The Bulletin - ISSUE 49 FALL2021

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USAG STUTTGART MWR

ISSUE 49 FALL 2021

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Whoop, Whoop!

Live Your Best Life Overseas p 18 Your SwabianAmerican Biergarten & Boxing Event Guide p 6-15 No Humbug Here!

Stuttgart Theatre Center New Season Announced p 32

TABLE OF

Contents Articles MWR Director’s Message Joseph L. Johnson

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Your Swabian-American Biergarten & Boxing Event Planning Guide

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Whoop, Whoop!

Live Your Best Life Overseas

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A Tried & True Original The Swabian Special Events Center

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No Humbug Here!

Stuttgart Theatre Center New Season Announced

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Don’t Miss IMCOM-E Boxing Championships Eat. Sleep. Tour. Repeat.

Recipe: Caramel Popcorn Bliss 2021 Frosty Fest Child and Youth Services Hiring Climbing To New Heights: Outdoor Recreation Army Community Service Maps

ON THE COVER: RaShawn Mickens gives a Whoop! Whoop! with Neuschwanstein Castle in the background.

(Photo by Terrence Mickens)

12 26 30 31 34 36 42 44

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Bulletin The

An Official Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) US Army Garrison Stuttgart Publication MWR Director Joseph L. Johnson Marketing Chief Angela Frasier Editor/Writer Novelda Sommers Layout/Design Angela Frasier Kevin Ruiz-Castillo Brittany Michelle Tweedy Knef Joel Wasko Commercial Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities If you belong to a business or organization interested in reaching the community of USAG Stuttgart with your message, please contact Ms. Tweedy Knef at mary.e.knef.naf@mail.mil.

View This Issue Online issuu.com/stuttgartfamilyandmwr All details provided in this publication are subject to change.

For the latest information: STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM No federal endorsement of thirdparty advertisements implied.

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Message from the Director Why do we get up every morning and continue to persevere through life’s challenges? It takes self-discipline, hard work and determination, but where does that come from?

For many of us, it’s because we believe in something – something greater than ourselves. For me, I believe in the MWR mission to proudly serve those who serve, and I have believed in that mission for over 30 years.

This quarter, Team MWR has overcome many challenges to provide you a fall packed with community events, sports, travel, entertainment, and services: •

The Swabian-American Biergarten (page 6) in October will give you a taste of a quintessential German autumn, with delicious food, festive music and beer.

•

Frosty Fest (page 31) in early December will celebrate winter traditions with food, entertainment and activities, as well as the annual tree lighting.

•

The Stuttgart Theatre Center (page 33), on Kelley Barracks, has charted a spectacular season of live performances.

If you’re looking for inspiration, we also include an incredible article about USAG Stuttgart community member RaShawn Mickens (on cover and on page 18), whose positive outlook and willingness to push outside her comfort zone is both motivating and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

We also have many opportunities for you to proudly serve those who serve right here with USAG Stuttgart Team MWR. If you would like to learn more about the opportunities available, please visit USAJobs (Stuttgart, Germany) or stuttgart.armymwr.com.

JOSEPH L. JOHNSON Director, MWR (Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation)

Swabian-American Biergarten

Oct 15-17, 2021 | USAG Stuttgart

Swabian-American Biergarten & Boxing

Oct 15-17, 2021 | USAG Stuttgart

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An American Twist on a Traditional Biergarten The Swabian-American Biergarten & Boxing event is happening Friday through Sunday, October 15-17, 2021. This onbase event will fill Panzer Parade Field and the surrounding areas.

It’s free to attend, and there are activities for everyone to enjoy.

Watch the 2021 IMCOM-Europe Boxing Championship (happening inside Panzer Gym), stop at your favorite food and beer trucks, enjoy outdoor games and activities, talk to folks at the information booths, shop at vendor booths, pick up collectable souvenir for yourself, or send to loved ones, and more.

For a premium event experience, you can buy tickets to the Biergarten Tent, which includes access to the live music on stage, and each ticket includes your meal and beverage.

For complete event details, visit STUTTGART.ARMYMWR. COM, or enjoy the next few pages for your guide to wearing your dirndl/lederhosen, the event schedule, and even some advice that everyone could use from the USAG Stuttgart Boxing Team Coach.

