Weekly Newsletter

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u.S. army garrison–East Camp (grafenwoehr) / Rose Barracks (Vilseck)

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

Check for updates on community news, information and events at: www.grafenwoehr.army.mil

12 December 2012

Click on a section to go straight to its page: ACS / Adult Education & Training / Community Highlights / Exchange News / Facility & Road Openings, Closures, Construction / Religious / School News / Sports, Fitness, Hobbies & Recreation / Volunteers & other help needed / Was ist Los? / Christmas Markets

Community Highlights Special programs, updates, community campaigns, classes and more

SHARP Hotline For Bavaria and Franconia, the SHARP hotline for sexual assault and harassment is DSN 475-4567, CIV 09641-83-4567.

The hotline is open 24/7 on and off post.

Holiday safety tips For a reminder on how to stay safe this holiday season, check out the garrison’s Holiday Safety Gram. The gram provides tips on what to be aware of for optimal Christmas light, toy, travel and New Year’s safety.

Bavarian News has moved online Head to BavarianNews.com to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Check out this week’s stories. DIY: This holiday season, toss aside last-minute shopping and employ do-it-yourself gifts instead. Lights off: New energy program seeks to save money and resources in the BMC. Rockin’ Christmas: Full Spectrum Ops and Night Fire Rock Band deliver a new twist on Christmas carols. Moving on up: The Vilseck Dental Clinic will relocate to Buildings 154 and 155 beginning 17 Dec. Drive Responsibly: December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month. Learn how you can keep yourself and others safe by being responsible. Toyland: Keep children safe this holiday season with simple guidelines during National Safe Toys and Gifts Month. Queen Bee: Netzaberg Elementary School students vie to be ‘top bee’ during the fourth annual spelling contest.

Go green and stay green Check out the Go Green Newsletter for tips on energy labels, efficient light bulbs and how to dispose of hazardous waste.

Don’t let your holiday lights waste energy It's the holiday season and that means lights and decorations. However, it’s important to display your light show only when people can see them. So, turn off the lights before you go to bed and don't turn them on again until it is dark outside.

Better yet, get a timer and don’t worry about it. Remember, every dollar used to pay the light bill is one less dollar the garrison has to pay for other services you have come to rely on. Have a wonderful holiday season and please conserve energy!

Request for return of USPS flat tubs USPS will spend more than $120 million this fiscal year to replace missing and damaged empty equipment. The Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers request that all USPS flat tubs be returned to your respective Postal Service Center. If anyone sees them being used for purposes other than the transport of mail, remind the person that the maximum penalty for theft or misuse of postal property is a $1000 fine and 3 years imprisonment (18 USC 1707) or report the incident to your local PSC management with information that will assist in correcting the situation. For any further questions please email Main Post or Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers or call DSN 475-6333, CIV 09641-83-6333 or DSN 476-2581, CIV 09662-83-2581. You can also like us on Facebook (Main Post / Rose Barracks) for up-to-date information.

Vote for SSG Darren McGraw on the Operation Rising Star Finals 13 Dec: USAG Grafenwoehr local winner, SSG Darren McGraw, is one of the 12 selected contestants competing in this Army wide contest. The Operation Rising Star finals will air on the Pentagon Channel and on www.OpRisingStar.com beginning at 8 p.m. The following rounds will occur on 15 & 16 Dec.

Soldier Info Expo 13 Dec: To enhance the quality of life for Soldiers and provide a larger range of entertaining social and recreational

activities for the community, the garrison is hosting a Single Soldier Expo. The Expo will be a dynamic, interactive event with batting cages, shooting simulators and give-aways. Information on off-duty employment and Special Forces, Special Ops, EOD and CID recruiting will all be at the Expo. Soldiers, leaders and their families are welcome. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. at the Multi-Purpose Center, Rose Barracks Bldg. 134.

Women’s History Month planning committee 13 Dec: Join the planning committee for the Women’s History Month celebration. Come with ideas to the Graf USO Bldg. 150 conference room and help plan how the garrison commemorates women’s contributions throughout history. 3 p.m.

Postal Service Centers extended holiday hours Through 21 Dec: The below listed times reflect the extended holiday customer service hours for the Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers. Saturday, 22 Dec. we will receive a truck and provide Mail Room Delivery only during the below Saturday posted hours. Normal business hours will resume on 24 Dec. Postal Finance (sending) Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mail Room Delivery (receiving)

Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Official Mail Services

Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat

None

Should you have any further questions please email Main Post or Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers or call DSN 4756333, CIV 09641-83-6333 / DSN 476-2581, CIV 09662-83-2581. You can also like us on Facebook (Main Post / Rose Barracks) for up-to-date information.

Recommended Holiday Mailing Deadlines The below listed dates reflect the recommended dates for mailing articles to CONUS to ensure that articles arrive at their intended destination prior to 25 Dec. 18 Dec: Express mail For further questions please email Main Post or Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers or call DSN 475-6333, 476-2581, CIV 09641-83-6333, 09662-83-2581 You can also like us on Facebook (Grafenwoehr / Rose Barracks) for up-to-date information.

Santa Claus will visit the Grafenwoehr Military Community 15 Dec: 12-4 p.m. Grafenwoehr PX 18 Dec: 3-6 p.m. Grafenwoehr USO 22 Dec: 12-4 p.m. Grafenwoehr PX

Give a gift to a sick child Through 23 Dec: Community members can bring toys, stuffed animals or candy to Grafenwoehr Bldg. 301 Room 129, to be donated on Christmas Eve to children (ages 0-18) suffering from cancer. It is asked that donations are new or almost-new. They are also accepting wrapping paper donations. Anyone who makes a donation can also leave their contact information to receive a CD with the photos of the children and their new gifts. When making donations, ask for Mr. Garcia.

Finance office and Cash Cage holiday hours 26 Dec-4 Jan: 9 a.m. – noon, Mon-Fri. Grafenwoehr Bldgs. 244 & 536.

Vilseck Commissary holiday hours 19 Dec: Closed 24 Dec: Open until 4 p.m.

25 Dec: Closed 26 Dec: Closed 31 Dec: Open until 6 p.m.

1 Jan: Closed 2 Jan: Closed

Meter reading in all government leased housing For the next three weeks, the housemeister will need to have access to all leased housing in Grafenwoehr, Netzaberg and Vilseck to do the yearly meter reading. He will not need an appointment. He will ring the doorbell and if nobody is home, he will return later. For more info please call the Leased Housing Branch at DSN 475-7023 or CIV 09641-83-7023.

Motorcycle safety videos and survey All bikers are asked to take a few minutes to watch these three videos and take a short survey to help improve military motorcycle safety and training. Please watch the videos before taking the survey: Not a racetrack. Ready to ride. Right attitude. The survey is anonymous.

Community Amnesty Day: Ammunition Supply Point #1 8 Jan: From 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., anyone with unauthorized ammunition or explosives can turn them in at the Unit Entrance of Ammunition Supply Point #1. Simply approach the gate and let the ASP personnel know that you have amnesty to turn in. There is a “No Questions Asked” policy regarding amnesty.

TKS service outages Through 10 Jan: TKS has scheduled a series of power outages on post through mid-January. If anyone experiences an outage that lasts more than two hours, call the 24-hour TKS Customer Service Hotline at 01804-857-762.

Give a present to a needy animal Off post animal shelters are collecting anything and everything for dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, birds and other animals in Europe-wide and local animal shelters and homes. Food, for all ages, is always needed. Old or expired first aid kits, hot water bottles, surgical gloves, leashes, dog beds, baskets, collars, transport boxes, pet shampoo, blankets and old towels are welcome donations. To donate, contact the following POCs: in Pressath: Lydia Kraus, 01714995820; in Grafenwöhr: Christine Pöllath, 01604655720; Eschenbach: Yasmine Livingston, 015156791646; Kemnath: Alexandra Amschler, 01716840509; Marktredwitz/Erbendorf : Katja Zenkel, 015254240978. For general questions, call Yasmine Livingston at 015156791646, or email her. You can find Hilfe fuer Tiere in Not i.d.Opf on Facebook.

100% ID Card checks on shuttle buses To maintain Force Protection, community shuttle and housing area bus drivers will enforce a 100% ID card check for all passengers over the age of 10. Individuals who fail to provide evidence of Military/dependent ID cards or post access passes will be denied boarding. Boarding will only occur at the front doors to accommodate these checks. Middle-doors will only be opened as a last resort. For more, contact Theo Arnold at DSN 475-6347, CIV 09641-83-6347 or Theodor.a.arnold.ln@mail.mil.

Shuttle bus operations during dangerous road conditions Red and Black Road Conditions: As we brace for winter, we remind the community that community shuttle/housing area buses will not operate in red or black road conditions. If conditions elevate to red or black after departure from post, drivers will immediately return to base unless the driver determines he can continue without endangering the safety of persons and equipment. Customers that are already onboard will normally be transported to post. Should road conditions rapidly develop to a critical level and continued operation would be a hazard, the driver will stop at the next available safe parking lot and inform TMP and/or Staff Duty Office of the situation. After conditions improve, routes will commence at their next regularly scheduled time. Work Delays/Early Releases: When a two-hour work delay is authorized, all bus routes originating before 8 a.m. will not run. They will initiate service at their next regularly scheduled run. If an early release is directed, runs 6 and 7 of Route G-1 (Grafenwoehr to Rose Barracks Direct Run) will not operate. We appreciate the community’s understanding as we seek to ensure the safety of all during inclement weather conditions. POC for this action is Mr. Theo Arnold, TMP Branch Chief, DSN 475-6347, CIV 09641-83-6347 or Theodor.a.arnold.ln@mail.mil.

