The Bulletin - Winter 2022 - USAG Stuttgart Family & MWR Quarterly Magazine -

Bulletin Ski & Snowboard Rentals on kelley Ready to Get Fit? Meet Your On-Post Personal Trainers & Fitness Instructors

BOWL A STRIKE AT

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USAG STUTTGART FAMILY & MWR

ISSUE 50 WINTER 2022

The

Comprehensive health insurance, prescription coverage, and generous alternative benfits.

TABLE OF

Contents Director’s Message Joseph L. Johnson

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Your Health Snowshoeing with Outdoor Rec Meet Your On-Post Personal Trainers Meet Basketball Coach Owsley

10 24 26

Your Career The Army’s Home-Based Business Program Earn Your Child Development Associate Credential Child & Youth Services Recruitment Fair

20 34 37

Your Happiness Volunteer on Post & Make a Difference

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Your Money Keep More for You in ‘22

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Don’t Miss Community Photos: Winter Adventures Galaxy Bowling & Entertainment Center Family Fun Nights Better Opportunities for Single Service Members All-Stars Comedy Show: Get Ready for Laughs Digital Photography Contest Enter the 4th Annual Quilt Challenge Stuttgart Theater Center Show Schedule Let’s Check In With RaShawn Delicious Molten Chocolate Cakes Second Saturday Golf Scramble St. Patrick’s Day Party Family & MWR Maps COVER: U.S. Army Soldier Patrick T. tries out one of USAG Stuttgart Outdoor Recreation’s rental snowboards while on a trip to Solden, Austria.

6 9 38 35 23 14 18 29 32 33 19 44

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Bulletin The

An Official U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) Publication MWR Director Joseph L. Johnson Marketing Chief Angela Frasier Editors/Writers Novelda Sommers Brittany Michelle Layout/Design Angela Frasier Kevin Ruiz-Castillo Tweedy Knef Joel Wasko Commercial Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities If you represent a business or organization interested in advertising to, or sponsoring events on, USAG Stuttgart, please contact Ms. “Tweedy” Knef, Commercial Sponsorship & Advertising Manager at: mary.e.knef.naf@army.mil

All details provided in this publication are subject to change.

No federal endorsement of thirdparty advertisements is implied.

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Photo by jchizhe via Getty Images

For the latest information, visit STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

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Message from the Director Think of our first issue of 2022 as a guide to the many USAG Stuttgart Family & MWR services you can use to make this YOUR year. After two years of learning to navigate a changed world, isn’t it time?

If you haven’t signed up for a free course through Army Community Service (ACS) to save money and build credit (p. 15), or worked out with a trainer at an on-base fitness center (p.

24), or taken advantage of Outdoor Recreation’s equipment rental packages (p. 10) – you just might be leaving value on the table. Visit stuttgart.armymwr.com to see all of the facilities, events and programs that can enhance your life.

Maybe this is the year you launch a new career with Family and MWR. Stuttgart-area openings are posted at USAjobs.gov. What you receive in return may surprise you. I would not have predicted my own 30-plus-year journey with this extraordinary organization.

Fresh out of college, I got hired as a NF-1, working in a warehouse in Nuremberg for $5 an hour. My parents, both DoDEA teachers at the time, may have been less than thrilled at my apparent misuse of a bachelor’s degree in physical fitness. However, I advanced within a year to head of Youth Sports at USAG Bavaria – Hohenfels.

At work, I found mentors who pushed me to reach for positions of greater responsibility – although I never, until about seven years ago, thought I’d become a director.

I met my wife early on while working for FMWR at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.

The job has taken our family around the globe, to Japan, the United States, and twice to Germany. U.S. Army Installation Management Command, which we fall under, offers its people a catalog of courses online and in-person, and I availed myself of many of them. Through education, hard work and experience, I qualified for new positions - and you can, too.

Whatever your hopes for 2022, resolve to read The Bulletin cover to cover. Then take action by walking through the front doors of any Family and MWR facility.

You never know where you might end up once you take that first step.

JOSEPH L. JOHNSON Director, Family & MWR USAG Stuttgart

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WE

OUR COMMUNITY!

2021/2022 WINTER ADVENTURES

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Thank You

to everyone who entered our prize drawing to win brunch for two from Stuttgart Marriott Hotel Sindelfingen! Damaris Rodriquez (above) was our lucky winner! Follow Stuttgart Family and MWR on Facebook for your next chance to WIN!

