3july2013

RGmail.c1

3 July 2013

u.S. army garrison–Tower Barracks/ Rose Barracks

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

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

Come join us for the Fourth of July on the Tower Barracks Parade Field, 7-11 p.m. All ID card and installation pass holders are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, picnics and games.

Fireworks will start at approx. 10:30 p.m. Before the festivities on the parade field, head to the BOSS Car & Bike Show at the Commissary/PX Overflow lot, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Click on a section to go straight to its page: ACS / Adult Education & Training / Community Highlights / Exchange News / Facility & Road Openings, Closures, Construction / Furloughs / 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 Grafenwoehr 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/USAGG?ref=tn_tnmn.

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

Stories this week include: Softball. After an undefeated season, The Bavaria Military Community softball team is headed to Italy for the Regional Little League tournament, July 10. (Note: This story will be available 5 July) Fourth fun.

Community members converge on Tower Barracks to celebrate Independence Day. Summer precaut-sun. Although this summer has been tame in Germany, too much sun can adversely affect your health. Holding court. A 12th Combat Aviation Brigade Soldier is fined $5,000 for fraud and larceny. TKS goes digital. TKS upgrades may affect single Soldiers living in on-post barracks in Grafenwoehr and Vilseck this month.

Dental Clinic no longer accepting family members The Tower Barracks Dental Clinic will no longer be accepting appointments for family members. This is due to the implementation of the Army's "Go First Class" initiative which requires us to focus treatment solely on active duty members. Family members can still be treated in emergency situations where we will provide temporary treatment to relieve discomfort. We will not be able to provide definitive or permanent treatment. Family members will be referred "offpost" for permanent or definitive treatment. Children's or Pedodontics specialty treatment and Orthodontic specialty treatment will not be affected.

*NEW* Go Green Newsletter The Go Green Newsletter is out again! Click here to browse pictures of Earth Day, get updates on how to dispose of common household hazardous waste, learn how to avoid and deal with ticks and check out local nature trails and gardens. The Go Green Newsletter can also be found on the Grafenwoehr webpage.

Temporary Early Retirement directive Thinking about temporary early retirement as a discretionary measure? See if you’re eligible here.

Giant Voice system testing Starting in July, the garrison will conduct a monthly test of its Giant Voice system. This system is used to warn installation personnel of an incident on post and provides immediate action information.

The Tower Barracks test will occur on the first Saturday of each month at noon, and the Rose Barracks test will occur on the first Wednesday at 2 p.m.; these times fall in line with the towns of Grafenwoehr and Vilseck, respectively. The test will be the same for both locations -- a 5-7 second siren followed by a message stating that this was only a test. No action is required from the community.

Fourth of July celebration 4 July: Gear up for fireworks at this year’s Fourth of July celebration in USAG Grafenwoehr. All ID card and installation pass holders are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, picnics and games to the Tower Barracks parade field from 7-11 p.m.

Groups and organizations will have tents and booths set up around the field. Fireworks will start at approx. 10:30 p.m.

Due to budget cuts, the celebration this year will have fewer activities than previous years and there will be no personal BBQs allowed on the parade field. And, if you decide to bring pets, they must be leashed the entire time.

Freecycle Center offers more operating hours Starting 6 July: The Freecycle Center in Tower Barracks, Bldg. 441 will now also be open the first Saturday of every month. Hours are: Tuesdays & the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Reusable items, such as toys, sports equipment, appliances, electronics, furniture, clothes, etc. can be picked up free of charge. Donations of reusable items can be dropped off 24/7 in a yellow shack at the recycling yard outside the facility. It is equipped with a sign reading “Freecycle Bin”. Help to reduce our waste disposal cost – do not dispose of reusable items in the trash bin, donate them to the Free-Cycle Center for redistribution.

Inspection of homes in Netzaberg 8 July: Mandatory warranty inspections will be conducted by Firma Zapf of exterior elements to all homes in the Netzaberg area. Items that will be inspected include: Exterior house walls, fences, yards, gutters, bushes and playgrounds. There will be no need for contractors to access your homes; all inspections will be performed outside. These inspections will be conducted on 24 June, 1 July, and 8 July from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Please ensure pets are secure during the posted times to prevent any incidents. Please call the Housing Division at CIV 09641- 83-6999 if you have any questions. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Ammunition Amnesty Day 9 July: The garrison ammunition supply point (ASP #1) will conduct its quarterly amnesty day for the military community and surrounding areas from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Any community member with unauthorized ammunition or explosives can come to the ASP #1 to turn them in, absolutely no questions asked. Just show up at the ASP Gate, notify the guards that you have amnesty items and they will escort you to the turn-in point. For more, call DSN 476-3007, CIV 09662-83-3007.