Holiday Season Bus Operating Hours During the holiday season, bus services on the following days will be reduced: 14 Dec. All runs starting after noon will not operate, except G-1 (Direct Run PX to PXtra). G-1's last run (Run # 7) will not operate.

24 Dec. All runs originating after noon will not operate 25 Dec. No bus services 26 Dec. No bus services

31 Dec. All runs starting after noon will not operate 1 Jan. No bus services 24 Dec- 4 Jan. No Main Post loop G-0 (work shuttle) We appreciate your understanding. POC for this action is Mr. Theo Arnold, DSN 475-6347, CIV 09641-83-6347 or Theodor.a.arnold.ln@mail.mil.

DA Photo studios appointments available If you need DA photo appointments for the upcoming SFC promotion board, please make your photo appointments early on www.vios.army.mil. Please do not wait until the last minute to make your appointments. Walk-ins will be extremely limited if available. In order to find the best available appointment time check the online appointment calendar. For further assistance in booking your DA Photo, contact the Rose Barrack VI activity at DSN 476-2697 or 476-2639, CIV 09662-832697 or 09662-83-2639.

ICE QR code Now it’s even easier to submit ICE - Interactive Customer Comments.

Take a snapshot of the code with your phone, and the code automatically directs you to ICE.

Stay vigilant and report suspicious activities For emergencies off post call 112, the European emergency number, reachable from fixed and mobile phones, free of charge, everywhere in the EU. Bavaria Military Community officials are asking everyone to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities as soon as they are observed. The safety of our families is one of our biggest priorities. USAG Grafenwoehr Military Police: DSN 476.2490/3397 or CIV 09662.83.2490/3397.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Call the suicide prevention hotline number at DSN 475-LIFE. Visit our website for more on suicide prevention. Suicide prevention, sexual assault or just a friendly ear… you are never alone.

Professionals are available to counsel you in confidence. Getting help is a sign of strength.

24 Hour Community Hotlines: Chaplain Hotline 0162-296-0838, Military Police Hotline 09662-83114, Sexual Assault Hotline 09641-83-4567 and Emergency Services 09641-83-117.

Army Community Service (ACS) Contact Army Community Service (ACS) Main Post, DSN 475-8371, CIV 09641-83-8371. Rose Barracks, DSN 476-2650 CIV 09662-83-2650.

ACS is now on Facebook and Twitter (Follow GRAF ACS) or email graf.acs@eur.army.mil for info.

Lunch and Learn "Financial Empowerment" ACS will start a series of Lunch and Learn "Financial Empowerment" at the Grafenwoehr DFAC. Soldiers can come eat their lunch and learn how to stay in money and out of debt. 12-1 p.m.

15 Jan: The “Money Guy” answers your questions 12 Feb: On Becoming Wealthy 12 March: Digging Out of Debt 12 April: 2013 Tax Guide

Army Volunteer Corps 19 Dec: Organizational Point of Contact & Volunteer Management Class, 9:00a.m. – 11:00a.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322, room 209

Employment Readiness For anyone needing assistance with resume building, or one-on-one assistance, please call DSN 476-2650, 475-8371, CIV 09662-83-2650, 09641-83-8371.

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Have questions? Email EFMP directly.

Did you know you must Re-validate your Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) enrollment every three years or as the conditions change in order to have the most up-to-date information for the Army to query Soldiers for assignments stateside and overseas? If you are on EFMP and have not re-validated, call ACS at DSN 476-2650, CIV 09662-83-2650 or visit http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/sites/support/acs-afmp2.asp.

14 Dec: Special Education Workshop, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg 322.

20 Dec: Bowling with EFMP (Free), 4 - 6 p.m., East Post Bowling Center, Bldg 612.

28 Dec: Support Group for Special Needs Families, 3 - 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg 322.

Family Advocacy Program Hotlines to help: Sexual Assault Reporting 09662-83-3217 and Domestic Violence 09662-83-3218 or 09641-835130. Please contact us for a complete listing of programs and services offered.

13 Dec: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., East Post, Army Lodging, Bldg. 619.

20 Dec: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Rose Barracks, Kristall Inn, Bldg. 275.

Financial Readiness Services are also available by appointment. For more information on saving your money, you may contact your ACS Financial Readiness at 09662-83-2650 or 09641-83-8371.

20 Dec: Money Habitudes, 12-1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

9 Jan: Debt Blasters!, 12 p.m. - 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness 14 Jan: FRG Leadership Training, 9 a.m. -5 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

New Parent Support Program 11 Jan – 15 Feb: Great Expectations, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322. (6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings) 21 Dec: ABC’s of Toddlerhood, 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322

Play Groups Every Tuesday: East Post, Chapel Annex, 9:30 – 11 a.m.

Every Wednesday: Rose Barracks, Chapel Annex, 9:30 – 11 a.m.

Prenatal Yoga Every Friday: Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg 221, 9 – 10 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 221, 2

nd

floor dance studio

Newborn Network for parents with babies ages 0 through Walking Every Tuesday: Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg 322, 1 - 3 p.m.

Hospital Tours st

Every 1 Wednesday (except for holidays): Visit Weiden Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Weiden hospital lobby. th Every 4 Wednesday: Visit Sulzbach-Rosenberg Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Sulzbach-Rosenberg hospital lobby.

Every Other 2nd Tuesday: Visit Amberg Meet at 5:45 pm in the Amberg hospital lobby.

Relocation Readiness 12 Dec: Spouse Sponsorship Training, 1-2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 14 Dec: A Taste of Germany: Special! German Holiday Baking Class, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

19 Dec: Immigration Workshop, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322

Military and Family Life Consultants are here for you Military Life Consultants provide solution-oriented consultations to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They are designed to provide anonymous, confidential support to Soldiers and their family members, especially those returning from deployments. To contact a military life consultant, call Rose Barracks 0152-0294-0761 / 01741476846 or Grafenwoehr 0152-0293-4290 / 0152-0241-5226, Mon– Fri, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Exchange News Santa at the Grafenwoehr Mall 15 Dec: Ole Saint Nick will be stopping by the Grafenwoehr Mall from 12 – 4 p.m. The Exchange set up a special

display for Santa, so bring the kids to meet Kris Kringle and bring a camera. But don’t worry if you miss Santa on 15 Dec, he will return to the Mall in on the 22 Dec.

The Exchange extends the holiday return policy The Exchange wants to make returns as simple as possible for our holiday shoppers. The Exchange’s standard policy limits returns anywhere from 15 to 90 days with a sales receipt, but the holiday return/exchange policy extends these guidelines through 31 Jan for any item purchased between 1 Nov. and 24 Dec. As is the case year-round, refund requests with sales receipts are processed in accordance with original forms of payment (cash for cash, credit for credit card).

Refund requests without sales receipts receive an Exchange gift card. In addition to returns on items purchased at your local Exchange, shopmyexchange.com orders can be returned to the nearest Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy or Coast Guard Exchange. Online returns due to an error on the Exchange’s part are reimbursed standard shipping charges as well. So relax and enjoy shopping this holiday season.

Christmas at the Exchange Through 20 Dec: Exchange shoppers won’t have to wait for December to start the holiday season as the Army and Air Force Exchange Service’s Facebook page is hosting the “12 Weeks of Gifting” contest. From NOW through Dec. 20, shoppers can count down the last 12 weeks until Christmas by entering to win different prizes each week. As the big day gets closer, prizes get bigger and better. Each week’s giveaway is a secret, so shoppers can visit the Exchange Facebook page each week to enter. Much like the “Twelve Days of Christmas”, each week will have a corresponding number of prizes. For example, week 12 will have 12 winners, week 11 will award 11 gifts, while week one has one, the grand prize.

This contest is guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit. Complete rules for the Exchange’s “12 Weeks of Gifting” contest are available at the Exchange Facebook page.

Good grades pay off at the Grafenwoehr Exchange The Army & Air Force Exchange Service rewards military students who excel. Students who receive a report card with a “B” average or better can choose an array of free and discounted products through the Grafenwoehr Exchange’s “You Made the Grade” program. Now in its 12th year, “You Made the Grade” includes a free Burger King hamburger kids meal, Subway 6-inch combo, a magazine of their choice and even a complimentary haircut. Students “making the grade” can also register for a drawing to win a $2,000, $1,500 or $500 Exchange gift card. To receive a “You Made the Grade” booklet, eligible students present a valid military ID and proof of a “B” or better average to the Grafenwoehr Exchange.

Students may receive one coupon package for every qualifying report card, but may enter the gift card drawing only once per grading period.

Grafenwoehr’s New Manchu Wok On Oct. 2, the Grafenwoehr Anthony’s Pizza closed its doors forever and to make room for the NEW Manchu Wok which will be opening late Dec. 2012 or early Jan. 2013 pending construction completion. The Exchange is sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

Volunteers and other help needed Volunteer positions for Tax Centers in Bavaria Community Tax Centers in Grafenwoehr, Rose Barracks, Hohenfels, Garmisch, Katterbach, Illeshiem, Bamberg and Schweinfurt are seeking tax or business savvy people to volunteer for tax preparation/e-filing positions. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Training (VITA) will be provided by the IRS in January, and Bavaria’s tax centers will open 1 Feb-28 June. For more information, please contact CPT Bess, DSN 475-7114, CIV 09641-83-7114. The tax centers are currently looking for paid positions as well.

FCC providers needed Interested in earning money from home and making a difference in the lives of military children and families? Army Child, Youth & School Services, Family Child Care (FCC) Program is looking for on-post and off-post FCC home providers that are dedicated to delivering high quality, emotionally secure and educational child care to our military and qualifying DOD family members. You must live in government - leased housing. Benefits include: federal subsidies, free initial and ongoing training, and the use of materials and equipment to set up your home. New Provider Orientation will be hosted on January 16-18 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Building 224 in Rose Barracks. Training will be held in the conference room.