FACEBOOK PHOTO CREDITS from pages 6-7

1 2

3 4

WINTER ADVENTURES

9 10

5 6 7 COMMUNITY FACES

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 8

1. Angelina Rossi 2. Cyndi Jones 3. Kystle Renee 4. Brelhen Reichardt 5. Carolina Noriega-Puruncajas 6. Jeff Barta 7. Jessica Wolford 8. Jennifer Bowen 9. Jeremy Levens 10. Damaris Rodriguez Pomales 11. Jules Frank 12. Katie Schultz 13. Nesly A Stahl NesQuick 14. Melanie Joy 15. Kirialis Riso 16. Max & Alice Frankenfield 17. Nadi Calderolli Pontif 18. Kim Ellet

SHOWSHOEING WITH ODR

Step into Winter’s Hottest Sports with ODR’s Snowshoe, Snowboard and Ski Rentals

By Novelda Sommers and Brittany Mbuyamba

Get in shape with Family and MWR fitness and recreation programs – on the ski slopes or in the gym!

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C

Candice Curry came along only to watch while her husband and sons were fitted with skis to rent from U.S. Army Stuttgart Family and MWR’s Outdoor Recreation (ODR) offices.

A recent transplant to Germany from Okinawa, Curry said she’s more of a curl-up-by-the-fire-and-read person when it comes to snow.

So on a November day, she happened to be at Kelley Barracks among racks of rental skis and snowboards, only because it was a stop on the way to lunch. While the boys tramped around in their boots, assessing how they fit, Recreation Assistant Bruce Zabukovec men-

tioned the facility’s snowshoe rentals to Curry.

ODR is your headquarters for venturing into Europe’s vast forests and mountain ranges, with gear for skiing, snowbarding, camping and more. “Oh, I could do that,” Curry said of the snowshoe idea. This sounded no more strenuous than hiking, and it might be a safer way to get outdoors with her family of snow-sports enthusiasts – without the risks skiing might pose to her knees, she said.

Snowshoe rentals are one of ODR’s best-kept secrets, Zabukovec said, although it’s one that seems to be getting out. Last season, to quickly Continued on Page 12

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Where can one snowshoe around Southern Germany? Anywhere there’s at least a foot of snow, preferably fresh powder, will do. In two hours or fewer on the autobahn, you can be outdoors in the snowy mountains, breathing fresh air and walking through world-famous winter scenery. You might even forget you’re getting more fit in the process, and that’s really what ODR is about.

“A lot of people think exercise means enduring pain,” Zabukovec said. “But the key to a sustainable fitness routine is doing something you enjoy.”

Continued from Page 11

meet an onslaught of demand, the Stuttgart ODR office received 20 used sets of snowshoes from another US Army Family and MWR facility in Germany. This season, the Stuttgart office added about 20 pairs of brand-new snowshoes in various sizes.

“We’re expanding our stock and adding kid-specific snowshoes to fit young adventurers,” said Jenny Tomaszewski, outdoor recreation specialist with Stuttgart FMWR. “And all of our snowshoe rentals come with ski poles.”

“I’m a big advocate for being active,” Zabukovec said. “When a family comes in, I look at who’s skiing, who’s snowboarding, and who’s not being active. Snowshoeing is one of the most overlooked sports, and almost anybody can do it.”

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Visit Outdoor Recreation at Kellley Barracks Building 3320, Bay 5, or visit stuttgart.armymwr.com.

Snowshoe Fun Facts * Snowshoe sales in the United States increased 279% in October 2020 compared to a year earlier, according to NPD Group, an analytics firm. * Snowshoeing burns 420-1000 calories per hour, up to twice as many calories as walking, the University of Vermont found in a 2009 study. * Snowshoes are believed to date back 6,000 years and to have developed independently in Europe and North America. * Traditional snowshoes are wood with rawhide lattice-work (like tennis rackets); modern snowshoes are synthetic, with extra features such as crampons to grip the trail.

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Photo by MaxCab via Getty Images

Keep More for You in ‘22

By Arcelio Alleyne Financial Readiness Specialist arcelio.v.alleyne.civ@army.mil

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Do you ever get that sinking feeling there’s nothing left over for yourself at the end of the month after paying all your bills? Make 2022 all about building wealth for you! Here are five steps you can take to organize your financial life this year: Step 1. Determine income and expenses by looking at your account statements and tracking all cash spending. This will help you set up a budget.

