Weekly Newsletter

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

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

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

2 January 2013

Getting help is a sign of strength.

Sexual Assault Hotline: DSN 4763217, CIV 09662-833217 or DSN 4754567, CIV 09641-834567 Domestic Violence Hotline: DSN 4763218, CIV 09662-833218 Suicide Prevention Hotline: DSN 118, CIV 09641-83-118

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

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

SHARP Hotline For Bavaria and Franconia, the SHARP hotline for sexual assault and harassment is DSN 475-4567, CIV 09641-83-4567 or DSN 476-3217, CIV 09662-83-3217. The hotline is open 24/7 on and off post.

AAFES limited alcohol sales 3 Feb: Just a reminder that starting at 2 a.m. on 3 Feb, AAFES will not sell alcohol between the hours of 2-7 a.m.

Bavarian News online Head to BavarianNews.com to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Check out this week’s stories: Speaking out: Soldiers of the Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe voice concerns over housing and employment. Complex Krakow: Poland’s second city offers history, fun and affordability to visitors. Sergeants turned Santa: Members of the Audie Murphy Club travel to Poland to bring gifts to orphans. Standing tall: Soldiers in the Sergeant Morales Club test the mettle of Junior ROTC members in Vliseck. Battery bind: More and more, children are swallowing and inserting button cell batteries.

DoD Enterprise Email automatic deletion As of 20 Dec: DoD Enterprise Email will institute a policy to automatically delete messages that are 60 days or older in Deleted Items and Junk E-mail folders. The automatic deletion date is based on the date the message was placed in the Deleted Items or Junk E-mail folders, not the date of receipt. Users are encouraged to regularly move messages to personal folders or their general mailbox to avoid the automatic 60 day deletion.

USAG Grafenwoehr recycling and sorting holiday hours Rose Barracks Family Housing waste pickup schedule: 2 Jan: Refuse and plastic 3 Jan: Paper Rose Barracks Recycling Center open on: 3 Jan: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

5 Jan: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Grafenwoehr Recycling Center open on: Mon – Fri: 8 a.m. noon.

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 12:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

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

Community Christmas tree disposal Rose Barracks on post 8 Jan: DPW will collect trees from curbside at on-post housing areas. Throughout the season, trees from admin and common areas, barracks and housing, may be brought to the Green Waste Collection Point across from the DPW Self Help Store free of charge. Americans living off post may bring their trees too.

Vilseck off post Trees can be brought to the local community Recycling Yards (Wertstoffhof) during routine opening hours free of charge.

This applies to all local communities within Amberg-Sulzbach county.

Grafenwoehr on post 4 Jan: Bring your tree to the nearest recycling point no later than 7:30 a.m. Americans living off post can also bring their trees free of charge to the DPW’s Compost Yard across from wash rack 10.

Grafenwoehr Off-Post (Netzaberg, City of Grafenwoehr, City of Eschenbach) 12 Jan: Local youth organizations will do curbside pickup on trees marked with a disposal sticker.

All banks in the in the in their respective City are selling disposal tickets for 1,50 € - 2,00 €.

Trees have to be out at the curb no later than 8 a.m. on 12 Jan. Please remove all decorations.

Request for return of USPS flat tubs USPS will spend more than $120 million this fiscal year to replace missing and damaged empty equipment. The Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers request that all USPS flat tubs be returned to your respective Postal Service Center. If anyone sees them being used for purposes other than the transport of mail, remind the person that the maximum penalty for theft or misuse of postal property is a $1000 fine and 3 years imprisonment (18 USC 1707) or report the incident to your local PSC management with information that will assist in correcting the situation. For any further questions please email Main Post or Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers or call DSN 475-6333, CIV 09641-836333 or DSN 476-2581, CIV 09662-83-2581. You can also like us on Facebook (Main Post / Rose Barracks) for up-todate information.

Estate Claim Anyone have an claims or obligation to the to the estate of SPC Bernard Hill Jr., of the 15TH Engineer Battalion, should contact the Summary Court Officer, 1ST Lieutenant Victor A. Mathis at DSN 353-8962, CIV 9721-96-8962. The statement is an Estate Claim for a Soldier who died in our community and per Army regulation an Estate Claim statement needs to be publicly posted to allow people who may have a claim to contact the Summary Court Officer. The statement is not an advertisement.