For more information contact Parent Central Services DSN 476-2760, CIV 09662-83-2760.

SKIES Instructors Needed The SKIES Unlimited program in the USAG Grafenwoehr is looking for dedicated instructors in a variety of programs.

Current focus is on gymnastics, dance and music programs. If you have experience in coaching, facilitating or instructing Gymnastic (Tumble and Apparatuses), Dance (Ballet, Tap, Jazz), Music (Guitar, Violin, Cello) and have a love for children email Tammy the SKIES Director. Gymnastics and Dance positions are currently also posted on USA Jobs. Additional positions are available on a contract basis.

Grafenwoehr Girl Scouts looking for scouts and volunteers Attention Scouts! Grafenwoehr Girl Scouts serves girls from Kindergarten through 12th grade in USAG Grafenwoehr.

We foster leadership in our girls through activities, events, and community service opportunities at the troop and committee level. Girl Scouts is also recruiting 9th -12th grade girls to be a part of the virtual troop that travels and attends high school-level events. Scouts even have the opportunity to win the Girl Scout Gold Award, which opens doors for scholarship money post-graduation.

Attention volunteers! The Girl Scouts are looking for leaders and co-leaders and management team members. For those who have a skill but can't make a full-time commitment, the Scouts are always looking for subject matter expert in all fields. Knitting, auto mechanics and maintenance, culinary arts, art, science, technology, mathematics, languages... just donating 3 hours of your time to offer a course to our girls can change their lives. For more information about registering your daughter or volunteering, email or check out the Facebook page.

Volunteers needed at the USO Grafenwoehr If you'd like to help your USO, the military and their family members, come by the USO center in Grafenwoehr Bldg. 150 and sign up to volunteer. You can go to our volunteer website at www.usovolunteer.org and create your profile, post your own hours and keep track of your hours. For the soldiers, the hours spent volunteering goes towards promotion points and a community service ribbon. For more, CIV 09641 605 2946.

Have You Saved a Life Today? Red Cross Needs Volunteers Do you have a background in the medical field or teaching field? The American Red Cross is looking for qualified Volunteer Health and Safety Instructors for our community. Call today to see if you qualify.

Health and Safety Instructors: Volunteers teach lifesaving skills in the community.

Classes such as Babysitting, CPR, First Aid, AED and other safety presentations.

Armed Forces Caseworkers: Volunteers work with local members of the military and their families ensuring the delivery of emergency communications.

Health Fair Volunteers: Volunteers staff a table at events in the community and engage those attending in conversations about preparedness and safety.

Office of Volunteers: Volunteers assist with writing volunteer job descriptions, setting up volunteer orientation courses, conduct volunteer screening interviews, help with volunteer placement, record keeping, and recognition. For more, Rose Barracks Red Cross CIV 09662-83-1760 DSN 476-1760, Main Post Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 475-1760.

Seeking Emergency Placement Care Providers The children in the USAGG need you. The Emergency Placement Care (EPC) Program trains individuals to become 24 hour providers for at risk children. The community is in need of more providers as the number of children in imminent danger increased due to the deployment rotation of family members. The training you receive will last you a lifetime and help you build your experience and resume. Call ACS 476‑2650 or 09662‑83‑2650.

Sports, Fitness, Hobbies & Recreation AAFES Movie Listing Main Post listings, click here.

Rose Barracks listings, here.

Vilseck Community and Spouses' Club events Bernkastle Trip 15 Dec: VCSC is off to Bernkastle on the Moselle River for their famous Christmas Market and Wine Probe. Hotel rooms

are limited so RSVP to VCSC ASAP. Holiday caroling 17 Dec: VCSC will join Santa and his elf to sing Christmas carols to single Soldiers, families and newcomers at the Crystal Inn on Rose Barracks. Meet at the VCSC Board Room (Thrift Shop Bldg. 221) at 6 p.m. for hot drinks prior to a 6:30 p.m. bus departure. Bus will return at 8 p.m. Please bring two dozen cookies sorted into two cookies per baggie.

Children are invited to hand out the cookies to our audience. Bring flashlights to see the song booklet.

Email VCSC if you’d like to attend.

Hunting Class Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Bldg. 2440. On Saturdays there will be field trips to ranges. This class will enable you to obtain your German Hunting License and is usually held once a year. Cost $175 per person. Contact the HFS program manager or ODR for details. DSN 474-4212, CIV 09641-454-4212.

Upcoming MWR overnight trips To sign up for an overnight trip you must pay a $100 deposit per person. Payments can be made at either our Grafenwoehr or Rose Barracks ODR/LTS office. For more trip details, contact ODR at DSN 475-7402, CIV 9641-83-7402 in Grafenwoehr or DSN 476-2563, CIV 9662-83-2563 in Rose Barracks.

28 Dec.- 2 Jan: London, England: Ring in the New Year in Europe’s largest city. Learn the story of corrupt power, betrayals and the shedding of innocent blood at the Tower of London. See John Lennon’s scribblings at the British Library and sip tea at Kensington Palace before celebrating the beginning of 2013.

17 -21 Jan: Paris, France: Paris is a must-see destination in Europe. Wander through the City of Love and soak in the best it has to offer. The tour hits the “best-of” in Paris: the Champs Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triumph and the Eiffel Tower. The tour ends with a visit to the resplendent Versailles Palace.

15 -19 Feb: Venice, Italy for Carnival: St. Marks Square and the connecting Piazzetta Square are the center of carnival events, parades and other activities. Events take place from around 9am every morning and there are a variety of shows and other events taking place throughout the city of Venice.

15-17 March: Berlin, Germany: Germany’s most historic city is now famed for its nightlife, shopping and international cuisine. Check out Check Point Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz and museums before living it up with the locals.

For a full listing of MWR’s overnight and day trips, check out the 2012-2013 PASSPORT Travel Guide.

Stop Bullying! Community event 14 Dec: Join the anti-bullying movement and be the change you want to see by participating in this community action walk. A youth photography display will also be shown to increase bullying awareness and prevention. The Rose Barracks Youth Center, 4 p.m.

Bayern Rangers hockey team recruiting more players The Bayern Rangers, the community hockey team, is off to a rocking start this season. The team is still recruiting new players for practices and scrimmages against local German teams. The Rangers will attend the annual U.S. Air Forces in Europe military ice hockey championships at the Olympic stadium in Garmisch, 14-16 Feb. For those interested, here are the upcoming Bayern Rangers' ice times at the EVW Eisstadion, Dr. Martin Luther Strasse 3, 92637 Weiden: 12 Dec: Practice 8-9:30 p.m.

Scrooge bowling special Through 15 Dec: Throw a “Turkey” (3 consecutive strikes) during open play at the Rose Barracks Bowling Center and win a ham. Hams available for pick up 19-20 Dec. Sign up prior to bowling. For more information contact the Rose Barrack Bowling Center at DSN 476-2576, CIV 09662-83-2576.

DJ / Karaoke Night 14 Dec: Stop on by to sing to your favorite music or enjoy a cold drink while other members of the community puts on a show. Langenbruck Center, The Zone Sports Bar, DSN 476-2360, CIV 09662-83-2360.

Munich Beer Tour 15 Dec: Tour Munich and see some of the important beer sights on an original Double Decker London bus. Learn Munich’s beer-brewing history, tour the Spaten brewery, enjoy a lunch with a view, taste beer and also receive a beer

glass. There’s free time after the beer tour. Estimated time of return is 8 p.m. $99 per adult, $89 per child (3-12), $10 per child under 3. (Price includes beer tour) Departs Rose Barracks at 7 a.m. and Grafenwoehr at 7:30 a.m. To sign up call Leisure Travel Services, DSN 475-7402, CIV 09641-83-7402.

Holiday Jubilee 15 Dec: Munch on holiday snacks, visit with Santa and enjoy performances by the Elementary & Middle school choirs, Glee-PAC, a skit by the Life Unscripted Improv Troupe and MORE! For more, please contact the Grafenwoehr Performing Arts Center, Bldg. 103. DSN 475-6426, CIV 09641-83-6426.

Warrior Adventure Quest Outdoors – Ski Trip 19 Dec: Attention Soldiers! Warrior Adventure Quest is taking a ski/snowboarding trip to the Ochsenkopf Ski Mountain.

Units or individual Soldiers can sign up for this opportunity to bond, relax and have fun. Participants must get fitted for ski equipment at the Rose Barracks ODR prior to 19 Dec. Vans leave from the Rose Barracks Warrior Zone at 8:30 a.m. and the Grafenwoehr Burger King at 9 a.m. To sign up or for more information contact BOSS at DSN 475-8822, CIV 0964183-8822 or the Warrior Zone at 476-2942 AT CIV 09662-83-2942.

Christmas dinner 25 Dec: The USO and Service Credit Union are sponsoring a classic Christmas dinner open to all ID card holders. The dinner will feature ham, turkey and traditional sides and desserts. There will also be several drawings for $50 DECA gift certificates throughout the night. Dinner is free. 4 p.m. Grafenwoehr USO Bldg. 150.

BOSS Takes on London 29 Dec -1 Jan: Ring in the New Year in London, one of the world’s most vibrant cities. You do not want to miss this great experience. To sign up, call BOSS at DSN 475-8822, CIV 09641-83-8822.

Writers group 16 Jan: Writers of various genres (fiction, non-fiction, plays, poetry and articles) are welcome to join the Writers Group.

Everyone is invited to share snippets of their work, provide helpful feedback and try out new writing exercises to help shape writing projects. The Beanery Café, Marienstrasse 10, Amberg. 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more, email Britta.

