USAG Bavaria Weekly Newsletter

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22 January 2014 u.S. army garrison BAVARIA–Tower Barracks/ Rose Barracks

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

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

Be heard! Submit your questions now for the Community Huddle The next Community Huddle is on Jan. 30, at the Tower View Conference Center at 11:30 a.m. If you have any questions for the garrison leadership, unit leadership, the schools, a directorate or even just a general issue of concern, please feel free to let us know.

All questions sent to us will be addressed at the Community Huddle. You can send us a private Facebook message with your question or email it to usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcom.mbx.usaggrafenwoehr-pao@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

“Like” us on Facebook “Like” U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria on Facebook for up-to-the-minute information, to peruse pictures of community events, for a rundown of fests, fairs, markets and shows in Bavaria. There are also force protection tips and updates on protests and demonstrations in our area. Here’s that link again: https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria?ref=hl.

Follow us on Twitter Follow us for news and updates about the Bavarian Military Community, Army, DoD and Europe. Here’s our page: https://twitter.com/USAGBavaria. Our Twitter handle is @USAGBavaria.

Bavarian News online Head to BavarianNews.com to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Linking up.

Moving back to the States? A virtual career fair could help you land that job before your plane does. Register now. Shoot like a girl? They wish. Vilseck High School’s JROTC Marksmanship Team dominates the competition in the Commander’s Challenge. Puck starts here. The Bayern Rangers are gearing up for this year’s United States Air Force in Europe Ice Hockey tournament in Garmisch, Feb. 20-22. A delicate dance. Engineers with the 902nd Engineer Company (Vertical) balance stakeholders’ demands and tight deadlines while rebuilding infrastructure in Romania. Changes.

Recent changes to the Enlisted Voluntary Early Separation Program provide opportunities for Soldiers who want to leave active duty before their term of service ends.

USPS stamp price increase Starting 26 Jan: At the end of this month, the United States Postal Service (USPS), will increase the cost of mailing a First-Class Mail single-piece letter from 46 cents to 49 cents. Please stop by your local Postal Service Center before close of business on 24 Jan to purchase Forever Stamps before the price increase takes effect. Contact your local post office with questions: Rose Barracks PSC at DSN 476-2581, CIV 09662-83-2581 and Tower Barracks PSC at DSN 475-6333, CIV 09641-83-6333.

Highlights of the new single-piece First-Class Mail pricing, effective 26 Jan, include: • Letters (1 oz.): 3-cent increase to 49 cents • Letters additional ounces: 1-cent increase to 21 cents • Letters to all international destinations (1 oz.): $1.15 • Postcards: 1-cent increase to 34 cents

Two forms of ID needed at gates due to updates Now-8 Feb: USAREUR HQ IACS team will be on site to begin IACS upgrades at our gates. This will continue thru 8 Feb. An IACS outage is expected to last for 3 to 4 hours at each gate. During the outage the guards will require 2 authorized forms of ID. The team will upgrade one gate at a time and work with our traffic patterns to minimize delays to traffic. This upgrade will affect all of USAREUR IACS systems. The Plan for the BMC is: 20 Jan- 7 Feb Tower and Rose Barracks; 20 Jan- 24 Jan Hohenfels; and 3 Feb – 8 Feb Garmisch.

Tech Expo 7 Feb: Discover the latest in technology for personal, business and military use. There will be hands-on demonstrations and industry experts on hand to answer questions. Tower View Conference Center, Tower Barracks, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Hosted by 69th Signal Battalion.

Tax Centers coming soon!

3 Feb: Tax Centers are the easiest way to file your taxes for free. Last tax season, tax centers in Bavaria processed 10,220 tax returns, saving more than $1.5 million in commercial preparation and filing fees, and generating over $19 million in refunds. The filing deadline for the tax year is 15 April, but the overseas filing deadline is 16 June. Click here for

contact info and tax filing document requirements. Tower Barrack Tax Center: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-noon, 1-5 p.m. Bldg. 216, First Floor: Legal Assistance DSN 475-7114, CIV 09641-83-7114; Tax Center DSN 475-9258, CIV 09641-83-9258. Rose Barracks Tax Center: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Bldg. 245, First Floor: Legal Assistance DSN 476-2289, CIV 09662-832289; Tax Center DSN 476-2714, CIV 09662-83-2714. The Rose Barracks Tax Center will serve WTU Soldiers ONLY starting 28 Jan.

TARP, SETA, OPSEC and Anti-terrorism Level 1 Training The United States Army Garrison Bavaria (Antiterrorism and Security Divisions) along with the 66th Military Intelligence Group and JMTC Intelligence and Security, will be conducting the quarterly 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 Refresher Training.

