143548-9201 to sign up.
Blood drives
American Red Cross Wiesbaden holds blood drives every 56 days. Check out their Facebook page, American Red Cross Wiesbaden, for dates and times or call (0611)143548-1760. The Wiesbaden Library invites patrons to enjoy a free movie every first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. Call (0611)143-548-9821 or stop by the library to find out more.
Arts and crafts
The Arts and Crafts Center offers a Woodshop Safety Course, Picture Framing 101, crochet and knitting lessons, adult ballet and Canvas and Corkscrews painting classes. Visit wiesbaden.armymwr.com for details and class prices and times.
All about kids
Child and Youth Services offers sports programs, before and after school care, dance classes, music lessons and more. Call (0611)143-548-9356 for sports and class schedules and pricing.
See photos of garrison events at www.flickr.com/ photos/wpao
Rejuvenation Ministry Center
Sunday Night 5:30 p.m.
od ’s Where G taught Word is ying while enjo rew God ’s B
Nassaustrasse 17c 65719 Hofheim am Taunus
www.rejuvenationmc.com
UPCOMING SPECIAL SERVICES & EVENTS:
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
American Red Cross Wiesbaden offers monthly adult and youth CPR courses. Events are posted on their Facebook page.
The Auto Skills Center on Clay North offers general automotive services, tire service, tire pressure monitoring
Sunday worship (Holy Eucharist) at 10am including Sunday School & fellowship Wednesday Worship at 10.00 a.m. followed by Bible Study
www.dogschool.marionvelten.de
Army Community Service offers Army Family Team Building classes, which empower members of the Army Family through self-development and leadership skills, basic Army knowledge and specialized training to maximize the participant’s personal and professional potential. Interested
Learn CPR
Auto skills
English speaking Episcopal church in the center of Wiesbaden (since 1864) Welcoming all nationalities & denominations.
i come to your home! Cell: 0170-204 0880
Team building
groups or individuals can call (0611)143-548-9201 for additional information.
Movie matinee
The Church of St. Augustine of Canterbury
your personal dog trainer
system service, brake service, rentals and storage, towing and suspension ser vices. Customers must supply their own parts. Call (0611)143548-9817.
Maundy Thursday March 29: Simple Supper (6 p.m.); Eucharist (7 p.m.).
ch Herzli en! mm
Good Friday March 30: Special Liturgy at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Easter Day April 1: Festive Eucharist at 10 a.m. (Easter Egg Hunt to follow).
Willko m
LICENSED GM WARRANTY REPAIR GM PROFI GmbH Anton Hehn Strasse 09 55246 Mainz Kostheim-Kastel
0 61 34 - 616 92
Friday April 13: Bible/Book Study at 7.30 p.m. (Parsonage). Friday April 20: Singer Songwriter Concert at 7.30 p.m.
Frankfurter Strasse 3 • 65189 Wiesbaden • 0611 30 66 74 www.staugustines.de • parish@staugustines.de
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018 March 29, 2018
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SPORTS & LEISURE
Sports shorts Penny-a-pin bowling
Enjoy Wiesbaden Entertainment Center’s Penny-A-Pin Bowling every Wednesday from 3 to 11 p.m. Pay only for the pins you knock down (knock down 123 pins while bowling and only pay $1.23). Pay us in cash and we will round down for you.
Boot camp
Boot Camp training begins with stretching and running, followed by a wide variety of interval training. Sessions usually finish with yoga stretching. Many other exercises using weights or body weight, similar to functional fitness routines, are used to lose body fat, increase cardiovascular efficiency, increase strength, and help people get into a routine of regular exercise. Participants will weigh-in prior to commencement and again at the end of this six-week fitness program. This program additionally offers two weekend nutritional seminars. Upcoming dates are April 2 to May 15; May 28 to July 5 and July 23 to Aug. 30.
