Weekly Newsletter

RGmail.c1

1 May 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

Deployment Fair 2 May: The Deployment Fair kicks off this Thu and lasts until Fri. From 9 a.m.-4 p.m. both days, the community can come get all the information you need about spousal deployment and what you need to do while your Soldier is downrange to make the experience better for everyone.

There will also be raffles. The grand prize is a free stay at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.

Rose Barracks Multipurpose Center, Bldg. 134.

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

German-American Volksfest cancellation It is with regret that COL James Saenz, USAG Grafenwoehr commander, is announcing the postponement of the 56th Annual U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr German-American Volksfest for 2013. The fiscal challenges facing the nation require the garrison to make tough decisions. We are postponing our fest in order to focus our resources on critical services, but that does not mean we are postponing the fest forever. The entire Department of Defense has severely cut its expenditures to provide necessary support to deployed forces and is only financing health, safety and security requirements.

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: Bohemian brew: A quick trip across the border to the Prague Beer Museum Pub gives beer-lovers a taste of well-crafted variety. Maypole mayhem: The tradition of erecting (and sometimes stealing) a Maypole to welcome the sun is alive and well in Bavarian villages. All that glitters: While on road trips or just your daily commute, use these tips to spot roadside scammers looking to swindle Americans out of cash. Giving is getting: As top volunteers in Hohenfels are honored for their giving spirits, they discuss what they get back from their service. Autism awareness: As Autism Awareness month draws to a close, students at Hohenfels Middle/High School band together to support the cause. Art for art’s sake: Local artists shine at the Hohenfels Celebration of the Arts.

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.

Limited service at the Vilseck Vet Clinic Through June: The Vilseck VTF will have extremely limited service until the end of June due to temporary military personnel PCS. . In response to this situation, we have arranged for nearby military veterinarians to travel to the Vilseck clinic at least one day a week when possible. The Bamberg VTF(0951-300-7972), Schweinfurt VTF(0972-196-8359), and Hohenfels VTF (0947-283-4560) will be open and appointments can be made at their facilities. Local German vets are also extremely adept at providing health certificates and are often used by military families when PCSing to the US. Please keep in mind that your pet’s rabies vaccine must be valid; should they require a booster vaccine, it needs to be given more than 30 days before your flight. You can reach the Vilseck Veterinary Treatment Facility at DSN 476-2370, CIV 09662-83-2370.

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.

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.

Freecycle Center now open The Freecycle Center, Grafenwoehr Bldg. 441 (next to AAFES Car Care Center) is open Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. anything from electronics, appliances, clothes, auto parts, transformers, kitchenware is there to pick up for free. Donations are accepted 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.

Voluntary Early Retirement Authority window of opportunity Through 3 May: DA civilians who work for USAREUR, 21st TSC, JMTC and V Corps and meet the necessary qualifications can apply for Voluntary Early Retirement through 3 May. Employees must be at least 50 years old with 20 years of service, or any age with 25 years of service or more. If you are interested, contact your organization's VERA advisor or your civilian personnel office. For more, visit the Facebook page.

Spring Cleanup is everyone’s responsibility 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.

Bulk Trash Pickup County of Neustadt 14 May: Mantel & Steinfels Curbside, in front of your home. Bulk Trash has to be out on curbside NLT 6 a.m. Pick-up is provided by contractors of the County Neustadt.

What will be picked up? Everything, that is too big or too heavy to go into the normal refuse container, such as: Furniture, mattresses, carpets, washing machines, dryers, radios, TVs, ovens, stoves, bicycles, strollers, and other items which cannot be dismantled, torn or broken down to a size that would fit in the regular refuse container. Each single item should be no larger than 80x40x32 inches and should not be heavier than 110 lb. Bulk trash consisting of metal (i.e. bicycles, washers, dryers, stoves, etc.) and electronic equipment (such as large appliances, small appliances, cooling devices, information & telecommunications including entertainment equipment) should be put out separately next to the normal bulk trash.