Breastfeeding support group First and Third Thursday: At the Grafenwoehr. For more, join the Facebook group.

Go for the goal Through June 2013: Children ages 7-19 can join the USYS Oberpfalz soccer program. Training is twice a month in either Grafenwoehr or Ansbach. More information at www.oberpfalzsoccer.com.

Grafenwoehr Thrift Shop Don't Miss Our Great Deals! 50% OFF PINK TAGS and 50% OFF Expired consignment items.

Watch the GCSC Thrift Shop FB Page for Member Specials. Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 9 a.m. - 3 .pm.; Thursdays 11 p.m. - 5 p.m.; 1st and 3rd Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. in Grafenwoehr Bldg. 508.

Want to give back to YOUR community? Volunteer! Help YOUR community by consigning or donating today. PCSing? No problem; we will mail you your check. For more, CIV 09641-926-0377, online, or find us on Facebook.

Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop Bring your gently used items to Bldg. 221 on Rose Barracks. Open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Tues, Wed &Thurs. Call DSN 4762649, CIV 09662-83-2649, or email for more. Donations and volunteers welcome. Volunteers receive special discounts on all sales.

Find us on Facebook USAG Grafenwoehr, Army Community Service, VFW Tower Post 10692, MWR, Main Post and Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers, Education Centers, Graf Dog community, the EXCHANGE, Environmental Division, AFN Bavaria, Performing Arts Center, Grafenwoehr Chaplains, Main Post DFAC, 172 Infantry Brigade, BMEDDAC, 2SCR, Graf Housing Dept., Grafenwoehr Provost Marshal Office , Netzaberg Middle School, Netzaberg Elementary School

and Vilseck Falcons.

Facility & Road/Openings/Construction/Closures Directorate of Emergency Services open until 11 a.m.

13 Dec: All services under the DES, including Vehicle Registration and IACS offices will close at 11 a.m. for their annual Christmas party. The MP Desk operations will remain open and operational at DSN 476-3397 CIV 09662-83-3397.

Half-day closure of DOL facilities 14 Dec: The Directorate of Logistics (DOL) facilities will close down at 11:30 a.m. for holiday staff parties. The following facilities will be closed: Hazardous Material Management Program (HMMP), Logistics Automation Support Center (LASC), Installation Food Management Office (IFMO), Central Issue Facility (CIF), Regional Supply Support Activity (RSSA), Food Service Workers (FSW) Management Branch, Subsistence Supply Management Office (SSMO), Drivers Training Testing Station (DTTS), Personal Property Processing Office (PPPO), TMP Dispatch Center, East Camp, CWT Sato Travel, USAG Grafenwoehr Dining Facility (DFAC 101) Closed for dinner meal, sack lunches will be issued during lunch meal.

The closure will reduce bus service on 14 Dec. All runs originating after 12 p.m. will be discontinued, except the G-1 (Direct Run, Graf PX to RB PX). The G-1’s last run at 7 p.m. will also be cancelled.

Vehicle division closure in Grafenwoehr and Vilseck 14 Dec: Starting at noon, BASOPS Maintenance Division, Administrative Sections, General Equipment Shop and Privately Owned Vehicle Inspection Station (POV) in Bldg 301 as well as Customer Service Team Grafenwoehr (CST) in Bldgs. 319 and 319b and CST Vilseck in Bldg. 144 will be closed for the annual Christmas party.

Maintenance Activity Vilseck (MAV) half-day closure 14 Dec: The MAV is closed in the afternoon for the annual Christmas party. Please plan appropriately. In addition, MAV's small arms section will be closed from 10-14 Dec. During this time period, no weapons can be dropped off or picked up. Please pick up any repaired small arms equipment this week. Drop offs will not be accepted until after 14 Dec.

JMTC Resource Management half-day closure 14 Dec: The Resource Management, 7A JMTC, located in Building 107 will close at 11:30 a.m. for their annual Christmas party.

DPW half-day closure 14 Dec: All DPW facilities in Grafenwoehr, Rose Barracks and Eschenbach will close down at 11:30 a.m. for the annual Christmas parties. Only emergency services will be available.

JMTC Property Book Office closed 18 Dec: The JMTC, G4 Property Book Office will be closed all day for their annual Christmas Party. In case of emergencies, call Mr. Bishop at 0160-9460-2351.

ACS half-day closure 20 Dec: The ACS offices in Grafenwoehr Bldg. 244 and Rose Barracks Bldg. 322 will close at 11:30 a.m. for their annual Christmas party.

Directorate of Human Resources (DHR) closure 21 Dec: The following sections will close down at 11:30 a.m. for DHR’s annual holiday party: DHR and Workforce Development, Military Personnel Division, Civilian Misconduct, ASAP, Administrative Services Division, Central Processing Facility and Education Centers.

Parcel pick up service only 21 Dec: The Postal Service Centers in Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks will only provide parcel pick up service from 9

a.m.-6 p.m. Full service will resume on 22 Dec from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The PSCs will have regular business hours on 24 Dec.

Religious German-American church service 15 Dec: Hosted by Father Thomas Jeschner and Father Yuen Caballejo at the Eschenbach Catholic Church at 6 p.m. A potluck dinner in the Eschenbach Chapel Annex will follow the service. Everybody’s welcome!

Family retreat to Tropical Island Resort 20-22 Dec: There will be a Strong Bonds Family retreat on at the Tropical Island Resort in Krausnick. Space is very limited. Please contact SFC Johndro at DSN 475-6505, CIV 09641-83-6505 for more.

Holiday service schedule 14 Dec: Sabbath and Hanukkah services. Grafenwoehr Chapel. 6 p.m.

20 Dec: Yule Celebration – Wicca. Grafenwoehr Chapel Annex. 5 p.m.

24 Dec: Christmas Eve Mass. Rose Barracks Chapel. 4 p.m.

24 Dec: Protestant Candlelight service. Rose Barracks Chapel. 6 p.m.

24 Dec: Protestant Candlelight service. Grafenwoehr Chapel. 6 p.m.

24 Dec: Midnight Mass. Grafenwoehr Chapel. Midnight.

25 Dec: Christmas Day Mass. Rose Barracks Chapel. 11:30 a.m.

31 Dec: New Years Vigil Mass. Rose Barracks Chapel. 6 p.m.

31 Dec: Watch night service. Grafenwoehr Chapel. 10 p.m.

1 Jan: Mass – Day of Obligation (Mary Mother of God). 10 a.m.

New L.D.S. Singles Breakfast On the first Sunday of every month, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-Single Adult Program is hosting Singles Linger Longer breakfast. Singles and their friends are welcome to stay after church or arrive at 12:30 p.m. to mingle over refreshments. Guests are welcome to bring treats to share. Located in the Grafenwoehr Ward Building, Vilsecker Strasse 7, 92655 Grafenwoehr. This is outside of the Grafenwoehr Post gate closest to the Tower Inn, approximately a five minute walk from the gate exit. For questions or to coordinate rides from the Grafenwoehr or Vilseck area, email Britta.

Off post church services Grafenwoehr Sunday services at Friedenskirche: 8 a.m. and 10.30 a.m. Family services every 1st, 3rd and 4th Sunday Monday services at Maria-Himmelfahrtskirche: 8.30 a.m.

Tuesday services at Friedenskirche: 7 p.m.

Wednesday services at Seniorenheim St. Sebastian: 4.30 p.m. 2nd Wednesday of every month; 7 p.m. at MariaHimmelfahrtskirche Thursday services at Friedenskirche: 4:15 p.m., students’ service Friday services at Friedenskirche: 1-2 p.m. 1st Friday of every month; 7 p.m. 1st Friday of every month.

Saturday services at Friedenskirche: 4 p.m. Rosary; 6 p.m.

Gmuend Sunday services at Herz-Marien-Kirche: Alternating weeks, 9:15 a.m. or 7 p.m.

Thursday services at BRK Seniorenheim: 3 p.m. 1st Wednesday of every month.

Friday services at Herz-Marien-Kirche: 6.30 p.m. during winter, 7 p.m. during summer.

Huetten Sunday services at Josefs Kirche: Alternating weeks, 9:15 a.m. or 7 p.m.

Thursday services at Josefs Kirche: 7 p.m.

Saturday services at Josefs Kirche: 5 p.m.

Goessenreuth Thursday services at Michaelskapelle: 7 p.m. during winter, 7.30 p.m. during summer.

Chaplain Crisis Line After duty hours, please call: MP STATION CIV 09662-83-2490 or 09662-83-3397 / DSN 476-2490 or 476-3397.

USAG-Grafenwoehr IOC CIV 09641-83-7226 / DSN 475-7226. CHAPLAIN CRISIS LINE CIV 0162-296-0838.

During business hours: Main Post Chapel: DSN 475-1570, CIV 09641-83-1570. Rose Barracks Chapel: DSN 476-1570, CIV 09662-83-1570.

Adult Education / Training Roth TSP Webinar for Soldiers 19 Dec: The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board invites members of the uniformed services to join us for an exclusive webinar, Roth TSP for Uniformed Service Members, at 6:00 p.m.

Education Centers Holiday Closure 24 & 31 December: The Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center will be closed for the Christmas and New Year holidays. In addition, there will be limited services from 26 – 28 Dec. The East Camp (Grafenwoehr) Education center will be closed from 24 Dec – 1 Jan, however limited services are available through the Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center. For more information please contact Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292 or East Camp (Grafenwoehr) Education Center at DSN 475-6219/6786. Happy Holidays!