Continued page 10

COMMUNITY MEMBER PHOTOS From Pages 6-7

1. Mark Chang 2. Vera Regina Demarest 3. Issy Ella 4. Joan Angeles 5. Sarah Schneider 6. Takisha Miller 7. Aiz-Dflores Dean 8. Larissa Jongbloed 9. Ericka Schmits Machuca 10. Jessica Donnelly 11. Susan Osborne Bernhard 12. Paula Andrews 13. Bernell King 14. Emely Baguio 15. Rachel Doyle Hightower 16. Samantha Bykerk 17. Kelly Stark 18. Matthew Ziglar 19. Damaris Rodriguez Pomales 20. M Larisa Knef 21. Gail Lyn Currier 22. Karen Lewis Simpson 23. Diane Held Russo 24. Amanda Robinson 25. Timea DiDio 26. Ericka Schmits Machuca 27. Jennifer Samler 28. Lara Bahnweg Hayes 29. Damaris Rodriguez Pomales 30. Casey OConnor Friedl 31. Stephanie Salomaa 32. Chris Clark

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Swabian-American Biergarten & Boxing

EVENT SCHEDULE Friday, October 15, 2021 Event hours: 5-11 p.m.

Saturday, October 16, 2021 Event hours: Noon-11 p.m.

1 p.m.: Official Event Keg Tapping inside the Biergarten tent* (*Biergarten tent tickets required) 2 p.m.: Matinee, US Army Europe Boxing Championship (Free) 6 p.m.: Main Event, US Army IMCOM Europe Boxing Championship (Free) Sunday, October 17, 2021 Event hours: 12-4 p.m.

Sunday Fun Day! Activities include a bounce house, jumbo funhouse and obstacle course for guest tickets for 17 years old and under (tickets sold separately).

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BUY YOUR TICKETS

Call MWR Tours at CIV 09641 70 5962104 / DSN 596-2104 (office hours Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.).

Ticketed Seating Times: Friday, 10/15: 5-11 p.m.

Saturday, 10/16: 12-3 p.m.

Saturday, 10/16: 3:30-6:30 p.m.

Saturday, 10/16: 7-11 p.m.

Sunday Family Day, 10/17: 12-4 p.m.

Save with Table Tickets: Table tickets are available while supplies last!

Table tickets are $270 (save 15% off of $320) per table. Each table seats 8 guests. Book your table for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday (aka Family Day)!

Individual Tickets: $40 per person ($50 at the door)

Oct 15-17, 2021 | USAG Stuttgart Sunday “Family Day” Tickets: for guests 17 and under and include access to the obstacle course, bounce house, jumbo funhouse (available Sunday only). $30 per individual 17 and under ($40 at the door).

TICKET PICK UP

Information on ticket pick up and wristbands will be provided to you upon ordering. Do not lose your ticket or wristband – please treat it like cash. Tickets and wristbands are not refundable.

ments for this event may change due to our COVID environment. In the unlikely event the Biergarten is cancelled, a full refund will be given for your reservation. Event details are subject to change without notice. All guests will immediately be notified of any changes, or you can follow the Stuttgart Family and MWR Facebook page.

To Buy Tickets: Call MWR Tours at CIV 09641-70-596-2104 / DSN 5962104 (office hours Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.).

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION Dirndl/Lederhosen Are you looking for your very own dirndl or lederhosen? Visit Prost inside the Galaxy Bowling & Entertainment Center to purchase your favorite traditional German clothing!

Visit Stuttgart.ArmyMWR.com for dates and times.

Souvenirs A limited number of Swabian-American Biergarten collectable souvenir steins and coffee mugs will be for sale.

IDs will be checked for all guests as appropriate.

COVID Mitigation Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test (no self-testing) within the last 24 hours must be presented prior to entry into any enclosed space (including Biergarten and Boxing). Please note that require-

11 Photo credit: Amanda Robinson

Watch the U.S. Army IMCOM-Europe Boxing Championship in person for free on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at the Panzer Fitness Center (see Event Schedule on page 10).

No tickets required. Scan the QR code to see live event updates!

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U.S. Army Photo by Kevin S. Abel, USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs Office

Swabian-American Biergarten & Boxing

Oct 15-17, 2021 | USAG Stuttgart

USAG Stuttgart Boxing Coach’s Top 10 Ways to Stay Fit, Happy and Healthy

By Coach Curtis D. Slone USAG Stuttgart Boxing Coach 10. Be honest with yourself. Still eating a lot of fast food while trying to lose weight? Re-examine your goals.

9. Be consistent. Form daily habits that will help you succeed, and you’re sure to see change.

8. Be dynamic. Try new workouts, methods and trainings.

You’ll grow better, faster, stronger.

7. Start small. You could go from zero to 100, but most won’t keep that up. Go for sustainable improvement over time.

6. Try new things more than once. It’s said that a toddler tries a new food seven times before developing a taste for it. Don’t give up too soon.

