USAG Bavaria Weekly Newsletter 5 Nov 2014

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5 November 2014 U.S. Army Garrison BAVARIA–Tower Barracks/ Rose Barracks

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

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

The European Command Transition Summit will be held in Bldg. 134 on Rose Barracks.

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

“Like” us on Facebook “Like” U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria on Facebook for up-to-the-minute information, to peruse pictures of community events, for a rundown of fests, fairs, markets and shows in Bavaria. There are also force protection tips and updates on protests and demonstrations in our area.

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

Bavarian News online Head to the Bavarian News website to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Here are the latest Bavarian News stories for this week: European concerns. The top U.S. general in Europe discusses Russia, troop reductions and rotational forces. http://www.army.mil/article/137545/ Bats in boxes. Boy Scouts build homes for endangered bats in Hohenfels. http://www.army.mil/article/137547/ Kosovo Force 19. Change of command at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, ushers the 25th Infantry Division into the region to work with NATO Forces. http://www.army.mil/article/137117/Kosovo_Force_19_begins_their_mission/ Fast-rope training. Moldovan forces exit helicopters via rope and shoot live ammunition in close-quarters combat training during Combined Resolve III. http://www.army.mil/article/137338/Multinational_Special_Operations_learn_together_during_Combined_Resolve_III/ Fight the flu. The flu can be dangerous. Follow these steps to keep from succumbing to the virus this year. http://www.army.mil/article/137497/You_can_prevent_the_flu/ Soldier Show. The Army’s most talented singers and dancers wow USAG Bavaria in the 2014 Soldier Show. http://www.army.mil/article/137215/ Hiring our Heroes. Two veterans’ transition summits will be held in USAG Bavaria in November, but community members can register now. http://www.army.mil/article/135347/ Was ist los, Bavaria? Looking for things to do in and around Bavaria? Check out this article and more on Bavarian News Online. http://www.army.mil/article/130556/ Things to do in Garmisch. http://issuu.com/bmcgarmisch/docs/community_newsletter20140918 Was ist los in Franken? http://www.army.mil/article/113592/ For these stories and more, visit www.bavariannews.com.

Meter Readings in Leased Housing The Hausmeister will need to have access to all Government Leased Quarters to perform the yearly meter reading throughout the month of November. He will not arrange an appointment, he will just ring the doorbell and if nobody is home, he will return later. For more information please call the Leased Housing Branch at DSN 475-7023 or CIV 0964183-7023.

Estate Claim Notification

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Anyone having claims or obligations to the estate of SSG Anthony Auld, 1 Squadron, 2 Calvary Regiment, should contact the Summary Court Martial officer, 1LT Zachary Carr at DSN 476-5771 or Commercial 0171-1832242

“Go Green” Newsletter Check out the fall issue of the “Go Green” newsletter. http://issuu.com/bavariamilitarycommunity/docs/usag_bav_gogreen_newsltrno6_oct_201

Flu Shots/Mist Available Your local Army Health Clinic will screen on-site to determine the best vaccination for you, based on your individual healthcare needs. Active duty will be vaccinated with their unit. DoDDS students will be vaccinated at school. Family members, Retirees, Civilians and children not enrolled in DoDDS can get their vaccinations from the clinic. Please see the following for information on your specific clinic's schedule. The best protection against the flu is to get vaccinated!

Grafenwoehr Army Health Clinic walk-in hours for Flu Vaccination: 8 a.m.-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-11 a.m. on Fridays (excluding Training Holidays) Vilseck Army Health Clinic walk-in hours for Flu Vaccination: 8 a.m.-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m.-11 a.m. on Fridays (excluding Training Holidays).

Safety notice Under German law, vehicle lighting must be checked and operational prior to driving. You can be ticketed for driving without proper lighting. Replace defective light bulbs and properly adjust your lights. It’s recommended, especially during the dark winter months, to use your headlights when driving during the day. Be safe, be seen.

Vehicle Recalls The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Oct. 20 posted a statement urging about 4.7 million owners of Toyota, Honda, Mazda, BMW, Nissan, and General Motors vehicles to act immediately on recall notices to replace defective Takata airbags. "The message comes with urgency, especially for owners of vehicles affected by the regional recalls in the following areas: Florida, Puerto Rico, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Virgin Islands and Hawaii," it stated.

Vehicle owners can check by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on www.safercar.gov/vinlookup to see whether their vehicles are subject to an open recall that needs to be addressed.