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

TKS service outages Through 15 Jan: TKS has scheduled a series of power outages on post through mid-January. If anyone experiences an outage that lasts more than two hours, call the 24-hour TKS Customer Service Hotline at 01804-857-762.

Mandatory Security Awareness Training Quarterly Community Security Awareness Training for Threat Awareness and Reporting Program (TARP), Security Education Training Awareness (SETA), Operation Security (OPSEC), and Anti-terrorism Level 1 Refresher Training, will be held the last week of January on Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks for all Civilian and Local National 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.

30 Jan: Grafenwoehr Tower Theater, Bldg. 620. US personnel: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Local National employees: 1:30-2:30 p.m.

31 Jan: Rose Barracks, Post Theater, Bldg. 354. Local National employees: 10:30-11:30 a.m., US personnel: 1:30-4 p.m.

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

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

action is Mr. Theo Arnold, TMP Branch Chief, DSN 475-6347, CIV 09641-83-6347 or Theodor.a.arnold.ln@mail.mil.

Holiday Season Bus Operating Hours During the holiday season, bus services on the following days will be reduced: Through 4 Jan. No Main Post loop G-0 (work shuttle) We appreciate your understanding. POC for this action is Mr. Theo Arnold, DSN 475-6347, CIV 09641-83-6347 or Theodor.a.arnold.ln@mail.mil.

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

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

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

Suicide Prevention Awareness Call the suicide prevention hotline number at DSN 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 09662-83114, Sexual Assault Hotline 09641-83-4567 or 09662-83-3218 and Emergency Services 09641-83117.

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

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

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

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

Army Volunteer Corps 9-10 Jan: Army Family Team Building, Level 1, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221, Rm 206.

14 Jan: Organizational Point of Contact & Volunteer Management Class, 9 a.m. – 11 a.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.

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

16 Jan: EFMP 101, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

23 Jan: Cooking Gluten Free Meals, 3 - 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks Chapel, Bldg 218 1 Feb: Respite Care Provider Training, 3 - 4:30 p.m., East Post, Bldg 244, Rm 219 5 Feb: FRSA and FRG Key Personnel Brief on EFMP, 3 - 4:30 p.m., East Post, Bldg 244 Rm 219.

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

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

7 Jan – 7 Feb: Strengthening the Hearts Within, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., East Post, Chapel Annex (Sessions that meet on Thursdays) 8-10 Jan: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m. East Camp, Army Lodging 8, 15, 22, 29 Jan, 5 Feb: Love & Logic, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., East Post, Chapel Annex 10 Jan: It Takes Two, 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, MPR, Bldg 134 10 Jan: 24/7 Dad, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., East Camp, Chapel Annex 17 Jan: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Rose Barracks, Kristall Inn, Bldg 275

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

8 Jan: Money Habits (Workshop), 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., East Post, USO, Bldg 150 9 Jan: Debt Blasters! 12 p.m. - 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

15 Jan: Lunch & Learn, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., East Post, DFAC 16 Jan: Better Than A Budget, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, MPR, Bldg 134 22 Jan: TSP the Roth Component, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., East Post, USO, Bldg 150 23 Jan: TSP the Roth Component, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, MPR, Bldg 134

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

New Parent Support Program 8 Jan – 5 Feb: Infant Massage, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 8, 15, 22, 29 Jan: Body Back!, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 11 Jan – 15 Feb: Great Expectations, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322. (6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings) 11 Jan – 15 Feb: Healthy Feedings, 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322.

25 Jan: ABC’s of Toddlerhood, 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322

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

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

Prenatal Yoga

Every Friday: Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg 221, 9 – 10 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 221, 2nd floor dance studio

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

Hospital Tours

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

Every 4th Wednesday: Visit Sulzbach-Rosenberg Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Sulzbach-Rosenberg hospital lobby.