What will not be picked up?

- Normal refuse, recyclable material, Yard waste like cut grass, branches, etc...

- Hazardous waste - Tires, car parts, batteries, wrecked cars, motorcycles - Doors and windows (with or without glass), laminated floor, rouleaus - Construction debris - Night storage heaters Pickups will be performed in three steps: 1. Combustible material: like upholstered furniture, mattresses, rugs, etc...

2. Electronic equipment: i.e. TV, PC, printer, scanner, radio, VCR, DVD player, monitor, vacuum cleaner, refrigerators and freezers (no permission sticker required anymore), etc…

Together with Household Metal items: i.e. bicycles, ironing boards, washer, dryer, dishwasher, stoves (oil stoves and oil barrels must be totally emptied) etc…

3. Salvageable wooden furniture: (i.e. bed frame, wardrobe, chair, table, etc….)

Smaller electronic appliances (i.e. hairdryer, toothbrush, telephones, drilling machine etc.) should be brought to the drop off point “Company Bergler” in Weiherhammer, Etzenrichter Str. 2, Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., CIV 09605-92090.

Any material not picked up must be removed by residents. For more, call your SORT Office at DSN 475-6664, CIV 09641-83-6664.

County Tirschenreuth For Erbendorf, Kastl, Kemnath, Kulmain & Thumsenreuth Pickup is performed by the County Tirschenreuth upon written request by the resident (“Sperrmuellabfuhr auf Abruf”). For a pickup form contact your SORT Office at DSN 475-6664, CIV 09641-83-6664.

County Bayreuth For Speichersdorf Pickup is performed by the County Bayreuth upon individual written request by the resident per special application card (“Sperrmuellabfuhr auf Abruf”). For a special application card contact your SORT Office at DSN 4756664, CIV 09641-83-6664.

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 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.

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

1 May: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bowling Center 3 May: Respite Care Provider Training, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 8 May: FRSA and FRG Key Personnel Brief on EFMP, 3 – 4:30 p.m. Rose Barracks, SFAC, Bldg 165 22 May: EFMP Enlightenment Group, Growing Through It, 3 – 4:30 p.m. Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

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.

2-30 May: 24/7 Dad, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Grafenwoehr, Chapel Annex 7-9 May: It Takes Two, 1:30-4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 9 May: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Grafenwoehr Army Lodging.

14-16 May: It Takes Two, 1:30-4:30 p.m., Grafenwoehr, USO, Bldg 150 16 May: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Rose Barracks, Kristall Inn.

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.

13 May: Couponing Class, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Grafenwoehr, Chapel Annex 14 May: Investing 101, noon-1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 29 May: Couponing Class, 1- 2:30 p.m., Grafenwoehr, Chapel Annex 25 June: Debt Blasters, noon-1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness 6 May: FRG Basic Course, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 17 May: Resilience Training Module 2 *NEW FORMAT!!, 8 a.m.-noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

New Parent Support Program 7-21 May: Infant Massage, 1-2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 7 May-11 June: Body Back!, 3-4 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) 10 May: Healthy Feedings, 1-3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 24 May: ABCs Of Toddlerhood, 1:30-3 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 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 p.m. in the Amberg hospital lobby.

Relocation Readiness 9 May – 27 June: SGI/ATS Belly Dancing, noon – 1:30 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 32213 May: Military Spouse Appreciation Day – International Food Fair!,11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 14 May: Civilian Sponsorship, 1 - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

14 May: Military Sponsorship Train the Trainer, 1 - 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 16 May: Successful PCS Moves 101, 1 – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 20 – 22 May: Welcome To Bavaria, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 29 May: Immigration Workshop, 10 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 June: Spouse Sponsorship Training, 1 - 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.

Survivor Outreach Services 11 May: 3rd Annual Run To Remember, 8 a.m. Sign in, run begins at 9 a.m., Rose Barracks, Chapel Annex

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. We are reducing underutilized hours to better prepare for busy days. 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.

