Weekly Newsletter

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17 April 2013

u.S. army garrison–East Camp / Rose Barracks

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

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

The Freecycle Center will offer used items to the USAG Grafenwoehr community for free! Reusable items, such appliances, electronics, clothes, kitchenware (really anything) can be dropped off or picked up for free. A few rules must be followed to shop at the Grafenwoehr Freecycle: 1. Only I.D. cardholders are authorized to receive items.

2. No resale (eBay or flea market).

3. No claim right against the Army or operating staff, items are taken at own risk.

4. First come, first served; there are no reservations.

5. Maximum 5 items per day allowed.

6. Be respectful to the staff; they are volunteers.

Have an energy conservation idea? Let us know! Please email with any tips or suggestions. * usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcom-europe.list.bmc-energy-hotline@mail.mil

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?

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

Bavarian News online Head to BavarianNews.com to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Here are this week’s stories: Go time: Grafenwoehr’s toughest prove their grit on the Rugged Terrain Course. Freecycle: Sometimes you can give and receive. USAG Grafenwoehr’s Freecycle Center opens April 22. Digging in: Workers begin construction on a state-of-the-art medical facility on Rose Barracks. Staying green: April 22 is Earth Day – find out how you can go green for good. Furloughs still loom: In light of recent budget maneuvering, IMCOM employees can now expect furlough notices to be sent May 16.

Summer Hire program suspended Due to the reduction of all non mission essential costs, the summer hire program will be postponed until more funding is available. While funding will not be available for the summer hires, youths in the BMC are still encouraged to gain professional experience through volunteer work this summer. Thank you for your understanding.

We’re doing our part. Are you?

The marquees are a great way to get information out to the community. But, we need to save energy, too. So, to do our part, we’re limiting the marquees’ hours of operation on both East Camp and Rose Barracks from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Every little bit helps!

Remember to report foreign travel and stay diligent Soldiers and Civilians traveling outside Germany are required to follow the DoD Electronic Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG). Those with clearance are required to report foreign travel to the Security Manager/S2. As always, remember to be aware of the people and actions around you. If the situation feels odd or you see something that makes you concerned, move away from the area and then report the issue. Also, be aware of local demonstrations. Known local demonstration information is on the garrison webpage and Facebook. For demonstration warnings further away,register with the Department of State Smart Traveller Program. Please stay safe and enjoy springtime in Europe.

Warning II: DTS phishing scam Watch out for emails asking you to log into DTS with the following address: (www.defensetravel.osd.com) The correct DTS website uses only a dot-mil (.mil) website address. The email asks user to sign into their accounts or else their travel reservations will be canceled. This will compromise account security.

Army One Stop/ICE KIOSK Are Here To improve your ability to provide feedback to the garrison, several Army One Stop/ICE KIOSKs have been installed throughout Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks, with one at USAG Hohenfels. The KIOSKs are installed at: Grafenwoehr Exchange, Lodging Bldg 619, main lobby of Bldg. 244, and Bldg 301 next to the new Vehicle Registration waiting area Rose Barracks PXtra, Army Community Service Bldg 322, Multi Purpose Center Bldg 134, Warrior Zone Bldg 607, and Army Continuing Education Bldg 223. These KIOSKs will provide our Soldiers, civilians and families another means of accessing ICE Online, AKO, DFAS, TRICARE and other approved sites. All BMC community members will still be able to access ICE from any computer or smart phone and we will continue to provide ICE comment boxes in select locations.

For further information about the new Army One Stop/ICE KIOSK, please send an email to PAIO.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month 20 April: Sexual Assault Awareness Month 5K Run/Walk, from 9-11 a.m. at the Grafenwoehr Physical Fitness Center 24 April: Denim Day: Wear your jeans to work, People around the world wear denim today to raise awareness of the myths that surround rape and sexual violence. It started after a rape conviction was overturned in Italy in 1998 because the judge reasoned that since the victim wore jeans, she must have helped her attacker remove them during the assault.

People around the world rallied behind the victim and jeans became a symbol for institutional and societal change of attitudes against sexual assault victims.

FreeCycle Center Grand Opening 22 April: The FreeCycle grand opening is 22 April at 10 a.m. In support of the Net Zero Waste Initiative in USAG Grafenwoehr, the FreeCycle Center will begin offering reusable items, such appliances, electronics and clothes, to community members for free. First come, first served. Give it-Get it. Open Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Bldg. 441 (Next to the AAFES Car Care Center). Effective now, everyone is invited to drop off all unwanted electronics, appliances, clothes, auto parts, transformers, kitchenware (really anything) that they would like to donate, 24/7. Just drop the donations into the yellow shack labeled “FreeCycle Bin.” Thank you to those who have already donated and remember to keep the area clean. Standard containers for trash and recyclables are available to use.