2nd Quarter FY14 Community Security Awareness Training Schedule: 29 Jan: Tower Barracks, Tower Theater, Bldg. 620. 9-11:30 a.m. (US personnel), 1:30-2:30 p.m. (LN employees) 30 Jan: Rose Barracks, Post Theater, Bldg. 354. 10:30-11:30 a.m. (LN employees), 1:30-4 p.m. (US personnel).

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.

Virtual Career Fair 25 Feb: The Army Career and Alumni Program will host the first ever European Virtual Career Fair at the end of February. U.S.-based companies including XEROX, Aetna, Capital One and the TSA will be represented at the fair. The fair is geared toward those who wish to work in the states, not locally. Job seekers can ask recruiters questions and interview for jobs to which they've already applied. You must register prior to the fair. Register here: http://events.veteranrecruiting.com/vshow/VRSCareer/registration/5690?partnerref=ACAP#. The fair is 4-6 p.m. For more, call ACAP at DSN 476-2055, CIV 09662-83-2055.

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 and Sexual Assault Hotlines 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) Tower Barracks, 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.imcom-europe.mbx.acs@mail.mil for info.

Needs Survey for ACS Now-1 Feb: ACS is here to serve us. To help them best fit your needs, take this 5 minute online survey about what they’re doing right and how they can improve. It’s quick, easy and important. Open to service members, family members, civilians and retirees. Here is the link: www.armymwr.com/ACS-survey.

Army Volunteer Corps 24 Feb: Volunteer Management, Organizational Point of Contact (OPOC) Training, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, 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.

4 Feb: USA Jobs, 10 – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 11 Feb: Interview Prep 101, 10:00 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 28 Jan & 18 Feb: 10 Minute Makeover, 10:00 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

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

3 Feb: Respite Care Provider Training, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 6 Feb: FRSA & FRG Key Personnel Brief, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 12 Feb: EFMP Enlightenment Group, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 27 Feb: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bowling Center

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.

28-30 Jan: It Takes Two, 8:30 – 3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 Now-4 Feb: Love & Logic, 11:30 – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex

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.

22 Jan: Coupon Class, 1 – 2:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221 22 Jan: Checking and Debit Account Management, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 26 Jan: “The 52-Week Money Challenge,” 3-4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322, Participants who follow the rules of the challenge will save $1378 over the course of the next 52 weeks and develop a habit of savings that will enhance their future quality of life.

29 Jan: Tax Planning, 1 – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 29 Jan: Saving and Investments, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 4 Feb: Checking and Debit Account Management, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 5 Feb: Tax Planning, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 12 Feb: Coupon Class, 12 – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 12 Feb: Coupon Class, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 19 Feb: Financial Literacy, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 24-28 Feb: Military Saves Week!! Call for details and special programs!

27 Feb: IRAs and Mutual Funds, 1 – 2:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 28 Feb: Thrift Savings Plan, 11 – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness 10 Feb: Resilience Training, 9 – 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 11 Feb: FRG Basic Course, 9 – 5 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221 (limit 20 people)

New Parent Support Program Tuesdays 4, 18 Feb: Infant Massage, noon-1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 5, 19 Feb: Little Hearts Apart Club, 10-11:15 a.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 Clinics and Informational Classes Every Tuesday: Breast Feeding Clinic, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Play Groups Every Tuesday: Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex, 9:30-11 a.m.

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

Every Thursday: Netzaberg, Teen Center, 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 Thursdays, Now-27 Feb: SGI/ATS Belly Dancing, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 221 (Teacher meet & greet, Jan 16!)

24 Jan & 21 Feb: Level 2 Newcomers’ Orientation, Discover Amberg “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 27 Jan & 24 Feb: Level 1 Newcomers Orientation “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 31 Jan & 28 Feb: Level 2 Newcomers’ Orientation, Discover Weiden “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 13 Feb: Successful PCS Moves 101, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 Feb: Military Sponsorship: Train-The-Trainer, 2 – 3 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 Feb: Spouse Sponsorship, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 Feb: Immigration Workshop, 11 a.m. – noon, Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 Every Tuesday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Tower Barracks, 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 Tower Barracks 0152-0293-4290 / 0152-0241-5226, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.

24 Jan: Making Marriage Work After Deployment, 1-3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 28 Jan: From Combat To Home, 3-4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 31 Jan: From Combat To Home, 1-3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

Exchange News For more information about the Exchange, head to www.shopmyexchange.com.