Grafenwoehr Main Store community pet show 18 May: The Grafenwoehr Main Store will be holding a large community pet show from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. The pets will be judged in three categories: Ugliest Pet, Pet/Owner look alike and Most Obedient. First, second and third place winners in each category will receive Exchange Gift Cards. AFN Bavaria will broadcast live, the MP K-9 Unit will be there, and both the Amberg Tierhiem and Garrison Vet Clinic will be on hand to answer questions and provide information. There will be a Weber WOW Event, Charbroil Demo, Red Bull tasting and many other outdoor vendors with give aways. All pets are welcome. Registration is 10-11 a.m. At the exterior of the building by outdoor living.

“You Made the Grade” award for students Students in grades 1-12 who maintain a “B” or better average with the You Made the Grade program will receive a coupon booklet with a multitude of free products and discounts. Qualifying students can also register for a drawing to win a $500, $1,500 or $2,000 Exchange gift card. Contact the Grafenwoehr Main Store for more information at 09641-93-63221 or stop by for more details.

Exchange store coupon policy Coupons must be used in accordance with the following guidelines: ·Must state "Manufacturer's coupon", "Military Coupon", or "Military Store Coupon". ·No "Commissary Only" coupons. ·Item purchased must be identical to the coupon's description. · Must have a valid remit address, expiration date and scannable bar code. ·Can be combined with the Exchange "We Price Match" policy and one Exchange store coupon, for example: Facebook, Sales Tabloid, Coupon Book, unless prohibited by either coupon.

·One manufacturer coupon per item including cents off or BOGO coupons ·One Exchange store coupon may be applied to a manufacturer's BOGO coupon unless either coupon prohibits. ·Cannot exceed the value of the item. The Exchange will neither provide cash back nor apply the remaining balance to other items in the purchase. ·Will accept "free item" manufacturer's original coupon. ·Will accept on sale and clearance items unless prohibited by coupon. ·Must be an original coupon, no photocopies. ·Military Only or Military Store Coupons for tobacco are prohibited by the DOD and will not be accepted. ·We currently accept manufacturer coupons in OCONUS locations, not to exceed six months past expiration date.

Customers can find more information at Exchange online.

Volunteers and other help needed SKIES music & fitness instructors needed CYSS SKIES Unlimited is looking for talented, experienced and self motivated individuals with a love for children and teaching. SKIES is looking for instructors in music (piano, strings i.e. violin, viola & guitar), all levels of gymnastics and tumbling, Kindermusik, swimming, and Mommy/Daddy and Me Fitness. If you are interested in earning money doing something you love please contact Tammy Weightman, the SKIES director.

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: TBD

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.

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.

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.

4 May: Rhine River cruise. Cruise down the beautiful, castle-studded Rhine river and explore Ruedesheim.

5 May: Pilsen, Czech Republic. Visit Pilsen during the Pilsen Liberation Fest, 3rd largest synagogue in the world, underground tunnels and the Pilsner Urquel Brewery.

11 May: Berlin. See how a city weathered by WWII and the Cold War emerged as one of the world’s most interesting cities.

12 May: Dachau/Munich National Museum. Tour the Dachau Concentration Camp and then head to Munich for a hands-on exploration of German science and technology.

18 May: Boleslaweic, Poland. This city is the heart of the Polish pottery industry. Come load up on beautiful blue ceramics.

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.

BINGO! 2 & 16 May: This is your chance to win cash while also enjoying a dinner buffet. Only ID Card Holders 18 and older, please. Doors open at 5 p.m. Early bird 6 p.m., regular 7 p.m. Grafenwoehr Tower View Conference Center, Bldg. 209.

NAF Property Sale 2 May: We’re offering guest room furniture, electrical appliances, blankets, paintings and more. This is a Cash and Carry event. Buyers are responsible to provide transportation and labor to remove items on the same day. Contact Grafenwoehr Lodging for details: DSN 475-1700, CIV 09641-83-1700. Sale is open to ID card holders only. At the Grafenwoehr Tower View Conference Center, Bldg. 209, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Mongolian Barbeque Dinner 3 May: You pick your ingredients, pay by the ounce and our chef will stir fry it up. Offered the first Friday of each month at the Patton Fireside Lounge, Bldg. 209. 5 - 9 p.m.