TARP, SETA, OPSEC, and Anti-terrorism Level 1 Training Community Security Awareness Training consisting of the Threat Awareness and Reporting Program (TARP), Security Education Training Awareness (SETA), Operation Security (OPSEC), and Anti-terrorism Level 1 will be conducted by USAG Grafenwoehr and JMTC. This training is a mandatory annual requirement for all DoD personnel including Military, AF/NAF (both US and LN); U.S. Contractor employees are welcome.

23 April: Grafenwoehr, Tower Theater, Bldg. 620. LN Personnel: 10:30-11:30 a.m. U.S. Personnel: 1:30-4 p.m.

24 April: Rose Barracks, Post Theater, Bldg. 354. U.S. Personnel: 9 – 11:30 a.m. LN Personnel: 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Spring Cleanup 13-17 May: USAG Grafenwoehr, including off-post housing areas, will participate in Spring Clean Up to improve the appearance of community facilities. Spring Cleanup is everyone’s responsibility: All Soldiers, civilians and family members are required participate. Areas of emphasis are homes, work places and designated common areas.

Soldiers will report to their Area/Building Coordinators for clean up instructions. Focus will be the entire building (basements, washrooms, storage rooms, etc.) and a 50-foot perimeter around buildings and common areas. End state is a complete cleaning of housing buildings, common areas and grounds.

Bulk pick-up for Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks on-post housing will be on 14 May. No material should be set out before 10 May or after 8 am. on the day of pick-up. Troop billet areas will receive pick-up on 16 May. Items to be picked up are as follows: furniture, mattresses, carpets, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, large TVs, ovens, stoves, bicycles, etc., and other items that cannot be dismantled, torn or broken down to a size that would fit. Refrigerators and freezers must be handled and placed with care so that the cooling coils will not get damaged.

Self Help will have tools and equipment available. Special materials required should be obtained from Self Help not later than one-week prior to the Spring Cleanup (paint, topsoil, beauty bark, etc). All checked out equipment must be returned one week after scheduled cleanup.

Community Huddle 23 May: The Community Huddle is a bi-monthly, Town Hall style meeting, hosted by Garrison Commander COL James Saenz, for all community members to ask questions to civilian and military leadership and to find out the latest information on programs, events, construction, and other important issues happening in the community. The next Community Huddle will be in the Tower View Conference Center in Grafenwoehr on Thursday, 23 May from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

ICE QR code Now it’s even easier to submit ICE - Interactive Customer Evaluation 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 118, CIV 09641-83-118. Visit our website for more on suicide prevention. Suicide prevention, sexual assault or just a friendly ear… you’re 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 09662-83-114, Sexual Assault Hotline DSN 475-4567, CIV 09641-83-4567 or DSN 476-3218, CIV 09662-83-3218 and Emergency Services DSN 117, CIV 09641-83-117.

Army Community Service (ACS) Contact Army Community Service (ACS) Grafenwoehr, 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 usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcomeurope.mbx.acs@mail.mil for info.

Army Volunteer Corps 26 April: Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 134 6 -7 May: Army Family Team Building (AFTB) Level 1, 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221, Rm 206 20 May: Organizational Point of Contact & Volunteer Management Class, 9–11 a.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221, Rm 206 21-23 May, Level 2, Knowledge, 8:30 - 2 p.m. Rose Barracks, Bldg 221, Rm 206

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.

25 April: Job Fair, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Multi Purpose Building, Rose Barracks, Bldg 134.

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

24 April: Gluten Free Cooking, 3 - 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Chapel Annex.

Family Advocacy Program Hotlines to help: Domestic Violence 09662-83-3218 or 09641-83-5130. Please contact us for a complete listing of programs and services offered.

18 April & 16 May: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Rose Barracks, Kristall Inn. 9 May: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., East Camp Army Lodging.

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.

23 April: Investing 101, 11 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322.

29 April: Couponing Class, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg. 322

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness 19 April: Resilience Training Module 1 *NEW FORMAT*, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg. 221, Rm 206

New Parent Support Program 19 April: Healthy Feedings, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

23 April-21 May: Infant Massage, 1 - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322.

7 May-11 June: Body Back!, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

10 May-14 June: Great Expectations, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322. (6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings) 24 May: ABCs Of Toddlerhood, 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

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

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

Newborn Network for parents with babies ages 0 through Walking

Every Tuesday: Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg. 322, 1 - 3 p.m.

Hospital Tours Every 1st Wednesday (except for holidays): Visit Weiden Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Weiden hospital lobby.

Every 4th 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 p.m. in the Amberg hospital lobby.