FAST Class Rose Barracks Through 14 Dec or 7-17 Jan: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Functional Academic Skills Training (FAST) provides Soldiers with instruction in reading, mathematics, and language skills and is an excellent tool to prepare Soldiers to raise their GT score.

This class is a 60-hour long course and is limited to twenty students. For more information please contact Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292 or Grafenwoehr Education Center at DSN 475-6219/6786.

Vilseck (RoseBarracks) National Test Center University of Maryland University College Europe *New Hours of Operation currently effective: M,W,F 08:30-12:30; T,TH 11:30-15:30* Test your way to success! Take your CLEP, DSST, GMAT and Pearson Vue exams at the National Test Center (NTC) on Rose Barracks, Vilseck. You can earn college credits quickly and affordably. University of Maryland University College Europe, in Vilseck (Rose Barracks),offers computer-based, on-site testing services to military and eligible civilians, making it easy to earn certifications, fulfill general education requirements, and get the credit you deserve! Free study resources areavailable at www.myarmyonesource.com, www.militaryonesource.com and installation libraries. For more information email: sanderson@europe.umuc.edu or call DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-834262.

UMUC Spring 2013 textbook discount Through 21 Dec: This year, UMUC Europe is spreading holiday cheer with a special offer for Spring 2013 textbooks.

Textbooks will be 40% off when ordered from webText Europe, UMUC’s online textbook store. Order at www.ed.umuc.edu/webtext.

Visit Florence or Paris for college credit Register by 23 Dec: There is still time to register for two UMUC field study courses taking place 5-12 Jan. Students can explore renaissance art in Florence, Italy, or walk through history guided by famous literature in Paris, France. Go to www.ed.umuc.edu/fieldstudy.

Registration for UMUC Spring Session 1 Through 11 Jan: On-site courses begin 14 Jan and are offered on weekends, weekdays and as hybrids – a format combining on-site with online instruction. For more on admissions, registration and schedules visit UMUC online or their local UMUC office. Rose Barracks Bldg. 223. DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-832462. Main Post, Grafenwoehr, Bldg. 549.

DSN 475-6106, CIV 09641-836106. Like us on Facebook.

University of Phoenix University of Phoenix is honored to serve military service members stationed in Europe by offering both MBA and Master of Arts in Education degree programs at several on-base locations near you. Classes meet one night a week. If you’re interested in developing managerial skills necessary to be effective in a rapid changing environment than the MBA

program is for you. Face to face classes are one night a week in Vilseck from 5:30-9:30pm. Get started today by visiting www.phoenix.edu/militaryeurope or by calling, Fe Gehrels at DSN 475-6712 or CIV 09641-83-6712.

National Testing Center (NTC) News The NTC, operated by University of Maryland, will soon relocate to another location while renovations are being made at the Vilseck Education Center, Bldg 223. The date for the move has yet to be determined. It is highly recommended that persons interested in testing routinely contact the NTC at DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462 to find out about availability of the facility. Contacting the NTC might prevent individuals from paying Pearson Vue a re-registration fee ($150+) in case the facility is not available due to their move to a different location or registering on line for exams outside normal operating hours. The Vilseck NTC only operates 20 hours per week and in the past individuals have registered for exams on line outside of established hours of operations.

School News Delayed Entry Program Attention High School Seniors, Class of 2013. Get in touch with us to discuss your future plans after High School. You are able to enlist now into the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) and lock down your training seats and other enlistment options for next summer. US Army Active or Reserve. Contact us by email or call DSN 475-9208, CIV 09641-83-9208.

Grafenwoehr Elementary School 13 Dec: Grafenwoehr Elementary School will hold its Winter Concert and PTA Silent Basket Auction at 6 p.m. 100% of the profits from each themed basket go to programs at the school. The baskets will be in our Grizzly Room by the front office for bids earlier in the day if you want to come and look. Some of last year’s baskets valued at $100 sold for only a quarter of their worth. Santa might even make an appearance. DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-83-7133. Ask for Mrs. Garst regarding the basket auction and Ms. Levison for the concert.

School Office Hours Mon.‑ Fri. 7 a.m.– 4 p.m.

School Hours Important Mon.‑ Fri. 8:15 a.m.‑2:35 p.m.

Phone Numbers DSN 475‑7133, CIV 09641‑837133

Vilseck Elementary School Yearbook sales with a discount are still going on from now until Dec. 21. Packets were sent home. Please don’t forget to keep bringing in your Box Tops to our PTSA. Through 13 Dec: Presents for Poland. VES is asking for community-wide support in donating NEW Christmas presents to be hand delivered again this year to the Elim mission/orphanage, http://elimcenter.pl/# Over 100 gifts were donated last year! We would love to have more! Forms are in the school’s front office and by email to Paige Hall.

12 Dec: Family Library Night 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. in the VES library. Students and their parents may check out materials, take RC tests, do homework or research.

14 Dec: Progress Reports: Mid-term is here and progress reports will be sent home to parents.

20 Dec: Ms. Higley’s 4th grade class will have a holiday performance for parents in her room at 1:30 p.m.

24 Dec-6 Jan: Winter holiday. Students return to class on 7 Jan. Child Find: What is child-find screening? Preschool Child Find is a developmental screening for children ages 3-5 identifying children with developmental delays or other special education needs.

For children under age 3 please contact EDIS at 09662-83-3221.

What is the process? A Child Find team made up of the preschool special needs service provider, speech and language pathologists and the occupational therapist screen the children for developmental delays. These free screenings take place monthly.

How does it work? Parent submits the Child Find questionnaire (which they can pick up in the office or find on the school website); they are set up with an appointment for the screening. When they come in for the screening the child must first pass a vision and hearing screen by our school nurse. Then they are screened by the team. If the child is suspected of having any delays the team will refer them for further formal evaluation.

Why is it important? When learning challenges are identified at a young age, early intervention can help the child with learning tasks.

If parents are interested, what do they need to do? They can go to the school’s website and find the link for Child Find.

Under that link is a questionnaire they need to fill out and email back to the email address provided on the form. Someone will be in contact with them within 48 hours. If they do not hear back please contact the school at 09662 832812 and let them know what happened. (Just in case the email was rejected as SPAM)

Audrey Reader Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities VES Teacher/Provider Attendance E-Mail It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school when their child will be absent. If your child will be absent, please call DSN 476-2973 or 09662-83-2973. You can also e-mail the attendance clerk.

Free, Online Tutoring All U.S. military families can receive free online tutoring, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Go to http://www.tutor.com/military for more information.

VES Vision: Vilseck Expects Success Continuous School Progress Goals: Goal 1: By 2016 all students will improve competency with numbers and operations as measured by increased performance on assessments.

Goal 2: By 2016 all students will demonstrate improved reading comprehension through written and oral communication as measured by increased performance on assessments.

School Office Hours School Hours Mon.‑Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.‑Fri. 8:25 a.m.‑2:35 p.m.

Important Phone Numbers CIV 09662‑83-2812 / 2673 DSN 476‑2812/2673

Netzaberg Elementary School 22 Dec - 6 Jan: Winter Break 7 Jan: Instruction resumes “Manipulatives and Me”: Parents come to Mrs. Woodley’s room to learn how to make learning fun at home. You get to take what you play with home with you. You can learn some great ideas to use with your children. Refreshments will be provided. 11:00-12:00 in Mrs. Woodley’s room, E1.126.

Library: Our school librarian, Dinah Tague, would love volunteers to help out in the library. She needs people willing to wash books, straighten shelves, label books, take pictures, and create bulletin boards.

Homework Club: For 3rd-5th grade on Tue and Thu, 2:45-3:45 p.m. in room E2.122 with Ms. Hampton.

Attendance: If your student is going will be late or absent, please email us at our new email address OR call 09645-9179184/9183, DSN 472-9184/9183 by 8:30 a.m.

Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office; CIV 09645-917-9254 DSN 472-9254.

Child Find: Netzaberg Elementary School’s Preschool Services for Child Development (PSCD) program is conducting screenings to identify strengths and concerns in a young child’s development. The free Child Find developmental screenings are provided for command sponsored children from age three to five years. Professional staff will screen motor, language, problem solving, social, and self-help skills, plus the child’s vision and hearing. For further information on Child Find developmental screenings at Netzaberg Elementary School, please call CIV 09645-917-9185 or DSN 4729185. Child Find developmental screenings are held at DoDEA schools to assist parents in identifying the early warning signs that put young children at risk for learning delays and provide crucial early diagnosis and intervention.

Check us out on Facebook here.

School Office Hours School Hours Mon.- Fri. 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Mon.- Fri. 8:00 a.m.-.2:35 p.m.

Important Phone Numbers CIV 09645-917-9185/4 DSN 472-9184

Netzaberg Middle School 12 Dec: 7th/8th Grade Choir Seminar Concert, 2 p.m.

12 Dec: NMS Choir Winter Concert at NMS, 6:30-8 p.m. Students will perform medieval songs and dances.

14 Dec: 6th Grade Choir Seminar Concert, 2 p.m.

15 Dec: 6th Grade Choir performs at GPAC Holiday Jubilee, 6-9 p. m.

24 Dec - 6 Jan: Winter Break Are you PCSing soon? Please give Mrs. Ferdinand-Bessant a call at DSN 472-9233, CIV 09645-317-9233 so that she can assist you with your transition.

Student Drop-Off: Parents, please remember that you must come in with your child when dropping them off after a doctor’s appointment or if they are tardy. Your child must be signed in on the clipboard in the front office before an admit slip will be given. This policy is a secondary means of accountability for both the office and you and your student.

Art Club: Art Club has begun! We will meet once a month, right after school till 4:30 p.m., to create a new work of art.

Future meeting dates are: 5 Dec, 6 Feb, 6 Mar, 3 Apr and 1 May. Students can sign up for one or all of the art club meetings; see Ms. Geraghty for more information.