Consulate Outreach Day 11 July: The U.S. Consulate General Frankfurt will come to USAG Grafenwoehr to process passport application, reports of birth abroad and visa application. Please be advised that representatives from the Social Security Administration will not be on hand. You MUST book an appointment in advance. For newborn appointments, email FrankfutPassports@state.gov with the subject line reading “Grafenwoehr Outreach.” For all other appointments, call the Grafenwoehr Passport Office at CIV 09641-83-8699, DSN 475-8699. All appointment will be in Tower Barracks, Bldg. 244.

Community Huddle 25 July: The Community Huddle is a bi-monthly, Town Hall style meeting, hosted by Garrison Commander COL James Saenz, for all community members to ask questions to civilian and military leadership and to find out the latest information on programs, events, construction, and other important issues happening in the community. The next Community Huddle will be in the Rose Barracks Multipurpose Center on Thursday, 25 July, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Normal schedule for Rose-Tower Barracks route 9 Aug: Bus route #G1, Rose Barracks to Tower Barracks "Direct Run," will operate on its normal schedule.

There will be no Housing Area Community Bus Support on 9 Aug.

Sponsorship key to readiness and resiliency Every Soldier or DA civilian undergoing a PCS must be assigned a sponsor. But, assigning a sponsor is only the first step – the quality of the sponsorship program rest solely on the shoulders of sponsors. All sponsors must do their best to welcome their newcomer and make them feel at home. Remember that it is extremely important to stay in touch with new community members before, during, and after arrival. Sponsors should answer questions, and if they need help, they can ask ACS, the unit sponsorship coordinator or contact the Garrison Sponsorship Liaison. Training is available for Soldiers, spouses and DA civilians at Rose Barracks, Bldg. 322. For more on training dates/availability at please call, DSN 476-2650 or CIV 09662-83-2650.

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.

Furloughs Furlough information The mandatory furloughs are upon us! Please expect delays across the garrison due to full furlough days (Monday for the Tower Barracks Commissary, Friday for most other organizations) and mandatory 32 hour work weeks for all Department of the Army Civilians, from 8 July-30 Sept.

Commissaries: The Tower Barracks Commissary will be closed due to furloughs every Monday from 8 July-30 Sept.

Because the Rose Barracks commissary has enough local national workforce, it will remain open during the furlough period. The Rose Barracks commissary will continue to remain closed on Wednesdays.

ACS: The Tower Barracks ACS satellite will be closed during Furlough Fridays. Also, ACS will offer limited classes and briefings; after duty classes will suffer the most. There will be no Lending Closet, FAX, Army Emergency Relief services on Fridays. If you should need immediate assistance from your Tower Barracks Army Community Service on Furlough Fridays, please visit our Rose Barracks site in Bldg. 322 or call DSN 476-2650, CIV 09662-83-2650.

DoDDS-Europe: Because of their employment schedule, teachers will be furloughed for no more than five days during the school year; during those furlough days, all schools will be closed. The furlough days are 30 Aug, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Sept.

Military Personnel Division: Passport applications, all actions that require five days to process, PCS/TCS and In/Out processing. There will be no passport services on Fridays.

Army Substance Abuse Program: Referrals on all clinical cases, clinical treatment and rehabilitation, drug testing specimen collection and Unit Risk Assessment.

Prevention Training will also be delayed and will most likely stop until new employees can be hired.

Postal Services Centers: The Tower Barracks and Rose Barracks post offices will be closed on Fridays. The community will be unable to send or pick up mail or packages. Official Mail and Distribution Centers will be close on Fridays. Mission Partner Organizations and other entities will be unable to send or pick-up official mail. Printing and Freedom of Information Acts will not be impacted.

Department of Logistics: During the furlough period, there will be minor impacts for requisition processing through GFEBS for certain L1 and L3 requirements for the garrison.

Any organization not mentioned will keep their normal operating hours. For contact information, please reference the phonebook on the garrison webpage.

You can also find this information on the garrison webpage at http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/furlough.asp

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

ACS is now on Facebook and Twitter (Follow GRAF ACS) or email usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcomeurope.mbx.acs@mail.mil for info.

Army Volunteer Corps 9 -11 July: Army Family Team Building (AFTB), Level 3, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 221 15 July: Organizational Point of Contact (OPOC) Training, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221

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.

9 July: USA Jobs, 10 a.m. – Noon, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 16 July: Dress For Less, 10 a.m. – Noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 30 July: Career Fairs 101, Interview Prep, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

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

3 July: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bowling Center 24 July: Gluten Free Made Easy With EFMP, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Chapel Annex

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

11 July: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Tower Barracks Army Lodging

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

10 July: Brown Bag Investment Club, 1:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness

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10 July: FRG Basic Course, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tower Barracks, 709 MP Conference Rm, Bldg 531 17 July: Resilience Training Module 1, 8 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

New Parent Support Program Through 16 July: Great Expectations, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322. (6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings) Play Groups Every Tuesday: Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex, 9:30 – 11 a.m.