Relocation Readiness 17 April: Military Sponsorship Train the Trainer, 1 - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322 17 April: Immigration Workshop, 10 a.m. - noon, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322 17 April: Spouse Sponsorship Training, 1 - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322.

22 – 24 April: Welcome To Bavaria, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., East Camp, Chapel Annex.

25 April: SGI/ATS Belly Dancing, Teacher Meet and Greet, Thursdays, noon – 1:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

14 May: Civilian Sponsorship, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

Every Tuesday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Grafenwoehr, Chapel Annex Every Thursday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, 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 / 017-4147-6846 or Grafenwoehr 0152-0293-4290 / 0152-0241-5226, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Exchange News New hours at Grafenwoehr Exchange Main Store Effective 5 May: The Grafenwoehr Main Store is adjusting its Sunday hours to better serve the community. We are reducing underutilized hours to better prepare for busy days and allow for more customer service associates on the floor to answer questions. Mon-Sat, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (no change). Sun, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. This change only applies to the Grafenwoehr Main Store.

Grafenwoehr Food Court hour changes Pizza Hut, Charley’s and Subway will now open at 11 a.m. Taco Bell will now open at 10 a.m. At this time, there is no plan to change hours at the Burger King and Manchu WOK.

Wounded Soldiers get free alterations at Military Clothing Due to an Army-wide initiative, all wounded Soldiers receive free alterations and modifications on all issued uniforms in accordance with the Wounded Warrior Clothing Support Program. Eligible Soldiers must present an approved Army Form 3078 along with the prescribed modifications by the physical or occupational therapist to receive free services. The Grafenwoehr, Rose Barracks and Hohenfels Military Clothing stores and Alterations fully support this service to the community.

Volunteers and other help needed Family Child Care Orientation 17-19 April: 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 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 as well as the use of materials and equipment to set up your home. The orientation is from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Grafenwoehr Bldg. 539 conference room. Please contact the Family Child Care office at DSN 4757684, CIV 09641-83-7684 for more.

SKIES Instructors Needed The SKIES Unlimited program in the USAG Grafenwoehr is looking for dedicated instructors for piano, string instruments and gymnastics. The music positions require the individual to be subject matter experts in the area they are teaching and gymnastics instructors must have experience in tumbling, gymnastics apparatuses and/or acrobatics to teach entry and intermediate gymnastics. Those interested can email Tammy Weightman the SKIES director. Gymnastics and Dance positions are currently posted on USA Jobs and with contracting.

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.

Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course 20 & 27 April: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 20 April: Grafenwoehr, exactly location TBD. Participants will be notified before the course.

27 April: Rose Barracks Bldg. 162. Registration is required for both. Go to https://classes.redcross.org/Saba/Web/Main to register. Cost is $55. 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 Board Nominations It's time to nominate board members for next year! If you are a VCSC member and know someone who would be a great fit, send a nomination to Shannon. The election will take place in May. VCSC Election Reception 18 April: Join members in the VCSC Board Room to cast votes for the new Executive Board. 4-7 p.m.

Dining Out Club 19 April: 7 p.m. Shashamane Ethiopian Restaurant. Willy-Brandt-Platz 4, 90402 Nuremberg. RSVP by 16 April to Andrea.

Wurzburg Wine Probing Trip 27 April: Join VCSC for a fun day of wine tasting in the Wurzburg area. RSVP to VCSC. VCSC Book Club 30 April: This month’s book is “The Time Traveler's Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger. Come to discuss the Book, eat lunch and meet new friends. Even if you haven’t read the book, you’re welcome to join us.

VCSC Boardroom. Contact Maureen for more.

Grafenwoehr Community and Spouses' Club GCSC 2013-2014 Scholarship Program Through 3 May: The Grafenwoehr Community and Spouses’ Club is offering academic scholarship awards for the 20132014 academic year for students and family members in USAG Grafenwoehr. Scholarships will be awarded 20-24 May. Application forms can be found on the Scholarship page of the GCSC website starting 18 March. For additional information, call George Linka, GCSC Scholarship Chairman at DSN 475-6108 or CIV 01520-251-6606 or email him.

Go to their Facebook page for upcoming events and club news.

2013 BGCA Regional Image Makers Photography Contest Through 18 April: Hosted by CYSS, at the Netzaberg Youth Center, Bldg. 9080, the exhibition will show photography from youth in the community 13 years and older. Photo categories are: "What Moves Me" photograph with essay or poem; Culture and Tradition; Surroundings; and Portraits. On 18 April, from 1:30-6 p.m., the photos will be judged. The finalists will move forward to the national competition in June for a chance to have their photography displayed in national exhibits and to participate in an all-inclusive celebratory trip. For more, contact CYSS Parent Central Services at DSN 476-2760, CIV 09662-83-2760.

