Kaiserslautern American - April 3, 2026

SPRING FESTIVALS & BEYOND

FRANKFURTER DIPPEMESS

FAIR

NOW - APRIL 19 www.dippemess.com

MAINZ SPRING FEST

NOW - APRIL 12

https://www.mainz.de/angebote-entdecken/freizeit/ feste-und-veranstaltungen/mainzer-rheinfruehling

GERMAN-FRENCH GARDEN, SAARBRÜCKEN

EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 5

https://www.saarbruecken.de/leben_in_ saarbruecken/freizeit/deutsch_franzoesischer_ garten

RAMSTEIN SPRING FEST

APRIL 12, NOON-6 P.M. at Marktplatz with Sunday shopping

WIESBADEN SPRING FEST

APRIL 10-13

https://www.wiesbaden.de/leben-in-wiesbaden/ freizeit/feste/fruehlingsfest

HOUSE & GARDEN EXPO, SAARBRÜCKEN

APRIL 17

https://www.ccsaar.de/events/haus-garten-messesaar-2026-dein-zuhause-dein-projekt-deine-messe/

STUTTGART SPRING FEST

APRIL 18- MAY 10

https://www.stuttgarter-fruehlingsfest.de/en/

SPRING FEST IN MUNICH

APRIL 17 - MAY 10

https://www.muenchen.de/en/events/springfestival-munich-2026

KAISERSLAUTERN MAY FAIR

MAY 29 - JUNE 8

Messeplatz fair grounds

MAINZ OPEN OHR MUSIC FESTIVAL

MAY 22-25

https://www.openohr.de/programm/

CELEBRATE EASTER THE GERMAN WAY

by Amanda Hayward Contributing writer

Egg painting, festivals, bonfires, Easter games and feasts all partially sum up a traditional German Easter weekend. Many Easter traditions first began in Germany, and to this day, Easter is one of Germany’s most celebrated holidays. In fact, the first chocolate Easter bunny was made in Germany in the 1800s.

Celebrated alongside chocolate bunnies and the resurrection is the coming of spring. Colorful decorations begin popping up in some German villages like spring flowers and painted eggs hanging from tree branches. Celebrating Easter in Germany gives you the opportunity to incorporate a few of these German traditions and add an interesting twist to your Easter holiday weekend.

Here are a few ways you can celebrate Easter like a German.

—DECORATE—

It is traditional for Germans to decorate a tree in their yard with hand-painted eggs. It is also common to cut branches from trees and bring them inside and decorate them.

To prepare the eggs for hanging, insert two small holes on either side of an egg with a small needle while carefully breaking up the yokes inside. Next, gently blow out the insides through one of the holes until only the shell is left. Decorate your eggs to your liking, and with a glue stick, dab glue next to each other so you can glue both ends of a ribbon to form a loop. Hang your eggs on your tree or branch and you’ve officially decorated like a German.

—DAYS OF EASTER—

Green Thursday (Gründonnerstag):

Although some celebrate Green Thursday more than others, it is a tradition for Germans to eat something green on this day, such as spinach, leeks or peas. Green Thursday is a regular working day for most, and in recognition of its other meaning, the Last Supper, some Christians also attend an evening church service to have their feet washed.

Good Friday (Karfreitag):

Everything is quiet and Germans are off work through Easter Monday. Families share a relaxing day out like going for a long walk. They also tend to avoid meat throughout the day, so a fish and/or vegetable dinner is quite traditional. Some Christians attend Mass in remembrance of Jesus dying on the cross. During Mass a candle is lit then kept until Easter morning so it can be lit again at the breakfast table. Good Friday is a day to relax and prepare for Easter morning.

Holy Saturday (Karsamstag):

Easter markets are a great way to spend Easter Saturday, while some families prefer a quieter day that includes exchanging decorated eggs or making Easter “nests” (baskets) for the children.

Family, friends and the Easter bunny periodically drop gifts in the nests until Easter Monday. Some smaller, more religious German towns will attend a Saturday night service and then a bonfire. A tractor and wagon drive through the villages gathering tree branches people have left out in front of their houses. The branches are brought to one pile for a bonfire and residents gather to acknowledge not only the rising of Christ, but the end of winter and coming of spring.

Easter Sunday (Ostersonntag):

While the sun is still down, some celebrate the Easter rising by re-lighting their Good Friday candle, followed by a breakfast with sausage, eggs and Easter bread. The day is spent going to Easter morning church service, going on Easter egg hunts and playing games. Every now and then children will peak to see what goodies have appeared in their nest from family and friends. A traditional Easter dinner is lamb, potatoes and vegetables followed by a traditional lamb or bunny-shaped

Easter Monday (Ostermontag): Easter Monday is a non-work-

cake (Osterlamm), which is made with flour, eggs, butter and powdered sugar.

ing holiday and a time to relax. On this day, family and friends usually take turns visiting each other.

Spring into garden season

by Nicole Karsch-Meibom Contributing writer

It’s time to get your garden ready for the best season of the year. To revamp your garden, make a plan of what can be achieved realistically this summer. Get informed about how to improve the quality of your lawn, which seeds or fertilizers to use and how to treat your plants. Collect as many ideas as possible, and consider carefully which plans are suitable for your own garden.

Design your future garden with an online garden planner such as https://www.gardena.com/int/ garden-life/garden-planner/.

Depending on the size of your landscape, optical tricks can make your property look bigger. By using the right color and texture of the plants, you can create an impression of distance. That is a technique

the Japanese have perfected — just think of how bonsai miniaturized plants alter the perspective.

Because springtime is quickly approaching, now is the time to look thoroughly at your greenery. Which shrub has made it through the winter and which has turned unsightly?

Before uprooting, though, thoroughly review all information avail-

able about that plant. Some species appear to be gone but aren’t at all, like the withered looking branches of a grapevine. Some plants, such as lavender or butterfly bushes, just need to be cut back in order to bloom again properly. Ornamental grasses should be reduced to a few inches above the ground as soon as possible, whereas flowers like Iris

or Epimedium call for trimming of the foliage.

Cutting too much or at the wrong time can cause great damage, so take the time to read and study properly beforehand. If you need help with some gardening basics, stop by your local gardening store to get expert advice on your gardening and plant questions.

As for the queen of flowers, there is a whole science to it. In 2006, Britain voted the rose to be the most favorite flower in England. So, in order to take good care of your roses, check out https://www.bhg.com/gardening/flowers/roses/ultimate-rosecare-guide/.

Spring is the time for supporting new growth and working on the soil. So, covering all your flower beds with bark mulch is the best thing to do right now. It maintains

the humidity, keeps the weeds low and feeds the soil after the winter. The cover should be at least 10 centimeters thick. Calculate 50 to 100 liters of mulch for one square meter. To prepare the soil, it has to be broken up properly. Dig it up to aerate and loosen the ground. Adding fertilizers or compost depends on the needs of the plants. Lastly, don’t forget to think about your garden furniture. If the wood has turned gray, it will need thorough grinding before repainting or oiling. However, huge furniture stores often offer garden equipment at low prices, so this might even be cheaper than refurbishing the old stuff. And after putting all that effort into your plants, don’t you deserve a new lounge chair to enjoy your green oasis? Have a great summer! Photo

Spring is here… Let’s get moving!

by Katie F. Boltuch Contributing writer

Tell me if this sounds familiar: “My bathing suit is telling me, ‘Get off the couch and get yourself in that gym.’ But my sweatpants are like, ‘Come on in, there’s plenty of room!’”

Thewinter months can be some of the most difficult to find motivation. We naturally want to hibernate, stay warm, drink Gluhwein, enjoy the crackling fire, and use every excuse in the book to stay on the couch. Be honest, which one of these sounded like you this winter: “It’s too cold,” “It’s dark and rainy,” “But these sweatpants are so comfy!” “But I have so much catching up to do on Netflix,” or “It’s so warm under these blankets”?

Waking up every morning to darkness can be a bit depressing and definitely ruin any chance to make good on those New Year’s resolutions. Don’t worry, you are not alone. A 2014 study by the University of Scranton suggests only 8 percent of people actually achieve their New Year’s goals. Luckily, daylight saving time gives us more daylight and tem-

peratures are on the rise. Spring is a season for new beginnings, and that’s not just for blooming flowers. You can have a new beginning too! If you’re still struggling and those sweatpants still feel “oh so good,” the following tips can get you back on track and keep you motivated.

Be realistic.

Let’s be serious. No one is expecting you to get up on Monday morning and run 10 miles or lift heavy weights. You shouldn’t expect that either. One of the biggest reasons people trade in sweating at the gym for sweating in front of the fireplace is because they go too hard too soon. If you haven’t been doing anything at all, make it a priority to simply get yourself moving. Once you’re off the couch, you can move on to the next tip.

Set specific goals. We’ve all heard the statement “failure to plan is planning to fail.” But have you ever heard “begin with the end in mind”? Now is the time to decide what kind of results you want. Do you want to lose weight, or are you simply interested in getting more active? Do you want to get out of the house a few times a week, or do you want to try a new activity such as yoga or spinning? Knowing what you want to get out of your efforts for a lifestyle change can make a world of difference. It’s not enough to just say “I want to lose weight.” Setting specific, realistic goals will motivate you and create a path to success. For example, “I want to exercise 3 days a week for 30 minutes” is a specific and realistic goal.