Mother’s Day craft 4 May: Attention all fathers! Bring your children to the library and craft a special present for Mother’s Day. Ages 3-10. 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Grafenwoehr Library.

Life Unscripted! Improv Troop Show 4 May: The wacky Life Unscripted Improv Troop will put on a show you’ll remember. For more, contact the Grafenwoehr Performing Arts Center at DSN 475-6426, CIV 09641-83-6426. Admission is free. Ages 18+ only. 8 p.m.

Cinco De Mayo pot luck 5 May: The Grafenwoehr Warrior Zone, Bldg. 153, will host a pot luck fiesta in appreciation of “Cinco De Mayo.” We encourage customers to bring Mexican food for the spirit of the holiday. 6 -10 p.m.

Drowning Pool concert in Ansbach 5 May: As part of a European USO tour, multi-platinum rock band Drowning Pool will play in Ansbach, Hangar 6502, Storck Barracks. Show starts at 6 p.m., doors open at 5 p.m. The concert is intended for mature audiences. To pick up the no-cost tickets, visit the Concierge at the Von Steuben Community Center at Bismarck Kaserne or the Storck Community Activity Center or call DSN 467-2930, CIV 09802-83-2930. For more, see here.

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, 2 p.m.; 5 May, 4 p.m.; 10 May, 7 p.m.; 11 May, 7 p.m.; 12 May, 4 p.m.

Survey your World – Military History Group Meeting 8 May: Survey your world through a series of Military History discussions. The topic for May is World War II – Invasion of Crete (May 20-26, 1941.) There will be short presentations and lively discussions. Come share your knowledge and enthusiasm. Grafenwoehr Library, Bldg. 445. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day 9 & 10 May: Celebrate all the spouses of our service members. Stop in the libraries to spin our ‘Wheel of Appreciation’ and enter a drawing to win a prize valued at $1,000 from one of our sponsors. 9 May is Rose Barracks, 10 May in Grafenwoehr.

3D Movie Night 9 May: Join us in the Warrior Zone’s Movie Theater for a 3D movie. To find out the titles, call DSN 476-2942, CIV 09662-83-2942. At the Rose Barracks Warrior Zone, Langenbruck Center Bldg. 607, 7 p.m.

Southern Comfort Dinner 10 May: Come enjoy some Southern-style comfort foods like fried chicken and okra. At the Grafenwoehr Patton Fireside Lounge, Bldg. 209, 5 - 9 p.m.

Mother’s Day Breakfast Bowling 12 May: The Java Café Bar and Grill will open early for a Special Mother’s Day Breakfast. All mothers receive a complimentary tall coffee of their choice. After eating, stay for some bowling. Grafenwoehr Java Café Bar and Grill, 9 a.m.

- 1 p.m.

Summer Basketball 13 May-14 June: Kids can play in a 6 week summer basketball league. Leagues are comprised of ages 10-12, 13-15 and 16-18 years of age. The USAG Grafenwoehr community will compete against teams from Schweinfurt. Register for these programs at Parent Central Services DSN 476-2760, CIV 09662-83-2760 or at MWR Online Services.

Fall Sports Registration 13 May-26 July: It’s time to sign your children up for fall sports: soccer, flag football, tackle football and cheerleading.

Soccer is ages 3-15 years old. Cheerleading is ages 3-15 years old. Flag Football is ages 6-12 years old. Tackle Football is ages 12-14 years old. Register for these programs at Parent Central Services DSN 476-2760, CIV 09662-83-2760 or at MWR Online Services.

Warrior Zone Karaoke Nights 14 May: Come sing and let your voice be heard at the Rose Barracks Warrior Zone. We all enjoy a little music and entertainment. Combine them while putting on a show for the community or just come watch other perform. Rose Barracks Warrior Zone, Bldg. 607, 7 p.m.