Grafenwoehr Warrior Zone April events All events are at 6 p.m. in Grafenwoehr Bldg. 153. For more, call DSN 475-4309, CIV 09641-83-4309.

Mondays: Madden 13 Xbox 360 Tournament Tuesdays: Movie nights Wednesdays: Texas Hold ‘Em Fridays: Pool tournaments

Upcoming MWR day trips Call Grafenwoehr Leisure Travel Services, DSN 475-7402, CIV 09641-83-7402 for more and to sign up for any of these trips.

20 April: Boleslaweic, Poland: Store-hop in this Polish pottery town to get the best blue pottery.

21 April: Dachau/Munich National Museum: Tour the Dachau Concentration Camp and then head to the Munich National Museum, for a hands-on exploration into German science and technology.

27 April: Dresden: Dresden is one of Germany’s most fascinating cities. Museum hop, take a tour, visit the stunning Frauenkirche, or saunter along the blue Elbe.

28 April: Two Castles: See Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, castles that inspired and were inspired by fairy tales.

ODR activities All activities are from 6-9 p.m. call Outdoor Recreation at DSN 476-2563, CIV 09662-83-2563 for more.

Mondays: Mountain Bike Mondays. Experience Bavaria from a bike. Rides vary in length from 15 km to 35 km, depending on location and abilities of riders. Prior MTB experience is recommended. Sign up today!

Thursdays: Paddling and rock climbing. Participants will learn to belay/rock climb and canoe/kayak on alternating Thursdays. Classes will continue through the summer.

Celebrate your World at the Library Through 28 April: During Month of the Military Child, military children can spin the prize wheel after completing a coloring sheet. Pick up your coloring sheet 2-12 April then return to spin the prize wheel 15-19 April in Rose Barracks and 23-28 April in Grafenwoehr.

Women’s Self Defense Class 17 & 24 April: In conjunction with Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a women’s self defense class will be held on every Wed in April. 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Grafenwoehr Field House, Bldg. 547 (Across from Burger King.)

Life Unscripted! Improv Troop Audition 25 April: The troop is formatted after the popular show, “Whose Line is it Anyways?” Wear comfortable clothing and arrive a few minutes early. No experience necessary. Ages 18+ only. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Grafenwoehr Performing Arts Center, Bldg 103.

Bingo 18 April: Enjoy a dinner buffet, get out those daubers and try to earn cash prizes! Early bird, 6 p.m., Regular Bingo, 7 p.m., doors open at 5 p.m. Adults ages 18 and over only. Tower View, DSN 475-6200, CIV 09641-83-6200.

Warrior Zone Karaoke Night 17 & 19 April: Come sing and let your voice be heard at the Rose Barracks Warrior Zone. 17 April show is at 7 p.m. 19 April is Country/Western night. 9 p.m. Bldg. 607. For more, call DSN 476-2942, CIV 09662-83-2942.

Seafood Night 19 April: From fried shrimp to blackened tilapia, our Seafood Nights will surely hit the spot for anyone wanting a delicious bite out of the sea. 5-9 p.m. Offered the third Friday of each month. Grafenwoehr Patton Fireside Lounge. Bldg 209.

Fishing Class 19-21 April: Take this class to get your fishing license. At Camp Algiers, Bldg. 2440. To sign up, call DSN 474-4214, CIV 09641-454-4212. Already have a license? Contact your local ODR for information on lakes and a map of lakes near USAG Grafenwoehr.

Walk or Bike to Work Day 22 April: In honor of Earth Day, walk or bike to work instead of driving. If you live too far away to reasonably walk or bike, carpool! Help protect our Earth.

Kinder Fest 26 April: In honor of Month of the Military Child, children and parents are welcome to the Grafenwoehr Field House to enjoy games, face painting, jumping castles, snacks and more. 3 - 6 p.m. at the Grafenwoehr Field House, Bldg. 547. For more, call CYSS at DSN 476-3566, CIV 09662-83-3566.

Tumbleweeds restaurant to close, Rosalia’s to take its place 30 April: Tumbleweeds restaurant will close at the end of April to make way for Rosalia’s Italian Pastaria. Rosalia’s will serve Italian classics, American breakfast, and a full coffee bar and will open later this year. There will be a break in service while Rose Barracks Bldg. 227 undergoes renovations in preparation for Rosalia’s.