5. Remember, one-size-fits-all doesn’t exist. In boxing, no two people have the same style. Try a lot of new things to find what works.

4. Take naps. Resting your mind and body for 10-20 minutes can recharge you. Don’t burn yourself out.

3. Don’t be too critical of yourself or others. Hey, at least you’re trying. And that person you criticize might have something to teach you.

2. Don’t be afraid of change. That’s how you grow!

Keep an open mind, and you can’t even imagine where you’ll go.

1. Enjoy what you’re doing! That’s the key to success in a lot of things.

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Swabian-American Biergarten & Boxing

Dirndl Dash

1-Mile Fun Run!

When: Friday, October 15th (Race Start: 5 p.m.)

Where: Prost on Post (Behind Galaxy Bowling & Entertainment Center) All Finishers Receive: Lebkuchen Hearts to wear around their necks To Register: $10, Register at Patch or Panzer Fitness Center

14 U.S. Army Photo by Kevin S. Abel, USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs Office

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Oct 15-17, 2021 | USAG Stuttgart We are working closely with a local brewery to bottle and label a special, limited-run beer for our community to commemorate the Swabian-American Biergarten event.

Feierabend

Feierabend (adj.) English Pronounciation: “fire-AH-bent“ Feierabend in German originally referred to the eve of a public holiday, or a feast day. The reinterpretation for leisure and rest in the evening was derived from this. Cheers to a hard day’s work, and that feeling when it’s quitting time, you log off, punch out, and begin time for whatever you enjoy most.

Pleasantly soft, full-bodied beer of golden yellow color with a spicy, malty aroma note and a velvety aftertaste. Malt: Viennese and Pilsner malt. Hops: Hallertau pearl, Hallertau Hallertau tradition. Goes well with hearty “beer dishes”, roasts, pasta, and poultry. Ur-Edel, Ur-noble (bottom-fermented). 4.8% ABV.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

Available for sale while supplies last. Follow Stuttgart MWR on Facebook to hear when Feierabend will go on sale at Prost on Post (Panzer), Galaxy Bowling & Entertainment Center (Panzer), and Swabian Special Events Center (Patch). If stock remains, Feierabend will also be for sale at Prost on Post and Galaxy Bowling & Entertainment Center during the Swabian-American Biergarten weekend.

If you’re a Service Member struggling with alcohol, you’re not alone. You’ll find treatment and support through your service branch’s substance abuse program. Treatment for military family members struggling with addiction is covered under TRICARE. Eligible veterans can find substance abuse programs through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Offer void where prohibited. USAG Stuttgart Family & MWR Business Operations Division.

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Space to Breathe Stop and gift yourself a moment. Just for you.

Take a deep breath in... ...and slowly exhale.

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It’s time to live your best life. We’re with you.

STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

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Social Butterfly Unfurls Her Wings at USAG Stuttgart RaShawn Mickens overcame grief and embraced the chance to connect with others in Germany

BY NOVELDA SOMMERS

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RaShawn Mickens is having her moment.

Moving to Europe this year, turning 50 and getting the opportunity to travel places she had dreamed about enjoying with her mother, have all spurred something in her.

RaShawn’s energetic embrace of European life has resonated with a lot of people, judging by reactions to her posts in Facebook groups for local U.S. expats.

She urges others to overcome inhibitions about living in a foreign country and take a bus tour, join a German language group or sign up for a fitness class. Stuttgart Family and MWR offers multiple ways to establish friendships, travel and stay fit while living in Germany.

“I’m always thinking the world is bigger than my neighborhood, the world is so much bigger than my city,” RaShawn said. “And of course, smiles are universal.”

Many seem to agree. The April 2021 transplant from Lake Saint Louis, Missouri, was visiting the Louvre Museum over the summer, wearing her signature flower-bedecked headwrap, when a woman she didn’t know approached her.

“I know that flower. Are you from Stuttgart?” the woman asked.

That was just the beginning. People come up to her frequently because they recognize her from social media, she said: in the Post Exchange, the Commissary, the EUCOM Furniture Store, the mailroom, even on a walking trail near Panzer and while visiting Triberg in the Black Forest.

They sometimes get her attention by calling out a catch phrase she uses in her social media posts about her travels: “Whoop Whoop!”

Mom of a grown son and daughter, and wife of Terrence Mickens for 27 years and counting, RaShawn said she’s surprised by the local fame she has garnered from sharing her Continued on page 20

adventures in Europe with the community. She didn’t expect to be recognized in Paris.

“It tickles me,” RaShawn said.

“Even my German landlord, I got him to ‘Whoop Whoop!’”