Exchange extended holiday return policy The Exchange’s standard policy allows returns anywhere from 15 to 90 days of purchase with a sales receipt, but the holiday return/exchange policy extends these terms through 31 Jan 2014 for all items purchased between 1 Nov and 24 Dec. To make a return or get more information on exchanges and gift card credits, be sure to stop by your Exchange’s Customer Service area or visit www.shopmyexchange.com.

Starbucks to open in February Starbucks, which will replace the Tower Barracks PX Mall coffee shop, will open in mid to late February. For hiring inquiries, contact Neeraj Gupta.

Exchange annual inventory closures The Exchange is conducting their annual inventory. Starting 16 Jan in Hohenfels and 21 Jan in Rose/Tower Barracks, a number of Exchange facilities will be closed on the dates listed below. Fuel will be available at facilities with an exterior gas kiosk.

Rose Barracks Inventory Closure Dates 22 Jan: Rose Barracks Express (Gas Kiosk OPEN) 24 Jan: Car Care Center 24 Jan: Military Clothing Tower Barracks Inventory Closure Dates 23 Jan: Tower Barracks Express (Gas Kiosk OPEN) 25 Jan: Netzaberg Express (Gas not available) 25 Jan: Algiers Express 25 Jan: Normandy Express 27 Jan: Car Care Center 27 Jan: Military Clothing 29 Jan: Tower Barracks Main Store Exchange food facilities and concessions are open for regular business.

Tower Barracks Manchu WOK to close 31 Jan: The Tower Barracks Manchu WOK co-located with the Burger King, will be closing as of 31 January and not reopening. Thank you for understanding.

Volunteers and other help needed VHS track and field volunteers needed The Vilseck High School track and field team is looking for volunteers!

If you have expertise in throwing, jumping, or hurdle events, we would like to hear from you. Volunteers need to be available from 3:30-5 p.m. on school days 3 March-23 May. Volunteers must have a valid background check through ACS. If interested, please contact VHS Athletic Director, Emily Walton.

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 0966283-1760 DSN 476-1760, Tower Barracks Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 475-1760.

Red Cross looking for mental health pros 24 Jan app deadline: The American Red Cross provides post-deployment support to military families with reconnection and resiliency workshops. The position of Reconnection Workshop Facilitator is a professional volunteer opportunity for Master's Level (or higher) mental health professionals with independent, unencumbered licensure in one of the following disciplines: Psychiatry, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, School Counseling/Psychology; Nursing (APN or CS in mental health area; or RNs who are board certified in psych/MH). Training is in April. If you are interested and meet the eligibility requirements, please contact us at Grafenwoehr@redcross.org.

Please note that you will also need to submit an Application Package which includes: signed application, copy of professional license, copy of resume, and signed letter of recommendation from your Red Cross leadership or another organization as part of your application. The application deadline is January 24, 2014.

Red Cross looking for CPR instructors We are looking for CPR course instructors. If you are interesting in becoming a Red Cross certified CPR/First Aid/AED course instructor, you must already have a valid CPR/FA/AED certification card and must be able to teach 3 classes over the next 12 months. Dates for this training are Feb 1st and 2nd at the Rose Barracks Red Cross office. For more information or to sign up, please email Alex Williams or call 09662-83-1760.

Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED Training 25 Jan: Red Cross is offering Blended Learning Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED Training from 1-3 p.m.

Course fee is $55. This course requires pre-registration and online training must be completed prior to attending the classroom portion. Contact the Red Cross at 09662-83-1760. Sign up today! Bldg 162 on Rose Barracks.

Sports, Fitness, Hobbies & Recreation AAFES Movie Listing Tower Barracks listings, click here.

Rose Barracks listings, here.

Bavaria Community and Spouses' Club events Go to their Facebook page for upcoming events and club news. Over the summer the Grafenwoehr Community and Spouses Club (GCSC) disbanded and turned over its assets to the Vilseck Community and Spouses Club (VCSC). The Vilseck Community and Spouses Club is undergoing a name change and will now be the Bavaria Community and Spouses Club (BCSC) which will serve our entire community including Tower Barracks and Rose Barracks.

Bayern Rangers hockey team The Bayern Rangers ice hockey team is looking for new players. The team invites interested players to practice: 26 Jan: noon-1:30 p.m. in Weiden (outdoor Shinny); 2 Feb: noon-1:30 p.m. in Weiden (outdoor Shinny) 20-22 Feb: 22nd Annual Military Championships in Garmisch. To join in the fun, just show up.

Players must provide their own equipment and chip in to cover the cost of ice time -- normally 10 euro for a 90 minute skate. For more info please see the team page at www.facebook.com/bayernrangers.