VHS theater production of “The Little Mermaid Jr.” Come see Vilseck High School’s largest and most elaborate production of the year! The musical is based on the classic Disney movie and features all the beloved characters and songs. After the 4 p.m. showings, children from the audience

are welcome to come on stage and take pictures with the cast members. Shows are: 3 May, 7 p.m.; 4 May, 4 p.m.; 5 May, 4 p.m.; 10 May, 7 p.m.; 11 May, 7 p.m.; 12 May, 4 p.m.

Help donate to local animal shelters Community members can donate items such as food, old blankets, old towels, toys, leashes, expired medication; expired first aid kits, dog beds, cat beds, scratch posts, and transportation boxes. Tires from small bicycles or strollers are used to build “rollis” for disabled pets. There are drop-off locations on Rose Barracks, Graf off-post, Kemnath and Pressath. For more contact Yasmine at DSN 476-2707, CIV 09662-83-2707 or visit the Facebook page.

CYSS SKIES Unlimited Programs Those interested in any SKIES classes should call Parent Central Services at DSN 476-2760, CIV 09662-83-2760. Or register with CYSS online.

Register in March for: Kinder Spanish for 3-5 year olds and Beginner Spanish for 6-10 year olds Children’s Chorus/Voice for 8-16 year olds Intermediate and Advanced Gymnastics/Power Tumble for 7-16 year olds Open gym for 1-4 year olds (Mommy/Daddy and Me) – No formal instruction Every Wed in April: CYSS will open up the Gymnastics Room at the Grafenwoehr Field House every Wed, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Our open gym is a great social event for both children and parents.

Kids’ Gym for 2-4 year olds (Mommy/Daddy and Me) – Formal instruction Parent and child classes promote early development, provide a strong foundation and help children reach new milestones. Parents will receive guidance from the subject matter expert on how to introduce the child to somersaults, cartwheels, bridges and other basic gymnastic moves. A parent must participate.

Driver Education Program 15 April – 15 June: CYSS offers theory classes, simulator training and behind the wheel classes for 15-18 year olds as well as a full German drivers license program for youth 17.5 and older.

Kindermusik now available in Vilseck Due to popular demand Kindermusik for parents with children 6 months to 5 years is now available on Rose Barracks.

Kindermusik is a class where children sing, dance, play, and explore music. They will learn to actively listen, move, imagine, and relax. This is a family class.

English Style Horseback Riding Register now: Horseback Riding Lessons for 7-18 year olds. Lessons will be at the Horseback Riding Stables in Weiden with certified instructors and temperament-tested horses.

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 Cut in office cleaning services Additional cuts in custodial services: Due to new fiscal realities, we must make additional service cuts or we will be forced to cut family services. Per HQ IMCOM guidance, we will be cutting all cleaning services for administrative offices, hallways, stairways and entrances on East Camp and Rose Barracks. Restrooms will continue to be serviced 3 times per week. It is recommended that directors talk with their staff to make plans to remove trash and keep their work areas clean.

This change will not affect WTUs/CDCs/SASs/YSs or Fitness Centers.

Religious Weekly Bible Study Velburg Truth Center meets for Bible Study every Wednesday at 7 p.m. In addition to weekly Bible Study, we also have church service every Sunday at 11 a.m. We are located at Alleeweg 2 Velburg, Germany 92355. Please email Brenda Means or call 0172-892-3771 for more.

Off post church services Eschenbach - Roman Catholic Mass Saturday services at St. Laurentius: 6 p.m. (1st Mass of Sunday) Sunday services at St. Laurentius: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Monday services at St. Laurentius: 6 p.m.

Tuesday services at Apfelbach: 6 p.m.

Wednesday services at St. Laurentius: 8 a.m.

Thursday services at St. Laurentius: 4:15 p.m. (geared toward children) 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.

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

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 Rose Barracks Education Center Financial Aid Workshop 18 April: Education counselors will be available to answer questions and provide information about the Montgomery GI Bill and post 9/11 GI Bill. There will also be information about scholarships, FAFSA, My CAA and AER funds. 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m.

Scholarship opportunity for 2CR Soldiers and families By 31 May: Any 2CR Soldier, spouse, children or grandchildren enrolled in college for the 2013-2014 academic year can win up to $2,000 in scholarship money. Head to 2CR’s Facebook page for full details on how to apply.

FAST Class 22 April-3 May: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The registration period for this class lasts through 19 April. 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 60-hour long course is limited to 20 students. For more, contact Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292, CIV 0966283-2653/3292 or Grafenwoehr Education Center at DSN 475-6219/6786, CIV 09641-83-6219/6786.

New! National Testing Center (NTC) University of Maryland University College - Europe's National Test Center (NTC) has relocated and is now back in the education center, Rose Barracks Bldg. 223. The NTC is open 20 hrs/wk from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The NTC offers computer based national exams for college credit, including CLEP, DSST, Excelsior, GMAT, IT certifications, and many other professional certification exams. Anyone interested in testing should contact the NTC at DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462, or email Sarah Anderson schedule an appointment.