Read more at http://ohsonline.com/articles/2014/10/21/nhtsa-urges-millions-of-car-owners-to-replace-defective-airbagsimmediately.aspx .

Malicious Website A potentially malicious website, http://akoarmymil.com, is posing as the legitimate Army Knowledge Online. The site’s purpose appears to be an attempt to lure unsuspecting users further into the site and have them enter personally identifiable information at various subpages. The links on subpages look like various software downloads and device driver updates, but are actually advertisements. Some of the link headings are not even in English, which adds additional suspicion to the site. Users are reminded to remain vigilant whenever visiting unfamiliar websites that require entering personal information or passwords. And always double check the URL before entering any type of PII. Contact the Defensive Cyber Operations Division (DCOD), Regional Cyber Center - Europe (RCC-E) by email or phone DSN 565-6333, CIV 0611-143-565-6333 if you have any questions.

Travel Warnings The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of traveling to Israel, the West Bank and Gaza due to the complex security environment there and the potential for violence and renewed hostilities. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning issued on July 21, 2014.

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Eritrea and strongly recommends U.S. citizens not travel to the country since there is increasing possibility U.S. citizens will not receive the requisite exit permit from Eritrean authorities. This replaces the Travel Warning for Eritrea of November 18, 2013 to remind U.S. citizens of ongoing security concerns in Eritrea.

Car Shipping Issues

Did you experience problems while shipping your car overseas or back to the states? If so, to contact the claims information for International Auto Logistics, call 855-389-9499, Option 3, or email: claims@ialpov.us. You can also contact U.S. Transportation Command’s inspector general privately owned vehicle customer support team via email: usarmy.scott.sddc.mbx.pov-ig-response@mail.mil

Netzaberg Youth Center Now: New Hours started Sept. 1. Due to construction limiting accessibility, the center changed opening hours to 2:306:45 p.m. Mon-Fri. Every other Saturday day trips, bowling and more will be offered. Activities will be held on Tower Barracks. For more information contact the Youth Center at DSN 475-9393, CIV 09641-83-9393.

Risk Reduction Program The Program is a Commander’s tool to prevent, reduce, and manage high risk Soldier behaviors; it promotes a prevention focused approach when dealing with personal problems and promotes focused and coordinated actions on the part of installation agencies and the chain of command in units with high risk profiles. Got Risk? What is your unit’s risk profile? To obtain more information on these and other high risk behavior questions contact Jay C. Velis, at DSN 475-5170, or jay.c.velis.civ@mail.mil

Use of Social Media Regardless of the method of communication, Army standards must be observed at all times, both on and off-duty. Posting hate speech online via social media, regardless if the site is public or private, is against Army policy and is subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

CFC Now-21 Nov: The 2014 CFC-Overseas Europe (CFC-O) has been extended through Nov. 21. For more information and to contribute see your unit CFC representative or call Ms. Christine Nunez, DSN: 475-6133, CIV 09641-83-6133, email.

.xfdl Forms Retired The Army has decided to move to fillable ADOBE PDFs for all forms. It is not renewing the IBM Lotus Forms Viewer maintenance licenses past 30 Sept. All existing licenses are valid thru end date of license agreement.

What this means is that in the near term future, users will not be able to read .xfdl formatted files on Department of the Army Government computers. All documents you need for reference, will need to be saved in ADOBE PDF format (see attached steps for converting...), or printed out in hardcopy.

The latest PDF-F versions of all forms can be located at the Official Army Publishing Directorate website.

Wellness Apps To check out the apps flyer, go to http://issuu.com/bavariamilitarycommunity/docs/app_flyer/0 Note: Publicizing these resiliency apps does not constitute endorsement by USAG Bavaria or the US Army and should not be interpreted as such.

High-Visibility Vests Now Required Inside Vehicles A new regulation now makes it mandatory to have a high-visibility vest inside vehicles in Germany. The vest can be red, yellow or orange, but must comply with German or European standards. Drivers found without a vest in their vehicles may be fined. The vest must be inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle and not in the trunk. Only one vest per car is required, but one vest for each person is not discouraged. Fines can be as high as 1,300 euros.

Postage Increase for Flat Rate Priority Mail Products Now: The USPS implemented a 15 to 45 cent postage increase for Flat Rate Priority products. The increase does not affect First Class, Post Card, Priority Mail (by weight) and Priority Express Mail prices. Please see your local Postal Service Center Representative for more details.

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.

For the latest information and videos, please check out http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/media2.asp.

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.