Weekly activities at the Warrior Zone All activities are from 6-10 p.m. at the Tower Barracks Warrior Zone, Bldg. 153. Call DSN 475-4309, CIV 09641-83-4309 for more.

Tuesdays: Movie Nights. Grab some popcorn and put up your feet every Monday. Feel free to suggest films you want to see!

Wednesdays: Texas Hold ‘Em. Think you’re good at cards? Prove it every Wednesday.

Fridays: Pool Tournaments. Compete to be crowned the weekly billiards champ. Pool tables are also available upon request.

Fridays: Magic: The Gathering Tournaments. Format varies from social play to tournaments. All skill levels are welcome.

Weekly activities for kids Tuesdays/Wednesday: Pre-School Story Time. Tuesdays at the Rose Barracks Library, 10 a.m. Wednesdays at the Tower Barracks Library, 10 a.m.

Wednesday: Lap Sit Story Time. There are stories for the pre-schoolers and activities for under-2s. Tower Barracks Library. 2-2:30 p.m.

Sundays are Family Bowling days Sundays: Every Sunday from 2-8 p.m. at the Tower Barracks Bowling Center, kids bowl for $1 and adults bowl for $2.25. At the Rose Barracks Bowling Center, we offer “All you can Bowl” for one low price. Call the Bowling Centers for more details.

USAG Bavaria Boxing Team Registration Now-31 Jan: The Boxing Team is looking for boxers to join one of the best boxing team in Army-Europe. No experience required, just plenty of heart and determination! Call Tower Barracks Physical Fitness Center, DSN 475-8207, CIV 09641-83-8207.

Rugged Terrain Obstacle Run Registration Now-3 March: Service members, civilians and family members in Europe are challenged to participate in the second Grafenwoehr Rugged Terrain Obstacle Run on April 12. Run, climb and jump past 13 hard-core obstacles spaced out over a grueling, 13-kilometer course along the Grafenwoehr Training Area’s Rough Terrain Trail. Obstacles include cargo net and rock climbs, tire flips, sled pulls, a stair run and a filthy mud crawl. Complete the run to earn a commemorative T-shirt. Participants register online at www.grafenwoehr.armymwr.com. Pre-registration fee is $25 per participant, participation is limited (1000 person). All U.S. and NATO ID cardholders over 18 years of age are eligible to participate as either individuals or teams. Participants MUST pre-register. No one can register the day of the race.

Animals in Need Now-28 Feb: Youth Centers’ Torch/Keystone/4-H Leadership clubs collects items (food and blankets, pillows, etc.) to be used for animals in need. Items can be dropped off at the Netzaberg Youth Center, Bldg. 9080 or the Rose Barracks Youth Center, Bldg. 1706, Monday through Friday from 2 - 6:30 p.m. For questions, call DSN 475-9393, CIV 09641-839393.

Penny a Pin Bowling 22 Jan: Enjoy Penny a Pin Bowling - you pay a penny for every pin you knock over. Any game over 200 will receive a discount and only be charged $2. Rose Barracks Bowling Center, DSN 476-2576, CIV 09662-83-2576.

DJ/Karaoke Nights at The Zone 24, 31 Jan, 2 Feb: Head to the Zone Sports Bar for DJ/Karaoke nights, Langenbruck Center, Bldg. 607, Rose Barracks. Events begin at 9 p.m. On 2 Feb, there will be a special Super Bowl pre-party performance that starts at 6 p.m.

Bavarian Ski Club trip All ski levels (and even snowboarders!) are welcome on trips.

The Bavarian Ski Club will be hitting the slopes for two trips in January: 31 Jan- 2 Feb: Kitzbuehel. We will be renting an entire youth hostel in the heart of town and just a short walk from the gondola. Slots are limited, so sign up soon. Cost is 230 euros and includes 2 nights accommodation, a 2-day lift ticket, and transportation to/from the Graf PX with sandwiches and beverages on the bus. Contact Jeremy Buddemeier at 21jeromest@gmail.com or CIV 0162-273-3337.

BINGO! 23 Jan: Try your luck with America’s number one game, BINGO! This is your chance to win big while also enjoying a delicious dinner. Only ID card holders 18 and older, please. Doors open at 5 p.m., early bird 6 p.m., regular 7 p.m. Tower View Conference Center, Tower Barracks, Bldg. 209.

Climbing Skills Clinic NEW 23 Jan: Our climbing instructors will be on wall late tonight! Come on out and learn all the special techniques and skills the masters use while climbing the wall and hanging from the mountain. Contact the Wild B.O.A.R. to sign up and for more information. Offered the fourth Thursday of each month. Wild B.O.A.R. Outdoor Recreation, Tower Barracks, Bldg.