University of Oklahoma The University of Oklahoma in Rose Barracks offers degree programs to military service members and civilians in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult. The university offers both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations and a Master of Human Relations. The following course is open for enrollment on-site in Rose Barracks: 16-21 April, PSC 5550-225, Problems in International Relations: Inter-American Politics. We are currently enrolling new students. Call Carla Miller at DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069 or email her. Further information can be found at www.goou.ou.edu.

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.

AMVETS scholarship opportunities By 8 Aug: University of Phoenix and AMVETS are offering 50 $7,000 scholarships to active duty military, veterans, and military spouses. This scholarship can be used to help you obtain your MBA or Masters of Arts in Education while stationed here in Germany. To get an application and For eligibility requirements and application, visit www.phoenix.edu/amvetscholar or contact Lauren Haring at DSN 476-3605, CIV 09662-83-3605 or by email.

School News Re-registration a must for returning students School re-registration for every child throughout DoDEA is an annual requirement by the Department of Defense to determine continued eligibility for school enrollment. This process is critical for schools since funding, resource allocation and staffing authorizations are based on enrollment and enrollment projections. Parents are urged to complete their children's re-registration as soon as possible. Re-registration packets for all students have been mailed out - please check your CMR box. If you have not received a copy, you may pick-up a copy from the main office. If you are PCSing before the 2013-2014 school year, please complete the attached withdrawal form and return with a copy of your PCS orders to your students school.

Grafenwoehr Elementary School 17 April: Honor Roll assembly for grades 4th & 5th at 1:45 p.m.

18 April: Pastries for Patriots 19 April: Parent Teacher Conferences – NO SCHOOL for students 24 April: Science Fair

3 May: STAR assembly at 1:35 p.m.

9 & 10 May: “Jungle Book” play. GES students from 6-11 yrs will perform a Disney-style rendition of the “Jungle Book.”

5:30 p.m. on 9 May and 1 p.m. on 10 May. For more, contact Ms. Levison DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-83-7133.

Month of the Military Child Contest: GES is sponsoring an essay and poster contest for April. This year’s themes are “How my Family Supports the Military” and “Life as a Military Child.” Deadline for all entries is 17 April. Winners will be announced at the STAR Assembly on 3 May. Contact either Angie Hood or Lora Mehrer guidelines. Entries will be displayed at the school on 18 April from 8:30-9:30 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.

Attendance: If your student is going to be absent or late, please email us at our attendance email: GrafES.Attendance@eu.dodea.edu OR you may call us at: DSN 475-7133 / 6132, CIV 09641-83-7133 / 6132 by 9:00 a.m.

Box Tops: Please don’t forget to keep bringing in your Box Tops to our PTSA. PCSing soon?: Please contact our registrar for the last day notice paperwork. DSN 475-6132, CIV 09641-83-6132.

Please remember if you wish to hand carry records to your child’s new school we will need 5 working days notice along with the last day notice.

School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.‑ Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mon.‑ Fri. 8:15 a.m.‑2:35 p.m.

DSN 475‑7133, CIV 09641‑837133

Vilseck Elementary School Yearbooks are now on sale for $30. Checks can be made out to VES. Place order form, cash or check in an envelope and give to homeroom teacher or at the front office.

Please don’t forget to keep bringing in your Box Tops to our PTSA. 18 April: Dining At the Ritz in the Annex starting at 11:30 a.m. Invitations will be sent with students.

19 April: No School. Parent Conferences will be scheduled for morning sessions and walk-ins occur in the afternoon.

23 April: Field Trip to AFN for Ms. Williams and Ms. Sprague’s classes. 12:15-2 p.m.

24 April: Field Trip to AFN for Ms. Moed and Ms. Carmichael’s classes. 12:15-2 p.m.

25 April: Field Trip to AFN for Ms. Ritter and Ms. Leon’s classes. 12:15-2 p.m.

16 May: Early Withdrawal from VES. Students must be in school this day to accelerate with approved PCS orders.

23 May: The VES 3rd Annual Feet for Freedom 3K Fun Run/ Walk will be held at 9:00 am. All are welcome to come and join us at Vilseck Elementary School for fun and fitness! For more information, contact Jeannette Maitner at jeannette.maitner@eu.dodea.edu or DSN 476-2812. CIV 09662-83-2812. We hope to see you there!

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 19 April: Parent Teacher Conferences – No school for students.