Attendance: If your student will be late or absent, you must call the office NLT 9 a.m. The number for the office is DSN 472-9229, CIV 09645-9179229 or you may email.

Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office; DSN 472-9254, CIV 09645-917-9254

Lunch Accounts: To use the online service you will need to set up an account at http://www.mealpayplus.com/. If you are new to the area you will need to open a Horizon account at the PX or the school cafeteria. All lunch concerns need to be addressed to AAFES. You can also logon to set up your child’s account. Please remember, applying for free and reduced‐price lunches is an annual process. To apply, you can take a current copy of the sponsor’s LES and the spouse’s pay stub (if employed) to CYSS Parent Central Services. Applications are available at CYSS Parent Central Services Rose Barracks, Bldg 224, East Camp (Grafenwoehr), Bldg 539, CYSS Fitness Zone East Camp (Grafenwoehr), Bldg.547, and local school .

Find us on Facebook: Like our page and you will always have access to the most update information about your student’s school. We will also be able to upload photos from the various activities.

Parent Volunteers: If you are interested in volunteering for the PTSA or other school committees, please contact the school. We welcome your support. POC: Email Tiffany.

School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon - Fri 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Mon-Fri 7:55 a.m.-2:40 p.m.

CIV 09645-917-9232/9233/9229 DSN 472-9232

Vilseck High School 24 Dec – 4 Jan: No School – Winter Break 7 Jan: School Resumes Parent-Teacher Conferences To better serve parents at USAG Grafenwoehr, teachers from Vilseck High School and Netzaberg Middle School will combine their conferences. All VHS & NMS faculty will hold conferences at Netzaberg Middle School, on 15 Nov, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. On 16 Nov, all VHS & NMS faculty will be at Vilseck High School, from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Volunteers Needed Would you be interested in tutoring, coaching, being a mentor or classroom helper, or pitching in at the school store? If so, please send an e-mail to Danielle Massey, or call DSN 476-2864 or 09662-83-2864.

Attendance E-Mail It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school when their child will be absent. If your child will be absent, please call DSN 476-2573 or 09662-83-2573. You can also e-mail the attendance clerk.

Free, Online Tutoring All U.S. military families can receive free online tutoring, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Go to http://www.tutor.com/military for more information.

The VHS Mission: To provide an exemplary education that inspires and prepares all students for success in a dynamic, global environment.

The VHS Vision: Falcons S.O.A.R. (Success, Opportunity, Achievement, Respect) School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.‑Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Mon.‑Fri. 8:10 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CIV 09662‑832864 / Fax 09662-832480 DSN 476‑2864

Was ist Los? Get involved in the local scene *** Does not indicate endorsement by the U.S. Government

Flea markets Every Sat., 6 a.m. - 4 p.m., in 93059 Regensburg inside the building at Am Protzenweiher 27, ph 0941-82-933. The market will not take place on German holidays.

Every second Sat. of the month: 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.: in 90443 Nuremburg, Großparkplatz (large car park) on Gugelstraße, corner Humboldtstraße.

Every third Sat. of the month: 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. in 92224 Amberg, Kaufland-Parkplatz, An den Franzosenaeckern Every third Sun. of the month: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Trödel- & Jahrmarkt in 93073 Neutraubling (next to Regensburg), at the "Globus" DITY store, Pommernstraße 4.

Upcoming Bavarian Ski Club trips Come join the Bavarian Ski Club for skiing and snowboarding in the Alps. We are traveling to Kitzbuehel, Austria 1-3 Feb. and Kronplatz / Sella Ronda, Italy 17-20 Feb. Visit our website or send us an email at for more information. We meet on the first and third Tuesday each month at the Alte Post in Freihung at 6 p.m. Come join us for free pizza and to learn more about the club.

Geminids meteor shower 13 & 14 Dec: Peak nights for the Geminids meteor shower. With up to 60 multicolored

meteors per hour at the peak, it is considered the best meteor shower by many. Look towards the constellation Gemini in the east after midnight to see it best. Because the new moon falls on 13 Dec, seeing the falling stars ought to be no problem, weather permitting. Viewing tips.

Christmas caroling in Nuremberg 19 Dec: Per their yearly tradition, the German-American Women’s Club of Nuremberg and Fuerth is Christmas caroling through the courtyards of Nuremberg’s Old Town. The women of USAG Grafenwoehr are welcome to come sing and then join the group afterwards for gluehwein. Meet up at 4:30 p.m. in the Old Town Hall (Ehrenhalle Rathaus.)

Winter Solstice 21 Dec: Today is Winter Solstice, the official first day of winter. Day and night are of equal length today.

Forest Christmas in Sorghof 22 Dec: One of the nicest Christmas events in the region happens just a few steps away from the Sorghof housing area.

At 5 p.m. visitors meet at Central Yard beside the Church of Sorghof and at 5:15 p.m. they will walk into the forest where musical performances and a live nativity scene take place. Seasonal food and refreshments, such as gluehwein, bratwurst, goulash and potato pancakes will be available.

Second Christmas Day 26 Dec: This is a German holiday. Expect all German stores and authorities to be closed.

Maximum Rock Night Every first Saturday of the month: in 90441 Nuremberg, at the Hirsch, Vogelweiherstraße 66, ph 0911-429-414.

Two DJs will rock the "Hirsch". Every party offers special surprises and different music styles on the second floor.

Admission is only 6 Euros per person.

Fresh Produce/ Farmers’ Markets Note: If any of the listed days is a German holiday, the markets are usually held the day prior.

In 92224 Amberg: every Wednesday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on Marktplatz in front of the historic city hall.

In 91522 Ansbach: every Wednesday and Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m., on Martin-Luther-Platz. ***In addition to the regular fresh produce markets, local farmers offer their fresh goods every first and third Saturday of the month at the farmers market on Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Platz (same opening hours). Great opportunity to buy seasonal produce as fresh as it gets.

In Bamberg: Monday thru Saturday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., on Maxplatz. Closed on Sundays and German holidays.

In Neumarkt: every Thursday and Saturday, in Untere Marktstraße. Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

In Parsberg: every Wednesday and Friday on Stadtplatz. Wednesday 7 a.m.-midday, Friday 2-6 p.m.

In Regensburg: every Saturday 7 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Donaumarkt (right next to the Eiserne Brücke / Iron Bridge).

Closest car park is Unterer Wöhrd (and a short walk across Eiserne Brücke), or Dultplatz and Oberer Wöhrd (walk across the Steinerne Brücke / Stone Bridge and turn left).

In 92637 Weiden: every Wednesday and Saturday 7 a.m. -12:30 p.m., Oberer and Unterer Markt / all around the Altes Rathaus (historic city hall, pedestrian zone).

In 97070 Würzburg: Monday thru Saturday, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., on Rathausplatz. Closed on Sundays and German holidays.

Guided Tours 1 p.m. daily: Walking Tours of Nürnberg in English Nuremberg was once an imperial residence, powerful free imperial city and international trading center. The prosperous city provided the ideal basis for an active cultural and intellectual life and the arts: Even today numerous buildings, monuments and artworks still reflect its former importance. The guided tour through the Old Town offers information and insights on the castle, the fountains and wells, churches and art as well as the city itself past and present.

Meeting point: Tourist Office at the Main Market Square (Hauptmarkt). Duration: approx. 2 ½ hrs. Price: 9 Euros per person, plus price of admission to castle (2 Euros pp). Children under 14 free in the company of their parents.

2 p.m. daily: Guided Tour of 91541 Rothenburg in English, of the most important sights in the historical district Meeting point: Market Square. Duration: 90 minutes. Fee: 6 Euros per person, payable cash to the tour guide 7 p.m. daily: Guided Tour in English of 91541 Rothenburg, with "The Executioner". Meet on Marktplatz, no prior booking required. The tours take place every day and cost 7 Euros per person.

There are tours in German which start at 6 p.m., and also in English, starting at 7 p.m. If you click in the link and scroll

down, you can watch a 5-minute promo clip for the executioner's tour (in English but with a lovely Franconian accent). The clip shows some interesting hidden places that you normally don't get to see.

Every Wed. and Sat: 1:30 p.m.: Guided Tour of Regensburg, in English - "Experience a Historical City" In the course of this individually accented tour you get to know the Old City, with its patrician towered houses, the cathedral, the Old City Hall (all from the outside), the Stone Bridge and the Porta Praetoria. Our well-versed guides will be glad to answer any special questions you have, based on your own personal interests.

Fees: Adults 8 Euros, Reduced 5 Euros , Families 12 Euros. Duration: 1.5 hours.

Meeting point: Tourist-Information - Altes Rathaus, Rathausplatz, 93047 Regensburg, ph. 0941-507-4410.

Closest free car parks are "Dultplatz" (Am Protzenweiher/ Oberpfalzbrücke); adjacent "Protzenweiher" (opposite Protzenweiher 27); neighbouring "Wöhrdstraße" (at Wöhrdstraße 18); and adjacent "Unterer Wöhrd" (Wöhrdstraße 60/62). There is also the "Donaumarkt" parking lot (Donaumarkt 1) which is "a walk across the bridge" closer than the "Wöhrdstraße" car park, but it's not free-of-charge, and it's blocked on Saturday mornings for the Regensburg produce market. From any of these car parks it's only a very short walk across one of the bridges, and you're there. BTW, did you know you can get a map of Regensburg's city center from the Tourist Info for free? Go to the "Altes Rathaus" (old city hall) as directed by the brown signs, and ask for a copy.

Every Friday: 7 p.m. The Nuremberg Nightwatch Tour, in English - with the night watchwoman Re-live history through original, funny and exciting stories with the historian Dr. Ute Jaeger aka the night watchwoman.