RC 600, 6-8 p.m. DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529.

Tower Barracks FAP center grand opening 24 Jan: The Grafenwoehr Health Clinic is conducting an open house/ opening ceremony of the Family Advocacy Program from 11:30 a.m.-noon in their new Bldg. 436 in Tower Barracks. There will be snacks and refreshments during the opening ceremony. The new Family Advocacy Program center will offer FAP assessment services and individual, marital and family counseling for active FAP clients. Services are available by appointment only.

German Cultural Activities with Youth and Family Sponsorship 25 Jan: Sign up at the Netzaberg Youth Center before the last Thursday of the month. Activities are: Basic German words, German cooking and Grafenwoehr walking tour. Meets the last Saturday of each month. Netzaberg Youth Center, Bldg. 9080, DSN 475-9393, CIV 09641-83-9393.

Upcoming MWR day trips Call Tower Barracks Leisure Travel Services, DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529 for more and to sign up for fun day trips around Europe.

Prevent Cervical Cancer this month January is Cervical Health Awareness Month. Grafenwoehr Health Clinic wants you to know that there’s a lot you can do to prevent cervical cancer. About 79 million Americans currently have HPV (human papillomavirus), the most common sexually transmitted disease. HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer. The good news? HPV can be prevented by the HPV vaccine and Cervical cancer can often be prevented with regular screening tests (called Pap tests) and follow-up care. In honor of National Cervical Health Awareness Month, Grafenwoehr Health Clinic encourages: *Women to start getting regular Pap tests at age 21* Women to get the HPV vaccine before age 27 * Parents to make sure their pre-teens get the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12 * Men to get the HPV vaccine if you are under age 27. To schedule an appointment call DSN 314-475-7152, CIV 09641-83-7152.

Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop

The Thrifty Tower is located in Bldg. 508 in Tower Barracks. Consignments are accepted during opening hours. Hours are Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and the 1st Friday of the month, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. All pink colored tickets are half off. Volunteers and Donations are always welcome. For more information, call 096419260377. Volunteers and donations are always welcome. Remember, your donations help your community.

Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop Facebook page. Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop: Bring your gently used items to Bldg 221 on Rose Barracks.

Find us on Facebook USAG Bavaria, 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, USAG Bavaria Chaplains, Tower Barracks DFAC, BMEDDAC, 2CR, Housing Dept., Provost Marshal Office , Netzaberg Middle School, Netzaberg Elementary School, Vilseck Falcons and Grafenwoehr Community Schools.

Facility & Road/Openings/Construction/Closures Regional Supply Support Activity (RSSA) closure Now-28 Jan: The RSSA Rose Barracks RIC AEJ will be closed for SARSS-1 - GCSS-A Conversion from 15-28 Jan. RSSA will only accept mission essential high priority walk-ins during this time. They must first be approved by 21st TSC SPO before they are accepted.

Religious The Tower Circle (SWC) Wicca group Mondays: The USAG Bavaria Open Wicca Group, The Tower Circle, offers a spiritual meeting place for those of Pagan, New Age and Greencraft practices. The group meets Mondays from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Tower Barracks Chapel Annex (across from the post office and USO) in Rm. 108. Check out their Facebook page for more.

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.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Sunday services at Grafenwoehr, Vilseckerstr. 7. 9:30-10:40 a.m. Sacrament, 10:50-11:30 Sunday School, 11:40-12:30, Preisthood/Relief Society.

Grace Baptist Church in Grafenwoehr Sunday services in Grafenwoehr at Alte Amberger Str. 43, 92655.GrowGroups (Sunday School): 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:45 a.m. Evening Bible Study: 6 p.m. Homegroups in various locations during the week.

New Covenant Christian Fellowship (Non denominational service) Robert Bosch Strasse 10, Vilseck, Germany 92249 Intercessory Prayer, 9 a.m., Sunday Service 10a.m., Wednesday Service 7 p.m.

High Point Baptist Church Anton-MannStr. 5 92249 Vilseck Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 a.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: Tower Barracks Chapel: DSN 475-1570, CIV 09641-83-1570. Rose Barracks Chapel: DSN 4761570, CIV 09662-83-1570.

Adult Education / Training DOL workshop for transitioning Soldiers 3-7 March: A senior Department of Labor workshop will be held here March 3-7 for Soldiers preparing for their next career. This Transition Assistance program workshop is for senior enlisted NCOs, warrant officers and officers who are retiring in 2014. Anyone interested can reserve a seat now by calling the Army Career and Alumni Program Center at DSN 476-2055, but seating is limited. Participants must be registered with ACAP and have completed their pre-separation briefing and initial counseling. Spouses are welcome to attend if their sponsoring service member is registered with ACAP.