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

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

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

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

Relocation Readiness 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.

Exchange News Exchange offers Independence Day fuel savings Through 4 July: Anyone who uses their Military StarTM Card through 4 July in Tower Barracks, Rose Barracks and Hohenfels will save 10 cents per gallon.

Vera Bradley event at the Tower Barracks Main Store 9 July: Join us at the Tower Barracks Main Store 11 a.m.-3 p.m. as special guest Joan Reedy, daughter of Vera Bradley will entertain you with personal anecdotes about Vera Bradley history, designs and the remarkable woman behind it all.

Bring your oldest Vera Bradley item and oldest pattern wins a prize.

Exchange AFN Decoders credit AFN Europe is eliminating one of its two satellite transponders in order to reduce redundancy and overall operating cost.

In preparation for AFN migrating to an upgraded digital signal, viewers should not purchase or lease any decoder that is not the newest model, the CISCO D9865. When the switch to this digital signal occurs, all AFN decoders other than the D9865 will no longer function. Exchange customer can bring in their old AFN decoder to their local Exchange PowerZone and receive a $40 credit toward the purchase of a new CISCO D9865. This only applies to new purchase and not leased decoders.

Main Store Couponers Corner Like at the commissaries, the Main Store in Tower Barracks now has a place to drop off and pick up coupons for the PX. The corner provides coupons and information to help customers understand the use of coupons and how long they can be used overseas.

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

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

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

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

Volunteers needed at the USO Grafenwoehr If you'd like to help your USO, the military and their family members, come by the USO center in Tower Barracks 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, Tower Barracks Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 4751760.

Upcoming classes at the Red Cross Please contact the Red Cross for registration and course details at Rose Barracks Red Cross CIV 09662-83-1760 DSN 476-1760, Tower Barracks Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 475-1760.

13-14 July: Babysitter Training and Pediatric CPR (Ages 11-15). Rose Barracks.

27-28 July: Wilderness and Remote First Aid. Must already have Red Cross CPR certification. Rose Barracks.

10 Aug: Adult/Pediatric CPR/FA/AED training. Rose Barracks.

Be a blood donor The Armed Services Blood Program only collects blood from the military community (service members, family members, retirees, and DoD Civilians) and all blood collected stays in our community. It is truly our blood supply!

To make an appointment to donate go to www.militarydonor.com. (Click on "Donate Blood" then click on "Landstuhl, Germany") Walk-ins are always welcome, if unable to make an appointment!

Additional Information/Restrictions: ***TATTOOS and permanent make-up acquired OUTSIDE the US is a one year deferral.

If you had a tattoo in any of the following listed States, you must wait 12 months to donate. All other US States (not listed) are acceptable one week after acquiring the tattoo.

12-MONTH WAIT: California, Connecticut, District Of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, Wyoming YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO DONATE BLOOD IF:  You have a cold, flu or fever  You have had acupuncture in the past 12 months  You weigh less than 110 pounds  You traveled to Iraq, Eastern Turkey, Afghanistan or western provinces of Saudi Arabia (excluding the high altitude areas of Asir Province and the urban areas of Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and Taif/ Prince Sultan Airbase) in the last year  Within the last 2 years, you traveled to South Korea and were north of Seoul at any time including the DMZ Tour (provide specific dates)  You spent 3 months or more in the United Kingdom from 1980-1996 (Related to BSE time)  You spent six months or more at a military installation in Belgium, Netherlands (Holland), or Germany from19801990  From 1980-1996 for all other European Countries including the UK  You have lived in Europe for five years or more since 1 January 1980 to present (Including time spent in U.K. from 1980-1996)  You have had Hepatitis after your 11th birthday  You have HIV, or ever tested positive for HIV  You are pregnant or have been pregnant in the last six weeks You MUST Know:  The name of any medications on the Medication Deferral List.  Any immunizations (including smallpox) administered in the past 4 weeks.  Every Place you have been to outside of the U.S. or Canada since 1980. (INCLUDE ALL DEPLOYMENTS.) For more, contact 1LT Tucker at 06371-86-7107, DSN 486-7107.

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 at DSN 476‑2650, CIV 09662‑83‑2650.

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

Rose Barracks listings, here.

Vilseck Community and Spouses' Club events Go to their Facebook page for upcoming events and club news.

Grafenwoehr Community and Spouses' Club Go to their Facebook page for upcoming events and club news.