Bulk Trash Pick-Up The County Neustadt/WN will pick up bulk trash over the next few months. Bulk trash must be curbside, in front of your home no later than 6 a.m. on the scheduled pick-up day. Pick-up is provided by contractors of the County Neustadt.

Please note that pick-ups will occur in 3 stages based on types of items.

For information on what will be picked up, what won’t be accepted and pickup dates for surrounding towns and military housing areas, recycling page on our website.

Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop The Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop is located in Bldg. 508(corner of Saratoga Ave & Merrel St, next to Behavioral Clinic) in Tower Barracks. Consignments accepted during hours of store operation. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, 10:00 a.m-3 p.m. Thursday, 11a.m.-5p.m. and the 1st Friday of the each month, 10:00 a.m-3p.m.

PINK, LAVENDER AND BEIGE COLORED TICKETS 75% OFF, over $3.00.

GREY TICKETS 50% OFF, over 3.00 dollars.

220 EXTENSION CORDS 0.50 cents PER SOCKET ALL TSP BOOTS $ 3.00(unless they are marked) 10 BOOKS ARE $1.00.

WE ALSO HAVE ALL TSP JEANS LADIES, MEN,GIRLS AND BOYS for $3.00.

TSP PURSES ARE $2.00 (Unless they are marked) We are accepting consignments up to 18 items. www.facebook.com/thriftytower Volunteers and Donations are always welcome (Remember your donations help our community) CIV 09641-92-60377.

Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop: Bring your gently used items to Bldg 221 on Rose Barracks. http://www.facebook.com/vilseckthriftshop

FreeCycle Center The Freecycle Center is located in Bldg. 441 on Tower Barracks. You can pick up items you need on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and you can drop off items every day. Freecycle is limited to DoD ID card holders only.

IG Satellite Office US Army Europe has opened a satellite Inspector General Office on Rose Barracks to provide on-onsite IG services for the Vilseck Military Community. The IG Office is located in building 166, (the former Finance & In-Processing Center), rooms 104 and 110. IG Office hours are from 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, however, IG assistance can also be obtained by calling DSN 476-2965/2967, the USAREUR IG Hotline at 337-5555 or by email.

Soldier for Life Separating from the Service? Did you know that the Soldier for Life: Transition Assistance Program, formerly known as Army Career and Alumni Program, is still a key resource in place to help with the transition to civilian life? Transition,

higher education and accredited financial counselors are standing by ready to assist Soldiers, as early as 18 months before exiting the military. For more information go to http://issuu.com/bavariamilitarycommunity/docs/sfl_article_jul_14/0.

Traveling outside of Germany Planning on traveling outside of Germany? Don’t forget to check with your unit security office/S2 prior to leaving.

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

You can also contact ACS via email for info.

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

Army Community Service offers classes on and assistance with financial and employment readiness; mobilization, deployment and relocation readiness; family advocacy and new parent support programs. For a list of the classes and services, go to their webpage, class schedule or Facebook.

For the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), email them directly.

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 / 0152-04161349 or Tower Barracks 0152-0293-4290 / 0152-0241-5226, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Army Family Action Plan The Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) is an Army-wide program that allows all members of the Army (Active Duty, Reserve Components, and National Guard) Retired Military, Family Members and Civilian Employees to identify issues of concern that impact the well being of the entire Army Family. Through this process, issues requiring actions are prioritized, assigned to a lead agency for resolution, and an action plan is established to achieve desired change.

Since AFAP was created in 1983, there have been 117 Legislative changes, 162 Department of Defense or Army policy changes and 178 Improved programs or services/funding. Some examples of AFAP successes are creation of the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) Program, establishing School Liaison Officers, development of Army Family Team Building, increase in military annual leave carry over and so many more.

If you have an AFAP Issue, we need to hear from you, your suggestions could bring change to better the entire Army family!

When you submit an issue through the ACS Face book website email Mr. Foy Dix at foy.r.dix.civ@mail.mil please include the: Issue Title: (brief summary of the issue), Issue Scope: (state the current condition, provide facts or details, and the impact of the problem) and the Recommendation: (what you want to see happen).

You can also stop by the ACS Office on Rose Barracks or Tower Barracks to fill out an issue sheet.

Exchange News For Exchange contests, offers and events, please head to www.shopmyexchange.com or their Facebook page. For local happenings, click on the Events tab on the Facebook page.

Halo Midnight Launch Join us for the Halo Master Chief prerelease demo at the Tower Barracks Main Store on Nov. 10 at 10 p.m. for Halo Master Chief game demo and be one of the first to purchase at the Midnight release.