Seafood Night 17 May: Enjoy fried or blacken shrimp, catfish, flounder or tilapia seafood platter, with a variety of side dishes.

Grafenwoehr Patton Fireside Lounge. Bldg 209, 5-9 p.m.

Hohenfels mountain bike race/trail run 18 May: Mountain bikers can head to Hohenfels for some of the best riding in the US Forces Europe Mountain Bike Championship Series. We will have multiple age categories for racers and a post-race party. Those who don’t mountain bike can participate in the annual trail run. Both races cost $25 and include race admission, goody bag with custom socks, post-party food coupon and other freebies. Trail run starts at 9 a.m. Mountain bike races starts at noon. For more, contact Hohenfels ODR at DSN 466-2060, CIV 09472-83-2060.

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.

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.

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 7-9 May: The thrift shop will be closed for inventory. But it will be open on 11 May from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for a special Bag Sale. Fill a plastic commissary bag with color tagged clothes for $6. Two bags for $10. These are the other sales this month: baby clothes 25% off, shorts 10% off, military clothes 50% off, bedding, linens & table cloths 50% off, and books 10 for $1. There will also be a gift basket drawing this month. Come in and register to win a gift basket. Two bottles of wine, 2 wine glasses, chocolates, a floral wreath, a Scentsy warmer, and more. One entry per person per day. The winner will be announced on 10 May on our Facebook page. **We are in desperate need of baby pant hangers!** DSN 4762649, CIV 09662-83-2649, or email for more information. Volunteers and donations are always welcome!

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 ODR and Leisure Travel Service Graf office closure Through 3 May: Due to a staff shortage, the Grafenwoehr ODR and Leisure Travel Service office will be closed during this week. For assistance contact the Rose Barracks ODR at DSN 476-2563, CIV 09662-83-2563, Mon, Tue, Thu and Fri 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Info on upcoming events can be found here.

Road construction near Grafenwoehr Burger King 6-17 May: Road construction on the side access road to the main parking area at Burger King will be blocked for thrutraffic. The drive-thru lane will remain open. You can access the main parking area from Wilbur Road.

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 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 Classes 6 – 17 May: Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and 28 May – 7 June: Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center, Bldg 223, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The registration period for these classes is lasts until the day the particular class begins. 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 the Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292.

Register now for UMUC summer classes The University of Maryland University College Europe’s summer schedule of courses is now available. Registration is available for Face-to-Face or Online course. Visit the USAG Grafenwoehr Education Center to see your UMUC Europe Field Representative, or go online at www.ed.umuc.edu. UMUC can help with financial aid, tuition assistance, using the G.I. Bill, evaluating military training for college credits, and more.

University of Oklahoma MA courses 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. We are currently enrolling new students. Email Carla Miller or call her at DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069. Further information can be found at www.goou.ou.edu.

Summer courses in Rose Barracks: 4-9 June: IR/HR COMM 5253 Cross Cultural Communication: Theory and Research.

6-11 Aug: IR HIST 6200 Seminar in European History: Aspects of the British Empire.

Central Texas College CTC provides Soldiers and families with associate degree programs in many Vo-Tech career fields with both face-to-face classes and distance learning (online) classes. In the Vilseck-Grafenwoehr community, there are 3 face-to-face programs

running year-round. CTC classes for Term in May-July 2013: Classes in Rose Barracks: AUMT 1416 – Automotive Suspension & Steering Systems. Wed/The/Fri 6-10 p.m. 22 May-12 July. CJSA 1342 – Criminal Investigation. Tue/Thu, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 21 May-11 July. Classes in Grafenwoehr: CDEC 1321 –Infant and Toddler. Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 18 May-29 June. For more, call Chuck Sligh at DSN 476-2362, CIV 09662-83-2362 or email him.