9 May: Talent Show. MPR. 6 p.m.

27 May: NO SCHOOL. Memorial Day. Talent Show: This year's talent show theme is "The Little Soldiers Show." Over 35 K-5 students will show off their dazzling talents: singing, dancing, violin, piano, pogo-sticking, and cup stacking. 9 May, 6-7 p.m. in the MPR. Position openings: NES has employment opportunities for the 2013-2014SY. Click here or call the school for more.

PCSing soon?: Please contact Wendy Streeter -- wendy.streeter@eu.dodea.edu, DSN 472-9185, CIV 09645-917-9185 - so she may assist you with transferring your children’s records to their new school.

Yearbook Sale: Yearbooks are on sale right now for $25.

Re-registration for 2013/2014: Re-Registration for School Year 2013-2014 is 2- 5 April. Please complete the registration packet you will receive at your CMR and bring it to the school, with any necessary documents requested.

P.E.: Mr. Gray, our P.E. teacher, is asking for old sport shoe donations of all sizes. Many kids forget their sport shoes and this way Mr. Gray can loan them a pair for class. All sizes welcome.

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: Do you have questions about your child’s development (ages 3-5 years)? For further information on Child Find developmental screenings at Netzaberg Elementary School, please call CIV 09645-917-9185 or DSN 4729185. 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 19 April: Parent-Teacher Conference Day, No School 20 Apr: Month of the Military Child Activities, 8-11 a.m.

26 Apr: Class of 2017’s Bingo, 4-8 p.m.

27-28 Apr: FACS/PTSA School House Antiques Sale, Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

1 May: SILT Meeting 7 May: Commander's Honor Roll, 5-6:15 p.m., DFAC 10 May: Asian-Pacific Heritage Month Assembly Program, 1:30-2:15 p.m.

16 May: Earliest Day for Acceleration 17-18 May: NMS Drama Performance for Community, Fri, 7-8 p.m., Sat, 2-3:30 p.m.

22 May: NMS Spring Choir Concert, 6:30-8 p.m.

27 May: No School- Memorial day 29 May: End-of-Year NMS Band Concert, 5:45-7:30 p.m 7 June: 8th Grade Dance, 4-7 p.m.

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 is: 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

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 Mon - Fri 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

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

Important Phone Numbers CIV 09645-917-9232/9233/9229 DSN 472-9232

Vilseck High School After-School Tutoring VHS students can receive free tutoring for Language Arts, every Monday and Thursday, in room A-230. Tutoring for all subjects is available every Tuesday and Thursday, in room A-232. Students do not have to sign up ahead of time, and activity-bus passes are available. Tutoring for all sessions is 3:15- 5:15 p.m.

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.

VHS Facebook Page Vilseck High School updates and pictures are always available at our Facebook page.

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.

Art Exhibition of the Kunstkreis Jura Through 25 April: in 92318 Neumarkt at the bank "Raiffeisenbank", Untere Marktstraße 11, ph 09181-2330 (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of Hohenfels). You can visit during the bank's regular opening hours.

Photo Vernissage: "The Sixties" by Linda McCartney 18 April- 20 May: 8 p.m., in 92637 Weiden, at the Neues Rathaus (new city hall), Dr.-Pfleger-Straße 15. Click for a map of suggested car parks. Linda McCartney, the late American wife of Paul McCartney, was an excellent photographer who has followed the music scene of the 60s. Her photographs show musicians like Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison and the Rolling Stones beyond the clichés of Sex, Drugs and Rock'n'Roll. Some photos also being shown at the "Der Neue Tag" media center, Weigelstraße 16 (just across the road from the Neues Rathaus). Opening hours: Rathaus: Mon – Thu: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fri: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sun + German holidays: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Der Neue Tag: Mon – Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat: 8 a.m. - midday. Closed on Sun.

Flea Market in Weiden 20 April: Porcelain, crystal, ceramics, toys, bags and more will be sold at this flea market at Weiden Old Town Hall.

Starts at 8 a.m. All proceeds go to charitable organizations in Weiden.

Jubilatemarkt street market and open stores 21 April: 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., in 92637 Weiden, Altstadt (historic city center) / Fußgängerzone (pedestrian zone). A Sunday of strolling through markets, watching live entertainment and shopping discounts at Weiden stores. There will be music, dancing and a fashion show at 2 p.m. Market hours: 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., store hours: 1-6 p.m.

Japanese Cherry Blossom Fest 21 April: midday, in 90763 Fürth in the Grüne Halle, Krautheimer Straße 11 (ca.

10 km / 6 miles west of Nürnberg). Admission is 6 euros, children under 12 are free. This fest honors Japanese culture. On stage, you can watch sumo fighters, Ikebana, Aikido, Iaido, Karate, Kobudo, Manga Cosplay, Koto, Haiku und Shakuhachi. There will also be plenty of stalls offering tea (with a whole tea ceremony), art, photography, origami, calligraphy, bonsai, sushi, shiatsu, sake, shoijs, furniture, swords, knives and much more!