Patton Fireside Lounge dinners now on Wednesdays Themed dinner nights (Mongolian, Steak, Southern Comfort, Seafood) at the Patton Fireside Lounge have moved from Fridays to Wednesdays. Check out the next dinners: Mongolian dinner on 3 July and Southern Comfort Dinner on 10 July.

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

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

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

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

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

Sundays are Family Bowling days Sundays: Every Sunday from 2-8 p.m. at the Grafenwoehr Bowling Center, kids bowl for $.50 and adults bowl for $1.75. At the Rose Barracks Bowling Center, we offer “All you can Bowl” for one low price. Call the Bowling Centers for more details.

Fall Sports Registration Through 26 July: It’s time to sign your children up for fall sports: soccer, flag football, tackle football and cheerleading. Soccer is ages 3-15 years old. Cheerleading is ages 3-15 years old. Flag Football is ages 6-12 years old.

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

Kids Madness Classes Wed & Thurs in July: Drop your children ages 6-16 off at the Heart & Home Craft Shop for special classes. Classes will only take about an hour and kids can be dropped off either at 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. for age-appropriate craft projects. Daily space is limited so sign-up early! Each class costs $10 and supplies are included! Tower Barracks, Bldg. 607. Call DSN 475-6101, CIV 09641-83-6101 for more.

Unit Level Flag Football League Sign Up Through July: It’s almost football season and we’re taking unit level sign ups. Contact the Tower Barracks gym to sign up your unit: DSN 475-9024, CIV 09641-83-9024.

Mongolian Barbeque Dinner 3 July: With Mongolian BBQ, you pick your ingredients, pay by the ounce and our chef will stir fry it for you. 5 - 8 p.m.

Patton Fireside Lounge, Tower Barracks, Bldg. 209.

2nd Annual Reforger Softball Tournament 3-7 July: Come watch men’s and women’s softball teams from throughout Europe square off in this highly competitive tournament. Last year’s showdown was a blast so come support your local team this year. Team categories are Open, Intramural and Women’s. The tourney will be at the Tower Barracks softball diamonds behind the gym. ID card holders only. For more, call DSN 475-7576, CIV 09641-83-7576.

BOSS 2nd Annual Car and Bike Show 4 July: Start your Fourth of July off right with a car and bike show. Registration is between 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Judging starts at 2 p.m. and lasts until 4 p.m. $20 per car, $10 per motorcycle. At the Tower Barracks Commissary Over-Flow Parking Lot. For more, call BOSS at DSN 475-8822, CIV 09641-83-8822.

BOSS Summer Fun Weekend 5-7 July: Join BOSS on this long weekend with a series of trips to different Summer Fun activities. 5 July: Trip to Europa Park. 6 July: Ski, Board & Swim at “Monte Kaolino” in Hirschau. 7 July: Join us in Pottenstein’s Devil Cave. Sign up at either Warrior Zone or on Grafenwoehr BOSS Facebook Page. For more, call BOSS at DSN 476-8822, CIV 0966283-8822.

Sesame Street and USO team up in Rose Barracks 9 & 10 July: Sesame Street, the USO and Family and MWR are bringing Sesame Street to Rose Barracks. Watch Elmo, Grover, Rosita, Cookie Monster and Honker as they help Katie, a military kid on Sesame Street who is moving to a new place. This fun-filled show will entertain both, children and adults alike. Performances take place on 9 July at 6 p.m. and July 10 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Memorial Fitness Center, Bldg. 616. Doors open 30 min prior to show time. To learn more about the Sesame Street/USO Experience for Military Families or check for the latest tour info visit www.USO.org/Sesame. For more information contact USAG Grafenwoehr Family and MWR Special Events at DSN 4762948, CIV 09662-83-2948, or email.

Southern Comfort Dinner 10 July: Come enjoy some Southern style comfort foods, from fried chicken to okra. 5 - 8 p.m. Patton Fireside Lounge, Tower Barracks, Bldg. 209.

Survey your World – Military History Group Meeting 10 July: Survey your world through a series of Military History discussions where you can share your knowledge and enthusiasm. Contact the Tower Barracks Library for a list of topics. Volunteer presenters are also needed, if you love discussing and teaching about the past, please contact us at DSN 475-1740, CIV 09641-83-1740. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Hunting & Fishing Course 9 July-27 Oct: This course will make you eligible to receive a hunting and fishing license in Germany. Open to US ID card holders 18 years of age and older. At Camp Algiers, Bld. 2440. Participants must enroll through Outdoor Recreation

prior to the start of the class. Contact DSN 475-7402, CIV 09641-83-7402 or DSN 474-4212, CIV 09641-454-4212, to do so.