Step 2. Check your credit report.

You’re entitled to one free copy every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus in the United States. There’s a charge to get your credit score, that all-important number. As a military financial professional, I can get your credit score for you at no charge, just make an appointment to see me.

Step 3. Confront debt. Get an honest look at everything you owe.

List interest rates and monthly payments. Put part of your annual raise or any windfall toward eliminating high-interest consumer debt (like credit cards). Each time you pay off an account, put the amount of that monthly payment toward other debts, or into savings.

Step 4. Build emergency savings.

Start small and work towards at least 3-6 months of living expenses in an easily-accessible account, like a bank savings account (not under your mattress, please). If that amount feels out-of-reach, try saving for smaller emergencies: a car repair, plane tickets home, new eyeglasses, etc.

Step 5. Save and invest for your future. Use an online calculator to estimate how much you might Continued On Page 16

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need to live on when you leave the workforce for good. Use a low-fee monthly investment vehicle such as the Thrift Savings Plan to build retirement savings. Your contributions plus dividends and interest could add up to a lot over time.

There’s no secret to getting on the road to wealth, and if you start today, you just might get there.

Come to one of my classes, which are always listed on our website at stuttgart.armymwr.com, or call ACS at +49 (0)9641-70-596-3362 or DSN (314) 596-3362 to set up an appointment with me.

Budgeting 101 How to Create Your Budget Before you can do any financial planning, you must examine your

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income and expenses. Calculate every daily expense, no matter how small, down to the cent.

1. Calculate your household’s regular, after-tax (net) income. Include all income received, no matter who earned it. Include every source – child support, etc.

2. Determine all regular expenses.

Save receipts for a month, and carry a notepad to write down every amount spent, p lus what you paid for. Most people know what they spend on monthly bills (i.e. car payment, insurance, phone bills, etc.), but little expenditures can be hard to account for.

3. Compare the figures – income and expenses. If your expenses are more than your income, you need to take action!

Photo by AaronAmat via Getty Images

Continued From Page 15

The Score How is Your Credit Score?

Credit scores are meant to tell potential creditors how likely you are to pay back credit on time and in full. What goes into a credit score?

Did you know?

You can request a personal finance class be given to your brigade or unit. Contact Arcelio Alleyne at arcelio.v.alleyne.civ@army.mil to receive a Class Request Form.

Amount owed: Are you maxed out, or are you only using a low percentage?

To view a list of scheduled personal financial management classes available through ACS, please visit stuttgart.armymwr.com.

Credit mix: Do you carry high-interest consumer debt, or have you shown a responsible use of different types of credit, such as a home or car loan?

More Tips for Success

New Credit: How many credit requests have you made recently?

Some creditors may view many new requests as a risk to their likelihood of getting paid back.

Length of credit history: A long history of using credit can boost your score.

Payment history: Missing payments can hurt your score, and regularly paying on time will help it.

Don’t rush. You need a month to figure out where you money is being spent the most.

Cut it. If your expenses are extremely high compared to income, look for ways to cut unnecessary spending.

Adjust expectations. Having a budget won’t magically create extra money, but it’s a tool you can use to get on the right track.

Source: ACS Family Readiness Program

35%

30%

15% 10%

10%

FACTORS INFLUENCING YOUR CREDIT SCORE AMOUNT OWED

NEW CREDIT

CREDIT MIX

CREDIT HISTORY

PAYMENT HISTORY

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LET'S CELEBRATE

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ST. PADDY'S DAY

ST. PADDY'S DAY ST. PADDY'S DAY ST. PADDY'S DAY Saturday, Mar.19 at 6pm LET'S CELEBRATE

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Be Your Own Boss with the Army’s Home-Based Business Program

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By Novelda Sommers Family and MWR Marketing Assistant

We know that finding employment for spouses while living in Europe is challenging. Operating a Home Based Business (HBB) offers an additional way for spouses and family members to make money doing work that they know and enjoy, while providing valuable services to members of the military community.

Due to the local rules and regulations and the German language barrier, getting the final approval for HBBs is a bit more time-consuming in Germany, but it can be done! The HBB application packet is available at stuttgart.armymwr. com/programs/home-based-business.