Tower Barracks Exchange Mall New Concession coming this fall Coming this fall, the Tower Barracks Exchange will open two new concessions in the Exchange Mall. Specialty Shop featuring Trophy’s, engraving and custom framing. KICKZ Shoe Shop will feature casual to sport shoes normally not found in the Exchange Main Store, however, one special feature, is KICKZ will be able to make special orders on many brand shoes.

Rose Barracks & Hohenfels Car Care Centers free lighting inspections Now-31 Oct: The Rose Barracks and Hohenfels Car Care Centers facilities are offering a free inspection of POVs to verify that lights, windshield wipers and tires meet acceptable functional standards as part of the October 2014 Lighting Campaign. All POVs brought to Exchange Car Care Centers for normal servicing will be checked for these standards as well. This offer is good throughout the month of October during normal business hours. Any labor or parts necessary for correcting deficiencies will be charged at the normal rate. The Exchange automotive repair teams will provide a ‘Lighting Equipment Passed’ sticker affixed to the top center of the windshield on all vehicles passing the inspection (on customer approval).

Volunteers and other help needed Are You Interested in Becoming an American Red Cross Volunteer?

We are currently looking for dedicated individuals with a desire to volunteer within the Hohenfels community. Current Volunteer positions include: Office Assistants, Special Events and briefing volunteers.

NEW DUTY HOURS EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. FOR ALL RED CROSS LOCATIONS

Reconnection Workshops The American Red Cross is offering Reconnection Workshops to support the ease and transitions associated with army life along with training and deployments. These are confidential small-group modules, led by licensed mental health professionals. The workshops focus on building skills that enhance the likelihood of positive reconnections among family members, as well as the successful reengagement of the service member in civilian life, by increasing interactions and developing additional sources of support. Please contact the American Red Cross Station Chief at DSN 475-1760, CIV 09641-83-1760 for dates and times.

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

Rose Barracks listings, here.

Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation FMWR hosts a variety of ongoing weekly events, trips, recreational activities and events. To see FMWR’s upcoming activities, check out their website, Facebook page or Bi-Weekly Newsletter.

For a monthly listing of events in USAG Bavaria, see the Link Magazine.

For day and overnight trips, see the Passport Travel Guide.

Bayern Rangers hockey team

The Bayern Rangers ice hockey team is gearing up for military and club tournaments. All interested players and fans are encouraged to join in the fun. For more info please see the team Facebook page.

The Bayern Rangers ice hockey team invites all interested DoD ID card holders to practice with the Bayern Rangers and Böheim Knights in September. If you are new to the USAG-Bavaria, and haven't shipped your hockey gear here, now is the time to send it over. The rink address is Am Bad 6, 95666 Mitterteich: 19 Oct., 4:45-6:15 p.m.; 26 Oct., 4:45-6:15 p.m.

To join in the fun, just show up. Players must provide their own equipment and chip in to cover the cost of ice time, normally 10 € for a 90 minute skate.

Army Wellness Center Want to get fit or lose weight? Have you hit a roadblock or just getting started? There are a multitude of resources available at the Army Wellness Center. They offer Metabolic Testing by appointment to determine caloric intake; basic nutrition classes; and on-going assistance to achieve weight management. You can also get glasses on basic nutrition, sleep hygiene, weight management or make an appointment for a fitness assessment. This is open to all ID Card Holders and you can call 476-4795 or 09662-83-4795 to set up an appointment. http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/wellnesscenter.asp.

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

Facility & Road/Openings/Construction/Closures Rose Barracks – Water Outage 11 Nov, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: There will be a water outage while construction crews connect the main water lines.

The following buildings will be affected: Bldg 227 (Restaurant) Barracks Bldg 231, 232, 233, 234, 241, 242, 243, 244 Bldg 245 (Law Center) Bldg 273 (CATC School House) Bldg 274, 275 (Kristall Inn)

CWTSato Travel Office Closure 10-11 Nov: Due to a Labor Meeting, The CWTSatoTravel offices Tower Barracks, Bldg. 244 and Rose Barracks, Bldg. 161 will be closed from noon, Nov. 10 through Nov. 11. In case of emergency call 99-001-210877-3357. Normal business will resume on Nov. 12.

Tower Barracks – Shiloh Avenue Between Gates 1 and 3 10 Nov-20 Dec: Short traffic interruptions/detours to be expected during the concrete work for the new Army Family Housing units. Traffic will be detoured via Fredericksburg Avenue and Johnson Street while concrete trucks block through-traffic. Signs will be posted.