Discover the traditional parts of Nürnberg and enjoy its most beautiful sights! Meeting Point is the fountain "Schöner Brunnen", Am Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nürnberg (in the pedestrian zone). Fees are 9 Euros pp.

Every Saturday: 1 p.m. Guided Tour of 97070 Würzburg in English Your stroll starts at the Falkenhaus (location of the Tourist Info, ph 0931-372-398) with its elaborate Rococo facade, followed by a visit to the Marienkapelle (St. Mary's Chapel) featuring sandstone sculptures by Tilman Riemenschneider.

Other highlights include the historical town hall building and the Romanesque cathedral "St. Kilian". From the bridge Alte Mainbrücke, you can enjoy fantastic views of the fortress Marienberg, the pilgrimage church Käppele and the famous vineyards. Tour lasts around 1.5 hrs, tickets cost 6 Euros per adult. Between 7 May and 29 October, additional English tours are held every Friday at 1 p.m.

Every Saturday: 2 p.m. Guided Tour in English of Albrecht Dürer's House in Nürnberg’s historical city center, AlbrechtDürer-Straße 39 (in the pedestrian zone). Admission is 5 Euros (normal), 2.50. Euros (reduced) Famous painter Albrecht Dürer lived in Nürnberg (1471 – 1528) – you might know him best for his “Praying Hands” –, and his original residence in Nürnberg’s pretty city center has been converted to a museum. Every Saturday, an actress in historical gowns offers guided tours of the house in English, telling its history from the viewpoint of Dürer's wife Agnes.

Every Saturday: 3 p.m. Guided Tour in English of the Church of St. Jacob's in 91541 Rothenburg.

A public and free tour in English of the famous StJakobs-Kirche (church). You only pay the entrance fee for the church: 2 Euros for adults; 0.50 Euros for students, pupils; groups from 10 person: 1.50 Euros. No reservation necessary! Duration: ca. 45 minutes. Meeting Point: front row inside the church.

Every Saturday: 8 p.m. Guided Tour in English with the Night-Watchman in 91541 Rothenburg on Marktplatz = Market Place. Take a walk back in time with the Night-watchman through the romantically-lit streets of Rothenburg.

Meeting point is on Market Square, the tour lasts about 60 minutes. Fee is 7 Euros per person, payable in cash to the Night-watchman.

Useful links in English for everyday life in Germany Find German zip codes: German Post's website Find German phone numbers: Das Telefonbuch English Historic Germany: http://www.hhog.de/ Loads of information about Germany, language and customs: http://german.about.com/.

Christmas Markets Amberg Through 23 Dec: in 92224 Amberg on Marktplatz. Highlights are daily live performances on the stage, a horse-drawn carriage and a live nativity scene, as well as a special program for children. Opening hours: Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sun. 1 - 8 p.m.

Bad Kissingen Through 24 Dec: in 97688 Bad Kissingen, on Rathausplatz and all around the city center. Open Mon. through Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sun. 1 - 8 p.m. Christmas Eve 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. The grand opening on 30 Nov. starts with a festive torchlight parade with "angels" and Nikolaus, leading from the Kurpark to the Market Place. Bad Kissingen is ca. 27 km / 17 miles NW of Schweinfurt. Click here for a map of suggested car parks around the city center. This PDF gives you information about bus connections if you want to use public transport.

Bamberg Through 23 Dec: 96047 Bamberg on Maximiliansplatz.The origins of Bamberg's Christmas Market date back to the beginning of the 19th century. Nowadays, around 50 vendors sell a variety of Christmas articles along with typical delicacies from the region, such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies) and Früchtebrot (German fruitcake).

Through 16 Dec: Historical market in Bamberg at Schloss Geyerswörth (mansion), Geyerswörthstraße1.

Bayreuth Through 23 Dec: In 95448 Bayreuth along Maximilianstraße and on Marktplatz (market place). Over 60 stalls are in this "Budenstadt", offering everything from decorations to scrumptious foods. The grand opening takes place on Fri 30 Nov. at 5 p.m. Regular opening hours: Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Berchtesgaden 13 - 24 Dec. / 26 - 31 Dec: in 83471 Berchtesgaden on Schlossplatz, 155 km / 97 miles SE of Munich. Open daily 12 - 8 p.m. Christmas Eve only 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. After Christmas, the market is open 12 - 6 p.m., on 31 Dec. only from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

This lovely Christmas market (only GE) in gorgeous Berchtesgaden attracts many visitors each year with a large number of traditional arts and crafts stalls, rides in horse-drawn carriages, a Christmas tree labyrinth, petting zoo, live nativity plays, guided tours of the historical city center; and a tower brass band playing on top of the bell tower of the Stiftskirche church. A very unique event is the visit of the "Buttnmandl" and "Kramperl" on 05 and 06 December, as well as the "Böllerschießen" (gun salutes) in the week before Christmas Eve, daily at 3 p.m.

Dietenhofen 15 & 16 Dec: 2 - 5 p.m.: in 90599 Dietenhofen, at the "Heimatmuseum im Schloss" (museum in the mansion), SchlossStraße 5, 18 km / 11 miles NE of Ansbach.

Dietfurt 13 - 16 Dec: in 92345 Dietfurt on the Marktplatz and held around the famous Chinesenbrunnen, the fountain in the town center. Varying daily entertainment with Alphorn blowers, children's theater, Nikolaus and Christkind.

Dresden Through 24 Dec: Striezelmarkt in 01067 Dresden, Schlossplatz / Chiaverigasse.

Germany's oldest and best-known Christmas market has resided in the Saxon provincial capital for more than half a millennium. Lots of English information here.

Erlangen Through 24 Dec: 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.: in 91052 Erlangen around the Neustädter Kirchenplatz and Schlossplatz, 25 km / 15 miles north of Nürnberg. This Christmas market has a distinct medieval touch, with jugglers and jongleurs, musicians and buffoons. In addition, a fire show attracts all visitors every Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Fürth Through 23 Dec: in 90762 Fürth, 10 km / 6 miles west of Nürnberg, at the Fürther Freiheit. Nearly 50 vendors and a live mange will delight the young and still-young.

Through 16 Dec: The "Altstadt-Weihnacht" in Fürth on Waagplatz is highly popular because of its authentic character and its exquisite arts and crafts goods. And the Christmassy magic continues with brass bands, choirs, illusionists and the night watchmen.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen Through 22 Dec: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.: in 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen on Richard-Strauss-Platz.

Gößweinstein 15 & 16 Dec: 2 p.m. in 91327 Gößweinstein, in the courtyard behind the stunning basilica on Balthasar-Neumann-Straße 2, 10 km / 6 miles west of Pottenstein, in the beautiful Fränkische Schweiz. Don’t miss the nativity scenes on display along all the major roads. Recommended parking: public car park behind Pezoldstraße 24; cemetery car park behind the basilica, at Viktor-von-Scheffel-Straße 5

Guteneck Mansion 14 - 16 Dec. / 21 - 23 Dec: at Schloss Guteneck in Guteneck, near Nabburg, ca. 35 km / 21.5 miles south of Weiden, at Schlossberg 10. Open Fri., 5 - 10 p.m.; Sat. 2 - 10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Admission: 3 euros per person on Fri. 4 euros on Sat. 5 euros on Sun. Children under 12 are free. The mansion's courtyard is the perfect backdrop for the booths, with lanterns, torches and a beautiful surrounding. Watch craftsmen how they make their wares, listen to medieval musicians, enjoy the dance performances, and don't forget to sample the delicious foods!

München Through 23 Dec: 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily. "Christkindlmarkt am Sendlinger Tor" in 80336 Munich at the Sendlinger-TorPlatz. The gate known as Sendlinger Tor is gently illuminated by the small but unique Christkindlmarkt, with over 40 stalls selling international goods: nativity scenes from Tyrol and Peru; elegant baubles with motifs of Austrian Empress Elisabeth (very popular in Germany) and Bavarian King Ludwig II; Indian crafts; and much more.

Through 24 Dec: in 80331 Munich on Marienplatz. Check out their homepage in Deutsch and English. This is Munich's main Christmas market, and it is also the oldest in the city. A highlight every year is the "Himmelswerkstatt" (Santa's workshop) for children ages 6 to 12. And don't miss the huge exhibition of nativity scenes at the Richard-Strauss-Brunnen fountain just a few feet away from the Marienplatz. One of the most fascinating traditions is the "Krampuslauf". The dark,

eerie companion of St. Nikolaus demands respect from the bad little kids, and warns them to behave better in the next year. Krampus will appear twice, on 9 & 23 Dec, between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Great photo opportunity with the wild "Gesellen"! Opening hours: Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. On Christmas Eve 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Through 24 Dec: "Bogenhausener Weihnachtszauberwald" (only GE) in 81925 Munich on Rosenkavalierplatz.

"Weihnachtszauberwald" translates as "magical Christmas forest” and refers to the 500 fir trees with thousands of lights that surround this market. Around 40 rustic wooden stalls are the temporary homes of vendors, artisans, and chefs who all have something interesting to offer. The culinary delights include a piglet from the grill, Glühweinbratwurst (Bratwurst made with or soaked in mulled wine), roast apples, Glühwein (mulled wine), Feuerzangenbowle (flaming wine punch, link in EN), and fruit punch. There is also a different live performance every day at 5 p.m. Opening hours: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. On 24 Dec, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Through 24 Dec: "Schwabinger Weihnachtsmarkt" (EN + GE) in 80803 Munich at the Forum Münchner Freiheit. An unmistakable flair can be found here with the high level of artistic talent and craftsmanship. This is further underlined by the quality of the daily cultural program and fine foods. All concerts and events are free of charge. Opening hours: Starts at 6 p.m. on the first day. Mon. - Fri. midday - 8:30 p.m. Sat. + Sun. 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Christmas Eve 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Every Sat. & Sun. in Dec: 1 - 7:30 p.m.: "Pasinger Christkindlmarkt"in 81241 München - Pasing, on Schererplatz and around the local church "Maria Schutz".