If you are affiliated with the U.S. military installations in Stuttgart and plan to operate any private business conducted out of your home (on-post or off-post), for profit or offering goods or services of any kind for sale, your HBB must first get approved by the USAG Stuttgart Garrison Commander. The approval from the Garrison Commander can be obtained within 60 days, once the complete HBB application packet has been submitted to the HBB Coordinator.

Helena’s Story Helena Giese, spouse of an Army Service Member, said she fell in love with artisanal soaps while visiting a friend in Cairo, Egypt, in 2001. At first, she made a hobby of trying to recreate the fine products she saw there, crafting them during days off while working as a flight attendant. Occasionally she would sell at craft fairs, just for fun.

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As is often the case for military spouses, her high-flying career got left behind as life grew to encompass children and frequent moves, plus the difficult logistics and costs of finding childcare with a husband frequently down range.

“As a military spouse, a lot is expected of us,” Giese said. “We are asked to be flexible, move every few years, pack up all we have built and worked for, and leave it behind for a new endeavor. While it is fun and exciting to move and see new places, it can be extremely hard for the spouses’ professions and jobs.”

Enter the HBB program. Giese said it was a lifeline, allowing her a creative outlet that could earn her some income while still allowing the flexibility to take care of her family. Giese said there was a lot of paperwork to get started, but once approved, she could move her business easily from one installation to the next.

She has even expanded her offerings to include lip balms, body butters, bath fizzies and wax melts.

“The opportunities are endless,” she said.

“Whether it is tutoring, baking, cooking, cleaning, selling your handiwork, consulting, teaching, coaching or whatever your skills and talents are, you can turn it into a Home Based Business.”

View All USAG Stuttgart Home-Based Businesses on Page 22 Find Out More Learn how to start your own business from your home at stuttgart.armymwr.com/programs/home-based-business. Or call +49 (0) 9641-70-596-3649, military DSN (314) 596-3649.

“Whatever your skills and talents are, you can turn them into a Homebased Business.”

Helena Giese, spouse of an Army Service Member and Owner of Helena’s Soapery, USAG Stuttgart

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Continued from page 20

Directory of Registered USAG Stuttgart Home-Based Businesses Developing Behavior Applied Behavior Analytic Therapy; Acceptance & Commitment Therapy; Parent Training for Managing Challenging Child Behaviors +49 176-634-99873 andrea.baumes@developingbehavior.com fb.com/DevelopingBehavior developingbehavior.com

Helena’s Soapery Services/Products: Hand-crafted Soaps and Bath and Body Products +49 151-426-80961 info@helenassoapery.com fb.com/helenasoapery/ helenassoapery.com

Hyla Melloy Photography Services/Products: All Types of Photography photography@hylamelloy.com fb.com/hylamelloy hylamelloy.com

Kate Swartz Photography Services/Products: Family and Newborn Photography +49 152-299-75287 kateswartzphotography@gmail.com fb.com/kateswartzphotography/ kateswartzphotography.com

Roots Music Academy Services/Products: Guitar Lessons; Guitar and Amplifier Repair and Maintenance Service +49 152-210-78588 danielphillipslessons@gmail.com

Sarah’s Softies Services/Products: Quilting Group Lessons at the Patch Arts & Crafts Center; Selling Quilt Patterns and Memory/T-shirt Quilts sarahs.softies@gmail.com fb.com/sarahs.softies/ etsy.com/shop/SarahsSoftiesQuilts

Tailormade Trade Services/Products: Personalized Clothing and Home Décor +49 152-256-911399 brittonysikes@gmail.com fb.com/TailormadeTrade/

Tastefully Simple Services/Products: Sells Easy-toPrepare Foods for Entertaining Needs, as well as Meal Kits. +49 152-564-92683 betsybirkts@gmail.com fb.com/BetsyBirkTSConsultant/ tastefullysimple.com/web/bbirk

Lucia Riofrio

Wolf Dreams Jewelry

Services/Products: Women’s Fashion Accessories (Handmade Jewelry and Handbags)

Services/Products: Handmade Jewelry

+49 152-244-62715 luciariofrioproject@gmail.com

+49 152-244-46794 wolfdreamsjewelry@yahoo.com fb.com/wolfdreamsjewelry/ luciariofrio.com

A similar program for Private Organizations allows self-sustaining, communityfocused groups to operate on base with authorized approval. To learn more about Private Organizations, visit stuttgart.armymwr.com/programs/private-organizations.