Rose Barracks – Main Gate and Soldiers Road 10-12 Nov: Road repair work and asphalt work on the inbound lane of Gate 1 and on Soldiers Road. Please watch out for traffic signs and small detour directions.

Rose Barracks – Bldg. 227, 74th Artillery Street

10-11 Nov: No through-traffic on Artillery Street in front of Bldg 227 and 232 to allow road construction for the upgrade of the main water line.

Rose Barracks – Health and Dental Clinic Pedestrians are asked to use the alternate side walk on Artillery Avenue while the side walk in front of the Health and Dental Clinic is still under construction.

Military Health Clinics Closed on Training Holidays Military health clinics will be closed for patient care on all training holidays. This includes clinics in Vilseck, Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels. If you are in need of medical advice or care on training holidays, federal holidays or weekends, you are encouraged to call the Nurse Advice Line at 00800-4759-2330. This toll-free line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your health-related questions and direct you to the appropriate level of care. In case of emergency, please go to your nearest host nation hospital.

Highway 2166 Now-further notice: Highway 2166 from Vilseck towards Freihung and local road Vilseck Axtheid-Berg towards Vilseck Rose Barracks gate 5 is being rerouted due to construction of a traffic circle. Traffic will be rerouted towards highway 2123 (Hirschau-Großschoenbrunn) and over highway B-299 (Seugast-Freihung) back to highway 2166. Please follow "Umleitung" signs!

Closure of Central Issue Facilities in Vilseck and Hohenfels 15-19 Dec: The CIFs in Vilseck and Hohenfels will be closed Dec. 15-19 for mandatory inventory.

Unfortunately, no customer service can be provided during this week. Customers are kindly asked to plan their OCIE or RFI requirements accordingly. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, Dec. 22. The point of contact for questions is Mr. Klugmann at DSN 476-2375.

Drivers Training and Testing Station in TB Bldg. 301 The Drivers Training and Testing Station has relocated from Tower Barracks Bldg. 244 to Bldg. 301, 3rd floor, Rm. 200B. This is the same building as the vehicle registration office is located. We appreciate your understanding as we seek to ensure better customer service to our customers. POC for this action is Gerald Ross, Installation Transportation Officer, DSN 475-6343 or email.

Religious For a list of church services and classes, please head to the Religious Services Organization webpage.

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 Contact Army Education Centers Rose Barracks, DSN 476-2753, CIV 09662-83-2753. Tower Barracks, DSN 475-7239 CIV 09641-83-7239. Like us on Facebook or email for info.

Army Continuing Education "Army Continuing Education -- Army Strong, Education Stronger" is Army Education’s 2014 theme for American Education Week that will be celebrated 17 -21 Nov 2014. USAG Bavaria Army Education Centers

will host a variety of activities and events to promote t he importance of lifelong learning opportunities within the Army and Sister Services.

The Education Centers at Rose and Tower Barracks and Hohenfels are conducting information sessions on GoArmyEd, GI Bills, Financial Aid, and FAST Classes. Each Center has a published schedule of events.

In addition, Rose Barracks is conducting a CLEP -a-thon on Thursday, 20 Nov, walk-ins welcome, no appointment needed. Get closer to your degree — take CLEP and DSST tests to earn college credit fast.

During the CLEP-a-thon, you are invited to come to the National Test Center and take as many computer based exams as you would like, with the benefit of instant score results (Principles of Public Speaking is not available during the CLEP-a-thon). You can even receive a prize for passing the most exams in the community. Come on Thursday, 20 November, 0830-1600 Rose Barracks Education Center Bldg. 223, Room 2.10. Last test starts at 1500 The UMUC Europe academic advisor and field representatives will be available on-site during the event to help you decide which exams can apply to your degree.

On 21 Nov 2014, The First Annual Military Academic Achievement Award Ceremony will be held at the Multipurpose Center, Bldg 134 in Rose Barracks from 1000-1100. University of Maryland University College – Europe, Central Texas, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and the University of Oklahoma will honor Service members and others who distinguished themselves through their academic successes, who embody military values and ethos, who are outstanding community members, and who are or have the potential for being role models and leaders. Join us for the celebration and reception.

Contact us for more information: Rose Barracks 09662-83-2753, DSN 476-2753 Hohenfels 09472-83-2259, DSN 466-2259

FAST Classes 12-25 Nov: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register now 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 60hour long course and is limited to twenty students. For more information please contact the Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292.