Knowledge is power. There’s a reason for the small print on TV and in magazines telling you to consult your doctor before making any major changes to your diet or exercise routine. Knowledge is power, and that definitely applies to changing your lifestyle. Moving more and eating less junk food is a great start, but how do you know you’re actually on the right path? If you’re planning to start walking, do your research. You may need to replace those sneakers that have been sitting in your closet. How often should you exercise if you want to lose weight? What should you eat to feel better and have energy? If you’re planning to cut out certain foods from your diet, such as red meat, or want to try a new diet, vegetarian, vegan, etc., learn what you need to be aware of and what kind of effects it will have on your body.

Schedule, time manage and plan.

A 2015 Harvard Business School study revealed that people who make goals are 10 times more successful than those without goals. The study recommended smaller, well-organized milestones can make everything less overwhelming. Whether you want to use a calendar as a guide or a notebook to keep track of your progress, use tools to stay on track.

As long as you’re making goals, let’s talk about your plan to reach these goals. Many people feel like they need a personal trainer to get results. While personal trainers can be effective, they can also be costly and are not always the kind of motivation we’re looking for. If you’d rather not go that route or that’s not what your goals entail, there are plenty of other ways to plan for success. If your goal is to get outside more, schedule time

to walk the dog or go for a walk with your spouse or children. If you want to try a new class at the gym, figure out where it fits into your schedule.

What if you look at your schedule and feel like you don’t have a moment to spare? Get creative! Use the last 15 minutes of your lunch break to take a quick walk. Park the car far away from the door at the office or take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Bring your family.

Recruit your partner and/or children to get active with you. A 2013 study from ExerciseFriends.com showed that finding a partner to hold you accountable for your activity raises success rates to over 95 percent.

Do yourself a favor: grab your partner and/or children and get started. Even if neither of you are ready to go running or lift weights, you can go for a walk, ride a bike or learn a new sport. This is also possible in times of social distancing. Follow the security rules, keep your distance and nothing can keep you from working out together in the outdoors.

Have fun!

Changes in lifestyle and habit can be daunting, especially if you dread anything or everything that has to do with exercise or the gym. If you’re buying new shoes, get ones you love. Make a killer playlist to listen to while you’re doing whatever activity you choose. Buy a fun printed T-shirt — my favorite: “Shh, don’t tell anybody but

I’m training to be Batman” — to make you smile. When you’re having fun, you’re more likely to stick to your goals.

Make good choices.

Food is your friend. That’s right, I said it. But as much as we might love to scarf down pizza every night, set a goal to try something new. Start small. Pick one night a week when you’re not only going to eat a healthy meal but also make something new so you actually see what ingredients go into your food. Too often people assume that if they want to change their lifestyle they must restrict their favorite foods. This is absolutely not true. Much like making a plan, educating yourself about food is just as important.

are made in the kitchen.” While neither of us have six-pack abs, we repeat this mantra to each other when we know we’re making poor food choices. Although we don’t restrict our diets — everything in moderation is ok and I don’t want to live in a world without nachos — this little saying helps us choose a healthier option for a snack or meal because we know we’ll feel better. When you eat healthier, you feel healthier.

My husband and I say to each other, “Abs

Give yourself a chance and stay positive. You may be familiar with the 21-day rule, which is that it takes a minimum of 21 days to form a new habit, but it turns out it could take a bit longer. A 2014 study published by the European Journal of Social Psychology examined the habits of 96 people over a 12-week period. Results show it can take about two months before a new behavior becomes automatic. What this means is that you have to be patient and forgiving. If you do go to the gym, remember why you’re there: for you, your health and your wellbeing. Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Everyone has to start somewhere. Remember, you are going to have days where you just don’t want to do anything. You are going to have setbacks. If you miss out one day, make sure you get back into it the next. Above all, stay positive! Don’t get discouraged because you can’t do it all, all the time, all at once. Life happens. Be flexible and be proud you are doing something to improve your health!

Live a purposeful life

5 simple steps to help you grow as a person

by Megan Finley Contributing writer

Many of us get caught up in the daily motions of life and “punching a clock.” We find ourselves in the same routine, doing the same things day in and day out. Many of us find ourselves getting caught up in the monotony of life. Before too long, we find ourselves asking the questions, “What am I doing? Where am I going?” It can feel as though you are investing a tremendous amount of effort in going nowhere fast. The secret to breaking free of this cycle and achieving your goals is to get started. These 5 steps will help you set your goals, grow as a person, and reap the most rewards from life.

1 Kaiserslautern info.saborkl@gmail.com

“Life is short, fragile and does not wait for anyone. There will NEVER be a perfect time to pursue your dreams and goals.” ~ Unknown

Step 1:

Picture your life in the next month, the next year, in 10 years. Where would you like to be? What do you want to achieve? Write your goals down in a journal. Be specific. If you want to lose weight, write down the exact number you would like to lose. If you want save money, write down exactly how much you want to save. Written goals help you visualize the target, giving you a starting point and an ending point.

Step 2:

Break your goals down into small steps. Plan your first step. If you want save enough money for a down payment on a home, figure out how much you need to save and calculate a reasonable amount to put away each pay period. If the goal is to run a marathon, pick a race and register for it. Write your steps down in a journal and mark the deadlines on your calendar. Setting dates and milestones motivates you to get started and stay on track.

Step 3:

Be proactive. Plan for distractions or upsets. By acknowledging our weaknesses we can minimize them. If the goal is to save money, plan ahead for cheap meals and free entertainment on the weekends. If the goal is to lose weight, make sure you have plenty of healthy snacks on hand to reach for when you feel a hunger pang. Being proactive helps you avoid any upcoming obstacles on the journey to achieving your goals.

Step 4:

Keep going. Setbacks are not deal breakers. Remind yourself to aim for progress, not perfection, and stay the course. There may be times you need to adjust your plan and milestones. Make those adjustments, stay motivated, and move forward.

Step 5:

Share your goals and plans with others. Telling others about our goals and our plans makes them more concrete and motivates us to stick to them. Your friends and family are also there to support you.

Once we have achieved smaller goals and hit smaller milestones, the bigger goals and milestones become far more obtainable and realistic. Take action on the change you would like to see in your life. Are your daily actions bringing you closer to your goals?

A BEAUTIFUL MYSTERY

by Nate Cairney

Contributing writer

The words “Belgian chocolate” stir the imagination in a way that few other phrases do. You picture rows of delicate pralines and truffles behind pristine glass, and lose yourself in the idea that bliss lies inside each one of those small, delicious pieces.

It’s not a distant dream. Belgian chocolates are world-renowned, and have been for years. Strict quality standards and unique production processes have helped create a brilliant chocolate culture throughout the country.

But with hundreds of chocolatiers and thousands of shops across Belgium, how do you know which one to pick? As with most things, the answer isn’t necessarily simple. What better mystery to unravel, however, than one involving chocolate?

Choosing the best chocolate

According to Georges Doutrelepont, a Nimy, Belgiumbased master chocolatier who has honed his craft for 17 years, there are a few key items to consider in choosing the best chocolate.

The first, he says, is freshness. Chocolate oxidates, so the quality of chocolate treats declines quickly. Ideally, you would buy and consume them within 10 days. So if you can’t access artisan chocolates, it is important to find a chocolatier that moves a lot of product. My favorite Leonidas shop, for example, is the often-crowded kiosk at the mall. Even then, I take care to select my own chocolates and avoid buying pre-packaged boxes.

The second consideration has to do with the quality and ori-

gin of the ingredients. Doutrelepont, for instance, chooses his ingredients carefully, as they are an essential part of creating masterful chocolates. For example, his hazelnuts come from the Piedmont region of Italy and his almonds are from Portugal — among the world’s best.

But unless you are inclined to start up an ingredient origin conversation with a chocolatier (which is encouraged — you’re guaranteed a lively discussion), then you may have to rely on the third, and perhaps most important, indicator of quality: whether or not you’re buying from an individual artisan.

The power of fabricants

Individual fabricants — preferably master chocolatiers with only one shop — are acutely aware of the tradeoffs between growth and

quality, and often choose to focus on the latter.

For fabricants, chocolate-making is not a growth business. It’s a life’s work. Doutrelepont told me it took him five years to get the blends, ingredients, sources, and processes just right. He likens chocolatemaking to athletic endeavors — it requires agility (as anyone who has ever tried to make chocolate at home knows) and a level of precision that can be breathtaking when done correctly.

And while hand-crafted chocolates in and of themselves don’t guarantee anything, passionate Belgian fabricants often produce excellence. I’ve conducted taste tests — admit-

tedly unscientific — that bear this out. There is a significant positive difference between fabricant chocolates and all others.

But we’re still talking about chocolate. Trying a little bit of everything and seeing what you like is part of the fun. However, if you’re searching for quality, remember Doutrelepont’s advice, “A (good) chocolatier is like an artist,” he says. “It’s not so easy to find.”

Looking for one, however, is definitely worth the effort.

Pralines & Truffles

While nearly all Belgian chocolate shops carry caramels, chocolatecovered fruits, and molded chocolates (think chocolate eggs at Easter), the two traditional powerhouses are pralines and truffles.

PRALINES

Though “pralines” the world over contain nuts (often hazelnuts) and sugar, Belgian pralines are chocolate-covered and available in an array of shapes, fillings, and flavors.

TRUFFLES

Typically round in shape, truffles are often made without nuts, are chocolate-forward in taste, and are usually filled with a delicious ganache (whipped filling of chocolate and cream).