Through 6 Jan: The Largest Flaming Wine Punch in the World (only GE) in 80331 Munich, in the inner courtyard of the Isartor gate, Tal 43. The Isartor gate is a romantic backdrop for the truly gigantic copper cauldron filled with 9,000 liters (ca. 2,380 gallons) of Feuerzangenbowle, an aromatic mixture of rum, red wine and sugar. The Feuerzangenbowle is very popular in Germany due to an old B&W film played repeatedly on TV. Opening hours: Mon. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Christmas Eve 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. New Year's Eve 11 a.m. - 3 a.m.

Through 24 Dec: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily: Medieval Christmas Market in 80333 Munich on Wittelsbacher Platz. Jugglers, storytellers and fire eaters are all part of this Medieval Advent Spectaculum. A varied entertainment program completes the market.

Through 24 Dec:"Haidhausener Weihnachtsmarkt" (only GE) in 81667 Munich on Weißenburger Platz. Opening hours: Sun. - Wed. 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.; Thu. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Christmas Eve 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Every Friday, 5 - 6 p.m., is "Haidhauser Lichternacht,” a parade with lanterns by the local children.

Nürnberg Through 24 Dec: Christkindlesmarkt in 90403 Nürnberg. All details in English are available online.

The Christmas Market will be solemnly opened with the Christmas Angel's prologue on 30 Nov at 5.30 p.m. Lantern Procession to Nuremberg Castle: 13 Dec, starting at Kaiserstraße at 5:45 p.m., going via the Main Market Square, past the City Hall and St. Sebaldus Church up to the Castle. On the sandstone cliffs of Ölberg, the boys and girls form tableaux retelling the Christmas story, accompanied by Christmas songs. Daily opening hours: 30 Nov: 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. MonThu: 9:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fri -Sat: 9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sun: 10:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. The last market day will be 24 Dec, 9.30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Special Features at the Nürnberg Christkindlesmarkt: "Nürnberger Kinderweihnacht" (Children's Christmas) on Hans-SachsPlatz Features traditional rides and lots of activities for kids.

Through 1 Jan: The Largest Flaming Wine Punch in the World (only GE) in 90403 Nürnberg at the Fleischbrücke (bridge). The concept of the largest Feuerzangenbowle (flaming wine punch, link in EN) is in Nürnberg again this year.

Over the years, a whole Feuerzangenbowlen village has been set up along the Pegnitz river. A truly gigantic copper cauldron filled with 9,000 liters (ca. 2,380 gallons) of Feuerzangenbowle, an aromatic mixture of rum, red wine and sugar, and six restaurateurs invite everyone to celebrate the this nostalgic fest. Opening hours: Daily between 30 Nov. and 30 Dec. 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. On Christmas Eve only 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. On Christmas Day only 4 - 10 p.m. New Year's Eve 4 p.m.

- 3 a.m. (large party into the next morning).

16 Dec: in 90579 Langenzenn (ca. 27 km / 16 miles west of Nürnberg). Suggested car parks: You can park on Südstraße (on either side of the marker on linked map), along Gewerbestraße, or at the restaurant car park on Nürnberger Straße 3.

Oberammergau 14 - 16 Dec. & 21 - 23 Dec: in 82487 Oberammergau in front of the "Pilatushaus" on Ludwig-Thoma-Straße 10, all the way to Max-Streibl-Platz. Opening hours: Fri. 3 - 7 p.m., Sat. midday - 7 p.m., and Sun. midday - 6 p.m. This is a traditional Bavarian Christmas market just as you would expect it: a 'live' nativity scene, performances by local choirs and brass bands, a children's carousel, rides in a horse-drawn carriage, Alphorn blowers, and of course the Nikolaus will bring little tokens to the little darlings.

Regensburg Through 23 Dec: in 93047 Regensburg around the Neupfarrplatz (pedestrian zone). Grand opening on Thu., 29 Nov. at 5 p.m. with the Nikolaus. St. Nikolaus will also make appearances every Wednesday afternoon. Regular opening hours: Sun. - Wed. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Thu. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Further details are online with English and German language options.

Through 23 Dec: Romantic Christmas Market at Schloss Thurn und Taxis (palace), 93047 Regensburg, Emmeramsplatz.

The romantic backdrop of St. Emmeram gives the "Romantischer Weihnachtsmarkt” at the Thurn und Taxis palace an incredible flair. Thousands of candles, torches and lanterns illuminate the impressive courtyard and almost lead you to believe that the cozy little huts are straight out of a fairy tale. Right in the middle, a huge Christmas tree oversees the busy

little Christmas village.

Opening hours: Sun. - Wed. midday - 10 p.m., Thu. - Sat. midday - 11 p.m. Admission is 5 euros per person. Mon. - Fri.; and 6 euros per person at the weekends. Children, 6 – 16 years, are 1 euro. Groups of ten people receive one ticket for free (9+1).

Through 23 Dec: "Lucrezia" Arts and Crafts Weihnachtsmarkt in 93047 Regensburg, Haidplatz / Kohlenmarkt (pedestrian zone). Open daily 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Through 23 Dec: Reiterlesmarkt in 91541 Rothenburg on Marktplatz, on Grüner Markt and Kirchplatz.

Grand Opening on 30 Nov., at 5 p.m. on Marktplatz; Opening hours: Sun. - Thu. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Every year Rothenburg transforms into a winter wonderland. Experience the enchanting atmosphere at the "Reiterlesmarkt" Christmas market. This Market dates back to the 15th century and is one of the oldest in Germany. Its name refers to an old Teutonic legend. Before Christianity, the Teutons believed in a rider who would take care of a deceased person’s soul. While the Teutons were afraid of this mystic figure, people in the middle ages changed their attitude towards this rider, eagerly expecting him to appear because they saw him as a friendly messenger who brought gifts to all men on earth. A painting of this famous rider can be seen on the facade of the city hall. When the market opens or when the children of the town go on their candlelight procession, he comes alive again.

The Reiterlesmarkt (in English) is always held from last Friday in November to the day before Christmas Eve.

Schwandorf Through 23 Dec: in 92421 Schwandorf on Unterer Marktplatz, or Lower Market Place. Schwandorf is ca. 45 km / 28 miles north of Regensburg.

Opening hours: Sun. - Fri. midday - 8 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

15 & 16 Dec: "Oberpfälzer Weihnachts-Bauernmarkt" in 92421 Schwandorf at the "Tierzuchtzentrum", Hoher-Bogen-Str. 10. Local businesses, artisans and farmers have joined forces to organize this traditional, quaint Christmas market that offers unique and locally produced wares. Open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Schweinfurt Through 24 Dec: in 97421 Schweinfurt, Marktplatz. More details should soon be online. There will be a new highlight every day: visit by the Nürnberger Christkind, Nikolaus (the German Santa Claus), a "Rock Christmas" evening, horsedrawn carriages, special Stollen, and much more! On the third advent weekend, an exquisite arts and crafts market is held in the exhibition room of the "Altes Rathaus" (old city hall). Opening hours: Mon. - Wed. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Thu. - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. On 24 Dec. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. only.

Sulzbach-Rosenberg Every Thurs. - Sun. in Dec: in 92237 Sulzbach-Rosenberg on Luitpoldplatz. The market is open Thu. thru Sat. 3 - 8 p.m., Sun. 2 - 8 p.m. Sulzbach-Rosenberg is ca. 20 km / 12.5 miles south of Vilseck.

Vilseck 15 & 16 Dec: in 92249 Vilseck at the Burg Dagestein castle, inner courtyard. The castle is the perfect surrounding for this lovely market. Various booths will sell Christmas decorations and the typical Christmas foods, and various groups will perform dances and Christmas songs. Opening hours: Sat. 4:30 - 9 p.m. Sun. 2 - 7 p.m. 15 Dec features a fun theme.

Everyone is invited to dress up as a snowman, and the largest group in costumes will win a prize. So get family, friends and neighbors to group up, dress up, and get the prize!; 5 p.m.: Grand opening by Vilseck's mayor, with the famous Night Watchman; 5:30 p.m.: Nikolaus, the German Santa Claus, will visit the market with many little presents for the children; 9 p.m.: End; 16 Dec: 2 p.m.: Market opens; 5 p.m.: the "Christkind" visits the market; 7 p.m.: End.

Weiden Through 23 Dec: in 92637 Weiden, Altstadt (historic city center). Weiden's Christmas market has been held annually since 1576 and nowadays offers free entertainment at ca. 5 p.m. on the steps of the Altes Rathaus (historic city hall). The Rathaus itself is turned into an advent calendar. Opening hours: Mon. - Fri., 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

German-American Kontakt Club Event Calendar for Vilseck Kontakt If you are interested in participating in one of the events, please register with Daniel Koenig or sign up with the Vilseck Kontakt Club at the website by filling out the Mitgliedsantrag. (Member registration form)

Every Friday 7 p.m.

Stammtisch at the Clubhouse - new location, Rose Barracks Bldg 301

Event Calendar for Grafenwoehr Kontakt More information, Call CIV 09641-83-7878, DSN 475-7878 or email.

Every Monday 7 p.m.

Bowling at the Grafenwoehr Bowling Center.

Every Wednesday 7 p.m.

Stammtisch at the Clubhouse.