Freedom of Information Act/Privacy Act training sign up 25-27 March: Freedom of Information Act/Privacy Act training is scheduled for March 25-27 from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at Bldg. 1368 on Clay Kaserne in Wiesbaden. The class is recommended for primary and alternate FOIA/PA officers, attorneys, and legal advisers. To register, send your name, unit, UIC and DSN in an e-mail here.

FAST Classes 19 Feb-4 March: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The registration period for these classes is from 13 Jan until the last working day before 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 Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University We offer undergraduate and graduate programs in aviation, aerospace, security, aviation maintenance, business and much more. An ERAU representative will be at the Vilseck Education Center on Tuesday, 28 Jan from 10 a.m.-noon.

Contact the Hohenfels office at DSN 466-4139 or CIV 09472-83-4139, or email Hohenfels@erau.edu for more information. Also, check out the ERAU Europe website at http://worldwide.erau.edu/euromilitary.

University of Maryland University College – Europe

UMUC Europe offers Associates, Bachelors and graduate-level degrees in a convenient online or face-to-face format.

Apply at the USAG Grafenwoehr Education Center located on Rose Barracks, Bldg. 223. UMUC offers many financial aid opportunities including FASFA, Tuition Remission, scholarships and Book Awards. Contact us at DSN 476-2462 or CIV 09662-83-2462 or visit our website at www.ed.umuc.edu for more information. You can also “Like” us on Facebook.

National Test Center (NTC) testing hours University of Maryland University College-Europe's National Test Center (NTC) has new testing hours. Mondays 8:309:30 a.m.: GED registration for new testers; 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Pearson Vue exams, GED and Excelsior exams.

Tuesdays 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: CLEP and DSST exams. Wednesdays 8:30-9:30 a.m.: GED registration for new testers; 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Pearson Vue exams, GED and Excelsior exams. Friday 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Pearson Vue exams, GED, GMAT and Excelsior exams. The NTC offers computer-based exams for college credit including CLEP, DSST, GMAT, IT certifications, and many other professional certification exams. The NTC is excited to offer all five modules of the GED in a computer-based format. Jump start your education and contact Kristin Wright to schedule an appointment at DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462.

New class at University of Oklahoma The University of Oklahoma in Vilseck 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, a Master of Human Relations and a Masters of Education. 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. The following courses are offered in Vilseck for Spring 2014: 24 March-18 April: Social Change, Culture, & Development in Africa (online).

Central Texas College CTC provides soldiers and their families with associate degree programs in many Vo-Tech career fields with both face-toface classes and online classes. In the Vilseck-Grafenwoehr community, there are currently 3 face-to-face programs running continuously year-round. For more, contact CTC field representative Chuck Sligh via email or DSN 476-2362, CIV 09662-83-2362, Rose Barracks Bldg 223.

School News Grafenwoehr Elementary School 4 March: Fasching Parade! From 1-2:30 p.m. The parade route winds through the streets on post all around Grafenwoehr Elementary School. There will be a band, local military and community leaders and tons of colorful fun costumes. Come out and cheer for the kids as they participate in this special Bavarian tradition.

POC is Frau Kean DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-83-7133.

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.

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 09641-836132. 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 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 22 Jan: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read a story to their child 23 Jan: Book Swap- please bring a book to swap, in the main entrance from 9-11 a.m.

24 Jan: NO SCHOOL-Teacher Work Day 27 Jan: Begin 3rd Quarter 28-29 Jan: School Spelling Bee, MPR 8:45 a.m. Competitors are from the grade 3-5 classroom spelling. Parents are invited to come. The winner will advance to the European Spelling Bee in Ramstein in March.

29 Jan: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read a story to their child.

6-7 Feb: Dental Health Screenings 13 Feb: "Mathapalooza" Math Night Thursday in the annex. Parents and children are invited to come in play math games, learn about math concepts and enjoy food provided by PTSA, 4-6 p.m.

14 Feb: No SCHOOL. CSI Day and Parent Conferences.

18 Feb: Award Ceremony grades 4 & 5. Parents are invited to take pictures of their child.

20 Feb: Lion’s Den, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Today’s topic is school-wide Terra Nova test.

20 Feb: Dining at the Ritz for selected grade 4 & 5 students in the MPR. Parents will receive an invitation.

24-27 Feb: Spring Pictures 1 Mar: RED HOT READERS’ MONTH BEGINS!! Get ready to dive into reading some good books.