Outdoor Recreation rentals
Outdoor Recreation offers rentals for camping, parties, skiing, hunting and cycling. In addition, they offer maintenance services for skis and bikes. For more information, contact (0611)143548-9830 or visit wiesbaden.armymwr. com for a price list.
Late night bowling
Enjoy the company, lights and great atmosphere of some late night bowling every Friday and Saturday evening from 8 p.m. to midnight. Get a strike on a redhead pin and win a free game. Get three strikes on three red-head pins and win a pizza and bowling package.
Group fitness classes
The Fitness Center offers a variety of ongoing classes for all levels. Body Tone is an intense full-body conditioning class, designed to sculpt and increase muscle tone utilizing circuit training,interval training,plyometrics,supersets and weighted lifting. The routine changes constantly so participants do not get bored. Total Body Express is designed to strengthen the core muscles with an added aerobic aspect to burn fat and tone abs. Core training is an effective way to reduce the risk of lower back and neck pain, strained ligaments and poor posture. Functional Fitness Training incorporates a variety of movements at high intensity, taking everyday functional movements and strengthening the entire body to improve speed, flexibility, power and endurance.
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Plan your next adventure with Wiesbaden Outdoor Recreation Karl Weisel U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Family and MWR
If you didn’t get a chance to hit the slopes with Wiesbaden Outdoor Recreation, fear not, there are plenty more opportunities for outdoor adventures in the coming months. “Our focus is to develop new adventure programs for our community with biking, canoeing, stand-up paddling, sport shooting and much more,”said Joseph Harris, Wiesbaden Outdoor Recreation director. Outdoor Recreation planners are looking forward to a range of outdoor adventures including bike trips, barbecue and camping trips on the Mosel River, whitewater rafting in the Alps, biking along the Rhein River, downhill mountain biking, rock climbing, scuba diving, ropes courses and various classes, Harris said. Many community members took advantage of Outdoor Recreation’s skydiving trips last season. This year people can look forward to several dates including June 23, Aug. 18 and Sept. 1. Individuals are invited to take a tandem jump with a skydiving expert over the skies of Bitburg. Cost of the trip is $299 including skydiving and round-trip transportation from Wiesbaden for the one-day adventure. Soldiers and civilians who made the jump last summer described skydiving as “amazing – the freefall was the best part,” “a great opportunity,” and “exhilarating.” In addition to outdoor adventures, Harris said, Outdoor Recreation will also be offering trips to historical cities, the Munich Oktoberfest and Bad Dürkheim Wurst and Wine Festival. Those who like to fish, hunt or get some time on the range will also find plenty of opportunities in the coming months. “We can assist you in doing your hobbies here in Germany,”said Albert Klaver,Wiesbaden’s Hunting, Fishing and Sport Shooting manager. Outdoor Recreation regularly hosts U.S. Forces German hunting and fishing courses to provide the training, knowledge and skills to hunt and fish while serving overseas. “We teach you the laws, traditions and what you need to do to get your license,” Klaver said. Those who complete the training and join their host nation counterparts
Courtesy photo
Outdoor Recreation offers skydiving trips June 23, Aug. 18 and Sept. 1 in Bitburg. are welcomed into an age-old tradition of helping protect resources while enjoying the sport and camaraderie. “You’re more of a game warden (hunters in Germany) and assist in conservation of the animals and land,” Klaver said. “You are knighted into a guild” during a special ceremony. “Traditions are very meaningful and honor the animals that you take on a hunt.” A U.S. Forces German hunting course is scheduled for Aug. 7 through Oct. 27 including classroom instruction on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. and shooting and practical range exercises on Friday afternoons. The cost is $250 including the registration fee, all classes and membership in the Wiesbaden Hunting, Fishing and Sport Shooting Program. Outdoor Recreation offers recreational shooting and shooting competitions throughout the year. Community members who would like hone their skills can head to the McCully Range in Wackernheim on April 21, May 19, June 9, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 22, Oct. 13 or Nov. 17. “Stop by on our range day. Safety briefings are at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.,” Klaver said, explaining that the briefing is mandatory for those new to the Outdoor Recreation shooting program. “Then you can pay the entrance fee, firearm rental and purchase ammo right on the spot,” he added. The cost to shoot is $8 per person for Wiesbaden Hunting, Fishing Sport Shooting members or $12 for non-members. A Family rate is also available. Outdoor Recreation hosts shooting competitions, including rifle and pistol categories, on April 21, May