The Mickenses lived in Panzer Hotel for 98 days before moving to a house in a local village last spring. Stir-crazy and feeling confined during the initial quarantine, RaShawn began planning trips she could take safely by car or train, getting inspiration from other Americans on social media.

A visit to the nearby Swabian Alps took her breath away with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks.

She wondered what other sights she could see within a day’s travel.

She wanted to see all of it and share with others who could benefit from knowing about her experiences. She started posting photos and videos on social media along with what she had learned.

In one video, RaShawn and Terrence dance on a Paris Street while a busker sings and plays guitar. In another post, mother and daughter RaShawn and Terrie, 23, don chef’s toques to create chocolate desserts in Zurich.

RaShawn said she hasn’t always put herself out there like this. When she was a young soldier, Army spouse, and mother, her time was consumed with caring for others.

Later as a fitness and life coach in Lake Saint Louis, she made clients her focus.

Then her beloved mother, known as Diva, died unexpectedly in 2017.

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The grief cut RaShawn down to a level where it became difficult to have a business motivating clients, so she sold it. When Terrence presented her with a chance to move their empty nest to Stuttgart, RaShawn thought the change of pace might be what she needed.

That’s when the butterfly emerged from her cocoon and took flight.

She always wanted to travel more. Growing up one of four children of a single mother in Kansas City, Missouri, there wasn’t enough money for trips.

Instead, “Juicy” as her family called her, read books and dreamed about places she might visit – the Eifel Tower, the Louvre, the Alps.

She and Terrence did travel together after meeting in boot camp and marrying six months later. She visited Singapore, Canada, and islands and countries throughout the Caribbean. One summer, while Terrence worked in Bahrain, RaShawn and the kids soaked up the local culture.

“I just truly love people,” said RaShawn, crediting her mother for giving her a name that is meant to evoke a ray of sunshine. “We’re all in God’s family.

I may not remember your name, but I’ll say, ‘hey, sister girl, how are you doing?”

She also credits her Christian faith for reminding her everyone struggles, and if her gift is to inspire joy, she should use it.

People always return her smile, she said, even in Germany, where smiling at strangers isn’t customary.

This is the couple’s first time living overseas long-term, and RaShawn said she doesn’t want to miss any opportunity to see as much as she can while inspiring others to get out and enjoy Europe.

RaShawn said the life coach in her sees the desire some members of the community have to share a connection with others, even if they sometimes don’t know how to reach out. She’s happy to be greeted in public, and she might even give a hug.

“I have teared up on occasion,” she said. “I’m like, ‘Lord, it’s just little old me.’ But as you know, he takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary.”

As she turns 50 in November, RaShawn said she will be looking for ways to use her knack for connecting with others. She’s at a crossroads, not sure where the journey leads, but it’s bound to be somewhere fascinating.

“This is a moment,” she said. “And I truly don’t want to miss it.”

Continued on page 22

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Get Outside & Explore!

If you feel inspired by the Mickens family’s adventures, check out MWR Travel and MWR Outdoor Recreation. You can book a bus tour, go on a thrilling guided adventure, or rent all the equipment you need for hiking, biking, and camping. The possibilities are limitless.

In The Words of Her Fans Comments from RaShawn’s posts on a popular local travel Facebook Page: “Love the smiles, they’re contagious.”

“I love seeing your adventures and positivity. You and your hubby are too cute together. And you have an awesome smile that makes me smile as well.”

“You are such a gift to me … even though we have never met. Your smile just lifts up any bad day.”

“So glad to have met you today and hope I can join you on one of your adventures soon (whoop whoop)!!”

“Your posts always bring a smile to my face. Keep spreading the joy.”

“I enjoy watching your travel adventures!”

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RaShawn’s 5 Tips for Living Your Best Life in Germany 1. Stay in the driver’s seat of your life. Set goals, speed up, slow down, detour – keep growing.

2. Think and speak with a positive mindset. Go on and give yourself a, “Whoop, whoop!”

3. Be thankful, always, for the experience we are provided here.

4. Get comfortable being outside your comfort zone.

There is a LOT to explore take small steps. You can do it.

5. Don’t stress about the challenges, grow through them.

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T:20 cm

Eat. Sleep.

Tour. Repeat.

An inside look at an MWR-hosted tour

BY NOVELDA SOMMERS

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Soufflenheim, France was the destination on a damp, late-summer morning for 39 of us travelers from USAG Stuttgart.

MWR Tours chartered two buses for a shopping excursion just over the border into Alsace, and we had all reserved seats. The tour left Panzer at 8 a.m., and we were home just 10 hours later, shopping bags bulging with pottery and delectable goodies.