Tech Expo 19 July: The Tech Expo is back with over 35 exhibitors displaying the latest in cloud management, fiber optics, tablets, virtualization, cyber security, smart boards and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Tower View Conference Center. There will be refreshments and giveaways. All military, civilians and contractors are invited to attend for free. For a list of exhibiting companies contact Julia Banks.

Women’s support group 24 July: Women in the local community, Grafenwoehr, Vilseck and Hohenfels are encouraged to participate in a lifechanging group. Dealing with an deployment, retirement or change? Take the first step toward balance and control at the Grafenwoehr USO, all women-- civilians, family members and soldiers are invited to participate in an empowerment group. The course will explore ways to reduce stress, change old habits and create a healthy lifestyle and sense of well being. For more information, call Army Community Services at Rose Barracks at DSN 476-2650, CIV 09662-83-2650.

Volleyball camps for elementary, middle and high schoolers 11-16 Aug: High schoolers entering 9th-12th grades will have their camp 11-16 Aug. The camp is part of the A.C.E. Volleyball Club and focuses on skill progression and motor skill development. Please contact Camp Director Brian Swenty for more.

Seeking players for tournament teams The “Bavaria Military Community American Little League” consists of the Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Schweinfurt, Bamberg, Hohenfels, and Ansbach military communities. We are in the process of putting together our team rosters for our “All Star Tournament Teams” to play in the Germany District 1 or Regional tournaments for the Little League, Junior League and Big League divisions of Little League International in both Baseball and Girls Fast-pitch Softball. To be eligible for these teams, the players must have played either CYSS or High School baseball/softball in the eligible communities.

Players in these communities are not eligible to play for other Little League International Tournament Teams (ex: Ramstein or Stuttgart).

THESE TEAMS ARE ONE TIME TOURNAMENTS TEAMS, NOT SUMMER TRAVELLING TEAMS Division Ages Tournament Location Dates LL Baseball 10-12 Stuttgart (District 1) 20-23 June JL Baseball 12-14 Ramstein (District 1) TBD June BL Baseball 15-18 Stuttgart (Regional) 26-29 June LL Softball 11-12 Ramstein (District 1) TBD June JL Softball 13-14 Ramstein (District 1) TBD June BL Softball 15-18 Staranzano Italy (Regional) 15-18 July We have received confirmation that the Big League Softball team and the Big League Baseball team (age 15-18) have an automatic bid into the Europe and Africa Regional Tournaments. Teams winning the tournaments will advance to the next level (Regional or World Series) of tournament play. Practice schedules will be provided to interested players after the IMCOM and European Championships. To sign up a player or for more information/questions, please contact: Phillip Lee through email or call 0160-9758-7889.

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 Facebook page. **We are in desperate need of baby pant hangers!** DSN 476-2649, CIV 09662-83-2649, or email for more information. Volunteers and donations are always welcome!

Find us on Facebook USAG Grafenwoehr, Army Community Service, VFW Tower Post 10692, MWR, Main Post and Rose Barracks Postal Service Centers, Education Centers, Graf Dog community, the

EXCHANGE, Environmental Division, AFN Bavaria, Performing Arts Center, Grafenwoehr Chaplains, Main Post DFAC, 172 Infantry Brigade, BMEDDAC, 2SCR, Graf Housing Dept., Grafenwoehr Provost Marshal Office , Netzaberg Middle School, Netzaberg Elementary School and Vilseck Falcons.

Facility & Road/Openings/Construction/Closures Rose & Tower Barracks Education Centers holiday closure 4-5 July: The Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks Education Centers will be closed due to the Federal holiday and training holiday. The Education Centers will re-open on 8 July.

Personal Property Processing Office (PPPO) closure 5 July: The PPPO (Household Goods Appointments) in Rose Barracks will be closed for customer service during their organizational day. Please plan around the closure.

DPW one day closure 12 July: The USAG Grafenwoehr DPW will be closed on 12 July for their annual works outing. Only emergency services will be available.

Logistics Readiness Center (LRC) (former DOL) closure 1 Aug: The LRC command and staff, Bldg 301, Tower Barracks (HQs Supply & Services Division, Logistics Plans & Operations, Installation Food Management Office, Business Operations Branch and the Logistics Automation Support Center to include Rose Barracks) will be closed for their organizational day. Please plan around the closure.

TMP and DTTS closure 9 Aug: TMP at Tower Barracks and Rose Barracks and DTTS at Rose Barracks will be closed for their organizational day. TMPs will not dispatch or accept vehicles for turn-in. Units needing vehicles must dispatch them by 8 Aug.