BIKING ADVENTURES IN THE PFAELZER BERGLAND

by Ronnie Juhaus contributing writer

Biking from village to village in the areas surrounding the KMC and Baumholder can be challenging and a little frustrating during weekend and holiday traffic times when you have to share roadways with cars and trucks that zip around you to pass. Sometimes they get too close for comfort, especially when it is illegal to use sidewalks, and you are forced to concentrate on staying so close to the shoulder of the road without being able to bail off quickly onto grass, rocks and gravel if you are on a road bike.

Asa mountain biker who is able to ditch the pavement without damaging my tires and rims, I still do not enjoy biking along roadways for fear of that one distracted driver who could be texting, talking on the phone, eating, or fumbling around the vehicle for various other reasons.

There are many options in the surrounding areas to enjoy your ride with peace of mind, lack of noise, amazing views, feel safe alone or with the family, and have rest stops along the way that offer food and drink, or picnic areas along the route.

One of my favorite bike adventures in the area is the Draisinentour. The Draisine is a railroad bike trolly that was used years ago to take workers along the tracks to inspect and repair them. This is a great option if you don’t want to pack up your bikes, deal with flat tires, chain breaks, and especially traffic.

The trollies are equipped with seats for 2 peddlers in the front, 2 passengers in the back so that you can switch off, and a backpack and cooler area at the rear of the trolley. If you are doing a family tour the recommended age for allowing the kids to peddle is 9 and above due to

leg length. Otherwise, they can enjoy the ride while you do the work.

The routes are from Altenglan to Lauterecken (20 kilometer), or you can continue on to Staudernheim for a total of 40 kilometers. They are one-way routes that start and end at a train station with bus transportation at each point for your return trip. The routes start at different points on even and odd number days of the month. Even day route runs from Staudernheim – Lauterecken – Altenglan. Odd day route runs from Altenglan – Lauterecken –Staudernheim. Be sure contact the tourist information office in Kusel to make your reservation; email Touristinformation@kv-kus.de. You will receive your confirmation via email as well as the bus schedules and prices to return back to your start point.

Each route has stops along the way where you can remove the trolley from the tracks, take a break, have lunch or explore one of the villages. Locks are provided with the trolley.

For prices and discounts please visit https://draisinentour.de/ draisinentour/preise-und-rabatte/. For more info and videos, check out www.draisinentour.de

For those of you who prefer to take to the trails on your own or with your families, the following are a few great suggestions with no traffic, amazing views, as well as places to rest, picnic or stop at a local beer garden. These routes were also chosen because of their starting points being either in or near the villages that a lot of KMC and Baumholder off-base/post residence reside in.

All routes are clearly marked with the name as well as colorful symbols that can be easily spotted as you drive through the villages. While riding keep in mind to check the signs along the way to stay on your route because many of them intersect with other routes at various points.

Some of the routes have various surfaces such as dirt, gravel, and asphalt. They can also lead you into small villages for several

minutes before connecting back into the wooded areas.

• Fritz-Wunderlich-Weg goes from Altenglan to Freisen. Distance is 25.7 kilometers with a rating of easy and ideal for families with children.

• Pfaelzer Moortour goes from Hauptstuhl and back to Hauptstuhl. Distance is 26 kilometers with a rating of easy and ideal for families with children.

• Lautertal-Radweg goes from Kaiserslautern to Lauterecken. Distance is 36 kilometers and is rated as easy and ideal for families with children.

• Pfaelzer Land Radweg starts in Enkenbach-Alsenborn to Altenglan. Distance is 42.7 kilometers with a rating of easy to intermediate.

• Glan-Blies-Radweg starts in Homburg and goes to Staudernheim. Distance is 126

kilometers with a rating of easy and ideal for families with children.

• Odenbachtal-Radweg goes from Otterbach to Odenbach Distance is 31.5 kilometers with a rating of intermediate.

• Pfaelzerwald Tour goes from Kaiserslautern to HinterWeidenthal. Distance is 61 kilometers with a rating of intermediate.

• Sickinger Muehlenradweg is from Ramstein-Miesenbach to Thaleischweiler-Froeschen. Distance is 41.6 kilometers with a rating of intermediate with a difficult ascent between Kindsbach and Sickinger Hoehe.

• The Kirschroute or cherry tree route goes from SchoenenbergKuebelberg to Osterbruecken. Distance is 22 kilometers, difficulty level is rated from intermediate to difficult along the route.

• Burgenradweg goes from Thallichtenberg to Fraunberg. Distance is 28.5 kilometers with a rating of difficult and recommended for experienced riders.

More information on the routes can be found at www. radwanderland.de or www. tourenplaner-rheinland-pfalz.de

We’re in this thing together: How to start co-parenting better

by Dr. Krystal White Contributing writer

Parenting decisions can be big (when to start toilet training) or small (should he get another cookie?). No doubt about it, some decisions are easy and some are very tough.

Parents make thousands of decisions about the daily lives of their children. In how many activities should children be enrolled? How do you handle temper tantrums? Food refusal? Where does our child sleep? Often, parents agree on these decisions, and other times they do not. Co-parenting is the term used to describe the negotiation process and team execution of:

1. an overall parent philosophy

2. who does each daily task

3. how you solve problems (feared, perceived and actual)

Co-parents may live together or in different homes. How people co-parent significantly influences a child’s emotions and behaviors. Research shows that children with healthy coparents (divorced, never married or married) tend to show better control of their attention and behavior. Studies suggest that children with healthy coparents have better long-term outcomes; later in life, they were people who were rated as getting along with others, doing well in school and feeling good about themselves. Children who were not doing as well lived in households with fewer satisfied spouses and fewer effective parents.

Unhappy marriages and unsupportive co-parenting go hand in hand, according to this research. Unsupportive co-parenting resulted in children who didn’t feel good about themselves or who don’t get along well with others.

A closer look at these families revealed that husbands and wives who were not getting along often allowed their marital problems to interfere with their effectiveness as a parenting team. The research suggests that if married, co-parents must work on their marriage first before tackling parenting problems.

The goal of co-parenting is for the child to observe their parents as partners rather than enemies — something all parents want no matter if they remain romantically together or not.

After examining and working through marital issues, or deciding to end the romantic adult relationship, parents can devote their focus and energy on being a bet-

ter team. Parents can start to be better co-parents by establishing an annual meeting to address their children’s specific needs for that year. Our culture has many annual celebrations or deadlines, and coparents should pick one date and stick with it over the long term. This annual meeting is not a time to review past arguments or conflicts — it should only address goals and the parenting plan for the year. Parents should prepare their responses to the following questions individually, and then review as a co-parenting team at this annual meeting:

• What is our intended goal for our children?

• What do we want them to develop this year?

• What are the most important skills for them to build?

• What is my individual role (as a mom versus as a dad) and concrete responsibilities (these will shift with each “season” of life)?

• What resources do we need to achieve these goals? Co-parents should set up a regular time to talk together, ranging from once a week to once a month,

about any issues or possible disagreements. It’s best to have a specific meeting time rather than talk about disagreements in the “heat of the moment.” During actual problems, emotions, rather than logic, are most likely influencing the way you talk to one another. A scheduled time may not be fun or convenient, but it’s important.

A good place to start is to think of the three most important arguments you have about raising your children. Write down each one and why it matters to your child’s long term development. If one parent wants to execute a course of action (e.g., to wean, to stop piano lessons or soccer enrollment, or change discipline techniques), identify what impact the decision would have on your child in 10 years, five years, one year, one month, one week and one day. This may help guide the team’s decision. If the argument is about the fairness of the parenting workload or the division of labor, negotiation may need to occur. Many co-parents who have these talks decide that although changes in co-parenting duties can’t be made, talking about them helps. Many co-parents want clear recognition for doing his or her job and not a change in roles.

Co-parents have options when they aren’t on the same page: 1. Consider wether the disagreement is about ensuring your child’s positive health and development and not about the dynamic between each other. If it is the latter, work to heal or change the emo-

tional reaction you have between you. Put the coparenting concerns on the “back burner.”

2. Write out a list of pros and cons for each parent’s argument. The next step forward may look easier using a data sheet.

3. Choose to let one person make the decision for the team, even if one is not in total agreement with the outcome.

4. Seek consultation from a trusted source or the advice of a professional. Often, brief co-parenting advice from these sources helps co-parents be more creative and less conflictual regarding these decisions.

Co-parenting can be the most difficult job a person can choose. It does not come naturally, and it takes a lot of practice and support to be good at it (just like with most careers). When parents seek social resources in a church, unit and medical community, both they and their children’s health improve.

Author’s Profile: Dr. White is a pediatric psychologist at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and the developmental health consultant for Europe Regional Medical Command. She specializes in healthy habits across the lifespan and evaluating developmental disorders.

Experience everything the Black Forest has to offer

by Megan Finley contributing writer

My family and I have been living in Kaiserslautern for almost three years. We have taken countless day trips and overnight trips, and we have had the privilege of visiting 12 different countries. There is one place on our list, however, that we still haven’t visited. It is only a couple hours away and has picturesque villages and scenery with an abundance of things to see and do all year round. So many of our friends have raved about all the things they have seen and done here, yet we have not been. What have we been waiting for? It’s time to visit the Black Forest.

For quite some time, I have been doing research on the Black Forest and all it has to offer. I have spoken with many friends and co-workers about their favorite experiences and what they recommend. But when planning a trip to the Black Forest, I get stuck trying to commit to one town, one hotel or which season we should go. It is a situation where there is so much we want to see and do, we have not decided on doing any of it. To help others plan their trip, here is a compilation of all the

wonderful things the Black Forest has to offer:

Accommodations

Whether traveling alone, with a friend or with the whole family, there are a number of resources available to help you find a place to stay. The Black Forest Tourism website, www.blackforest-tourism.com, is a fantastic resource for finding accommodations that match your personal preferences. Choose from farm stays, camping, apartments, wellness hotels or traditional hotels.