We spent the morning exploring charming Soufflenheim, where generations of artisans have produced colorful pots made from local clay. They decorate their creations with bright colors, polka dots, flowers and the famous white-and-black storks – which winter in Africa and return to Europe in summer.

Back on the bus, we traveled 30 minutes up the road to the hypermarket Cora – think Costco and Super Target in the United States, but with aisles and aisles of French food! We stocked up on French

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wines, cheeses, bread, snacks, sauces and Pâté de Foie Gras.

Per COVID rules, our buses were at half capacity, so we had room to spread out. MWR Tours instructed us to bring all necessary documents, including CovPass on our phones to show vaccination status, passports and ID cards.

Prior to boarding, we filled out forms attesting that we were symptom-free.

Tickets were $75 in advance – well worth it to be driven in comfort.

With free rein over the cargo hold, we could load up as many purchases as desired.

By 6 p.m., we were unloading our plunder and thanking our expert volunteer MWR tour operators, Chelsea, Tim and Garrett (pictured right). I was soon home feeding my family the gourmet bbq-bacon-cheeseburger sliders I had picked up at Cora’s deli counter (they’re not big Pâté fans). Vive la France!

Explore Europe with the USAG Stuttgart MWR Tours Office. For upcoming trip information, visit: STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

MWR Tour Operators Chelsea, Garrett and Tim after a successful trip to France.

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A Tried and True Original: The Swabian Special Events Center One of Patch’s first buildings holds plenty of history and mystery, and a golden opportunity for your next special event

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BY NOVELDA SOMMERS

On Friday nights, music fills the bar at the Swabian Special Events Center as patrons take turns singing karaoke where German army officers once socialized.

Now known as the Swabian, the former Officers’ Club of the German Army’s 7th Panzer Regiment now hosts conferences, comedy shows and trivia contests. With the closing of the Patch Community Club and Backlot Bar, the Swabian is the place to be on Friday nights or during special events.

The Swabian is one of Patch’s oldest – and some say most intriguing – original buildings. Jail cells in the basement hint at mysterious intentions of the builders. No one seems to know why a social club needed a place to confine prisoners, said William Butler, USEUCOM Command historian. Empty second-floor rooms hint at the lives of staff and caretakers who once lived there.

the Army and USEUCOM, the site has remained true to its original purpose as a gathering spot.

“It still retains a lot of its charm, and one can still get a feel for how it may have originally looked,” Butler said.

When the Swabian Bar comes alive on Fridays, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., with patrons crooning to karaoke or enjoying beverages on the back deck, the Swabian endures as a living, breathing monument to Patch’s historic pedigree.

From its origins in the 1930s, through the U.S. Army’s arrival in July 1945, and during the tenure of The Swabian Special Events Center as it looked in 1945.

CITY OF STUTTGART, GERMANY

Host Your Next Event Facts About The at5the Swabian Special Swabian Events CenterSpecial Events Center

inSpecial the 1930s, the center was an Officers’ Club for the 7 Panzer The Built Swabian Events Center, located on Patch Regiment.

• Afteristhe first U.S. troops showed up in 1945, it continued to Barracks at USAG Stuttgart, a premiere location to hostserve your next With Club many event rooms decades. • Look for the building’s asconference. an Officers’ for several to choose from“Kurmärkerkisches (or combine for larger space), an original Dragoner,” symbol in wrought iron on the on-site full catering services, screens in th leftbar, window, and the 7projector Panzer Regiment emblem on the right. • Several each event room (HDMI and VGA ready), and a jail cells in the basement could have been meant for officers accused of portable PA system that can be utilized for each wrongdoing.

• Over room - you have everything you the needdecades, for an enjoy-the upstairs rooms of the center were home toforpeople whoguests. worked there. able,were successful event you and your th

• • • • •

Total event space area: 7,123 square feet Meeting rooms: 8

Outdoor deck: 841 square feet Free Digital Download Historic Restaurant/Bar: 1,244 square feet Meet up with the Swabian Seating upplanning to 390 team, or Specialspace: Event

view your own on-base special Crystal room: 2,062 sq. ft., seatsonline up to 150 event planning guide at: Fireside room: 589 sq. ft., seats up to 20 STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM Abrams room: 899 sq. ft., seats up to 20 Bradley room: 899 sq. ft., seats up to 80 Sherman room: 589 sq. ft., seats up to 40 Restaurant/Bar room: 1,244 sf, seats up to 80 Outdoor event deck: 841 sq. ft.

All seating numbers depend on your preferred layout.