Religious Vacation Bible School 22-26 July: Sign up your squirts for Vacation Bible School. 9 a.m.-noon at the Tower Barracks Chapel or 2-5 p.m. at the Rose Barracks Chapel. Ages: Preschool (Ages 4+ by 1 Oct 2013 and potty trained) and Elementary (grades 1-5 for upcoming school year). To sign up your kids, call the Rose Barracks Chapel at DSN 476-3346, CIV 09662-83-3346. Local volunteers are needed for the school. There are many different needs, so if you are interested, please contact the Rose Barracks Chapel at DSN 476-1570, CIV 09662-83-1570 or sign up online.

Free opera concert in Munich 27 July: There will be a Single Women’s Trip to Munich for a free open-air opera concert. You can explore Munich by day and enjoy the State Opera at night. Meet at the Rose Barracks Chapel parking lot ant 10 a.m. Bring 10 euros to cover the cost of lunch and dinner. Contact Laurel Hoyt for more, to sign up or to snag a ride from Tower to Rose Barracks. You can email her or call at 0151-14991-395.

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.

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 FAST Classes 8 -19 & 17-30 July: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The registration period for these classes is from 06 May 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 (Vilseck) Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292, CIV 09662-832653/3292.

Information assurance certification requirements The Army in Europe Information Technology Training Program and Knowlogy offers training to fulfill your certification requirements for DOD 8570.1 (information assurance) compliance for the military. Come to the fully equipped facilities across Europe for your training needs or the training can come to you. For a full list of upcoming courses go to https://itt.eur.army.mil/schedule.aspx or contact your local site coordinator at DSN 476-2635, CIV 09662-83-2635.

University of Maryland University College – Europe UMUC Europe offers Associates, Bachelors and graduate-level degrees in a convenient online or face-to-face format. Fall session 1 classes start 19 Aug. 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.

University of Oklahoma MA courses The University of Oklahoma in Rose Barracks offers degree programs to military service members and civilians in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult. The university offers both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations and a Master of Human Relations. We are currently enrolling new students. Email Carla Miller or call her at DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069. Further information can be found at www.goou.ou.edu.

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

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 distance learning (online) classes. In the USAG Grafenwoehr community, there are currently three faceto-face programs running continuously year-round. Below is the current line-up for CTC classes on Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks for Term 1 in Aug-Oct 2013: Rose Barracks Classes: AUMT 2437 – Automotive Electronics. Tu/We/Th 6-10 p.m. Starts 20 Aug, ends 10 Oct. Instructor: Charles Rosemond. 4 credit hours. Tower Barracks Classes: Criminal Justice class: CJSA 1322 – Introduction to Criminal Justice. Tu/Th, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Starts 13 Aug, ends 3 Oct. Instructor: Paul Gentry. 3 credit hours. For more, email CTC field representative Chuck Sligh or call DSN 476-2362, CIV 09662-832362.

Summer Hours for National Testing Center (NTC) University of Maryland University College - Europe's National Test Center (NTC) will have limited hours this summer.

Please note the following dates and times for testing. 10, 17 & 24 July: 9 a.m.-noon Pearson Vue exams; 1-3 p.m.

CLEP/DSST exams, 4-6 p.m. CLEP/DSST exams. 11, 18 & 25 July: 9-11 a.m. CLEP/DSST exams; noon-2 p.m.

CLEP/DSST exams. We are located at Rose Barracks, Bldg. 223, Rm. 2.10. Anyone interested in testing should contact the NTC at DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462, or email to schedule an appointment.

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

School News DoDDS-Europe furlough days Sequestration requires that government employees, including teachers, must be furloughed this fiscal year.

Because of their unique employment schedule, teachers will be furloughed for no more than five days. All schools in the district will be closed the following days: 30 Aug, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Sept. For more on the DoDDS-Europe furloughs, click here.

VFW Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy scholarships Deadline 1 Nov: The VFW has two scholarships available for high school and middle school students.

Students in 6-8th grade are eligible for the Patriot’s Pen scholarship. Forty-six applicants will win scholarships ranging from $500-5,000. This year’s essay theme is “What Patriotism Means to Me.” You can find the application guidelines and form here. High schoolers are eligible for a $30,000 scholarship and $1,000-16,000 scholarships. Their essays’ theme is “Why I’m Optimistic about our Nation’s Future.” Application guidelines and form is here.

VFW Teacher of the Year Award nomination Deadline 1 Nov: Do you know a teacher devoted to education, their country and community? You can nominate them for the VFW Teacher of the Year Award. Teachers will be judged in K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 categories. Those nominating the teacher must describe in 350 words or less why the educator deserves the honor. You can find more on how to nominate here.

Grafenwoehr Elementary School 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 09641-83-6132.