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

3 May: PTA BINGO. Win prizes like crystal, toys and gift certificates. $5 per card. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

6-10 May: Used Book Fair. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in the PTA room. Great books at great bargains.

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.

17 May: Earth Day celebration. From 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. come join students and staff for a day of fun-filled activities focused on our planet. There will be hands-on activities, art projects and games. Call Frau Kean at DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-83-7133 if you want to help staff a booth.

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 Please don’t forget to keep bringing in your Box Tops to our PTSA. Through 18 May: Food Drive for Vilseck and Graf Elementary Schools. Bring nonperishable items to the school lobbies. The food is for elementary children in Lwowek Slaski, Poland. For many of them, this is their only meal of the day. Please avoid food items with a lot of English instructions. Items to donate: anything canned, beans, bags and boxes of rice, cakes, pancake mix, cereals or powdered milk, Kool-Aids or other baking Items like flour, sugar, baking powder, etc.

9 May: PTSA meeting and Folk Dance performance by multi age students takes place in the Annex. Parents are invited to come and participate to both events.

9 May: Going West play. 4th graders from Mr. Hockman and Ms. Gunn’s classes will perform at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in our Annex. They will perform at 5:15 p.m. for the parents after the PTSA meeting.

11 May: Boy Scout fundraiser. From 10 a.m.-3 p.m. some Boy Scouts from VES will sell flowers for Mother’s Day at the Rose Barracks Commissary. The proceeds to go toward their summer camp program.

16 May: Fourth grade Science Fair in the annex. Parents are invited to visit their child’s trifold board.

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

17 May: Don Crow performs for selected grade level students in the school’s annex 21 May: Fire Department and fire truck will visit VES at 10 a.m. in front of the school.

22 May: Band concert. Fifth grade students will perform in the Annex at 9:30 a.m. Parents are invited.

23 May: Kindergarten Orientation for all incoming NEW parents in the annex at 1:30 p.m.

23 May: The 3rd Annual Feet for Freedom 3K Fun Run/ Walk will be at 9 a.m. All are welcome to come and join us at VES for fun and fitness! For more, email Jeannette Maitner or call DSN 476-2812, CIV 09662-83-2812.

27 May: Memorial Day. No school.

5 & 6 June: “Romeo and Juliet” in the VES annex. Parents are invited.

7 June: Field Day. 8:30-11:30 a.m.

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 3 May: A Night of the Arts. Dinner, art show, and silent auction. MPR. 6-8 p.m.

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

24 May: Earth Day celebration. Half-day nature walk.

27 May: No school. Memorial Day. 7 June: Field 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. 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.

Re-registration for 2013/2014: Come to the school ASAP and re-register your child or register your soon-to-be kindergartner (child must be 5 years old by 1 Sept.)

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 1 May: SILT Meeting, 3 p.m.

6-10 May: Teacher Appreciation Week 7 May: Commander's Honor Roll, 5-6 p.m., DFAC 9 May: SAC Meeting, 3 p.m.

16 May: Earliest Day for Acceleration (PCS only) 17-18 May: NMS Drama Performance for Community, Friday, 7-8 p.m., Saturday, 2-3:30 p.m.

21 May: PTSA Board Meeting, 3 p.m.

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

23 May: IAC Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Steinbeck Conference Room 24 May End of the Year Celebration, 2:45-6 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.

11 June: 8th Grade Promotion and Awards Ceremony, 5:30-7 p.m.

13 June: Last Day of School, 11 a.m. Dismissal 14 June: Teacher Work Day - No School for Students 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.

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.

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.

Photo Vernissage: "The Sixties" by Linda McCartney Through 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.

Spring Volksfest in Neumarkt Through 1 May: in 92318 Neumarkt, at the Volksfestplatz, Festplatz 1 (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of Hohenfels).

Weiden Frühlingsfest (Spring Fest) Through 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.