College Field Reps are at Tower Barracks Every Wednesday Do you need to speak with a college field representative (CTC, UMUC, OU, and ERAC) but do not have time to drive to Rose Barracks? Visit the Education Center every Wednesday at Tower Barracks in BLDG 538, Room 3 from 0830-1630, Contact DSN 475-7239 CIV 0964-83-7239. An Education Counselor is available for general information between 0730 and 0830.

University of Maryland University College-Europe UMUC Europe offers Associates, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in a convenient face-to-face, hybrid and online format.

Take advantage of many financial aid opportunities including FAFSA, tuition assistance, MyCAA, and scholarships. The UMUC office is at the Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223.

This November, UMUC is excited to celebrate National Education Week all month long. During the entire month of November, UMUC Europe is offering a $50 application fee waiver. Please Contact: Brooke Brown (brooke.brown@umuc.edu) or Iris Close (iris.close-heuss@umuc.edu) at (0)631-534-80350 for more information.

National Test Center (NTC) testing hours Please check the website for latest dates and times. Jump start your education and contact Kristin Wright to schedule an appointment at DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462.

University of Oklahoma - Vilseck Please check the website for latest degree programs offered. Visit us on Facebook at University of Oklahoma in Vilseck www.facebook.com/ouvilseck. You can also visit the garrison universities website.

The University of Oklahoma in Vilseck offers degree programs to military service members, civilians, and family members in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult. The University offers both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations, a Master of Human Relations, and a Masters of Education. Registration for Fall Session classes are now open! Contact Carla Miller at apvilseck@ou.edu, DSN 476-2069 or CIV 09662-83-2069.

Rose Barracks Fall Registration Courses: 9-14 Dec: ECON 5023 Statistics for Decision Making

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University From undergraduate certificates to Masters degrees, we may have what you’ve been looking for. Your military experience and a degree from ERAU will make a powerful combination in the military and on into civilian life.

For more information, meet with an Embry-Riddle representative on Oct. 28 at the Rose Barracks Education Center You can also set up an appointment by contacting the Hohenfels office at CIV 09472-83-4139/DSN 466-4139 or email Hohenfels@erau.edu.

Visit our website for more information. You can also visit the garrison universities website.

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 Tower Barracks-Rose Barracks community, there are currently 3 face-to-face programs running continuously year-round. Below is the current line-up for CTC classes on Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks for Term 2, Oct-Dec. ROSE BARRACKS CLASSES: • Automotive Mechanic/Technician: AUMT 1419 – Automotive Engine Repair. Meeting days & times: Tue/We/Th 6-10 p.m. Start/End dates: 21 Oct-11 Dec. Instructor: Donald Bretch. 4 credit hours.

• Criminal Justice : CJSA 1342 – Criminal Investigation (hybrid class). Meeting days & times: Tue 6-9 p.m. Start/End dates: 21 Oct-11 Dec. Instructor: Chris Dozier. 3 credit hours.

TOWER BARRACKS CLASSES: • Child Development class: CDEC 1311 – Educating Young Children (hybrid class). Meeting days & times: Tue 6-9 p.m.

Start/End dates: 28 Oct-18 Dec. Instructor: Birgit Keiser. 3 credit hours.

For more information, contact CTC field representative Chuck Sligh at vilseck@europe.ctcd.edu, DSN 476-2362, CIV 09662-83-2362, Bldg 223, Rose Barracks Mon, Tue and Thur and at the Tower Barracks Multi Learning Facility (MLF), Bldg. 538 Wednesdays.

School News Grafenwoehr Elementary School Grafenwoehr Elementary School and Grafenwoehr Elementary School PTA were recognized nationally as a School of Excellence. Check out the press release.

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 Mon.- Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.- Fri. 8:15 a.m.-2:35 p.m.

Phone Numbers DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-83-7133

Vilseck Elementary School Please don’t forget to keep bringing in your Box Tops to our PTSA. Place them in the box near the front office.

06-07 Nov: NO SCHOOL for Students. Parent Teacher Conferences 06 Nov: PTSA Board Meeting in media center at 3pm.

10 Nov: No School for Students – Staff Dev Day 11 Nov: NO SCHOOL – Veterans’ Day 13 Nov: Awards Ceremonies & Dining at the Ritz. Parents will receive an invitation.