Heizmannshof Bed and Breakfast, between the towns of Titisee and Hinterzarten, comes highly recommended. With a two-night stay, you are given the Hochschwarzwald card, complete with 50 free things to do and see including ski lift passes, three hours free at Badeparadies Schwarzwald, lake tours, parks, golf courses and more!

Parks

Many people travel to the Black Forest to soak in the peaceful countryside, get a little fresh air, and

escape from the bustles of daily life. However, those who want a little more action can find this as well. There are many choices for familyfriendly parks, including Europa Park, Funny World, Schwardzwald Park and Steinwasen Park, which boasts having the longest rope bridge in the world.

Pools

The whole family will enjoy visiting one of many pools in the Black Forest. Badeparadies Schwarzwald in Titisee has

16 high-tech slides and wellness areas, and the towns of Buhl, Sasbachwalden, Freudenstadt, Gegenbach, Rottweil, Schluchsee, Weil am Rhein and Lauchringen all offer family pools and relaxation areas open year-round. If you are more interested in thermal and mineral baths, Baden-Baden claims to have the most beautiful thermal baths in the Black Forest.

Hiking

As one of the most popular activities in the Black Forest,

visitors can hike thousands of kilometers of trails, varying in length and difficulty. Try one of these popular hiking trails: “Westweg,” meaning “west trail;” “Mitteweg,” meaning “middle route”; “Ostweg,” meaning “east trail;” “Ortenauer Weinpfad,” meaning “Ortenau wine route;” Mark grafler Wine Trail; or “Schluchten steig,” meaning “gorge trail.” Trails are located all over the Black Forest and are extremely well marked.

Winter activities

Winter is also a very active time in the Black Forest with hiking, down-hill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and ice skating. Skiers of all levels should feel welcome, as there are slopes for beginners as well as those more experienced. Many people visit the Black Forest High Road for skiing, although there are many opportunities further south where the mountains are a bit larger. Feldberg resort ski area is great for families and beginners and includes a snow park. This area also has a wide variety of restaurants. Triberg, famous for Germany’s highest waterfalls, also has a natural ice skating rink.

Boating

The Black Forest is a low mountain range with many small- or medium-sized lakes and reservoirs often used for pedal boats, kayaking, rowboats, canoeing and tourist boats. Boating can be done on a number of lakes including Sulz am Neckar, Titisee and Schluchsee. The Rhine flows around the Black Forest in the south and west, offering tourist boat trip starting points.

Barefoot parks

If you have not ever partaken, the Black Forest is a fantastic spot to experience one of Germany’s barefoot parks. The idea is that walking barefoot on a variety of surfaces makes people more naturally aware of their environment. It’s an interesting concept, but more fun than anything. For more information, visit www.barfusspark.de.

Summer coasters

Try out an alpine slide while visiting the Black Forest. Gorgeous views and exciting rides make this experience fun for the whole family. “Schwarzwaldhochstrasse,” or “Black Forest High Road,” offers a year-round bobsleigh coaster, bungee trampoline and ski lift in the winter.

Another option is the Hasenhorn Coaster in Todtnau, which is open all year and claims to be the most exciting mountain coaster in Germany with a length of 2.9 kilometers.

Beer tour

The Badische Staatsbrauerei Rothaus is a brewery located near the village of Grafenhausen in the southern Black Forest. It is one of Germany’s most successful regional breweries. Their most popular product is their pilsner-style beer, Rothaus Tannenzapfle. Take a tour of this brewery founded in 1791.

Museums

There is a wide assortment of museums to visit, including the Black Forest Open Air Museum in Gutach, the Black Forest Museum in Triberg, and the German Clock Museum in Furtwangen. Visitors can also tour many historical mines in towns such as Freiburg, Neuenburg and Freudenstadt.

Whatever your interests or desires, the Black Forest is rich in history, tradition and possibilities. For more information on places to see and things to do in this region, visit www.black-forest-travel.com.

It’s time for Spring cleaning

by Megan Finley contributing writer

It’s April. The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and our homes are screaming for a good cleaning. Spring cleaning is an opportunity to freshen up our homes, weed out all the clutter, and get a fresh start for the new season. These tips will make cleaning your spaces a snap and much easier to maintain throughout the year.

1

Declutter and organize. Everything should have a place in your home. If something does not have a place or you cannot find one, ask yourself, “Do I need this?” Your home and your mind will be much less cluttered with organized spaces. Sort items by their function. Decide where they are most useful, and where they should be stored. If an item really does not serve a purpose, consider it a possible donation. While organizing, do not fill closets, drawers, shelves or bins to their maximum capacity. Leave some extra space. The extra space will keep this area looking neat and clean and also allows room for something new in the future.

2

Let it go. We all hold on to things we think we may wear again one day or something we may claim has sentimental value. Ask yourself, “Have I worn this item in the last year? Do I love it? Would I re-buy this item if I were to donate it? Will I miss it if I get rid of it?” If the answer is no, then get rid of it. Do not be afraid to part with the evening gown you wore 12 years ago or the kitchen items you have never used. Chances are, if you have owned it for a while and have not used it, you are not going to ever use it. Why hang on to something someone else could really use or need? Use this same concept when purchasing new items, and ask yourself if you need it or can live without it. You will find yourself with less clutter and more money in your pocket!

3

Scrub top to bottom, room to room. Now that you have organized your spaces, you can scrub them clean! Work top to bottom, from the ceilings and light fixtures to the hanging pictures, walls and windows and finally the baseboards and floor. Wipe down every surface, including the ones you typically skip over. Windows can be the toughest to clean. Use a microfiber cloth with a water and vinegar solution to ensure your windows are streak free.

4

Freshen up your textiles. Take down your window treatments, pull off the couch slip cover, and grab your pillow shams and throw blankets. It’s time to wash them all. These are items in your home that are used daily, but you likely never think to clean them. It might be a long process, but it will be worth it!

5

Don’t forget your fridge and freezer. One of the easiest ways to add a sense of order to chaos in the home is a clean refrigerator and freezer. Toss all the food, condiments and drinks that have been in there too long, including the long-lasting frozen foods. Remove all remaining items and give it a good wipe down. Defrost the freezer to get rid of all the built-up frost.

6

Maintain. It is inevitable that you will acquire new things, and they will be added to your decluttered spaces. Keep evaluating your areas for things you no longer use or need. If they are items you do not need then go ahead and donate or sell them. Minimizing your spaces will help maintain your efforts from spring cleaning the whole year through. Remember, a decluttered home is a decluttered mind.

Am Gusswerk 2

67663 Kaiserslautern

Tel: 0631 - 414490

Kaiserslauterer

21 e 66424 Homburg-Bruchhof

Tel: 06841 - 993060

Hauptstr. 6 • 67734 Katzweiler

Tel.: 06301-1355

Mail: m.henn@toyota-henn.de Web: toyota-partner.de/henn-katzweiler

Rangierbahnhof

Tel.: 0631-12525

Enjoy SpringKMC!

QUICHE PICNIC SUPERSTAR

by Jennifer Holdsworth Contributing writer

Quiche is loved by many people all over the world. There are so many varieties and combinations of this delicious French tart, far beyond the traditional quiche Lorraine, which includes bacon and cheese. Quiche can be enjoyed warm or cold, can be prepared in advance, can simply be adjusted to all tastes and can easily be transported, making it a picnic superstar. And, let’s face it, you will rock that picnic if your sandwich-expecting family is blown away by this delicious pastry dish.

Below, you will find a basic recipe for the pastry and the filling. Play around with taste combinations to find your favorite quiche.

Ingredients

Pastry

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1 egg

• 1 stick of butter

• 1 teaspoon salt

Method: Place flour and salt in a bowl, cut butter into pieces and add, then add the egg and knead until well combined. Roll out the pastry into a 10-inch round dish.

Important Tips: Butter should be cold, right out of the fridge. Add a tablespoon of cold water if you think the pastry isn’t coming together. Let the dough rest in the fridge while you prepare the other ingredients before rolling out.

Filling

• 3 eggs

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• Salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste

Method: Beat together until well combined, add combinations below. Bake in a pre-heated oven for about 35 minutes or until golden at 360 degrees Fahrenheit.

Combinations:

Goat Cheese, roasted eggplant and cherry tomatoes

• 1 small eggplant, cut into slices and roast in the oven on both sides until golden brown at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes on each side

• 3.5 ounces goat cheese, cut into small chunks

• 7 ounces cherry tomatoes, cut in half

Method: Place eggplant onto the pastry, pour over filling, drop goat cheese chunks throughout, place cherry tomatoes on top.

Salmon and spinach

• 10 ounces smoked salmon, cut into strips

• 10 ounces fresh baby spinach

Method: Mix salmon and spinach into basic filling, pour into pastry shell

Lorraine

• 7 ounces bacon, cut into strips and fry in pan until desired crispness

• 1/2 to 1 cup of grated cheese. Use your preferred cheese and vary the amount depending on how cheesy you like it. Try Gruyère cheese for a distinct flavor.

by Lecker

Dog-friendly hiking in the KMC

There are hundreds of kilometers of trails to trek with your dog that either start where you live or are just a short drive away. In this article, I want to focus on Nordic Walking trails where you can take the pup with you, and let you too get back in shape for outdoor terrain after spending a lot of time either sitting by the fire or using indoor equipment. The trails also have stops offering food and beverages and water for your dog, just in case you run out along the way.