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Your On-Post Personal T ra

iners

Do you need an expert trainer with individuali zed training plans and large do ses of motivation? Ho w about fun fitness classes wher e you can meet new pe ople and prioritize your health?

Meet the team and ge t started today!

American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor I love with exercise and that awesome feeling you get after a challenging workout. Since 2015, I have been committed to helping others find that same joy in meeting their health and fitness goals.

Jen Borrell

Fitness is super important for not only physical health but mental health as well. The more you do, the more motivation you will have to keep Showing up for your workouts. Let’s workout to stay strong and healthy!

Certified Yoga Therapist

Silvia Simo

na Floroiu

“Getting grounded in my body, through yoga or hiking, keeps me connected to the present moment. Then there is the additional bonus of endorphins”

Christy Boaman

Registered Yoga Instructor

I prioritize fitness and health because I want to be able to play on the floor with my grandchildren someday...and still do headstands and cartwheels when I’m 90!

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Chelsea Bo

stelman

Spin Instructor I’ve always believed and subscribed to the old adage that, “A strong mind promotes and strong body” and vice versa. I truly enjoy cycling and group cycling is exciting and everyone feels a sense of unity striving toward the same goals.

Yoga Instructor

Lynn Ray

“If I’m being honest, I’m usually not motivated to workout. The secret is routine. Then, regardless of how you’re feeling, it becomes an unconscious habit like drinking your morning coffee!

Andrea Farrell

Personal Trainer

Through this trial and error, I have found what I feel is the sweet spot in training. I would love to schedule a time to meet and plot out a course of action to assist you in achieving them.

Reiki Master Teacher

Niko de la

Cruz

Since achieving the Master Teacher level certification in 2014, I have been practicing and teaching Reiki. I have been amazed at how deeply this technique is felt by my clients. I use my training and intuition to help you increase your body’s natural self-healing ability.

Allison Meyers Certified Tennis Professional I work to instill confidence and provide encouragement to all students and set goals for future performance and monitor progress.

Elena Nove

llo

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Tournament of Champions: Meet Coach Owsley

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How did you get into basketball?

I played basketball at my high school in Chicago and when I joined the Marine Corps, I played with various travelling base teams in tournaments in the Pacific (Guam, Okinawa, Iwakuni, Camp Fuji, Hawaii).

What do you enjoy about the sport?

I enjoy basketball for its competitive nature. I also enjoy the fact that anyone at any age level, from toddler to senior citizen can play!

You don’t have to be the fastest or jump the highest to be able to play and be effective!

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How long have you coached?

I’ve been coaching on and off for the past 5 years.

What inspired you to coach a community basketball time?

I played for the Community basketball team from 2009-2014 and I loved being able to compete against other neighboring bases to see the basketball talent they had! Now that I’m a little older, I like to provide mentorship to younger players and help them in their development.

Who is your favorite professional basketball team/player and why?

I’m From Chicago...I’ll let you figure out the rest!

What inspires your coaching style?

I grew up playing physical basketball and the “no easy layup” mentality. Now, that technique doesn’t match how the players have progressed over the years with guys and gals being quicker and having developed more range on their jump shots. As a coach, you have to be able to adjust and adapt for how your team is constructed. Finding a style that enables you to get the most out of them is the most important!

What are you expecting from your players during the 2022 Tournament of Champions?

In 2019, Stuttgart won the IMCOM championship before COVID shut everything down. We want to continue that success and do our best to represent the community of Stuttgart!

Who is the biggest community or IMCOM-Europe rival?

When I played, it was always Ramstein. They had the biggest talent pool and were able to field two really good teams. During the last tournament, Wiesbaden had the best team on the floor and were the heavy favorite to win the IMCOM championship, however, Stuttgart had other plans!

We are looking for players who want to compete at a high level and represent the Stuttgart Community in a manner that makes our fellow Service Members, dependents, and Civilians proud. Once we have that, everything else will work itself out!

If you are interested in playing for the Stuttgart basketball team contact Panzer Fitness Center at +49 (0)9641-70-596-2724 or stop at Building 2990 on Panzer Kaserne.

TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS 27

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Checking In n With RaShawn

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By Novelda Sommers Family and MWR Marketing Assistant

We followed up with USAG Stuttgart community member and popular travel blogger RaShawn Mickens, who was featured in the Fall 2021 issue of The Bulletin, about having a milestone birthday and getting fit.