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
19, June 9, Sept. 22, Oct. 13 and Nov. 17. The competitions are aimed at ensuring participants stay compliant with regulations to retain their sport shooting certification and to support the local hunting community, Klaver said. Military units can take advantage of the Warrior Adventure Quest program through Outdoor Recreation. The specially tailored “high-adventure”activities are geared primarily to units that are getting ready to deploy or that have recently returned from deployment as a way to enhance cohesion, morale and combat readiness. “Outdoor Recreation can also help plan your military unit or private organization programs and trips, to include lodging and transportation,” said Harris, adding that the staff is looking in to the possibility of selling tickets to outdoor adventure parks in Europe such as Europa Park and providing bus rental services. “We can also provide advice on local locations to visit, bike and hiking routes, and activities,” Harris said. In addition to a wide range of equipment available for rent through Outdoor Recreation, paint ball, archery and bicycle maintenance services, community members can take advantage of seasonal bike rentals – May 1 through Sept. 30. For more information on all of Outdoor Recreation’s programs and services – or to get involved as a volunteer – stop by the Wiesbaden Sports, Fitness and Outdoor Recreation Center on Clay Kaserne, call (0611) 143-548-9830 or visit the Wiesbaden Family and MWR home page at wiesbaden.armymwr.com/categories/ outdoor-recreation.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Supervision guide helps keep kids safe
Army in Europe Child and Youth Supervision Guidelines by Age Age of Child
May be left alone at home for < 2 hours
May be left alone overnight
May be left outside unattended
May be left in vehicle unattended
May babysit siblings
May babysit others
Age 10, No.
Age 10, No.
Age 11, Yes. Up to 2 hours. **
Age 11, Yes. May babysit only for siblings or close Family friends for up to 2 hours. **
Yes. Up to 3 hours maximum. **
Yes. **
Newborn to age 4
5-6 years old*
No. At age 6, may walk to and from school.
Yes. In playgrounds or yards with immediate access (sight or hearing distance) to adult supervision.
7-9 years old
No. May walk to and from school.
Yes. In playgrounds or yards with immediate access (sight or hearing distance) to adult supervision.
Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs The Army in Europe Child and Youth Supervision Policy offers guidelines that apply to children of all personnel, both on and off post. “It is very important that parents review it and adhere to it to assist in preventing child neglect and abuse,” said Tameka Howlett, Family Advocacy Program manager at U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden. The Army Community Service FAP, in Bldg. 7780 on Hainerberg, can provide copies and more information. Although every child develops and matures at a different pace, the policy provides a minimum guideline for when children can be left alone at home or in a vehicle or babysit other children. For example, children up to age 4 may never be left alone under any circumstances. Parents must accompany kindergarteners to and from school or their bus stop. At age 10, children may be left at home alone for less than six hours as long as they have phone access to an adult supervisor. At age 11, children may babysit siblings or close Family friends for up to two hours; however, it is highly recommended that youth complete the Red Cross Babysitters Course before babysitting. Youth ages 15 and up may be left alone overnight as long as they have access to adult supervision and their sponsor is in the local area. For more detailed information about specific ages and situations and country-specific guidance, see the chart on this page and read the policy at www.wiesbaden.army.mil/policies/Child_Supervision_Guidance.pdf. sion_Guidance.pdf To talk to someone about the policy, contact the FAP staff at ACS at (0611) 143-548-9201. The FAP has prevention programming to support Families with children of all ages.