The Pfaelzer Bergland Nordic Walking trails are posted with signs at the start points with information including routes, distance, difficulty level and points of interest, including rest stops offering snacks. They all have three or four main routes. These trails surround the KMC, Baumholder and Sembach, are just a short distance away, and are dog-friendly.

Nature Fitness Park Waldmohr routes include the Hoehenweg, a 8.2 km-long, partly-paved

by Ronnie Juhans contributing writer

If you are new to the KMC and have your dog(s) with you, depending on where you live you may not have a chance to let your dog run loose, or know great places in the surrounding area to do so. Living in an apartment downtown or on-base/ post housing sometimes restricts you to a quick daily walk with your dog before and after work or on weekends. Don’t let this prevent you from getting out and trying something new and exciting while spending quality time with your dog as well as the entire family.

trail; Glanaue, a 8 km-long trail; and the family-fiendly 10.7 km-long Mohrmuehlweg, half of which is paved. They interconnect and have varied terrain with a medium difficulty rating.

Nature Fitness Park Ohmbachsee routes include the Ohmbachsee Tour, a 4.4 km-long tour with an easy difficulty rating; the 6.6 km-long Ziegelberg Tour, with mostly paved trails; and the Loewenberg Tour, a 9.7 km-long trail, both with medium difficulty ratings.

Nature Fitness Park Baum holder has a 4.6 kmlong easy-rated route called Am Bruderbach. This trail can be a bit more of a challenge during early spring due to very slippery terrain. Also around Baumholder are the 8.1 km-long Foersterrunde, 11.9 km-long Muehlenweg, and 12.4 km-long Zum Wildfrauenloch. All three have medium ratings, however, since most of the trails are not paved, they can be very slippery in early spring.

Nature Fitness Park Burg Lichtenberg also has three routes. Kleine Burgtour is the shortest of the three routes with a mostly paved 5 km distance; Grosse Burgtour is a 9 km tour on mostly paved underground, and the Roemertour takes you just a bit further with a length of 11.4 km. This is one of my favorite parks because they are all near Lichtenberg Castle where you can take a break to take a tour of the museums and the restaurant on the grounds. All routes have a medium rating.

What makes all of these trails great is that they are Rundwege, “round trails,” which have the same start and finish point, and have directional signs on trees or wooden posts so you can turn around and find your way back to the car easily if necessary. The views are amazing and the trails are well maintained.

During spring expect trails that

are damp, sometimes muddy and slippery because of tree roots and the remains of leaves and moss from the fall. Depending on the elevation there can still be snow and ice in certain areas. Be prepared by checking weather conditions before you leave and letting others know where you are going. Ensure your safety by wearing sturdy waterresistant footwear, dressing in lay-

ers, and having a backpack with extra supplies such as water, food, snacks for everyone including the pup, first aid kit, and a phone for emergencies.

While taking your dog along, make sure to keep a few things in mind when it comes to the dos and don’ts of dog etiquette. Everywhere I go there are German hikers with dogs, and dogs are allowed to run

off the trail to do their business, mark their territory on a tree, or just romp around and have fun.

However, when another hiker (with or without a dog) approaches, the dog is called back to its owner’s side until you pass by. This is done for your and the dog’s safety and also applies to oncoming cyclists.

Ensure you always bring a leash while hiking. If you are not sure how your dog will respond to seeing strangers or your verbal commands, leash your dog in advance to avoid a bad situation. Also, be sure to lead them off the trail to relieve themselves when necessary to prevent fellow hikers from having to navigate around, or accidentally end up with shoes and poles that need a little extra clean up at the end of the day. Cleaning up after your dog is a common courtesy ensuring we all end our day on a good note. Cleaning up after them is especially important if your hike takes you through a public park, playground, or resting areas.

Local community offices have gloves and bags that are free of charge, and in many areas, they are supplied for free in dispensers along the way with signs attached.

The German Department of Public Order and local community administration offices have a danger prevention ordinance outlining your responsibilities while walking your dogs in different areas. This ordinance states that the owners must keep their dogs on a leash while walking them on public streets, and in housing areas.

In all other areas such as hiking trails and through the forest, dogs must be automatically put on a

leash or otherwise controlled when other people approach. Violators may be punished with fines up to several thousands of dollars depending on the circumstance. They can also face paying medical bills and property damage costs due to an out of control dog.

It is also important to know that if you plan on taking your dog out for a walk that requires car travel, Germany’s law requires dogs in cars should be safely secured in either a kennel or other restraining devices such as a seatbelt or safety net. This not only protects your dog but prevents unexpected driver distractions that could result in traffic accidents.

The driving distance for the trails in this article from anywhere in the KMC is less than an hour away. For more information, you can contact the Kusel Tourist Information office at 06381-424-270 or email Touristinformation@kv-kus.de. You can also obtain hiking maps from the tourist offices all over the KMC including the Window to RheinlandPfalz information kiosk located in the KMCC Mall.

About the author: Ron Juhans has spent many years traveling around the world guiding and teaching outdoor adventure skills in the United States, Europe, and Asia while being on active duty for over 21 years in the Army. As a youth counselor, he planned and led over 150 weeklong adventure camps for Outdoor Recreation and Youth Programs in the KMC area which received numerous accolades and articles in the Kaiserslautern American, and Stars And Stripes.

Northern Wales: Small place, big adventure

by Nate Cairney contributing writer

Let’s begin in the ivy-shrouded tea room at river’s edge. Located near one end of the ancient stone bridge that spans the river from the valley village of Llanwrst, it looks like a hobbit house or something from a fairy tale. But this place — the Tu-Hwnt-I’r Bont tea room — is sturdy and real. We duck through solid wooden stable doors and nestle up to a worn table near a crackling fire. Biting rain swirls outside, and no matter. Here, in the coziest spot in northern Wales, we take a cup of tea, a warm plate of bread and melted cheese known as Welsh rarebit, and get down to discussing the wonders that surround us.

Take the mountains. They’re everywhere, and are remarkable in their diversity. Jagged peaks loom in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. Wild moors, golden and windswept, cover treeless hills as far as the eye can see. Emerald forests swallow valleys and stretch along ridges. In Wales, one doesn’t hike these hills. One walks them. And they make for quite the walk.

On a March morning at dawn, for instance, an hour of lung-busting uphill walking has brought me to the top of Ro Wen, a bold, bald ridge that towers above the village of Dolwyddelan. The sky is clear and snow covers distant peaks, testament to last night’s weather. I can’t admire the view for long, though. Hundred-kilometer-per-hour winds scream in from the sea: they are strong enough to topple

me. I crouch behind an ancient stone wall and register the brilliant colors — golds, greens, whites, and blues. I would love to linger, but the wind has no intention of relenting. It is time to descend.

Then there is the sea, which is never far from even the most hidden mountain valley. This proximity to the water is a feature that makes northern Wales special, locals say: you can find so much natural beauty in one compressed spot. The Welsh coast contains multitudes. There’s Conwy, for example, a safe harbor that is home to a magnificent castle and the UK’s smallest house. Less than an hour to the west, one can visit the wild, steep cliffs near Trefor, which offer spectacular sea views as well as narrow sheep trails that lead to smooth

stone beaches and hidden coves.

Finally, and naturally, northern Wales is a place of good cheer. Cozy cottages, warm pubs, fireplaces, and friendly people can be found everywhere. Shelter is an art form here, and few things are so comfortable as coming in from the wild. Some of the best tea rooms in the world are found in northern Wales, like Tu-Hwnt-I’r Bont or Ty Hyll, located in the woods near Betws-y-Coed and now known by English speakers as the (very inaptly named) Ugly House.

No matter your preference — comfort or the wilds — you can find it in northern Wales, where the food is hearty, the tea is grand, and the scones with jam and cream are sublime. Adventure beckons. Answer the call. You won’t be disappointed.

Underground Trampoline Adventure

If you need a short break from outdoor activities, check out Bounce Below, a multi-story trampoline park located inside an old slate mine. Incredibly structured, it features bouncy nets the size of basketball courts, tunnels, slides, and an otherworldy ambiance. Learn more at https://www.zipworld. co.uk/adventure/bounce-below.

Children playing under Pont Fawr, a famous medieval stone bridge across the river Conwy, built by Inigo Jones, and Tu-Hwnt-l’r Bont Tea Room, an old cottage covered with vine leaves in Llanrwst, Caernarfon, North Wales, United Kingdom.

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Family House in Offenbach-Hundheim, 5 bed, 2 bath, Wintergarden, Balcony, Garden, 165 sq meters, Energy passport: Oel, Bj. 1968, 308,50 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €149000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, EMail: immo@ksk-kusel.de

FOR SALE: Small cozy house in Steinwenden, completely renovated, 2bd, 1bth, 128sqm, available 1 April 2026, Housing Approved, EUR 300k, call +4963719809003, apt@grenzstein.de

Mackenbach, 4bd, 2.5bth, House, 210sqm, no pets, available 16 Okt. 2025, Housing Approved, €454000 +utl, call 0172 68 55 976, mre.kmc@icloud.com

Neustadt an der Weinstrasse, 4bd, 2.5bth, House, 137sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/ din, balcony/terrace, laundry, shared garage, pets allowed, available 2 Apr. 2026, €600000 +utl, call +4915155580000, wa@ arcor.de

Well maintained, freestanding House in 66919 Herschberg for SALE, Mitchell Consulting, Kindsbacher Strasse 58, RamsteinMiesenbach, 66877 Germany, +49 (0)6371737 630, info@mitchell-investment.com. Find all of our properties on FindItGuide.com!