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

School Office Hours School Hours 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 Vilseck Elementary School administrators and faculty wish all of our students and their parents a safe and enjoyable summer. Students, don’t forget to keep reading and do some math, and by all means enjoy being outside and playing in and around Germany.

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

Netzaberg Elementary School Sure Start: Sure Start is a pre-school program for at risk military children and families living overseas. The program provides education, health, nutrition, and social services. Parent involvement is mandatory! Among other selection criteria in the guidelines, the child must be age four by September 1. Ranks E-1 to E-4 have priority. Applications for the 2013-14 school year are available now at the Netzaberg Elementary School Office. POC: 472-9188 PCSing soon?: Please contact Wendy Streeter (wendy.streeter@eu.dodea.edu, DSN 472-9185, CIV 09645-917-9185) so she may assist you with transferring your children’s records to their new school. Please let the registrar know if you will NOT be returning for SY 2013-2014 by 15 March.

Child Find: Do you have questions about your child’s development (ages 3-5 years)? For further information on Child Find developmental screenings at Netzaberg Elementary School, please call CIV 09645-917-9185 or DSN 4729185. Check us out on Facebook at link.

School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.- Fri. 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Mon.- Fri. 8:00 a.m.-.2:35 p.m. CIV 09645-917-9185/4 DSN 472-9184

Netzaberg Middle School Through 26 July: Summer School Enrichment at NES 23 Aug: New Family Orientation at NMS 6th Grade Boot Camp at NMS 26 Aug: First Day of School for Students 29 Aug: Open House

Anticipated non-school days due to furlough: Aug 30, Sept 9, 16, 23 & 30.

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.

Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office; DSN 472-9254, CIV 09645-917-9254 Find us on Facebook: Like our page and you will always have access to the most update information about your student’s school. We will also be able to upload photos from the various activities.

School Office Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon - Fri CIV 09645-917-9232/9233/9229 DSN 472-9232/9233/9229 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1:30-3:30 p.m.

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

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

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

School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.‑Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Mon.‑Fri. 8:10 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CIV 09662‑832864 / Fax 09662-832480 DSN 476‑2864

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

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

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

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

Volksfest with Krämermarkt Through 3 July: Midday - 8 p.m. daily, in 91541 Rothenburg at the Spitaltor gate, on the car park P1 along FriedrichHörner-Weg. Click for a map of suggested car parks. The Volksfest is held at the fest site at the gate, while the market and trade fair takes place on Schrannenplatz and in the Schrannenscheune (former barn). The trade fair is open 11 a.m. 6 p.m.

Mariahilfberg-Fest Through 7 July: in 92249 Amberg, around the beautiful pilgrimage church Maria-Hilf on top of the hill. Access to the Maria-Hilf church is easy (click link for map) but please use the designated parking areas.

The fest is supported by the RC church and has no rides, but plenty of food and refreshments in a romantic area.

American Bands playing in Rothenburg Through 26 July: in 91541 Rothenburg. Click for a map of car parks around the historical Altstadt.

5 July: 2 p.m. The Arizona Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

6 July: 5 p.m. The Sound of America, on Marktplatz.

8 July: 11 a.m. The Carolina Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz. 2 p.m. The Ohio Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

11 July: 2 p.m. The Mid-West Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

14 July: 2 p.m. The Tennessee Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

15 July: 2 p.m. The Arkansas Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

17 July: 2 p.m. The Oregon Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

20 July: 2 p.m. The Utah Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

23 July: 2 p.m. The Northern Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

26 July: 2 p.m. The South Michigan Ambassadors of Music, on Marktplatz.

Summer Serenades in Weiden 3 July: 7 - 8:30 p.m., in 92637 Weiden, at the Pavilion in the Max-Reger-Park (only the green arrow is correct!), opposite the parking block on Schlörplatz. FREE concert with the "Star Club Revival" which plays rock n’ roll from the 60s and 70s.

These serenades are very popular so arrive early. Bring along some folding chairs or a blanket and a picnic and enjoy the music. In case of inclement weather, the event will move into the Max-Reger-Halle (at the other end of the park), Dr.Pfleger-Straße 17, ph 0961-48080. Click for a map of suggested car parks.

Children’s choir concert 4 July: The Bel Canto Children’s Chorus and the Musikschule Choir will perform at the Parish Church of Eschenbach at 7:30 p.m.

Summer Fest with the Hot Cargo Band 5 July: 8 p.m., in 92637 Weiden, at the Bistrot Paris, Sebastianstraße 2, ph 0179-784-2510; organized by the JazzZirkel (only GE). The new program of Hot Cargo (only GE but with links to music samples) jazzes up songs from the Beatles, Quincy Jones, the Doors, Steppenwolf, Ray Charles and many more. They include Salsa and Bossa Nova beats in their interpretations. Tickets cost € 13. Please be aware that the only parking spaces close to the Bistrot Paris are on the street, and it's usually pretty full. Click for a map of suggested car parks.