May be left alone at home for > 2 hours
10-11 years old
12-14 years old
15-17 years old
Yes. With ready access (a phone number) to an adult supervisor.
Yes. With ready access (a phone number) to an adult supervisor, but no longer than 6 hours.
Yes. Except in hot weather. Keys must be removed and the handbrake applied. Maximum 10 minutes with adult within sight. Yes. Provided keys are removed and the handbrake is applied.
Yes. With ready access (a phone number) to an adult supervisor, but no longer than 6 hours. Yes. Age 15 with access to adult supervision; sponsor in local area. Yes. Age 16 / 17 may be left alone not to exceed 5 consecutive days. Parents must designate an adult that will make daily face-to-face contact.
**
**
Notes: * Children enrolled in DODDS Kindergarten, regardless of their age, must always be accompanied by a parent or designated caregiver when walking to and from school or a bus stop and while waiting at a bus stop. * Refer to country-specific guidance available at the Army Community Service, Family Advocacy Program. It is highly recommended that youth who wish to babysit (siblings or others) complete the Red Cross Babysitters Course.
Are you a trained Graphic Designer and looking for some part-time work? Then we are looking for you! Must have experience with Adobe Illustrator and InDesign. Please send your resume and examples of past work to jobs@advantipro.de This job is tax free and paid in Euros. Approx. work per month is 35-40 hours. Join our team of professional designers!
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
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Welcome to Germany â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April to September 2018
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Sprechen Sie Deutsch? Find resources on post Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Even though Germans are known for being able to speak English, learning to speak their language can greatly enhance the experience of living in Wiesbaden. Sure, it’s possible to get by in Germany without speaking the language, but for those who will be here a while, being able to confidently order food, buy a bus ticket, read signs, ask for directions or just chat with the locals can make for a more enjoyable time. Many resources can be useful even before moving to Germany, such as online videos, mobile phone apps and software programs, all of which have the advantage of being available at the time
or location of the user’s choice. Once here,community members have access to garrison resources, such as the Wiesbaden Library, Army Community Service conversational classes and the University of Maryland University College. The Wiesbaden Library offers language resources in a variety of formats including audio CDs, books and online learning, said JoAnn Ogreenc, supervisory librarian. She recommends using the new language in real life, whether that be out at a restaurant or at the grocery store. “You have to go out and talk to people in German,” she said. Those interested in the online learning software should set up a user account
Hello: Hallo
with the library; then their language database can be accessed at any time, from anywhere in the world. For more information, call (0611)143-548-9821 or visit the library in Bldg. 1029 on Clay Kaserne. A husband and wife volunteer team hosts free conversation-based classes at ACS. Registration is mandatory, and the classes fill up quickly, said Gigi Wilson, Relocation Readiness Program manager. Classes are held Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Bldg. 7790, Room 22 on Hainerberg.Call (0611)143-548-9201 to register. The University of Maryland University College, located in Bldg. 1023 East, Room 12 on Clay Kaserne offers Elementary German I and II and Intermediate I and II.
German certificates are also available, said Anna González, program and National Test Center coordinator with UMUC Europe. “Soldiers can use their tuition assistance to pay for this Foreign Language Area Studies Certificate. Usually, TA cannot be applied if a Soldier has not been out of AIT for over a year,” she explained. “But, TA has a separate pocket of funding designated for host nation language certificates and will pay for the courses that fall under the certificate even if the Soldier graduated from AIT under a year ago.” For more information, visit their of office, call (0611)143-548-1316 or email wiesbaden-europe@umuc.edu or visit them on Facebook at UMUC Europe Wiesbaden.
What’s your name?: Wie heißen Sie? (formal) / Wie heißt du? (informal)
Good morning: Guten Morgen
ß is a German letter that is pronounced like an American s.