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

Relocation Readiness 10 Jan: Arm Yourself With Claims Knowledge, Successful PCS Moves 101, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 16 Jan: Civilian Sponsorship Training, 1-2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 16 Jan: Military Sponsorship (Train the Trainer), 2p.m. - 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 16 Jan: Immigration Workshop, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 17 Jan: Bavarian Nights, Evening Newcomers Orientation, 5 p.m. - 9 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan 6, 13, 20 Feb: German As A Second Language, Level II, 11a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 Every Tuesday: English As A Second Language, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., East Post, Chapel Annex Every Thursday: English As A Second Language, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

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

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

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

Manchu Wok opening delay Grafenwoehr’s New Manchu Wok opening has been delayed until late January or early February due to construction issues. The Exchange is sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Attention volunteers! The Girl Scouts are looking for leaders and co-leaders and management team members. For those who have a skill but can't make a full-time commitment, the Scouts are always looking for subject matter expert in

all fields. Knitting, auto mechanics and maintenance, culinary arts, art, science, technology, mathematics, languages... just donating 3 hours of your time to offer a course to our girls can change their lives. For more information about registering your daughter or volunteering, email or check out the Facebook page.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course 9-10 Jan & 26 Jan: The course on 9-10 Jan is 5:30-8:30 p.m. and the course on 26 Jan is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Rose Barracks Bldg. 162. Registration is required. Go to https://classes.redcross.org/Saba/Web/Main to register. Cost is $55. For more, Rose Barracks Red Cross CIV 09662-83-1760 DSN 476-1760, Main Post Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 475-1760.

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

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

Rose Barracks listings, here.

GPAC Twilight of the Golds GPAC is still looking for someone to fill one male role in their spring drama, “The Twilight of the Gold’s.” Anyone interested can send an email to Rebekah Madden.

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

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

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

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

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

Bayern Rangers hockey team recruiting more players The Bayern Rangers, the community hockey team, is off to a rocking start this season. The team is still recruiting new players for practices and scrimmages against local German teams. The Rangers will attend the annual U.S. Air Forces in Europe military ice hockey championships at the Olympic stadium in Garmisch, 14-16 Feb. For those interested, here are the upcoming Bayern Rangers' ice times at the EVW Eisstadion, Dr. Martin Luther Strasse 3, 92637 Weiden: 9 Jan: 8-9:30 p.m. ; 16 Jan: 9:15-10:45 p.m.; 23 Jan: 8-9:30 p.m.; 30 Jan: 9:15-10:45 p.m.

Trip to Prague 6 Jan: See the Golden City of Europe. The 2-hour walking tour with a local guide takes you through the historic part of town to see the Astronomical Clock, the Charles Bridge and other famous sights. Most of the roads are cobblestone, so please wear comfortable shoes. Free time for lunch, shopping, museums, castle and cathedral will be in the afternoon. A passport is needed. Departs Rose Barracks at 5 a.m. and Grafenwoehr at 5:30 a.m. $59 per adult, $49 per child (3-12), $10 per child under 3. The estimated time of return is 9 p.m. To sign up, call Leisure Travel Services, DSN 475-7402, CIV 09641-83-7402.

Munich New Pinakothek and Old Pinakothek 6 Jan: Discover the classic art of the German and Holland schools in the Alte Pinakothek and be fascinated by the modern art across the street at the Neue Pinakothek . Transportation with entrance fees to both museums and a 1.5 hour English guided tour of the Old Pinakothek is included. Depart Rose Barracks at 7 a.m. and Grafenwoehr at 7:30 a.m. $59 per adult, $49 per child (3-12), $10 per child under 3. The estimated time of return is 8 p.m. To sign up, call Leisure Travel Services, DSN 475-7402, CIV 09641-83-7402.

BOSS Warrior Adventure Quest- Cross Country Skiing 9 Jan: Are you in the mood for a little adventure? Try Cross Country Skiing. Cross country skiing is an awesome workout and the trip follows a scenic route in Silber Huette. Participants must get fitted for ski equipment at Rose Barracks Outdoor Recreation prior to the trip. $35 per person. To sign up, call BOSS and ODR at DSN 475-8822, CIV 09641-838822.

Scrapbooking 9 Jan: Those interested in creating scrapbooks and will love a place to meet others and learn new ideas and techniques.

9 - 11 a.m. at the Heart & Home Craft Shop, Bldg. 607. For more, call DSN 475-6101, CIV 09641-83-6101

Kids Classes 9 Jan: We’re teaching children ages 7-10 new and exciting things in the arts. Each class will do something different.

3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Heart & Home Craft Shop, Bldg. 607. For more, call DSN 475-6101, CIV 09641-83-6101.