Historical Note The Swabian Special Event Center is one of the post’s original buildings. Built as an Officer’s club outside the kaserne’s original fence, the club features a ballSw abian Speroom room, dining andnts a terrace cial Eve Centefor Meeting & Conference Space r the orchestra.

Barrcks, USAG Stuttgart The kitchen was| Patch on the second floor and three jail cells in the cellar are still there today! It is believed that these cells would be used for those officers who broke military regulations, although there is no evidence they were ever really used for that purpose.

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Caramel Popcorn Bliss Check out this easy recipe! Double up the batch, have the kids help shake up the popcorn mix, and share with neighbors and co-workers this holiday season.

Ingredients 2 bags microwaved popcorn 1 large paper bag 1 tsp. baking soda

Syrup: 1 stick butter 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup Karo syrup

Directions Mix syrup ingredients in glass bowl. Cook in microwave 2 minutes on high. Stir and cook 1:45 on high. Add 1 teaspoon baking soda and stir well. Put the popped popcorn in a brown paper bag. (Optional: add your favorite nuts now: peanuts, pecans, almonds, cashews - your choice!)

Pour half of the syrup mixture onto the popcorn and shake. Pour rest of syrup on popcorn and shake. Microwave 1 1/2 minutes on high. Shake, shake, shake the bag! Microwave another 1 1/2 min. on high and shake bag again. Pour onto 2 cookie sheets and bake 20 min. at 200 degrees fahrenheit (93 celcius). The caramel popcorn smell that fills your home will be amazing! Happy holidays.

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Bengt Washburn, 2011, in Monty Python’s Spamalot

No Humbug Here!

Stand-up comedian Bengt Washburn gets serious for his role in Stuttgart Theatre Centre’s “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol” this season

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Bengt (the ‘g’ is silent) Washburn is quite comfortable on stage after nearly three decades as a professional comedian. But one gig this fall has him admittedly scared.

Washburn plays the lead role in “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol,” opening December 3 at Stuttgart Theatre Center on Kelley Barracks.

“It’s a Dickensian drama, and it’s going to be so hard,” said Washburn, whose wife’s position at USAG Stuttgart has brought his family to live in the region for a second time.

“There’s a lot of funny stuff in the play, but it’s not like standup, where you try for laughs per minute,” he said. “I’ll probably be 32 funny when I shouldn’t be.”

This will be Washburn’s second production with the center. About a decade ago, when his wife was active-duty in the U.S. Air Force and stationed in Stuttgart for the first time, Washburn made his community theater debut in a production of “Monty Python’s Spamalot.” He also has performed standup for local military audiences and regularly takes his show on the road. He still considers himself a theater novice.

Center Director Richard Roberts said he has enjoyed working with Washburn to help him hit the right tone.

“I love Bengt in the role of Jacob Marley because he’s quirky,” Roberts said. “A comedian doesn’t look at things straight on. They sort of side-eye everything. This is not your traditional ‘Christmas Carol.”

The play is comedic, with a lot of dark humor, he said.

“When you look at the original ‘Christmas Carol,’ Jacob Marley shows up and is this miserable, sad character, then he’s gone,” Washburn said. “What happened to Jacob Marley? In this version, out

of the goodness of his condemned heart, he tries to get Scrooge to do the right thing.” Watch Washburn and the rest of the cast take stage in December.

Interested in volunteering or taking a theater class? Visit STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM for complete Stuttgart Theater Center information.

Rewarding job? Check 3 Rewarding job? Check 3 Great benefits? Check 3 3 Great benefits?inCheck Make a difference the world?

Make aDouble-check difference in the 33 world?

Double-check 33

When you join Army Child and Youth Services (CYS), four-decade tradition serving When you you join joinaArmy Child and YouthofServices our Nation’s Soldiers and theirtradition Families.of serving (CYS), you join a four-decade our Nation’s Service SoldiersMembers and theirand Families. their Families.

We hire outstanding caregivers, but also need We hire outstanding caregivers, but also need • IT professionals Program managers • IT professionals Cooks managers • Program • Custodians Cooks • Administrative assistants Custodians • Trainers Administrative assistants • Supervisors Trainers • Supervisors … and lots more … and lots more Find more information on Army CYS Careers at Find morearmymwr.com/CYScareers information on Army CYS Careers at armymwr.com/CYScareers

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CYS Employees Dress In Purple for April 2021 Month of the Military Child

USAG Stuttgart Child and Youth Services Is Here For You Child and Youth Services (CYS) provides programs and services for children of eligible military and civilian families. Within CYS you will find something to meet your children’s needs, including: • • • • • •

Full, part time or hourly child care Before/after school care Programs for your middle school and teen youth Instructional classes Workforce preparation opportunities Sports and fitness activities

Today’s CYS programs, deemed a “model for the nation” by Presidential acclaim, continue to operate on these cornerstones:

Quality – Child care is DoD-certified and nationally accredited Affordability – Fees for various programs are competitively priced and affordable regardless of sponsor’s income Accountability – To safeguard the Army’s resources by efficient management oversight, good fiscal stewardship, reducing waste and protecting assets of programs and services to Service Members and their Families.