Q: Last we spoke, you were looking forward to taking some trips to celebrate turning 50. Where did you go?

Photos provided by ReShawn Mickens

ReShawn: I spent six days in Dubai with my tall hunk of chocolate and real life chocolate Barbie (RaShawn’s pet names for her husband and daughter)! The most exciting thing was swimming with sharks and other sea creatures with my daughter at the aquarium in Dubai mall. We went on a private boat ride in the Persian Gulf, and I actually got to steer it! We also climbed as high as we could at Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. I had the ultimate desert experience which included four-wheeling, dune bashing, camel riding, and enjoying authentic local cuisine. It was truly the best birthday ever!

I also traveled to Slovenia for four days and enjoyed touring castles, meeting wonderful people and leaving a love lock on one of their bridges. I finished off my November to Remember by celebrating with the family in Luzern, Switzerland.

Q: As a popular life and fitness coach, what’s your advice for New Year’s goals?

RaShawn: Start by writing out a “why” statement for yourself, and refer to it daily. Post it on your fridge, bathroom mirror, etc. Begin making small changes.

This gives you time to shift your mindset and embrace a new lifestyle.

Celebrate milestones no matter how w small, whether that’s fitting into a pair of jeans that use to be too tight or having more energy to add time to your workout. It all signifies progress! I also start my day by setting my intentions, which includes reciting a positive affirmation, scripture and prayer. Lastly, have an accountability partner who you can call or text during those moments when you’re ready to throw in the towel or make a bad choice that goes against your end goal.

Continued on Page 31

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Continued from Page 29

Q: Coming up on one year in Germany, what advice would you would give someone just getting here?

RaShawn: Embrace the new experience by getting connected with groups or programs like MWR that offer such a wide range of activities & support! Also, take some joy journeys, explore the area and even the surroundings countries that are so easily accessible.

Q: What’s your favorite day trip from Stuttgart?

RaShawn: If I had to narrow it down to just one, it would be Heidelberg! It is so beautiful, with so much to see and do, and the people are so friendly and engaging.

Q: Any big goals for 2022?

Photos provided by ReShawn Mickens

RaShawn: My goals for 2022 include completing at least one half marathon and training for a full marathon. I also want to visit at least 10 new countries and at least one new continent: Africa!

RaShawn’s Journey to Fitness “I totally shifted my eating and workout regimen. I also have a nutrition coach who I check in with weekly. I absolutely love sweets but had to drastically reduce them. My diet mostly consists of lean proteins and lots of vegetables.

I work out six days per week: three cardio-focused and three resistance training with varying weights and bands.

Getting sufficient quality sleep is also so important, as well as drinking lots of water. I haven’t eliminated anything completely from my diet but know that it’s all about discipline, moderation, and listening to my body. Try not to get consumed with the scale, but notice the NSV’s (non-scale victories): more energy, feeling stronger, dropping inches for example. I still want to lose 20 more pounds, so I’m truly a work in progress but I feel fabulous at 50, and I know my hard work and dedication are paying off. All it takes is all you’ve got, and you’ve got all it takes. So never give up! The best is yet to come! Whoop Whoop!”

The Stuttgart Army Wellness Center provides a variety of services to help you reach your fitness and wellness goals. If you are 18 years and older and are registered with Tricare, you are eligible. Visit them in Building 2337 (Patch Barracks) or call 06371-9464-1601, DSN 590-1601.

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Molten Chocolate Cakes

Impress your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day (Monday, February 14, 2022) by whipping up decadent, rich, chocolatey, gooey, molten chocolate cakes with this recipe from Food & Wine. Serve them warm from the oven, so when you cut into the cake, the chocolate lava center flows out.

The kids will love them, too!

Ingredients 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate 2 eggs 2 egg yolks ¼ cup sugar Pinch of salt 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (Type 550) Fresh berries for topping (optional) 6 ramekins (individually-sized dessert dishes) Directions Step 1 Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Butter and lightly flour four 6-ounce ramekins.

Tap out the excess flour. Set the ramekins on a baking sheet.

Step 2 In a double boiler, over simmering water, melt the butter with the chocolate. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the egg yolks, sugar and salt at high speed until thickened and pale.

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Step 3 Whisk the chocolate until smooth.