Seafood Night 11 Jan: Fried or blacken shrimp, catfish, flounder or tilapia seafood platter will be served. The seafood comes with a variety of side choices. 5-9 p.m. Patton Fireside Lounge. Patton Fireside Lounge, DSN 475-6200, CIV 09641-83-6200

Fitness Day 12 Jan: Free fitness classes, massages, fitness assessments, equipment orientation and much more! Our professional fitness staff can assist you with your New Year’s resolution and fitness goals. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Grafenwoehr Physical Fitness Center. For more, call DSN 475-8207, CIV 09641-83-8207

Dachau & The Munich National Museum 13 Jan: Tour the historic Dachau Concentration Camp memorial site. The main camp comprised of the actual prisoners' camp, the SS area as well as various subsidiary camps, such as the so-called plantation, the shooting range at Hebertshausen, and the burial grounds for concentration camp prisoners. We will then go into Munich for the Munich National Museum, the largest technological museum in the world. It offers hands-on exploration of German science and technology. $49 per adult, $39 per child (3 – 12), $10 per child under 3. Museum entry is 8.50 euro per adult. Departs

Rose Barracks at 6:30 a.m. and Grafenwoehr at 7 a.m. The estimated time of return is 8 p.m. To sign up, call Leisure Travel Services, DSN 475-7402, CIV 09641-83-7402.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Facility & Road/Openings/Construction/Closures Finance office and Cash Cage holiday hours Through 4 Jan: 9 a.m. – noon, Mon-Fri. Grafenwoehr Bldgs. 244 & 536.

Vilseck Commissary holiday hours 2 Jan: Closed

Grafenwoehr and Vilseck Health Clinic delay hours In the event of a 2-hour work delay due to inclement weather, the health clinic will open at 9 a.m. The health clinic will open at 11 a.m. during a 4 hour work delay. For an early release due to inclement weather, the clinic will close at the time of the early release and staff will re-schedule appointments with patients. Please ensure your contact information is up-todate by visiting https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/address/login/SelectLogin.do

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

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

Tuesday services at Friedenskirche: 7 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday services at Josefs Kirche: 7 p.m.

Saturday services at Josefs Kirche: 5 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Adult Education / Training FAST Class Grafenwoehr Registration for the upcoming FAST Classes at the East Camp Grafenwoehr Education Center begins on 2 Jan. Class dates are 4-14 Feb & 25 Feb-8 Mar. Classes will be held at Bldg 538. 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. These classes are 60-hour long courses and are limited to twenty students per class. For more information please contact the Grafenwoehr Education Center at DSN 475-6219/6786 or the Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292.

FAST Class Rose Barracks 7-17 Jan: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Functional Academic Skills Training (FAST) provides Soldiers with instruction in reading, mathematics, and language skills and is an excellent tool to prepare Soldiers to raise their GT score. This class is a 60-hour long course and is limited to twenty students. For more information please contact Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292 or Grafenwoehr Education Center at DSN 475-6219/6786.

Vilseck National Test Center University of Maryland University College Europe *New Hours of Operation currently effective: M,W,F 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; T,TH 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.* Test your way to success! Take your CLEP, DSST, GMAT and Pearson Vue exams at the National Test Center (NTC) on Rose Barracks, Vilseck. You can earn college credits quickly and affordably. University of Maryland University College Europe, in Vilseck (Rose Barracks),offers computer-based, on-site testing services to military and eligible civilians, making it easy to earn certifications, fulfill general education requirements, and get the credit you deserve! Free study resources areavailable at www.myarmyonesource.com, www.militaryonesource.com and installation libraries. For more information email: sanderson@europe.umuc.edu or call DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-834262.

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

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

University of Phoenix University of Phoenix is honored to serve military service members stationed in Europe by offering both MBA and Master of Arts in Education degree programs at several on-base locations near you. Classes meet one night a week. If you’re interested in developing managerial skills necessary to be effective in a rapid changing environment than the MBA program is for you. Face to face classes are one night a week in Vilseck from 5:30-9:30pm. Get started today by visiting www.phoenix.edu/militaryeurope or by calling, Fe Gehrels at DSN 475-6712 or CIV 09641-83-6712.

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

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

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

School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.‑ Fri. 8:15 a.m.‑2:35 p.m. DSN 475‑7133, CIV 09641‑837133

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

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

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

How does it work? Parent submits the Child Find questionnaire (which they can pick up in the office or find on the school website); they are set up with an appointment for the screening. When they come in for the screening the child must first

pass a vision and hearing screen by our school nurse. Then they are screened by the team. If the child is suspected of having any delays the team will refer them for further formal evaluation.