20 Nov: Lions’ Den “Special Education 101” (8:30-9:30) in the school’s annex.

25 Nov: In the school’s MPR at 5:30 PM, our Multi-age students will present a program called

"The First Thanksgiving Musical" for the general PTSA meeting 27-28 Nov: NO SCHOOL – Thanksgiving Break rd 05 Dec: ‘ A P i r a t e ’ s C h r i s t m a s ’ – p r e s e n t e d b y M s . Y o u n g & 3 grade 2 performances (9:30 & 1:15) in the multi-purpose room 11 Dec: Shelter in Place drill (1:30) 12 Dec: Geography Bee 8:45-10:15 (Annex) : For the 27th year, the National Geographic Society is holding the National Geographic Bee for students in the fourth through eighth grades in Department of Defense Dependents Schools around the world. The champion of the Vilseck Elementary School Nat Geo Bee will advance to the next level of competition, a written examination to determine state competitors.

All school champions are eligible to win the national championship and its first prize, a $50,000 college scholarship, at the national championship May 11-13, 2015 in Washington, D.C. For more information: www.nationalgeographic.com/geobee 12 Dec: Early Withdrawal Date 22-31 Dec: NO SCHOOL – Christmas Break 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 09662-833221.

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 schools website (http://www.vilses.eu.dodea.edu/) 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) 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 at: VILSES.Attendance@eu.dodea.edu 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 09662-832812 / 832673 DSN 476-2812/2973 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.

Netzaberg Elementary School 6-7 November: NO SCHOOL. Parent/Teacher conferences.

10 November: NO SCHOOL. Teacher Work Day. 11 November: NO SCHOOL. Columbus Day. 27-28 November: NO SCHOOL. Thanksgiving break.

20 December – 4 January: NO SCHOOL. Winter break.

6th Annual Spelling Bee: 3rd-5th Grades; 8:15 a.m., Nov 14 at Netzaberg ES MPR; POC: Rhoda Wilner (rhoda.wilner@eu.doeda.edu).

6th Annual Geography Bee: 4th-5th Grades; 8:15 a.m., January 8, 2015; Netzaberg ES MPR; POC: Rhoda Wilner (rhoda.wilner@eu.doeda.edu).

Sure Start: A preschool program for at risk military families, we provide education, health, nutrition, and social services.

Children who are age four by September 1 are selected using specific criteria. Ranks E-1 to E-4 have priority. Parent involvement is mandatory. Applications for the 2014/2015 school year are available at the Netzaberg Elementary School main office. 09645-9179185 or 472-9185.

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

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

Child Find: Do you have questions about your child’s development (ages 3-5 years)? For further information on Child Find developmental screenings at Netzaberg Elementary School, please call CIV 09645-917-9185 or DSN 472-9185.

Check us out on Facebook 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

Spelling Bee Club Dragon parents, is your child interested in improving their spelling, increasing their vocabulary, and developing correct English? Is so, please review the attached flyer for Spelling BEE Club. Spelling BEE Club is open to all 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students. Have a great day! http://issuu.com/bavariamilitarycommunity/docs/spelling_bee_club_consent_form_and_

School Advisory Committee We will be holding our first School Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting for the year at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22 in the school library. The SAC advises/provides recommendations to the principal and/or installation commander for the improvement of educational programs and general quality of education and school programs and to the installation commander regarding issues under the control of the host installation (IAC). The SAC committee is open to all parents.

Netzaberg Middle School – Home of the Knights 5 Nov: Tribute to Veteran’s Band Concert – 5:45pm, MPR 7 Nov: No School for Students (Parent/Teacher Conference Day) 10 Nov: No School for Students – (Staff Development Training) 11 Nov: No School - Veteran's Day Holiday 21 Nov: PTSA Holiday Movie Special, 3-5pm, MPR 27-28 Nov: No School for Students - Thanksgiving Break 11 Dec: Earliest Date for Accelerated Withdrawal 13 Dec: NMS PTSA 5K Reindeer Run, Registration onsite: 8:30-9:30, Santa arrives@9:15 :) 20 Dec – 4 Jan: Winter Break – No School 5 Jan: Return to School Student Absent? Please e-mail NetzabergMS.Attendan@eu.dodea.edu or call Ms. Lakisha Wilson, our Attendance Clerk, to notify us if your student is going to be absent from school. ** If a student is late, a parent/guardian must come to the office to sign them in. 09645-917-9229 DSN 472 9229, Option 1.

Registration or PCSing soon? Please contact Mrs. Zenaida Ferdinand-Bessant, Zenaida.ferdinand-be@eu.dodea.edu our Registrar, so she can assist you with your transition. 09645-917-9229 DSN 472 9229, Option 3.

Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery averyj@eu.dodea.edu or Mr. James Moss james.moss@eu.dodea.edu at the SBO (Student Bus Office) 09645-917-9229 DSN 472 9229, Option 5.

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

School Office Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon - Fri 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

CIV 09645-917-9229 DSN 472-9229

Vilseck High School 29 Oct – 12 Nov No activity busses 7 Nov Parent-Teacher Conferences No School for Students 8 Nov SAT testing 10 Nov CSI day No school for Students 11 Nov Veterans Day No School 16 – 21 Nov Creative Connections Workshop 20 Nov Awards Seminar 27 Nov Thanksgiving No School 28 Nov No School

SY2014/15 Accelerated withdrawal due to PCS moves. The earliest date that a student may withdraw from school and still receive full credit for the current semester is December 11, 2014 (for 1st Semester) and for the 2nd Semester it is May 14, 2015. DoDEA policy states the school must be notified at least 20 days prior to the withdrawal date. For more information on the requirements please contact the Vilseck High School administrative office at 09662832864.

Week of 24 Nov the following schedule changes will be in effect: Monday – 7 period day, Tuesday – A day, Wednesday – B day. Thursday – Thanksgiving, Friday – No School.

If you are not able to attend Parent/Teacher conference and would like to meet with a teacher, please email your student's Guidance Counselor or call the office at DSN 476-2864 or 09662-83-2864. Let them know which of the teachers you would like to meet with and they will schedule a conference.

This is a list of our counselors and who you will contact. If your students last name begins with: A-G Ms Leveque H- Q Mr Landreth R-Z Mr Conrad

Check out our website at http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu for more detailed sports schedules.

If you have a question call our office at the numbers listed below.

School Office Hours Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Important Phone Numbers CIV 09662-832864 / Fax 09662832864 / 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. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.: in 92637 Weiden, Volksfestplatz, Leuchtenberger Straße 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.

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.

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

Useful links in English for everyday life in Germany Find German zip codes: German Post's website 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.

Get Involved with Cougar House Get involved with the Cougar Foundation: Open Chair and Board Positions. The Cougar Foundation is a non-profit that supports the soldiers and families of 2nd Squadron 2nd Cavalry Regiment based in Vilseck. We support several events throughout the year for the local community. We are entirely run by volunteers and donations. If you are in support of what the Cougar Foundation does, please give some thought to joining our administrative board. Hours can be attributed to professional work experience, hours toward promotions points and/or the volunteer service award. These positions are open anyone over the age of 18 with valid SOFA status. If you are a member of a 2/2 CR FRG you are still welcome to participate, but FRG leaders, Co-leaders or Treasurers are limited to chair positions only. Work experience is a plus.

Open positions are Art & Marketing Chair (not design experience needed), Community Relations & Outreach, Membership Chair and Vice President (as of Jan 2015). If you are interested please email info@cougarfoundation.org for more details.

Additional information on activities in and around Bavaria Was ist los, Bavaria? http://www.army.mil/article/130556/ Things to do in Garmisch. http://issuu.com/bmcgarmisch Was ist los in Franken? http://www.army.mil/article/113592/

Arts and Treats until Mid-night 7 Nov: From 6 p.m. – midnight. For art connoisseurs and art lovers, there are more than 50 artists with plenty to offer.

There’s even a free “WIES KULTOUR-BUS” which takes you from the main Weiden train station to the city center.

Admission is free.

Kneipenjagd 8 Nov: Ansbach area pubs and restaurants are hosting a "Kneipenjagd," Saturday. Twenty-four bands play in different locations in town. One ticket buys admission for all locations and live music all night long. Tickets are 11 euros in advance (Brückencenter or participating pubs) and 13 euros the night of the event. For details on participating locations and program, go to www.facebook.com/KneipenJagdAnsbach.

Feuchtwangen Now-9 Nov: The Fish and Game Days, a culinary week in Feuchtwangen, happens through Nov. 9. This is your chance to get regional and seasonal products fresh on the table at local restaurants. For full program, go to http://www.feuchtwangen.de/fileadmin/Dateien/Dateien/folder_fisch_und_wildtage_2014.pdf

Christmas Markets

Christmas is just around the corner which means the Christmas Markets are even sooner around the corner. To view or download a complete listing of Christmas Markets in and around Bavaria, go to http://issuu.com/kimgillespie/docs/14afnpao-christmasmarkets.