Just in time for the opening of the first door of the Advent calendar, a long-cherished tradition was repeated at the Warnowtunnel. We were lucky to welcome the next millionth tunnel driver at the toll station, today even for the 77th time. In keeping with the pre-Christmas season, a gentle snowfall beautified this first December morning.
A pleasant visit announced itself in advance. The acting Lord Mayor of the Hanseatic City of Rostock, Dr. Chris von Wrycz Rekowski, was a guest at the event. Shortly after eleven o’clock, the Meinel couple arrived at the toll station. The Managing Director of the Warnowtunnel, Mrs. Yvonne Osterkamp, told the couple in the lane about their good fortune and the vehicle was quickly brought to a stop on the right-hand side of the lane. Mr. von Wrycz Rekowski was the first to congratulate Mrs. Meinel and presented her with a beautiful, large and colorful bouquet of flowers with an Otter Oscar stuffed animal, which the lady accepted under slight excitement – because suddenly TV cameras pointed in her direction. Mrs. Osterkamp handed over a gas voucher worth 77€, a voucher for the Rostock ice rink, a Lions Club Advent calendar, an Italian delicacy package and other presents. Mascot Otter Oscar recognized the opportunity and was also on the spot.
Mr. and Mrs. Meinel are Rostock residents and use the tunnel occasionally. They were on their way from their garden in Groß-Klein towards the Globus store in Roggentin. “As a pensioner, you’re on the road a lot,” Mr. Meinel joked. “The tunnel should be used more often in general. Compared to driving through the city with all the construction sites, you save a lot of time right now.” The couple uses an Oscard to travel through the tunnel and even saves money with it.
We would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Meinel for using the tunnel and wish them and all tunnel drivers a good and safe journey at all times.