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

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

Under that link is a questionnaire they need to fill out and email back to the email address provided on the form. Someone will be in contact with them within 48 hours. If they do not hear back please contact the school at 09662 832812 and let them know what happened. (Just in case the email was rejected as SPAM) Audrey Reader Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities VES Teacher/Provider Attendance E-Mail It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the school when their child will be absent. If your child will be absent, please call DSN 476-2973 or 09662-83-2973. You can also e-mail the attendance clerk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check us out on Facebook here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office; DSN 472-9254, CIV 09645-917-9254 Lunch Accounts: To use the online service you will need to set up an account at http://www.mealpayplus.com/. If you are new to the area you will need to open a Horizon account at the PX or the school cafeteria. All lunch concerns need to be addressed to AAFES. You can also logon to set up your child’s account. Please remember, applying for free and reduced‐price lunches is an annual process. To apply, you can take a current copy of the sponsor’s LES and the spouse’s pay stub (if employed) to CYSS Parent Central Services. Applications are available at CYSS Parent Central Services Rose Barracks, Bldg 224, East Camp (Grafenwoehr), Bldg 539, CYSS Fitness Zone East Camp (Grafenwoehr), Bldg.547, and local school .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming Bavarian Ski Club trips Come join the Bavarian Ski Club for skiing and snowboarding in the Alps. We are traveling to Kitzbuehel, Austria 1-3 Feb. and Kronplatz / Sella Ronda, Italy 17-20 Feb. Visit our website or send us an email at for more information. We meet on the first and

third Tuesday each month at the Alte Post in Freihung at 6 p.m. Come join us for free pizza and to learn more about the club.

Grand Annual Art Exhibit by Amberger artists Through 6 Jan: in Amberg, at the "Alte Feuerwache" gallery inside the Stadtmuseum (city museum), Zeughausstraße 18. Tue. - Fri. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sat., Sun. and German holidays: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays. ph 0962-110-284.

Free entry! Best free parking lots at "Auf der Wiesen", the car park behind the Hotel Arcadia and the Kurfürstenbad (indoor swimming pool); the other one is the park block opposite Sulzbacher Straße 5. Both parking areas are a small walking distance from Amberg's city center.

Winter Market in Volkach Through 6 Jan: in 97332 Volkach, Marktplatz, market square (ca. 17 km / 11 miles north of Kitzingen). Open daily 4 9 p.m., Sundays and holidays: 3 - 9 p.m. Free entry.

For those who haven’t had their fill of Christmas markets yet, you can enjoy Glühwein, live music and lots of entertainment. The program (in GE): 1 Jan:3 - 5 p.m. On horse-drawn carriages through the Altstadt. 3 - 7 p.m. Watch ice-sculptures in-the-making. 6 - 8 p.m.: New Year's concert with the Stadtkapelle Volkach: 2 Jan: 4 p.m. Have a try on some magic tricks, with the "Zaubertheater Augenblick". 5 - 8 p.m. Country & Western evening with the "Daniel T. Coates Band"; 3 Jan: 5 - 8 p.m. Mediterranean party with "Frutti di Mare" 6 p.m: "Games without Frontiers" competition by local sports clubs; 4 Jan: 5 - 8 p.m. Après-Ski Party with "Die Würzbuam"; 5 Jan: Family Day at the "Winterzauber" party. 4 p.m. Jugglery and fun with the "Duo Feuerzirkus". 5 - 8 p.m. Music: Oldies, German Schlager and Italian Pop with "Die Cavallinis". 7 p.m. Fire show "Relight my fire". 6 Jan: 3 - 5 p.m. On horse-drawn carriages through the Altstadt. 5 - 8 p.m.

Rock and Pop unplugged with "Akustica Unplugged". 7 p.m. fireworks.

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

Traumfabrik show of illusion, dance and comedy – Weiden 3 & 4 Jan: in 92637 Weiden, at the Max-Reger-Halle, Dr.-Pfleger-Straße 17, ph 0961-48080.

The Traumfabrik is a fascinating 2-hour show that mixes artistry, illusion, music, dance, comedy and magic. Have a look on their YouTube channel to find out more (mute sound if you don't speak German).