Quickly fold it into the egg mixture along with the flour. Spoon the batter into the prepared ramekins and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sides of the cakes are firm but the centers are soft. Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1 minute, then cover each with an inverted dessert plate. Carefully turn each one over, let stand for 10 seconds and then unmold.

Serve immediately. Serving suggestion: top it off with fresh raspberries!

Make Ahead The batter can be refrigerated for several hours; bring to room temperature before baking.

Source: foodandwine.com/recipes/molten-chocolate-cakes Photo by vm2002 via Getty Images

Taking the Lead

Earn Your Child Development Associate Credential

By Brittany Michelle Family and MWR Marketing Specialist

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For the past two years, Stuttgart Child and Youth Services (CYS) has hosted virtual and in-person CYS Recruitment Fairs to build the CYS team, hiring Child and Youth Program Assistants, also known as CYPA’s. This entry-level position is the perfect first step for many because it offers training tools and a strong first step on a journey to a successful CYS career.

Working with CYS can afford employees benefits such as access to childcare; flexible work hours; insurance coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; and paid leave. Training opportunities are another great benefit CYS employees can take advantage of. One of them is the Child Development Associate (CDA). This is a national credentialing program for early childhood educators working with children ages six weeks to 5 years. The program evaluates and credentials early childhood educators and prepares them for progression up the CYS chain.

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Timothy Creighton is a CYPA at the Panzer Child Development Center (CDC) and has been with the Stuttgart CYS team since February 2020. He was initially inspired to work with children because he thought it would be fun; however, he quickly learned that it was much more than that. “There’s nothing quite like the love of a child, it’s the purest form of love,” says Creighton.

With only a year and a half of CYS experience, he began his CDA journey because he wanted to develop his early childhood education career further and become a lead teacher with CDC. Continued on Page 36

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Continued from Page 34

“The CDA is a big accomplishment,” says Janna Morris, a trainer at the Panzer CDC. “I really applaud anyone working on the process. It is a lot of work and it is no easy feat.” The CDA program consists of three elements: building a portfolio, an observation phase, and a proctored exam. However, as employees go through the process, Morris said that she sees significant positive changes in the CYPAs. “They are required to do a lot of self-reflecting and even develop their childcare philosophy.”

Creighton, who is male, understands the significance of his presence in a female-dominated industry. “I believe it’s important for young children to see males in non-traditional roles. Their concept of gender develops early and is shaped by their environment. With the absence of male caregivers, the gender message children receive can be skewed early on. It’s important to show young children that caring is just as much a part of masculinity as it is a part of femininity.”

The CDA program can cost up to $500 if pursued independently; however, through CYS, it is no cost to the applicant. CYPAs who complete the program prepare themselves for career progression as most states in America require early childhood educators to have a CDA. “It is much more work than I thought it would be, but knowing where obtaining a CDA will take me, pushes me to get it done,” says Creighton. “The program is helping me have a better understanding of all elements so that I can provide high-quality child care.”

Although the process may seem intimidating, CYPAs will have support every step of the way. CYS trainers are there to guide CYPAs through the process

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and make sure they have a shot at being successful. “I check and make sure their portfolios are in order and that they are up-to-date on their training, and meeting of all their criteria.” said Morris. Stuttgart CYS currently has multiple CYPAs pursuing their CDA. “We help them through the process because it truly does help propel them in their career and improves the quality of care for our families in the Stuttgart community.”

If you are interested in joining the CYS team, you can apply during the CYS Recruitment Fairs held every 2nd Tuesday of each month. Visit Stuttgart.armymwr.com for event details.

“I absolutely believe every CYPA should obtain a CDA. It will not only further their career path, but helps them grow as a teacher and a person.”

- Timothy Creighton, CYPA, Panzer Child Development Center

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BOSS serves the single Service member community - active, guard and reserve - and single parents, or geographical bachelors. The mission of the BOSS program is to enhance the morale and welfare of single Service members, increase retention and sustain combat readiness. BOSS is the collective voice of single Service Members through the chain of command, which serves as a tool for commanders to gauge the morale of single Service members regarding quality-of-life issues.