Studio Apartment in Deidesheim, 33sqm, BIK, walk out patio next to park, available immediately, €200000, call +17322093930 WhatsApp +49 176 21417043 or mmeketen@hotmail.com, no brokers please!

Bruchmuehlbach-Miesau, 4bd, 3bth, House, 257sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, finished basement, private garage, available now, €798000, fitted kitchen available for separate purchase. Call 06321 - 499 02 0, info@bartzimmobilien.de

Family House in Kusel, 5 bed, 2 bath, Balcony, Wintergarden, Garden, 139sq meters, Energy passport: Gas, Bj. 1971, 341,10 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €149000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: immo@ksk-kusel.de

Single Family House in Niederkirchen, 3 bed, 2 bath, Garden, balcony, barn, 146 sq meters, Energy passport: Oil, Bj. 1950, 122,10 kWh/(sqma) EEK D, Verbrauchsausweis. Price €169000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: immo@ ksk-kusel.de

Single Family House with local store in Wolfstein, 2 bed, 2 bath, Garden, Garage, 219 sq meters, Energy passport: Gas, Bj. 1790, 508,60 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €199000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: im mo@ksk-kusel.de

Spacious 2-story home w/ 167 sqm on 398 sqm plot. Offers 2 bright bedrooms, 2 modern bathrooms (full and 3/ 4), large living/dining area w/ fireplace & tiled stove, separate kitchen w/ pantry. Garden. Price: 449.000 Euro +49 155 65594867 or merl@n1-immo-bau.de

5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 0sqm, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2016, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, no pets, available 13 Feb. 2026, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@ gmx.de5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, no pets, available 13 Feb. 2026, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/ din, laundry, no pets, available 28 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

5bd, 2.5bth, brand new townhouse, 155sqm, built in kitchen, liv/din, yard, laundry, finished basement, private garage, pets subject to approval, AVAILABLE NOW, Housing Approved, €1750 +utl, call +49 173 3647569, info@german-aid.com

5bd, 2bth, House, 210sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 22 Jan. 2026, Housing Approved, €1750 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

6bd, 4bth, House, 400sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, finished basement, private garage, no pets, available 4 Apr. 2025, Housing Approved, €3000 +utl, call +49 173 3647569, info@ german-aid.com

Duplex in Oberstaufenbach, 6 bdr./2.5 bath, Mother in-law suite, yard, 200 sqm, rent €2000. Contact Lilly 0049 173 3647569 or info@german-aid.com

Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.deEnkenbach-Alsen born, 5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 28 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

House in Otterbach, 15min to RAB, 185sqm, 5BR, new BIK, 2.5baths, liv/dinrm w/ firepl., carport, balcony, sml garden, basement (65sqm), €1,750+utl, avail. now, 0172-5777200 or bortz-szydlowski@hot mail.de

Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 1.75bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.deEnkenbach-Alsen born, 5bd, 1.75bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 26 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 01791297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 23 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.deEnkenbach-Alsen born, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 23 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de

Kindsbach, 5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 200sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, pets allowed, available 3 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €2000 +utl, call 0049 1636034729, sandra-ilg@t-online.de

Konken, Townhouse, middle unit, 5bd, 2bth, 165sqm, built-in kitchen, open liv/ din room, patio & fully fenced-in yard, available in May, 2 private parking spots, housing approved, €1600 +util, Contact Lilly +49 173 3647569, info@germanaid.com

Mackenbach, nice big duplex, 230sqm, 6 bed, 3bath, BiK, laundry, floorheat, carport, yard, avail 15. February 2026, rent 2000€ +util. Call Ado on +40 1726801258 or email on rmimmobilien@t-online.de

Mackenbach, top big villa, 372sqm, 5bedrooms, 3 bath, studio, living-dingingroom, laundry, built-in-kitchen, garage, patio, fenced yard, monthly rent 3000€+util, Housing approved, avail start 01. March. Call Ado on +49 1726801258 or email on: rmimmobilien@t-online.de

call +49 173 3647569, info@german-aid.com

Stunning Home in secluded Neighborhood, 10 Mins From Ramstein!Location: Mackenbach, 5 bed, 2bath, fenced-inyard, private garage, 196 sqm, rent: 2350€ Contact Lilly for details and showings.0049 173 3647569 (iMessage & WhatsApp)info@german-aid.com

Updated 3 story Duplex, Location: Rodenbach, 5 bed, 2.5 bath, carport parking, build-in-kitchen, fenced-in patio, rent 1700€ Contact Lilly for details and showings.0049 173 3647569 (iMessage & WhatsApp)info@german-aid.com

► Build a Windsor or ladder-back chair, stool, or bench - Time required varies from 3 to 5 days.

► Introduction to spindle and bowl turning - 1 or 2 days.

► Advanced spindle turningPrevious turning experience required.

► Chairmaker spoon carving - 2 days, need not be consecutive.

► Danish cord weaving - Assembled bench or stool provided. 2 days.

Family friendly Duplex in KL-Moelschbach: Modernity meets Serenity, 4bd, 2bth, House, 174sqm, BIK, balcony/terrace, laundry, pets allowed, available 3 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1880 +utl, call 0172 6936886, info@prem-reale state.com

Sedan 4dr Auto 2.5i Premium Special Edition Engine: 4 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 4-Speed A/T Exterior: Newport Blue Pearl Interior: Ivory *PACKAGE Special Edition pkg -..., €6,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Wuerzburg - BMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-Pasteur-Strasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4WD, US, Air Conditioning, All Wheel Drive, Alloy Wheels, Automatic, Keyless Entry, Navigation, Park Distance Control, Power Locks, Power Windows, €15,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, US, Year: 2014 Make: Jeep Model: Wrangler Unlimited 4WD 4dr Sahara Engine: V6 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC (W5A580) -inc: Tip Start, Hill Descent Control Exterior: Granite Crystal Interior: Black *SAF..., €19,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2015 Audi Q3 Quattro, EU, transmission 7speed - dual-clutch, $17,999 (DE9692). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 RobertBosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@used carguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2015 Land Rover Evoque Pure Plus Sport, US, Air Bag, Air Conditioning, All Season Tires, Automatic, Heated Seats, Multifunction for Steering Wheel, Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Seats, €14,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Wuerzburg - BMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-Pasteur-Strasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bavarianmo torcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2016 BMW 218D - EU SPEC, Crossover, Diesel, Automatic, $14,495 (S-6655). Ramstein Used Cars - Kaiserslautern, 17 Im Haderwald, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Deutschland, 0631-75 00 39 77, info@ramsteinused cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 Jaguar F- Pace Prestige AWD, $23,999 (DE9711). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 Mazda 6 Touring Sedan, US, Year:

2017 Make: Mazda Model: Mazda6 Touring Auto Engine: 4 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 6-Speed A/T Exterior: Sonic Silver Metallic Interior: Black *SAFETY Back-Up Camera Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safet..., €14,995. Bavarian Motor CarsBMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admingraf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 Mercedes-Benz E200, EU, $29,995 (DE8951). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 Toyota Corolla, US, €17,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line Highline 4Motion, EU, Automatic, $21,999 (DE9728). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 Volvo V90 Momentum, EU, automatic transmission - Geartronik (8-speed), $19,697 (DEN9258). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2017 VW Jetta 1.8T SEL, US, Year: 2017 Make: Volkswagen Model: Jetta SEL Engine: 1.8L in-line 4 and variable valve timing Transmission: automatic with manual mode and floor shifter Exterior: Cardinal Red Metallic Interior: Black *SAFETY Back-Up C..., €14,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMWVilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bava rianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Audi A6 Avant 45 TDI quattro, Avant sport, EU, AWD/4WD, $29,999 (DE9555). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Ford Mustang Convertible 2D EcoBoost Premium 2.3L I4 Tu, US, €20,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 GMC Acadia Denali, US, Year: 2018 Make: GMC Model: Acadia AWD 4dr Denali Engine: V6 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC Exterior: White Frost Tricoat Interior: Cocoa/ Shale *PACKAGE *Driver Alert Package II includes Lane ..., €26,495. Bavarian Motor CarsBMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admingraf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Jeep Compass Sport, SUV, Rear, 6Speed Manual, $17,999 (DE9497). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited, US, *JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED SAHARA Exterior Color: Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat Exterior Paint Interior Color: Black Interior Color Interior: Leather-Trimmed Seats with Sahara Logo Engine: 3.6L V6 24V VVT Engine w/ ESS Tran..., €31,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - WuerzburgBMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-PasteurStrasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bava rianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 Urban, EU, $18,999 (DEN9442). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Subaru Legacy Sedan 4D i Limited AWD 2.5L H4, US, Year: 2018 Make: Subaru Model: Legacy 2.5i Limited Engine: 4 Cylinder Engine Transmission: CVT Transmission Exterior: Crystal Black Silica Interior: Warm Ivory *SAFETY Back-Up Camera Outboard Front Lap And Shou..., €20,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2018 Volkswagen Passat Wagon GTE, EU, 6-speed - dual-clutch transmission DSG, $21,999 (DEN9289). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

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MAINTENANCE ON ALL U.S. AND GERMAN SPEC CARS