Medieval Fayre: Regensburger Spectaculum 5 - 7 July: in 93047 Regensburg, Am Gries. Bring your whole family to this medieval fest. Meet knights, jesters, jugglers, and enjoy the lighter side of the Middle Ages. There is also an extensive children's program with puppet theater, storytellers, dance-alongs and shows throughout the day. Fri 5 p.m. – midnight, Sat 10 a.m. – midnight, Sun 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Some highlights: On Sat and Sun, children can help with baking bread and making butter, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fri: 8 p.m.: Festive parade and Grand Opening, followed by a live concert; Sat: 4:45 p.m. & 7 p.m.: Show jousting. 10 p.m.: A fire show. Sun: 1:30 p.m. and 5:15 p.m.: Show jousting. 3:15 p.m., 5:45 p.m., 8:15 p.m.: Live music.

Afrika Festival 5 - 7 July: in 91322 Gräfenberg, on Kirchplatz (ca. 30 km / 20 miles NE of Nürnberg). Follow the signs for free parking.

The program includes a dancing fashion show, live music by African bands, and the highly popular Afrika Bazaar attract thousands of visitors each year. Try some millet beer (Hirsebier), palm wine, coconut beer, cooking bananas, yam, yassa, egussi, and many other traditional dishes from the North, West and East of Africa. You can buy colourful clothes and jewellery, lovely toys made from recycled materials, hair extensions, and many other things. You can even learn how to play African instruments! A children's program brings the African culture closer to the youngsters. The concerts on Friday and Saturday evening cost € 15. Performers include Rainbow House (Uganda), Compagnie Sokan (Burkina Faso), Njamy Sitson (Kamerun), Argile & African Heat (D, E, Burkina Faso), Dafra Koita (Burkina Faso), Aziz Sinka & Lanaya (Burkina Faso) The bazaar is free entry and open on Friday 5 - 11 p.m., on Saturday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m., and on Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Click for photos from the previous years.

"Phantasy & Garden" summer fest 5 - 7 July: in 93047 Regensburg, at the Schloss Thurn und Taxis Fürstliches Schloss (palace), Emmeramsplatz. A fantastic summer fest in the beautiful settings of the palace and its unique park - usually closed to the public. Highlights will be live music and dance performances, a garden fair, and a stunning fireworks display on Saturday evening. Closest free car parks (click for map) are "Dultplatz" (Am Protzenweiher/ Oberpfalzbrücke); adjacent "Protzenweiher" (opposite Protzenweiher 27); neighbouring "Wöhrdstraße" (at Wöhrdstraße 18); and adjacent "Unterer Wöhrd" (Wöhrdstraße 60/62).

125th Anniversary of Huetten Fire Department 5 - 7 July: The Huetten (Grafenwoehr) Fire Department is celebrating its 125th Anniversary with a large fest weekend.

The fest opens at 7 p.m. on Fri. Tapping of the keg is 8 p.m. The fest starts up again at noon on Sat and at 9 a.m. on Sun with a church parade.

Annual American Citizens’ Information and Passport Day 20 July: U.S. Consulate General Munich is hosting an Information and Passport Day for Americans and their families living in Bavaria. Head to the open house to find out about the services offered to Americans in the area. You can also

renew your passport. For passport appointments, click here. New this year: The German-American Munich Wandertag!

Participate in a downtown version of a traditional Wandertag that will visit historical U.S.-related sites in Munich.

Registration from 10-11 a.m. outside of the Consulate; 5 euro fee includes beer mug or kid’s meal. The route will end with refreshments in the Consulate garden. Event open to U.S. citizens and immediate family members. More details to be posted to the U.S. Consulate General Munich website.

“Open Air on Kiesi Beach” event in Pressath 20 July: The Open Air Event starts at 7 p.m. on the Kiesi Beach in Pressath with the Band “Pressather Musikanten”.

They will be playing Bavarian-Bohemina Brass-Band Music up to current party hits.

At 11 p.m. rock tribute band Starkstrom will play. Food and free entry.

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

In 92224 Amberg: every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on the Marktplatz.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guided Tours *New* Segway Tours The latest craze is guided tours through a city on a Segway. Various cities and locations offer those already; some regularly, some only on special occasions. These cities offer regular tours in German - contact them to see if they will do tours in English: Bamberg: ph 0911-933-250 or 09133-768-7819; Garmisch-Partenkirchen: ph 0173-4444-948; Munich: These groups lead tours in English. Segway Tour Munich and City Segway Tours; Nürnberg: 0911-933-250 or 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.