Performances take place on Thursday at 8 p.m., and Friday at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets can be bought online (click on the preferred date and time, highlighted in brown), or by calling 0961-85-550. Please buy your tickets in advance; the shows sell out fast so there may not be any tickets left at the evening counter.

Click for a map of suggested car parks.

Qudrantids meteor shower 3 & 4 Jan: Peak nights for the Quadrantids meteor shower. It produces around 40 meteors per hour at its peak. You can see them best from a dark location after midnight, look towards the constellation Bootes. Viewing might be a little difficult this year due to the brightness of the waning Moon. Viewing tips.

First Friday New Year party 4 Jan: For Grown Folks Friday (25 years and older) DK’s Club Lounge is hosting a First Friday New Year party with DJ Absolute, DJ AL B. and On the 1’s and 2’s. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. 5 euro entrance. Dress to impress and drink specials all night.

Am Waldbad 4, Grafenwoehr. Near Megaplay.

Antique and Art Fair 4-6 Jan: 90478 Nürnberg, at the Meistersingerhalle, Münchener Straße 21, ph 0911-231-8000. The fair will showcase exquisite antiques and works of art. Admission is 6 euros for adults, children are free. Opening hours: Friday 4 - 8 p.m.

Saturday 1 - 7 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. The organizer can be reached at ph 0171-505-1009.

Traumfabrik show of illusion, dance and comedy - Amberg 5 & 6 Jan: in 92224 Amberg, in the Amberg Congress Center (ACC) at Schießstätteweg 8, ph 09621-49-000. This is next to the indoor swimming pool and the large car park. The Traumfabrik is a fascinating 2-hour show that mixes artistry, illusion, music, dance, comedy and magic. Have a look on their YouTube channel to find out more (mute sound if you don't speak German). Performances take place on Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets can be bought online (click on the preferred date and time, highlighted in brown), or by calling 0961-85-550. Please buy your tickets in advance; the shows sell out fast so there may not be any tickets left at the evening counter. Best free parking lots (click for map): at "Auf der Wiesen", the car park behind the Hotel Arcadia and the Kurfürstenbad (indoor swimming pool); this car park is adjacent to the ACC.

Hornschlitten Sledge Race and warm up 5 Jan: in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Partenkirchen subdivision, on Kirchplatz at Ludwigstraße 46. A tradition since the 1970s, the Hornschlitten race challenges courageous men and women to take the death-defying ride down the hill from the Partnachalm (mountain inn) all the way to the club cottage of the Hornschlitten Association (Wildenau 3). Saturday is the fun warm-up race before the real deal on Sunday. Program for Saturday: 4 p.m. Team registration. 4:30 p.m.: Start of the race for kids. 5 p.m. Preliminary rounds for adults. 6 p.m. Final of the ten best teams. 7 p.m. Awards ceremony and party. Further details can be found on their Homepage (only GE but with great photos).

Winter Swimming in the Vils River 6 Dec: 2 - 3 p.m., in 92256 Hahnbach, bridge over the Vils (ca. 12 km / 7.5 miles south of Vilseck). Over 70 life guards from all of Bavaria plunge into the icy Vils—about 4°C / 39 °F— to prove their readiness and commitment to their jobs.

Epiphany 6 Dec: Today is Epiphany, the Day of the Three Kings, or the last day of Christmas for some. If children come to your door dressed as kings and carolling, give them some money or sweets. The money is traditionally donated to those less fortunate.

Nutcracker ballet in Weiden 8 Jan: 8 p.m. Weiden, at the Max-Reger-Halle, Dr.-Pfleger-Straße 17, ph 0961-48080.The world-famous ballet will be performed by the Russian National Ballet from Moscow. Tickets can be bought in advance from newspaper "Der Neue Tag" ticket service, ph 0961-85550, or newspaper "Amberger Zeitung" ticket service 09621-306-230.

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

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

Admission is only 6 Euros per person.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are tours in German which start at 6 p.m., and also in English, starting at 7 p.m. If you click in the link and scroll down, you can watch a 5-minute promo clip for the executioner's tour (in English but with a lovely Franconian accent). The clip shows some interesting hidden places that you normally don't get to see.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every Friday 7 p.m.

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

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

Every Monday 7 p.m.

Bowling at the Grafenwoehr Bowling Center.

Every Wednesday 7 p.m.

Stammtisch at the Clubhouse.