Additionally, BOSS also sponsors a variety of activities to maintain the morale of single Service members affected by increased operational tempo and deployment stress. The BOSS program also serves as a tool to address many of the issues and concerns that our Army faces today. The program gives the Army the ability to tackle tough issues through peer-to-peer leadership. Single Service members assist the chain of command in dealing with suicide prevention, sexual assault and sexual harassment issues that single Service members living in barracks might experience. The USAG Stuttgart BOSS program is managed by a Senior Enlisted Advisor, MWR Advisor and BOSS President.

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The Three Pillars of BOSS The BOSS program is facilitated through its three core components aimed at maintaining a balanced life: quality of life, recreation and leisure, and community service.

Quality of Life: Quality of Life includes those issues that Service members can directly or indirectly influence to enhance their morale, living environment, or personal growth and development. Issues raised during BOSS meetings will be directed to the appropriate command or staff agency for resolution on the installation. Army-wide issues are forwarded to the Army Family Action Plan Conference for possible DA resolution.

Recreation and Leisure: Fun activities are planned by the BOSS council working in conjunction with the MWR Advisor and CSM. These events are geared towards the desires of the Single Service members at USAG Stuttgart.

Community Service: BOSS makes a difference by volunteering in community projects and events. This is always voluntary in nature, and Service members find this to be personally rewarding.

-------------BOSS membership and the program’s available leadership and project management roles enhance your promotion packet! Enjoy community service projects, recreation trips, meeting new friends, learning life skills, and more!

Become a member today by contacting your unit BOSS Representative or the MWR BOSS Advisor Ms. Clare Reid at the Patch Arts and Crafts Center located on Patch Baracks Bldg. 2329, or by calling CIV 0964170-596-2605 or DSN 596-2605.

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Photo Courtesy of Army Community Service

Lend a Helping Hand Become a Volunteer Here at USAG Stuttgart

V

By Joy Ashley, ACS Coordinator

Volunteering provides a sense of purpose while also helping the community. It’s also a great way to gain knowledge and network!

Last year, USAG Stuttgart volunteers contributed over 46,000 hours to the community, saving the garrison over $1.2 million.

Volunteer Organization Spotlight Harriet R Tubman Chapter #190 OES Louisiana Jurisdiction P.H.A has been a vital organization within the Stuttgart community for many years. Their contributions include honoring SHS seniors, scholarship funding, Back to School Bash (providing free school supplies), and free dances. If you Volunteers with at least 50 or more attended Juneteenth, SHS prom and certified hours entered into the Volun- graduation, Sports Day, Trunk or Treat, teer Management Information System and the annual Spring Bazaar, then (VMIS) are recognized at an annual you have witnessed the hard work and recognition and awards ceremony. dedication of this group.

The Army Volunteer Corps (AVC) program provides opportunities for volunteers to connect with various organizations and support the community. Whether you are a Service member, Retiree, Civilian, or Family Member, your service can have a tremendous impact.

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10 Easy Steps to Volunteering 1. Go to www.vmis.armyfamilywebportal.com/ 2. Select “Register” in the Log In window on the VMIS Home Page 3. Enter the required information: email, password, and confirm password.

4. Select “Register” to finish creating an AFWP account.

5. An email will be sent to you with a link and a token number.

6. Select the link in the email to verify the account.

7. On the next page, enter your email address and the token number provided in the automated email. Select Verify Email.

8. Once verified, log in and complete your profile.

9. Choose the “Opportunities” tab to view volunteer opportunities and apply.

10. Log your volunteer hours by the 10th of every month.

Photo Courtesy 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Red Cross Volunteers Help Evacuees In the midst of helping with COVID efforts, the American Red Cross Stuttgart Station turned around and helped support the Afghan Evacuation Mission.

Stuttgart’s American Red Cross Station Manager, Jason Kalinowski, spent 2.5 months participating in Operation Allies Welcome while leading volunteers at 4 different locations. Nearly 800 volunteers supported this mission while working with all branches of service. The Stuttgart Red Cross station collected

Photo Courtesy of the Amercian Red Cross

75 bags of brand new snacks, hygiene, and activity items to donate to the Stuttgart Community Spouses Club, who transported the donations to Ramstein. Two of the volunteers, Erika Ellsworth (Ramstein) and Yukyong Hwang (Stuttgart), provided arriving Afghan children a program to help them work through trauma.

In fact 42 classes were provided to the refugee youth.

For information on volunteer opportunities through ACS, contact 09641-70596-3362, or Ms. Joy Ashley, Coordinator for Army Community Service (ACS) at joy.m.ashley.civ@army.mil.

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