Good afternoon / Good evening: Guten Tag How are you?: Wie geht es Ihnen (formal) / Wie geht es Dir? Wie geht’s? (informal) Fine, thanks: Danke, gut And you?: Und Ihnen? (formal) / Und dir? (informal) Goodbye: Auf Wiedersehen Bye: Tschüss
My name is ...: Mein Name ist ... Addressing people in German
The English “you” can be translated to “Sie” (formal) or “du” (informal) in German. The formal one is usually used for adults who are not well-known and in a professional context. This is a generalized recommen- I’m American: Ich bin dation, and use might vary. Amerikaner
I don’t understand: Ich verstehe nicht
1st Floor: Erdgeschoss
Please: Bitte Thanks: Danke
Slower please: Langsamer bitte
2nd Floor: 1. Etage / Stock
Yes: Ja No: Nein
Where are you from?: Woher kommen Sie? (formal) / Woher kommst Du? (informal)
My German is not good: Mein Deutsch ist nicht gut
Elevator: Aufzug A table for two, please: Einen Tisch für zwei, bitte What would you like to drink?: Was möchten Sie trinken?
I don’t know: Ich weiß nicht Where do you live?: Wo wohnen Sie? (formal) / Wo wohnst du? (informal) I live in Wiesbaden: Ich wohne in Wiesbaden
A coffee, please: Einen Kaffee, bitte I don’t eat pork: Ich esse kein Schweinefleisch Enjoy your meal: Guten Appetit Vegetarian: Vegetarisch
Water: Wasser
Tea: Tee
Salad: Salat
Sugar: Zucker
Salt: Salz
Milk: Milch
Pepper: Pfeffer
Lactose-free: Laktosefrei
Spicy: Scharf
Large, medium, small: Groß, mittel, klein The check, please: Die Rechnung bitte Excuse me: Entschuldigung Where’s the restroom?: Wo sind die Toiletten?
I need a doctor: Ich brauche einen Arzt I need help: Ich brauche Hilfe Ambulance: Krankenwagen Police: Polizei Fire: Feuer
How much is it?: Wie viel kostet das? Graphic by Lena Stange, USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs/Images by Shutterstock.com
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
Training covers parenting tips, abuse prevention
logical, sexual and financial. Victims can be men or women. Victim Advocacy Services offers 24/7 crisis intervention, legal and medical accompaniment, safe house placement, emotional support, command liaison and respite care. Community members are urged to report domestic violence. The USAG Wiesbaden Family Advocacy Program domestic violence hotline is 0162-297-5625.
Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Many people can think of a situation where they wanted to intervene and help, but didn’t want to get involved or be nosy. When it comes to child abuse and domestic violence, garrison leaders urge community members to call police if they see or hear something concerning. Army Community Service conducts annual troop training, which consists of identification and reporting of child abuse and domestic violence, as well as learning skills for healthy and effective communication and parenting. Annual attendance is mandatory for Soldiers and highly encouraged for anyone else. Information in the training is just as applicable to civilians as it is to the Soldier, said Sarah Gordon, victim advocate coordinator with ACS. “It ends up being a really interesting, interactive class,especially when folks come prepared to discuss, opine and object,”Gordon said. Topics covered include how to identify and report abuse as well as parenting tools that may help parents avoid hitting or spanking their children. The training is required as outlined in AR 608-18.
Child abuse
Physical punishment, such as spanking, and excessive verbal punishment are illegal in Germany. According to Section 1631 of the Civil Code (translated), “Children have a right to non-violent upbringing. Physical punishments, psychological injuries and other degrading measures are inadmissible.” Parents are encouraged to check in with themselves and realize if they’re too angry to talk in the moment. “Wait until you
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How does domestic violence affect kids?