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) 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 Important Phone Numbers Mon.‑Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.‑Fri. 8:25 a.m.‑2:35 p.m. CIV 09662‑83-2812 / 2673, DSN 476‑2812/2673

NetzabergndElementary School

23 Jan: End of 2 Quarter.

24 Jan: NO SCHOOL. Teacher Work Day. rd 27 Jan: Begin 3 Quarter.

31 Jan: Comic Con. MPR. 4:30-7:30 p.m.

14 Feb: NO SCHOOL. Parent/Teacher conferences.

17 Feb: NO SCHOOL. Presidents’ Day 28 Feb: School-wide Fasching parade; 1:15 p.m. parade begins.

3 March: Reading Night. 5:30-7 p.m. Main floor in school.

Comic Con: NES’ 1st ever Comic Con. MPR. 4:30-7:30 p.m. $5 entrance fee. Games, food, design your own comic book, balloon animals, and a short film from 6:-7:30 p.m.

Reading Night: Come dressed in your pajamas, have a muffin and hot cocoa, and listen to books. Every child will get a free book to take with them.

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.

Attendance: If your student is going to be late or absent, please email us at our new email address: NetzabergES.attendan@eu.dodea.edu OR call 09645-917-9184/9183, DSN 472-9184/9183 by 0830.

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 472-9185.

Check us out on Facebook here.

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

Netzaberg Middle School 23 Jan: Last Day of 2nd Quarter/1st Semester 24 Jan: No School for Students - Teacher Work Day 27 Jan: First Day of Quarter 3 3 Feb: Technology Committee Meeting – 3 p.m.

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

6 Feb: 8th Grade Semester Awards Assembly – 1:30 p.m. Gym 13 Feb: Winter Dance 3-6 p.m. MPR Are you PCSing soon? Please give Mrs. Ferdinand-Bessant a call so that she can assist you with your transition. DSN 472-9229, CIV 09645-917-9229, Option 3.

Student Absent? Please e-mail Mr.Chris Campbell at Willis.Campbell@eu.dodea.edu if your student is going to be absent from school. Call DSN 472-9229, CIV 09645-917-9229, Option 1. If a student is late, a parent/guardian must come to the office to sign them in.

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. Call DSN 472-9229, CIV 09645-917-9229, Option 5.

Find us on Facebook: Like our Facebook 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.

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

CIV 09645-917-9229 DSN 472-9229

Vilseck High School Now-23 Jan: Semester Exam Week 22 Jan: Auditions for the School Talent Show nd st 23 Jan: End of 2 Quarter / 1 Semester 24 Jan: No School for students Teacher workday 25 Jan: SAT Test rd nd 27 Jan: 3 Quarter / 2 Semester Begins 5-15 May: AP Exams Winter Sports Schedule: The schedule can be found on the front page of the Vilseck High School website at http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu nd SAC Committee: VHS SAC Committee meets every 2 Monday of each month while school is in session. Minutes of the previous meetings can be found on our school website at http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu/SAC.html.

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.

Questions: Feel free to call the school office for more information.

School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 8:10 a.m.-3 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.

Green Week Fair in Berlin Now-26 Jan: in 14055 Berlin, on the Messegelände (fair site), Messedamm 22. Open daily 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tickets (EN) cost € 13 pp, special fares available. The International Green Week (IGW, link in EN) is an international exhibition for the food, agricultural, and horticultural industries. Established in 1926, it will take place for the 77th time in 2013.

Presentations feature fresh produce, fish, meats, and dairy products. They combine with a vast selection of international wine, beer, and spirits specialties, to satisfy every culinary palate. Right in line with consumer trends, the IGW also includes direct agricultural sales and the BIO MARKT organic products section. The IGW also features commercial and non-commercial agricultural, forestry, and landscaping exhibits. Changing annual themes typically include such topics as renewable resources or scientific livestock breeding and production. You can easily purchase your tickets online.

Pub Festival: "Kneipenjagd"

25 Jan: 8 p.m., in 91541 Rothenburg, at various locals. Pub Festivals - which are held in nearly every city in Germany now - are a great opportunity to see many local bands without having to worry about admission. You buy ONE ticket and have access to all participating pubs. In Rothenburg, you can buy your tickets either at the respective pubs (either in advance or on the day of the festival), or at the Tourist Info, ph 09861-404-800. Tickets cost € 10 per person. Please click on this link to see the whole program; the link is only in GE but tells you the location, the time and the band. If the 14 bands still aren't enough, go to the After Show Party at the "Ballhaus Forum" where radio show host and DJ Jörg Ursprung will keep you on your feet from 11 p.m. on! Click for a map of car parks around the historic Altstadt.