Astronomy 25 April: Today you can see a Partial Lunar Eclipse. This is not a full lunar eclipse, i.e. the moon will not turn red, but at least it is visible here in Europe. "A lunar eclipse occurs when Sun, Earth, and Moon align, with the Earth in the middle and casting a shadow on the moon." (via LiveScience). Today's eclipse is very short (only 27 minutes maximum) and will take place at Moonrise. The Sun will set at 20:29; the eclipse will become visible at ca. 20:57 and reach its maximum darkness at 22:07. Sunrise on Friday morning is at 05:41 (all times local for Germany, i.e. UT + 2).

Spring Volksfest in Neumarkt 26 April - 1 May: in 92318 Neumarkt, at the Volksfestplatz, Festplatz 1 (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of Hohenfels). A parade through the city will end with the tapping on the first keg on 26 April.

Weiden Frühlingsfest (Spring Fest) 26 April-5 May: This year's Weiden Spring is at the new fest area at Conrad-Röntgen-Strasse, 92637 Weiden. There will be rides, shopping, entertainment, food and drinks! The fest starts at 6 p.m. on 26 April.

Street / Spring Market in Hirschau 27 April: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., in 92242 Hirschau, on Marktplatz and Hauptstraße (ca. 14 km / 9 miles SE of Vilseck).

Guided Tour in German: Schweinfurt's Old Breweries 27 April: Meeting point: Your tour guide will tell you about the old breweries of Schweinfurt and the success of those that still exist. At the end of the tour, you get to sample five different types of beer in the Schrotturmkeller. The tour is around 3 hours long. Fees: 8 euros (includes the beer sampling). Tickets must be obtained in advance from Tourist-Info, Brückenstraße 20, ph. 09721-51-498 or 51-3600. At the "Rückert" memorial on Marktplatz = market place, at 5 p.m.

Motorcycle Convention 27 & 28 April: in 95326 Kulmbach (ca. 65 km / 40 miles NE of Bamberg). This convention attracts over 50,000 bikers a year, has a beer garden with over 5,000 seats and more than 25 food and drink stalls. On Sunday morning, about 20,000 bikers will ride through 30 Bavarian towns. Meeting point is the Albert-Ruckdeschel-Straße in Kulmbach. From there, participants proceed together through the city center to the Kulmbacher Brewery's fest site on Lichtenfelser Straße. Check out their English website for more.

Krüglmarkt street market in Amberg 27 & 28 April: in Amberg, on the Marktplatz. A quaint little street market focusing on hand-crafted pottery and clay products and other beautiful decorations and useful things.

Family Weekend XXL at Pullman City 27 & 28 April: at the Pullman City Fun Park in 94535 Eging am See, Ruberting 30 (ca. 100 km / 62 miles SE of Regensburg). Everyone is invited to celebrate the grand opening of the "Niederseilgarten" (low-rope park), with

competitions and games for the whole family. The low-rope park will have ropes and obstacles for you to tackle, low to the ground. The Grand Opening is at midday, with ice cream for children. There will be games and entertainment all day.

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, Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on the Marktplatz.

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 *New* Segway Tours The latest craze is guided tours through a city on a Segway. Various cities and locations offer those already; some regularly, some only on special occasions. These cities offer regular tours in German - contact them to see if they will do tours in English: Bamberg: ph 0911-933-250 or 09133-768-7819; Garmisch-Partenkirchen: ph 0173-4444-948; Munich: These groups lead tours in English. Segway Tour Munich and City Segway Tours; Nürnberg: 0911-933-250 or 09133768-7819; Regensburg: Segway Tour Regensburg. Most large cities now offer Segway tours, for example Mindways Segway City Tours (in EN) has routes in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Köln, Lübeck, and Travemünde.

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. You can get a map of Regensburg's city center from the Tourist Info in the "Altes Rathaus" (old city hall) for free.

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/.

German-American Kontakt Club The Vilseck Kontakt Club meets every Friday at 7 p.m. for Stammtisch at the Club House, Rose Barracks Bldg. 301.

Those interested in the Vilseck Club please register with Daniel Koenig or sign up with the Vilseck Kontakt Club at the website by filling out the Mitgliedsantrag (Member registration form). The Grafenwoehr Kontakt Club meets every Monday for bowling at the Grafenwoehr Bowling Center and every Wednesday for Stammtisch at the Clubhouse. For more on the Graf Club, call CIV DSN 475-7878, 09641-83-7878 or email.