May Day/ German Labor Day 1 May: All German stores and authorities off-post are closed, as are all on-post facilities (non-food) with a predominantly local national workforce. May Day is when Maypoles are erected and festivities ensue. Throughout Bavaria, you will find different types of Maypoles, some with bark, some painted white and blue (the Bavarian colours). In some areas the pole

will stand for a complete year, in other areas it is taken down at the beginning of June. Most towns in the area will have a small Maifest today.

Local Maifests (May Day Fests) on 1 May: Hirschau: Starts at 9 a.m. at the Feuerwehrhaus , or fire station, Höllriegelstraße 4.

Volbach: Starts 10 a.m. in the middle of the village at the station of the Volunteer Fire Brigade. Volbach and the Grafenwoehr military community have close ties. Come and join them, they always welcome Americans.

Ensdorf: Starts at 11 a.m. at the "Baggerbetrieb Zapf" on Bahnhofstraße 16.

Weiden: Raising of the Maypole. 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., in the historic Altstadt, or old city.

Kastl: Raising of the Maypole. Marktplatz, or market place. Time has not yet been specified.

Walburgi-Markt street market 2 May: 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., in 97688 Bad Kissingen, on Rathausplatz, Füllbacher Hof, Eisenstädter Platz, Spitalgasse and the inner courtyard of the city hall (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.

Beer Fest: Maisel's Weissbier-Fest 2-5 May: in 95445 Bayreuth, at the Maisel brewery, Hindenburgstraße 9 Traditionally, the Weissbier-Fest (only GE) is a great mixture of top music, great food and activities all for free. 2 May: Grand opening party at 6 p.m. (please no children.) 3 May: Opens at 6 p.m. with live music from cover bands. 4 May: Opens at 4 p.m. with cover bands, at 7 p.m. the Electric Light Orchestra and Mike and the Mechanics will play! 5 May: Opens at 10 a.m. with a Fun Run and Half-marathon (register online, in German, but easy to follow). Lots of activities, Samba performers and guided tours in German of the brewery.

Frühlingsfest (spring Volksfest) in Ansbach 3 - 9 May: in 91522 Ansbach, on the large car park in front of the "Tagungszentrum Onoldia", Nürnberger Straße 32.

Click for a map of suggested car parks.

Blue Night 4 May: in 90403 Nürnberg, at numerous locations (only GE). Starts at 7 p.m. The museums and culture institutes in Nürnberg’s city center will be open for visitors until the early Sunday morning hours. Special light installations and effects will plunge the whole area into blue light (in EN), providing the perfect background for various performances. More info also at ph 0911-231-2000. Or check out their flyer (only GE).

Frühlingsfest (spring Volksfest) in Sulzbach-Rosenberg 4 -12 May: in 92237 Sulzbach-Rosenberg, fest site along Rosenberger Strasse / Dultplatz 2 (ca. 20 km / 12.5 miles south of Vilseck).

Mai-Markt street market 5 May: 10 a.m., in 91327 Gößweinstein, Viktor-von-Scheffel-Straße (about 10 km / 6 miles west of Pottenstein, in the beautiful Fränkische Schweiz). Park at the public car park behind Pezoldstraße 24 or at the cemetery car park behind the basilica, at Viktor-von-Scheffel-Straße 5. Customers of the Hotel zur Krone can also park behind the hotel, at Viktor-vonScheffel-Straße 1.

Street Market: Mai-Jahrmarkt 6 - 9 May: in 91522 Ansbach, on Schlossplatz, Karl-Burkhardt-Platz, Reitbahn and at the Schlosstor (palace gate), as well as around the Gumbertuskirche church. Opening hours: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., but only until 4 p.m. on the last day. Click for a map of suggested car parks.

Christi Himmelfahrt /Ascension/Corpus Christi 9 May: All German stores and authorities off-post are closed, as are all on-post facilities (non-food) with a predominantly local national workforce. 40 days after Easter Sunday, many Christians celebrate Christ's ascension as Corpus Christi Day. Today is also German Father’s Day.