Learn more about CYS programs, and find out how to register at STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

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CLIMB TO NEW HEIGHTS

“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”

- Sir Edmund Hillary

“Thanks Jenny and ODR for having this class! Jenny is an amazing instructor and that was a fantastic experience!”

-Sean Gast (pictured left on an ODR Trip in Fall 2020)

USAG Stuttgart Outdoor Recreation (ODR) is your first choice for outdoor adventures, and premium outdoor recreation rental equipment, conveniently located at Kelley Barracks, USAG Stuttgart: • Ski & Snowboard Equipment • Tuning Services • Mountain Bikes • Touring Bikes • Tents, Sleeping Bags • Lanterns • Coolers

• • • • • • • • •

Folding Chairs Stoves & Grills Backpacks Tug of War Rope Sets Horseshoes Inflatables for Parties Corn Hole Games Giant Jenga Kits & more!

CIV +49(0)711-729-4291 DSN (314) 421-4291 STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

37

Welcome to Germany Your service provider for the U.S. military

fastest mobile network easyMobile

real American television easyTV

lightning-fast internet easyConnect

5G | LTE 1 Gbps1

up to 95 live U.S. channels

up to 1 Gbps1

unlimited data upgrades

multistream on 3 devices

internet, telephone & more

free EU roaming

live, recorded, or on demand

unlimited free U.S. calls

2

More details: All services available on-base & off-base, also via our hotline:

0631-3522499 No Federal endorsement implied.

1 Where technically feasible. 2 According to the terms of service.

www.tkscable.com

TKS shop Böblingen Panzer Shopping Mall Mon - Sat: 10:00 – 18:00

Paint Your Own Ornaments For Yourself, or As Gifts MWR Arts & Crafts • • • • • • •

Laser Engraving Sewing Classes Picture Framing Balloon Bouquets Retail Shop on Patch Woodworking on Kelley & More

Bldg 2329, Patch Barracks +49 (0)711 680-5270 Bldg. 3319, Kelley Barracks +49 (0)711-729-2519

STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

YM TIM

Patch Fitness Center

Bldg. 2337, Patch Barracks

Hours: Mon-Fri 5 am - 8 pm Sat-Sun-Hol 7:30 am - 3 pm Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Years Day Unmanned Access-Only

Panzer Fitness Center

Bldg. 2990, Panzer Kaserne

Hours: Mon-Fri 5 am - 8 pm Sat-Sun-Hol 7:30 am - 3 pm Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Years Day Unmanned Access-Only

Kelley Fitness Center

Bldg. 3326, Kelley Barracks

Hours: Mon-Fri 5 am - 8 pm Sat-Sun-Hol 7:30 am - 3 pm Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Years Day Unmanned Access-Only

RB Fitness Center

Bldg. 151, Robinson Barracks

Hours: Mon-Fri & US/Training Holidays 5 am - 1 pm Sat-Sun Closed Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Years Day. No unmanned access.

BODY STRONGER

MAKE YOUR

Class Photos: “Spin with Lynn!”

Stuttgart Sports & Fitness has a well-balanced program with community and intramural level individual and team sports as well as a wide variety of fitness classes.

For those who would like a more personalized fitness plan, we have several certified personal trainers who can help start you on the road to a healthier and more fit lifestyle.

To help you recover from your fitness and sports activities, we have a group of certified massage therapists ready to fully rejuvenate you.

Our Sports & Fitness Centers provide you with: • • • • • • •

Basketball courts Weight rooms Lockers Saunas Cardio rooms Family Fitness room (Patch, Panzer and Kelley) Functional Fitness Rooms (Patch and Panzer)

Sports & Fitness Centers are free and open to all eligible Family and MWR authorized users, including active duty, retirees and Family members.

STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM

41

What is ACS? The mission of ACS is to facilitate the commander’s ability to provide comprehensive, standardized, coordinated and responsive services that support Service Members, Department of the Army Civilians, and Families regardless of geographical location and to maximize technology and resources, eliminate duplication in service delivery and measure service effectiveness.

This October, join ACS in uniting to end domestic abuse. Take a moment to review the infographic on the right to learn more about how you can support a friend who is experiencing domestic abuse.