Mon – Fri 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sat 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

2019 Audi A3 Sportback, EU, $22,999 (DE9358). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

Opelstraße 14 67661 KL-Siegelbach Tel: 06301 - 14 42 www.mr-kfz.com

2019 Dodge Durango GT AWD, US, Year: 2019 Make: Dodge Model: Durango GT AWD Engine: V6 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 8-SPEED AUTOMATIC Exterior: DB Black Clearcoat Interior: Black *INSTALLED OPTIONS *Black- Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats 2 Seat ..., €27,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Wuerzburg - BMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-Pasteur-Strasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4x4, AWD/ 4WD, Automatic, $27,749 (904959). MAS Military AutoSource - LRMC On Base, LRMC, Landstuhl, 66849 Germany, +49 (0)162-2145729, JH83006@military cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2019 Mercedes-Benz B 180, EU, $26,999 (DE9453). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2019 Volkswagen Touran Comfortline, EU, transmission 7-speed - dual-clutch, $20,999 (DEN9398). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2020 Chevrolet Equinox Premier, SUV, EU, Front, 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $23,999 (DE9662). The Used Car GuysStuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium, Coupe, Rear, 6-Speed Manual, $28,999 (DE9725). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2020 Honda Civic Elegance, EU, $18,999 (DEN9342). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4x4, AWD/ 4WD, Automatic, $33,715 (004479). MAS Military AutoSource - LRMC On Base, LRMC, Landstuhl, 66849 Germany, +49 (0)162-2145729, JH83006@military cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 CDI, EU, transmission 7-speed - dual-clutch transmission DCT, $24,197 (DE9296). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2020 Mercedes-Benz A 180 AMG Line, 7speed - dual-clutch transmission DCT, $25,697 (DEN9319). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2020 Volkswagen Golf Style - Apple CarPlay - Adaptive Cruise, 5 door, Hatchback, EU, transmission 6-speed - dual-clutch transmission DSG, $24,495 (DEN9123). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslau tern@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 Audi A1 Sportback, EU, $19,993 (DEN8642). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 BMW 330i xDrive Sedan, US, €32,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMWVilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bava rianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 BMW X5 40i AWD 3.0L I6 Turbo, AWD/4WD, Gas, Automatic, $39,995 (US5417). Ramstein Used Cars - Kaiserslautern, 17 Im Haderwald, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Deutschland, 0631-75 00 39 77, in fo@ramsteinusedcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 Dodge Challenger GT, Coupe, Rear, 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $29,999 (DE9601). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 Ford Focus Turnier &- EU SPECS, EU Spec, Diesel, Automatic, $15,495 (S-6652). Ramstein Used Cars - Kaiserslautern, 17 Im Haderwald, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Deutschland, 0631-75 00 39 77, info@ramsteinused cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4WD, US, *JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LIMITED 4X4 Exterior Color: Velvet Red Pearl-Coat Exterior Paint Interior Color: Black Interior Color Interior: Leather-Trimmed Bucket Seats Engine: 3.6L V6 24V VVT Engine Upg I w/ ESS Transmission: 8-Speed ..., €30,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, SUV, Rear, 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $28,999 (DE9428). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

2022 Audi A1 Sportback, EU, $20,993 (DEN8646). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!

Prepare your vehicle for warmer weather

by Thomas Warner contributing writer

Spring is here, which of course means spring cleaning. But spring cleaning is not, and should not be, limited to your home.

Whenwinter came around, you prepared your car for the colder weather. Now that the warmer weather is right around the corner, it’s time again to get your car ready for the change. For example, your winter tires, those used specifically for driving in snow and mud, should be replaced. Spring and summer time require tires that are made of harder rubber. Many vehicle owners have two sets of tires, and they either hire someone to change them out or do it themselves.

But changing tires is not as simple of a task as it may seem and should be just one of many facets to think about when preparing your vehicles for the transition from winter weather to the spring and summer seasons.

Auto skills centers offer tools, hydraulic lifts and expertise from qualified employees to help make the experience a positive one.

With regard to tires, it is responsible thinking for vehicle owners to at least broach the subject of tread wear. Most people with knowledge of auto repair and maintenance are in agreement that braking is the main saboteur of tire tread.

Vehicle owners should conduct a full inspection of lighting, including turn signals, brake lights, high and low beam bulbs, and head and tail lights. These inspections are easy for individuals to do themselves and should be completed at least four to five times a year.

Air conditioning got more use last summer than was normal for this region, and the somewhat light winter we’ve had this year could be an indication of more high temperatures in coming months. To prepare for this, the entire air conditioning and heating mechanism should be checked for deficiencies. If needed, vehicles can receive air conditioning recharges with new Freon or other chemical mixtures added. Also, auto coolant or antifreeze will drain from a vehicle faster if the air conditioner is running more, so all of the various fluids should be checked and topped off or refilled at this time of year.

If a vehicle’s tires have low tread, there could be criminal charges brought when that person is involved, at fault or not, in a collision or event that is injurious to another person.

With the safety of military members always at the forefront of ownership and operation of personal owned vehicles, German police and U.S. military vehicular patrol units make it their business to routinely check that tires, rims and other areas of the vehicle meet the proper specifications.

U.S. drivers in Germany should be aware that cars, trucks and vans here are accustomed to being driven at high speeds and most are manufactured to handle it. Domestic vehicles from the U.S., however, are often not manufactured with these European variables in mind, and they in turn take a beating from drivers who push them past their usual limits.

In short, know your car and know its limits. Each season’s turn is an opportunity to do a complete checkup and perform routine maintenance as well as to make any changes to your vehicle that will enhance its performance. The best drivers will often prove to be the smartest drivers, and smart drivers take the time to make sure their car is up-to-date and well maintained.

Drive safely!

KAISERSLAUTERN MILITARY COMMUNITY CHAPEL SCHEDULE

RAMSTEIN CHAPEL PROGRAMS

86 AW/HC, Unit 3210, APO AE 09094-3210

North Chapel (Bldg 1201) (DSN) 480-6148, (Civ) 06371-47-6148 South Chapel (Bldg 2403) (DSN) 480-5753, (Civ) 06371-47-5753 Vogelweh Chapel (Bldg 2063)

Please call Ramstein North Chapel Kapaun Chapel/Annex (Bldg 2781/2782)

Please call Ramstein North Chapel

For more information about our services, please visit us on Facebook: Facebook.com/ RamsteinChapelOfficial Or at the Ramstein Air Base website: https://www.ramstein.af.mil/About/Fact-Sheets/ Display/Article/2597677/kmc-chapels/

Buddhist (SGI)

Virtual Meetings, for more information thevoice@gmail.com

Orthodox Divine Liturgy: Kapaun Chapel, 08:45 a.m., Sun Children’s Church School: Kapaun Annex, 10:45 a.m., Sun Adult Scripture Study: Kapaun Annex, 10:45 a.m., Sun

Great Vespers: Kapaun Chapel, 5 p.m., 4th Sat

Confessions: Available by appointment Wiccan Facebook.com/VogelwehOpenCircleSWC Service: Kapaun Annex, 7 p.m., Sat

Unitarian Universalist Facebook.com/ KaiserslauternUnitarianUniversalistFellowship Service: Kapaun Chapel, 1:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Sun

Catholic Holy Family Catholic Community Facebook.com/RamsteinCatholicCommunity

Daily Mass: North Chapel, 11:30 a.m., Tue-Thu & 1st Fri

Confessions: North Chapel, by appointment only Sunday Masses: North Chapel, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m., Sun

Knights of Columbus (K of C)

Meeting: North Chapel, 6 p.m., 2nd/4th Tue

Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC) (except July & Aug)

Bible Study: North Chapel, 9 a.m., Thu

Catholic Religious Education (RE) (except June, July & Aug)

Kindergarten-7th Ramstein Intermediate School: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Sun

Confirmation Class Ramstein Intermediate School: 6-7:30 p.m., Wed

Life Teen: North Chapel, 6:15 p.m., Sun

Hebrew School & B’nei Mitzvah Study, Sun — request location & Zoom link For more information contact North Chapel

Messianic Service: South

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) (except July & Aug)

Meeting: South Chapel, 6 p.m., Thu

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Early Morning Seminary/Scripture Study for High School aged students: Ramstein School: North Chapel, 6:30 a.m., Mon-Wed-Fri

Vogelweh School: Kapaun Chapel Annex, 6:30 a.m., Mon-Wed-Fri Church Services: Baumholder 10:30 a.m. Sunday Im Gewerbegebiet 8 , Baumholder Call 0176-18300-897 Kaiserslautern 9:30 a.m. Sunday Lauterstr 9, Kaiserslautern Call 0176-18300-834 or 875 Ramstein

9:00 a.m Sunday 11:30 a.m. Sunday

Ludwig-Erhard Strasse 15, Ramstein Call +49 152 5543 1629

Episcopal Service: Kapaun Chapel, 10:45 a.m., Sun Islam

Jumu’ah Khutbah: South Chapel, 1 p.m., Fri Potluck: South Chapel, 7 p.m., 1st Fri Jewish Facebook.com/KMCMILJEWISHCOMMUNITY

Shabbat: South Chapel, 6 p.m., Fri Sabbath Kiddush & Lunch: 1 p.m.; request location by COB Wed* Torah Study: 7 p.m., Sat — request location & Zoom link

Easter traditions in Germany

by Nicole Karsch-Meibom contributing writer

Easter is a happy time. After a long winter, nature is finally in full bloom. Children are waiting for the Easter bunny. Employers usually manage to combine their free days into a long weekend. School is out for at least a couple of days. In the Christian tradition, Easter is the finale of Lent season. Last but not least, it represents the end of spring cleaning. Needless to say, next to Christmas, Easter is Germany’s most popular holiday.