Lake Fest in Pottenstein 9 May: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., in 91278 Pottenstein (in the beautiful Fränkische Schweiz), at Lake Schöngrundsee. The lake is at the leisure area with the summer toboggan, just on the outskirts of Pottenstein and next to the quaint restaurant where you can buy fresh smoked trout.

Garden Days Sales Expo 9 - 12 May: in 92318 Neumarkt, at the LGS-Park, Dr.-Kurz-Straße (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of Hohenfels). You can buy anything your heart desires for the upcoming gardening season.

Mai-Dult Spring Volksfest in Regensburg 9 May - 26 May: in 93059 Regensburg, Dultplatz, Am Europakanal.

1 - 11 p.m. daily. Click here for some English info. Family days (only GE) are always on Weds. Brilliant firework displays on both Fridays at around 10 p.m. The Warendult (outdoor market, link only GE) next to the Volksfest is open daily 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. On offer are a large variety of high-quality products, from traditional Bavarian clothing ("Trachten") to kitchenware and spices.

Closest free car parks are 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 is not free and it is blocked on Saturday mornings for the Regensburg produce market.

Shopping at Night in Erlangen 10 May: until 11 p.m., in 91054 Erlangen in the city center (ca. 23 km / 15 miles north of Nürnberg). A large car park is located at Parkplatzstraße (surrounded by Friedrich-List-Straße / 2240, and Münchener Straße). This is directly opposite the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and only yards away from the Altstadt (city center), the Schloss (mansion), and the Botanic Garden.

Medieval Camp and Fayre: Spectaculum Nordgavia 10 - 12 May: in 92331 Parsberg, at the castle (ca. 15 km / 9 miles SW of Hohenfels). This fair is a colorful, fun and historical trip back in time with lots of entertainment and games. Have a look at their photo gallery to get an impression of what is going on. You can park on Lupburger Straße or at the Rewe Markt car park on Dr.-Schrettenbrunner-Straße 5 (just off Marktstraße).

28th Convention of European Night Watchmen 11 & 12 May: in 92637 Weiden, all around the Altstadt = old city. Click for a map of suggested car parks. Dozens of Night Watchmen will gather in Weiden in their fascinating costumes for a truly unique event. Sat: 3 p.m.: Introduction of the groups at the Altes Rathaus (historical city hall); Vestes Haus (Apotheke near Nordsee fish store); at the Maibaum (Altstadt); Volksbank (towards McDonald's); City Center shopping center; Stadtcafé Schaller. The groups will move between the locations. 7 p.m.: They will perform from the tower of St. Michael's church in the Altstadt (next to the old city hall). 9:15 p.m.: Romantic torchlight parade with the night watchmen. Sun: 9:30 a.m.: Festive church service in St. Michael's church. 11 a.m.: Passing of the guild colours in front of the Altes Rathaus. Followed by a party until ca. 1 a.m.

IVV Volksmarch 11 & 12 May: in 92690 Pressath (ca. 7 km / 4.5 miles north of Grafenwöhr). Start and end point is the Stadthalle on Wollauer Straße 22. Start time on Sat is 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., and on Sun 6 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Knight's Camp 11 & 12 May: in 92249 Vilseck, at the Burg Dagestein castle, Schlossgasse 6 - 10. Please park on Marktplatz and walk the short distance to the castle. It's great fun for the whole family to visit this knight's camp in its historic surroundings.

Stollenfest in Auerbach 11 & 12 May: 10 a.m., in 91275 Auerbach, at the Bergbau-Museum Maffei (mining museum), Nitzlbuch 27 (ca. 26 km / 16 miles NW of Vilseck).

Tattoo Convention 11 & 12 May: in 90471 Nürnberg, at the Arena, Kurt-Leucht-Weg 11, ph 0911-9889-7280. Trendy tattoo artists and

models will convene at the show to flaunt their stylings and give tattoos and piercings to guests.There will be a show program and a "Miss Tattoo" pageant. Click here for some photos from 2010. They're on Facebook as well. Fri & Sat: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. On Sat, there will be an After-Show Party following the convention.

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.