Additional ACS resources include: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ACS Community Resources Army Emergency Relief Army Family Team Building Baby Bumps Pregnancy Group Relocation Readiness Employment, Volunteer, Training Opportunities Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Financial Readiness Family Advocacy Program (FAP) Family Readiness Group Training German Immersion Classes Interview Preparedness Mobilization, Deployment, and Support Stability Operations

• • • • • • • • •

New Parent Support Program Relocation Readiness Resume Preparedness Spouse Sponsorship Training Stress Management Classes Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Emergency Placement Care Financial Planning for Initial PCS (E-4 and below) Mandatory Financial Class (FirstTerm Service Members) and more!

USAG Stuttgart ACS supports Active Duty Service Members, National Guard, Reservists, Retirees, Civilians, contractors, and their respective Families by providing readiness services and resources to strengthen and serve the entire community. For complete class schedules and upcoming event information, along with a complete list of services, visit:

STUTTGART.ARMYMWR.COM 42

5 Ways to Help a Friend Who’s Experiencing Domestic Abuse

Everyone’s situation is different — domestic abuse can happen to anyone and it’s not their fault. And it can be difficult to know how to help a friend, coworker or loved one who is in an abusive relationship. Here are five simple things you can do to safely help someone you care about in their time of need.

1. Ask to connect “How do you prefer we connect?”

Having a safe way to communicate is important.

Let your friend or loved one tell you what is safest for them and honor that. Do not pressure the person to leave. Instead, support them without judgment.

Offer to help them plan for their safety or seek outside support when they are ready.

2. Stay in touch “Let’s play a game online.”

Finding creative reasons to call, text, video chat or use social media check-ins may provide a lifeline for those who feel unsafe at home. For example, some games have chat functions that may allow for communication in nontraditional spaces. Starting up a game that has chat may allow you to check in with your friend without making the abuser suspicious. There are privacy and safety tips for online gaming from the National Network to End Domestic Violence.

3. Support and believe “I care about you and I’m here for you, no matter what.”

Create a secret code word, phrase or symbol that lets you know your friend is signaling for help, whether that means a call from you or for you to call the police.

A call can sometimes disrupt abuse.

5. Share the hotline “Here is the information for that restaurant I told you about.”

It may be safer for your friend if you research options for outside support, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, on their behalf (and on your device, provided you feel safe to do so).

Use your agreed-upon code and a safe communication method when providing this information so it remains private between the two of you.

6. Resources and Support to Share Immediate crisis support National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233, 800-787-3224 en Español https://www.thehotline.org/

Remind your friend that they are not alone and that you are there for them. If they choose to talk about the abuse, listen and show empathy. Let them know the abuse is not their fault and that you believe them. Ask what you can do to help.

Local support, 24/7 Family Advocacy Program Victim Advocate Locator https://www.militaryonesource.mil/leaders-service -providers/child-abuse-and-domestic-abuse/ victim-advocate-locator

4. Chat about options

Support for Teens Love is Respect | Text “LOVEIS” to 866-331-9474 https://www.loveisrespect.org/

“ “Let’s create a safety plan.”

Options are empowering. Talk to your friend about their options for seeking help or reporting domestic abuse in the military. Let them know that FAP victim advocates are available 24/7 to help them think through dangerous situations and create a plan to get through them safely.

Additional support Military OneSource | 800-342-9647 https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ United-to-End-Domestic-Abuse

The Family Advocacy Program supports service members and their families impacted by domestic abuse through victim advocacy and crisis intervention.

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No federal endorsement implied

No federal endorsement implied

WELCOME HOME P C S & T D Y R AT E S F E E L AT H O M E AT T H E ST U T TGA RT M A R R I OT T HOT E L S I N D E LFI N G E N W I T H O U R S P EC I A L LO N G -STAY R AT E F OR LON G T E R M M I L I TA RY P CS A N D T DY G U E STS .

The hotel is close to Panzer, Patch, Kelley and Robinson Barracks, as well as to the Stuttgart International Airport and offers special long-stay packages within current per diem rates.

Packages include our American breakfast buffet, access to the PCS family lounge as well as a 10% discount on food and beverages. The parking fee for one car, internet access and phone calls within area code 07031 and 0711 are also included.

PLEASE E-MAIL YOUR REQUEST TO: RESERVATION.SINDELFINGEN@MARRIOTT.COM

STUTTGART MARRIOTT HOTEL SINDELFINGEN Mahdentalstr. 68 · 71065 Sindelfingen Tel. +49 (0) 7031 696 0 reservation.sindelfingen@marriott.com