Emily Jennings/USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Sarah Gordon, victim advocate coordinator with Army Community Service, talks to Soldiers during a recent troop training in the Tony Bass Auditorium. calm down and wait until you can behave rationally,” Gordon said. “We encourage open communication and understanding. Kids are people. They are autonomous beings. Parents’ role is to open the lines of communication so that they can come talk to you when they need to.” Gordon emphasizes the importance of adding tools to the parenting toolkit. “If what we’re going for is behavior modification on the part of the child, then we need to learn what achieves that, not just on the spot,” Gordon said. “Spanking teaches kids not to get caught; it doesn’t teach them right from wrong. It doesn’t talk them through why they did what they did in the first place.” Often it’s a matter of “this is how I was raised, and I had no idea this is not something that’s recommended for
kids,” she said.
Report child abuse
Call the Military Police at 114 on post or (0611)143-548-7777.
How to help
• Be alert to what goes on around you. • Use language children understand. • Offer children support and opportunity to talk. • Ask open-ended questions. • Remain neutral, calm and do not put words in the child’s mouth. • Be aware of nonverbal cues. • Speak softly. • Do not promise to keep a secret. • Make no promises you cannot keep.
Domestic violence
Domestic violence comes in many forms—physical, emotional or psycho-
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
• 1 in 15 children are exposed to domestic violence each year; 90 percent of them are eyewitnesses. • Children from violent homes have higher risks of alcohol and drug abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder and juvenile delinquency. • Witnessing domestic violence is the single best predictor of juvenile delinquency and adult criminality.
Troop training classes:
All trainings are held at the Tony Bass Auditorium. Contact ACS for class dates or to schedule a class. The training is an annual requirement for military members.
Community Resources:
• Chaplains (548-5174) • Behavioral Health (590-1320) • Military Family Life Counselors (0152-265-9768/0175-617-5799) • Family Advocacy Program-Clinical (063-719-464-1312) • Doctors at the Military Treatment Facility (590-1300) • ACS Family Advocacy Program: (548-9201/9202)
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
WELCOME TO GERMANY
Avoid paying sales tax with VAT forms Emily Jennings USAG Wiesbaden Public Affairs
Many Americans are used to doing a little mental math in the grocery or retail store and adding a percentage onto the advertised price because of sales tax. In Germany, a 19 percent “value-added tax” is already built in to products and services (with a reduced seven percent tax for staple food items, some books and magazines, hotel stays, etc.), so the price you see is the price you pay. But through the Value Added Tax Relief Program, personnel stationed in Germany can get a tax refund with purchases made on the economy. In order to enjoy the benefits of this program, it’s important to understand the process for using VAT forms. Sponsors must attend a briefing at the VAT office, Bldg. 1023E on Clay Kaserne. During this initial visit, the sponsor can add Family member names and buy VAT forms. The NF-1 VAT form costs $5 and can be used for purchases up to €2,499.99. Only 10 of these forms can be checked out at a time, but once one is returned, that household is eligible to buy a new one.The NF-1 form is commonly used for purchases like train tickets, short hotel stays, groceries and clothing.
Stacking receipts
Multiple purchases from the same vendor can be put onto a single form, as long as the purchases were made during the same calendar month and the refund is collected before the end of that month. The VAT form must also have been purchased before the date of the first transaction and be valid through the last. Shoppers should beware: some vendors may not fully understand these rules and offer to violate them; however, the customer is ultimately responsible for using the forms properly. If a VAT form is used improperly, the customer must correct it by paying the tax, said Clifford Wix, program manager for the VAT/UTAP office.
www.wiesbaden.army.mil
Purchases over €2,500
The NF-2 VAT form costs $65 and is for purchases of €2,500 or more — like a car, for instance. Before an NF-2 can be issued, certain requirements must be met. “We need a quote showing what’s being purchased and how much it would cost without the tax,” Wix said. The buyer also needs to show they are capable of making the payment in full, he added. “That can be done one of two ways. One is with a cashier’s check, if they’re basically buying it straight out. They can also get a letter of intent, or a loan letter, showing that they’re approved to finance the full amount without tax.” “You cannot pay or negotiate before you have the VAT form and still receive tax relief,” Wix said. “You can get a cost assessment, but if you put down any money at the time — if you pay one penny down — then we can’t issue that VAT form.” Another thing to be aware of when making big purchases, is that a customer cannot split up items from the same vendor made on the same day in order to use NF-1 forms instead of an NF-2. For example, if someone purchases a bed for €1,500 and a couch for €2,000 from the same store on the same day, they cannot use one NF-1 form for the bed and another for the couch, regardless of what the vendor says. Only one NF-2 form can be issued at a time, and it does not count against the 10 outstanding NF-1 forms.