Themultitudes of traditions associated with this day stem from Christian and heathen times but all evolve around the same idea: the rebirth of nature, the resurrection of Christ and the celebration of life itself. At the same time, copying nature’s spring beauty, people decorate their homes and gardens with adorned, dyed or ornamented eggs whose preparation is a popular family event.

A great place to see this tradition at work is in the Franconian Swiss region in southeast Germany. There, many communities set up Easter wells with hundreds of colored eggs. While the original idea was to honor water for its gift of life, this has become a popular competition between the villages for the well with the highest number of eggs.

German children believe that according to their behavior, the Easter bunny brings and hides eggs throughout the house. So, Easter Sunday usually starts with the children’s treasure hunt. Often enough, by the way, it ends

with parents secretly counting the sweets to avoid finding melted chocolate remains later in summer.

Apart from culinary delights, there are a few playful and competitive customs, too. In many rural areas, huge wood stacks are prepared, and on the evening of Easter Saturday, fires are lit to cast out wintertime. Sometimes,

Apart from optical pleasure, Easter also meets the joy of eating, especially for any sweet tastes. Only Christmastime assortments can rival the wide range of sweets offered in the supermarkets during the Easter season. From little chocolates to handmade truffles, children and adults alike enjoy the contents of their Easter baskets.

But there is even more when it comes to food. “Easter lamb” is one speciality that no longer consists of meat nowadays, but refers to a cake formed like the very animal. Other bakery products look like rabbits, roosters or hens.

Another typical seasonal delight is sweet plaited milk bread nicely braided into an Easter wreath. So, even without religious intentions, it is wise to meet this season with some prior dieting.

What would this time of year be without the

The connection of eggs and Easter dates back to the Middle Ages. During the Lenten season, the church did not allow the consumption of eggs. As a consequence, great numbers of eggs were amassed in the weeks prior to Easter. During the festive days they were then used as means of payment, or little presents. Later, exchanging these little gifts became a popular custom between sweethearts.

by Harald

this is also represented by straw figures that get burned. Often, the village men contend for the tallest fire. A speciality of the city of Lüdge in Westphalia is the “Easter Wheel,” where a burning oak wheel filled with straw rolls down a hill at night.

“Ostereiertitschen,” the egg tapping game, is a popular competition among young people.

Two players take hard-boiled eggs and hit them against another. The egg whose shell remains intact wins. “Ostereierschieben,” or egg rolling, has a tradition dating back 400 years to the East German city of Bautzen. On Easter Sunday, children of affluent families used to let eggs roll down the Protschenberg hill to be picked up by poor children. Nowadays, contes-

tants use plastic balls and can win prizes.

Finally, an almost mythical custom evolves around the “Easter water,” which dates back to ancient times. In this practice, young girls drink water from a spring in silence before the first rays of the sun hit them. The water is attributed healing influences and the gift of fertility.

So, you can do a lot of things with eggs — rolling, tapping, painting, hiding. But no matter if you celebrate the resurrection of Christ or the rebirth of nature, Easter is a very popular time in Germany.

Whether it is burning wheels or chocolate eggs, sacred water or Easter cakes, it is a time filled with joy and anticipation.

AT THE MOVIES

ANIMATION/COMEDY

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026)

In an afterlife where souls have one week to decide where to spend eternity, Joan is faced with the impossible choice between the man she spent her life with, and her first love, who died young and has waited decades for her to arrive.

Voice Cast: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, Benny Safdie, Donald Glover, Brie Larson

Directors: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic

A Magnificent Life (2026)

A Magnificent Life is a 2025 adult animated biographical drama film following the life of Pagnol, a playwright, novelist and filmmaker who grew up in a middle-class household in Marseille and became one of the world’s most inventive and prolific artists from the 1930s to the 1950s..

Voice Cast: Laurent Lafitte, Géraldine Pailha, Matt Berry

Director: Sylvain Chomet

Project Hail Mary (2026)

Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up on a spaceship light years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission: solve the riddle of the mysterious substance causing the sun to die out. He must call on his scientific knowledge and unorthodox ideas to save everything on Earth from extinction… but an unexpected friendship means he may not have to do it alone.

Cast: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller, Lionel Boyce, Ken Leung, Milana Vayntrub, Liz Kingsman, Orion Lee, Aaron Neil, James Ortiz, Priya Kansara

Directors: Phil Lord, Christopher Miller

Hoppers (2026)

When scientists discover a way to transform human consciousness into robotic animals, Mabel uses the new technology to uncover mysteries of the animal world that are beyond anything she could have ever imagined.

Cast: Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm, Kathy Najimy, Dave Franco

Director: Daniel Chong

Eternity (2026)

In an afterlife where souls have one week to decide where to spend eternity, Joan is faced with the impossible choice between the man she spent her life with, and her first love, who died young and has waited decades for her to arrive.

Cast: Miles Teller, Elizabeth Olsen, Callum Turner, John Early, Olga Merediz, Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Director: David Freyne

Ofcourse, for Americans overseas, there are always a few extra considerations versus standard filings back at home. Every tax season can introduce a handful of changes compared to previous years, and it is important to understand these in order to make the most out of your return.

First of all, we need to understand what timelines we may be facing. If there is one thing that we can rely on, it’s that the date April 15, will always be one we remember. In 2026, this is still the deadline to file stateside, and more importantly, this is the date on which you must pay any owed taxes. While being stationed overseas gives you an automatic extension to June 15 for filing, it is important to note that the payment deadline for these owed taxes is not granted this extension. This can often negate the benefit of the June 15 extension, as many people only know what to pay once their taxes are prepared and ready to submit.

April 15 is also the deadline to contribute to an IRA for the 2025 tax year. If you have not met your thresholds for the year, you still have time and may even be able to make catch-up contributions if you are under the age of 50. While 401(k) and other tax-deferred investments may be locked out by now, you can still take advantage of your IRA limits.

As mentioned above, there are many changes each year, and some of them may matter more to you than others.

For most reading this article, the biggest consideration will still be the standard deduction getting larger. In practical terms, this means that fewer people may need to itemize. Unless you have a substantial mortgage back in the States, high out-of-pocket medical expenses, or significant charitable donations, you are probably considering taking the standard deduction and moving on.

There are also a handful of new or expanded deductions tied to income. You may have seen headlines about things like overtime or tip income changes. For people in our area, those are certainly prevalent but situational.

Tax Season 2026: New deductions, tight deadlines, and what local filers need to know

by Robert Mitchell Contributing writer

Tax season is here again. While it can be a time of stress and uncertainty, it doesn’t need to be. With just a little bit of planning, research, organization, and for many, professional help, tax season can be simplified and low stress.

Active duty and most GS employees are not going to see much impact there, but contractors or anyone in support or service roles may want to take note of these adjustments.

Another area that some may benefit from is deducting loan interest on certain vehicles. In a push to get Americans to buy cars assembled in the USA, there is now a provision to deduct up to $10,000 per year in loan interest on qualifying vehicles. Note that the loan should have originated in calendar year 2025. You can find lists online of cars that qualify, and many are surprised that they may be able to take advantage of this deduction. It is also important to understand what SOFA status means for your tax situation. As a rule of thumb, there is no change to your federal tax requirements. The main benefit of SOFA in this application is the sheltering

from having to pay foreign taxes on your government-paid income, as well as your income from U.S.-based sources such as investments or businesses. It is critical to note that the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion would only apply to income generated in a foreign economy and not to income paid by the U.S. government while living in that country.

If you run a local business on the side, or as a spouse, SOFA does not eliminate local tax obligations. Double taxation agreements will, however, protect against having to pay in both Germany and the U.S., and in such cases, you will want to pay special attention to how to file these incomes with the U.S. to take advantage of these protections. There are physical presence tests you can use to verify where your taxes for each income stream may be due.

For the vast majority of filers, this is not an issue. Rather, a straightforward filing is expected, just as when you lived in the U.S.

Then there are also smaller things that need a lot of attention. Foreign bank accounts are a good example. Many people have a German account for everyday use and do not think much about it, but depending on your balances, you may have to report it separately. It is not a tax in itself, but missing a FATCA filing can turn into a problem quickly.

The idea this year is not that everything has changed. It is that there are just enough new rules mixed in with the usual overseas complications that a little bit off attention and planning can bring positive savings.

Consider the fact that the IRS is still dealing with staffing issues, mistakes could take longer to sort out than they used to. This makes it worth getting organized earlier rather than later. Having your W-2s, 1099s, and anything tied to investments or side income ready to go will save time and frustration.

A lot of the issues people run into are not big, dramatic errors. They are small misunderstandings. Assuming the overseas extension means you can wait to pay. Thinking the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion applies when it does not. Forgetting to report a foreign account. Individually, those seem minor. Together, they can slow things down in a big way. Because of that, many people overseas choose to sit down with someone who deals with these situations every day. Not just general tax preparation, but someone who understands how military pay, GS income, contractor work, and overseas reporting all fit together. It is less about complexity for the sake of it and more about getting it right the first time.

At the end of the day, tax season here is slightly different. Living overseas, even under SOFA, does not make things harder across the board, but it does make them more specific.

As always a bit of preparation now will pay dividends later!