Fasching events in Eschenbach 25 Jan: Fasching Party at the Eschenbach Rohrer-Saal, Marienplatz 13, sponsored by the Faschingsgesellschaft Eschenbach. Starts at 7:11 p.m.

22 Feb: Fasching Parade through Eschenbach, Marien-and Karlsplatz. Sponsored by the Faschingsgesellschaft Eschenbach. Starts at 1:30 p.m. After the parade, there will be Fasching parties in all the surrounding guesthouses at the marketplace.

More Fasching events!

25 Jan: Fasching Party at the Sorghof Wolfgangsheim, sponsored by the Sorghof Fire Department and Soldiers & Reserves Association. 8 p.m.

27 Jan: Fasching celebration in Töging, town center (part of 92345 Dietfurt, ca. 35 km / 22 miles SW of Hohenfels). After church, the "Schecken" come into action: wild gestalts with wooden masks, rough clothes, and scourges roam the streets.

They chase after the village kids who run away screaming, and smear their faces with soot when they catch them. Only the sound of the church bells will put a stop to this fun, but the party continues in the locales until the early morning hours.

1 Feb: Fasching Party at the Schlicht Turnhalle (Gymnasium), St. Georg Strasse 11, 92249 Vilseck. Sponsored by the Schlicht Soccer Club, 9 p.m.

15 Feb: Fasching Party in Vilseck, Mehrzweckhalle (community hall at the Volksschule, the German elementary school), Am Schnellweiher 2, 8 p.m.-3 a.m.

To learn more about Fasching…

Fasching in Germany Carneval is one of the oldest traditions celebrated, not only in Germany, but in many countries throughout the world. The Carneval period begins every year on the 11th day of November at 11 minutes after 11 and is celebrated continuously with parties, festive dinners, dancers and masquerade balls until Ash Wednesday, 5 March 2014.

It combines a number of old fertility rites and customs, which began even before Christianization, like driving out winter, fear of coldness and sickness. Also, we always tended to use the last days before a period of fasting to enjoy life once more to the fullest.

In Catholic Bavaria people call it Fasching. The word "Fasching" is assumed to be a derivation of the Middle High German Fastschank, the last drink served before Lent.

Historically, during Fasching the lower classes were allowed to wear costumes and masks and to mimic aristocracy and heads of the church and state without fear of retribution for mockery.

Big pageants with costumed marchers and masked dancers and floats explode in Cologne, Duesseldorf and Mainz, where it is almost a civic duty to join the fun on Shrove Tuesday.

The Thursday before Ash Wednesday is Weiberfasching, where women symbolically take over the lead (etc. town halls.)

They are allowed to cut the men`s ties and we suggest to take it good-humoredly and not to wear your most expensive tie.

Traditions vary, but two things are always present: Noise and mask.

Carneval is celebrated everywhere. Everybody is in a good mood, a lot of fun, paper streamers, garlands, confetti and of course a lot of beer. Fasching is a time when people don`t take everything serious and have a lot of fun. In other words, it’s party time!

Country Music Concert – Songwriters in the round

31 Jan: Country music lovers come enjoy American artists at this concert. Ray Scott (Nashville, USA) and Michael Lonstar. Show starts at 8:30 p.m., doors open at 7:30 p.m. At the “Treffpunkt zum Hans,” Egerlaender Strasse 394, Warmensteinach. Tickets 9 Euro (pre-sale) or 12 Euro at the door. Tickets and Info: 09277/1401 Tourist-Information Warmensteinach or on Facebook.

Today is Super Bowl Sunday!!

2 Feb: Kickoff is at 6:25 p.m. EST, which means 12:25 a.m. here.

Street Market: Lichtmess-Jahrmarkt 2 Feb: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., in 92318 Neumarkt, Volksfestplatz, Festplatz 1 (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of Hohenfels).

Swim and Fun for Children 7 Feb: 4 - 6 p.m., in 92318 Neumarkt, at the Hallenbad (indoor pool), Mühlstraße 42 (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of Hohenfels). A car park is on site. The life guards have organized a fun-filled party with music and games, specifically aimed at children and juveniles. To ensure a safe time, the pool will be blocked for adults - only children are allowed!

Parents can watch their kids from the Cafeteria. Entry is € 2 per child.

Off-post movies in English Want to see a movie that’s not playing on post? Two movie theaters in Nuremberg play films in OV (original version), which for American movies, means in English. Check out the Roxy, a small theater with only two screens, or Cinecitta, a larger theater with some films playing in OV.

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 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 09133-768-7819; 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.