Keep in mind
There are several items shoppers should keep in mind before using their VAT forms.The agreement between the German and American governments doesn’t force all stores to offer tax relief. “They can accept VAT forms, but there’s no law requiring shops accept them on the German side. It’s voluntary based on the vendor,”Wix said. Each VAT form has several sheets of carbon copies. The vendor keeps the yellow copy
Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock
Adhere to the policies outlined in AER 215-6, not practices of the vendor, to ensure you, and other Americans living in Germany under SOFA status, retain tax-free purchase privileges. and the shopper should keep two copies; the pink one for their personal records and the white one to turn in at the drop box located just outside of the VAT office. Forms are good for two years from the date issued, but they don’t work retroactively. “If you bought something yesterday and didn’t have the VAT form, you couldn’t get a VAT form today and get the tax off for the day before,”Wix explained. Tax relief is a benefit to military living overseas; however, violating the VAT rules can result in a loss of money, and in more extreme cases revocation of VAT privileges. The VAT office aims to prevent the latter. “When in doubt about when you can or cannot use a VAT form, call the VAT office,” Wix said.“We have the regulations here in the office on a lot of the grey areas.” The U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden VAT office is located in Bldg. 1023 East, Room 151, and can be reached at (0611) 143-548-9107. For more information, visit: https://wiesbaden.armymwr. com/programs/value-addedtax-vat.
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FOR YOUR HEALTH
Communication key to care on, off post Wiesbaden Army Health Clinic
The Wiesbaden Army Health Clinic Patient Centered Medical Home is accredited by The Joint Commission. Each patient enrolled to the clinic is assigned a primary care manager on one of the PCMH teams (Blue or White). In the PCMH model, patients have a health care team that knows their medical needs, takes care of their needs, and coordinates with other health care delivery teams to provide the best quality care. PCMH staff includes the primary care manager (a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant), registered nurses, medics, clinical pharmacists, and an integrated behavioral health consultant. The clinic also offers a variety of other services in different locations across Clay Kaserne: Bldg. 1040 • Medical and Dental Clinic • Primary Care • Optometry • X-ray • Lab • Soldier Medical Readiness Cell • Patient Administration • TRICARE Bldg. 1041 • Family Advocacy Program • Educational and Developmental Intervention Services (EDIS) Bldg. 1526 • Outpatient Behavioral Health Bldg. 1201 • Army Wellness Center • American Red Cross • Physical Therapy
Patient satisfaction and feedback
Patients are encouraged to provide feedback, positive and negative, to allow clinic staff to continually improve patient experience and satisfaction with their care. Patients can use the following methods to provide feedback. • Joint Outpatient Experience Survey ( JOES): Approximately 72 hours after an appointment, patients will receive a survey to complete by mail or electronically. • Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE): Patients can complete an ICE card or submit ICE comments online at https://ice.disa.mil/. https://ice.disa.mil/ • Patient Advocate: Located in the TRICARE Service Center, advocates can be reached at 06371-94641361 or DSN 590-1364.
Access to care
It is extremely important all active duty military and their commandsponsored Family members enroll in
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TRICARE Prime. Enrollment can be accomplished either at inprocessing or the TRICARE Service Center. One significant benefit to Prime enrollment is the access to care standards that assure patients receive timely, quality care. If timely care is unavailable at the clinic, patients may be referred to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center or to a host nation provider or hospital. Patients can make appointments by using TRICARE Online at www. tricareonline.com or by calling Central Appointments at 06371-9464-5762.
Access to care standards
Acute Care - 24 hours Routine Care - 7 calendar days Specialty Care - 28 calendar days
Virtual tools
The below tools are available to patients to schedule appointments, access information, communicate with their care teams, or to seek guidance. TRICARE Online www.tricareonline.com • Make, reschedule or cancel appointments. • The blue button allows patients to view their health information, including lab and radiology results, medications, immunizations and more. • To refill prescriptions, click on the Rx refill button, select which medications to refill, select the pharmacy location, and then submit. The refill will be ready the following business day. RelayHealth app.relayhealth.com • Healthcare teams can register patients during their appointments. • Allows secure communication between patients and their primary care manager or team. Best for nonemergent communication. • Patients can consult with their PCM or care team, request an appointment, request prescription renewal, and request lab or test results. • Currently, 32 percent of patients are enrolled in RelayHealth. • Once registered, users must reply to an email to activate RelayHealth.
Patient liaisons
Wiesbaden Army Health Clinic has host nation patient liaisons available to assist U.S. beneficiaries hospitalized in host nation medical facilities. Patient liaisons can be reached at 0162-2707743 or 0162-297-1057/7746.
In Case of emergenCy The Wiesbaden clinic does not provide emergency care. For medical emergencies, go to the nearest hospital, dial 112 off post, or call the MP station at DSN 114.
Universitätsklinik Mainz Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz Oberstadt Phone: 06131-170 www.unimedizin-mainz.de Emergency Room: There are three different emergency rooms. • Pediatrics ER in Bldg. 109 • Surgery ER in Bldg. 505 • Internal Medicine ER in Bldg. 605 Helios Dr. Horst Schmidt Kliniken (HSK) Wiesbaden Ludwig-Erhard-Strasse 100, 65199 Wiesbaden Phone: 0611-430 www.hsk-wiesbaden.de Emergency Room: The HSK has a 24-hour, fully-staffed Notauf Notaufnahme (emergency room). St. Josefs-Hospital ( JOHO) Wiesbaden Beethovenstrasse 20, 65189 Wiesbaden Phone: 0611-1770 www.joho.de Emergency Room: St. Josefs has an emergency room. Note: Patients with behavioral health crises, pediatric emergencies, and eye emergencies should not go to St. Josefs Hospital. These patients should go to the emergency room at HSK or Uniklinik Mainz. Asklepios Paulinen Klinik Wiesbaden Geisenheimer Strasse 10, 65197 Wiesbaden Phone: 0611-8470 www.asklepios.com/wiesbaden Emergency Room: APK has an emergency room. For gynecological and obstetric emergencies, contact the gynecology department on the ground floor of the hospital on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Outside of these times, contact the emergency department. Note: Patients with behavioral health crises, pediatric emergencies, and eye emergencies should not go to APK. These patients should go to the emergency room at HSK or Uni Klink Mainz.
Host nation patient liaisons can: • Help plan transfers from military treatment facilities to host nation medical facilities or from host nation facilities to military medical facilities by civilian ambulance or privately owned vehicle. • Ease language barriers between the patient and host nation providers and provide the patient with a copy of the U.S. Army Europe Medical Phrase Book. • Talk to host nation physicians to get up-to-date information on patients’ medical conditions and treatment plans. • Answer questions about treatment,
Welcome to Germany — April to September 2018
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environment of care, and follow-up care to the best of their knowledge, or when doctors are unavailable. Assess and interpret patient concerns to determine specific assistance needs. Conduct follow-up visits to assess treatment progress or plans for the patient’s transfer to other hospitals or military treatment facilities. Assist with the discharge of a patient from a host nation hospital. Provide local resources for medical supplies and pharmacies. Per request, accompany patients on their first visits to host nation providers.
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WELCOME TO GERMANY
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Welcome to Germany â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April to September 2018
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