USAG Bavaria Weekly Newsletter

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

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER

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

Remember, even if you’re just popping into Czech, a passport is required any time you cross a national border. While some Schengen zone countries allow EU citizens to cross borders without passports, that agreement does not include U.S. citizens. Police in other countries may pull you over without suspicion of wrongdoing to check for your passport. Those without can suffer detainment and illegal border crossing charges. And, remember: Children must have passports as well. Read more about it here.

Need to get a passport? Make an appointment!

Call for your appointment at DSN 475-8754, CIV 09641-83-8754 or email. Pick up of completed passports will be walk-in bases only.

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

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

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

Follow us on Twitter Follow us for news and updates about the Bavarian Military Community, Army, DoD and Europe

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

Capital bound. Vilseck High School's Phillip Ramirez is 1 of 104 selected for prestigious weeklong youth program in D.C. Bahn is the bomb. DB Museum highlights the rich history of train travel with static and interactive displays. Leadership in detail. CG details the first of 5 strategic priorities: Adaptive Army Leaders for a Complex World.

Passport Office now requires appointments The USAG Bavaria Passport Office on Tower Barracks now requires all passport processing transactions, issuing of Ration, SOFA and or Social Security Cards will require an appointment. Call for your appointment at DSN 475-8754, CIV 09641-83-8754 or email. Pick up of completed passports will be walk-in bases only.

USAG Bavaria Christmas Tree Disposal Throughout the season: Trees from admin and common areas, barracks and housing, may be brought to the Green Waste Collection Point across from the DPW Self Help Store, free of charge. Americans living off post may bring their trees too.

Vilseck Off Post Trees can be brought to the local community recycling yards (“Wertstoffhof”) during routine opening hours free of charge.

This applies to all local communities within the Amberg-Sulzbach county. To see where your local Wertstoffhof is, click on your city/ area on our Recycling Page.

Tower Barracks On Post Americans living off post and on post can also bring their trees free of charge to the DPW’s Compost Yard across from Wash Rack 10.

Grafenwoehr Area Off Post (Netzaberg, City of Grafenwoehr, City of Eschenbach) 11 Jan: Local youth organizations will do curbside pickup on trees marked with a disposal sticker.

Banks in Eschenbach and Grafenwoehr are selling disposal tickets for 1,50 € - 2,00 €. Trees have to be out at the curb no later than 8 a.m. on 11 Jan. Please remove all decorations beforehand. For more info call DSN 475-6664, 476-2600, CIV 09641-83-6664, 0966283-2600.

Submit your questions now for the Community Huddle The next Community Huddle is on Jan. 30, at the Tower View Conference Center at 11:30 a.m. If you have any questions for the garrison leadership, unit leadership, the schools, a directorate or even just a general issue of concern, please feel free to let us know. All questions sent to us will be addressed at the Community Huddle. You can send us a private Facebook message with your question or email it to usarmy.grafenwoehr.imcom.mbx.usag-grafenwoehr-pao@mail.mil.

Ammunition Community Amnesty Day 14 Jan: If you know of ammunition or weapons that need to be turned in, drop them off at the next Ammunition Supply Point (ASP) #1 Community Amnesty Day for ammunition and explosives (A&E). From 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., come to the Unit

Entrance of Ammunition Supply Point #1. Simply approach the gate and let the ASP personnel know that you have amnesty to turn in. They will take it from you on a “No Questions Asked” policy.

AER approval signature changes Sergeant (E-5) through Colonel (O-6) no longer require the 1SGs/CDRs approval signature, but have now direct access to Army Emergency Relief. After conducting a world-wide assessment in 2013, and consulting with Army leadership, Army Emergency Relief decided to implement the change. E-5s and above seeking direct AER assistance need to use application Form 700 along with the supporting documents. E-4s and below still need to submit their application form through their Chain of Command for recommendation. The CDRs Referral Form 600 still requires the 1SGs/CDRs signature regardless of rank.

Tax Centers coming soon!

Tax Centers, the easiest way to file your taxes for free, will be opening in the beginning of February. Last tax season, tax centers in Bavaria processed 10,220 tax returns, saving more than $1.5 million in commercial preparation and filing fees, and generating over $19 million in refunds. The filing deadline for the tax year is 15 April, but the overseas filing deadline is 16 June. Click here for contact info and tax filing document requirements.

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

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

This training is a mandatory annual requirement for all DoD personnel including Military, AF/NAF (both US and LN); U.S. Contractor employees are welcome.

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

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

Stay vigilant and report suspicious activities For emergencies off post call 112, the European emergency number, reachable from fixed and mobile phones, free of charge, everywhere in the EU. Bavaria Military Community officials are asking everyone to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities as soon as they are observed. The safety of our families is one of our biggest priorities. USAG Grafenwoehr Military Police: DSN 476-2490/3397 or CIV 09662-83-2490/3397.

Suicide and Sexual Assault Hotlines Call the suicide prevention hotline number at DSN 118, CIV 09641-83-118. Visit our website for more on suicide prevention. Suicide prevention, sexual assault or just a friendly ear… you’re never alone. Professionals are available to counsel you in confidence. Getting help is a sign of strength.

24 Hour Community Hotlines: Chaplain Hotline 0162-296-0838, Military Police Hotline 09662-83-114, Sexual Assault Hotline DSN 475-4567, CIV 09641-83-4567 or DSN 476-3218, CIV 09662-83-3218 and Emergency Services DSN 117, CIV 09641-83-117.

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

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

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

Army Volunteer Corps 14 Jan & 24 Feb: Volunteer Management, Organizational Point of Contact (OPOC) Training, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221, Rm 206 9-10 Jan: Army Family Team Building (AFTB), Level 1, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221, Rm 206

Employment Readiness For anyone needing assistance with resume building, or one-on-one assistance, please call DSN 476-2650, 475-8371, CIV 09662-83-2650, 09641-83-8371.

7 Jan & 4 Feb: USA Jobs, 10 – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 14 Jan & 11 Feb: Interview Prep 101, 10:00 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 28 Jan & 18 Feb: 10 Minute Makeover, 10:00 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

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

8 Jan: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bowling Center 9 Jan: EFMP 101, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 15 Jan: EFMP Enlightenment Group, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244, 3 Feb: Respite Care Provider Training, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 6 Feb: FRSA & FRG Key Personnel Brief, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 12 Feb: EFMP Enlightenment Group, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 27 Feb: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bowling Center

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

28-30 Jan: It Takes Two, 8:30 – 3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 7 Jan-4 Feb: Love & Logic, 11:30 – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex 9 Jan: Community Meet and Greet, 10 a.m., Tower Barracks, Army Lodging 16 Jan: Community Meet and Greet, 9 a.m., Rose Barracks, Kristall Inn

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

8 Jan: Consumer rights, 1 – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 8 Jan & 5 Feb: Tax Planning, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 15 Jan & 12 Feb: Coupon Class, 12 – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 22 Jan: Coupon Class, 1 – 2:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221 22 Jan: Checking and Debit Account Management, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 29 Jan: Tax Planning, 1 – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 29 Jan: Saving and Investments, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 4 Feb: Checking and Debit Account Management, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 12 Feb: Coupon Class, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 19 Feb: Financial Literacy, noon – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 24-28 Feb: Military Saves Week!! Call for details and special programs!

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

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness 13 Jan & 10 Feb: Resilience Training, 9 – 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 15 Jan: FRL Basic Course, 9 – 5 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221 (limit 20 people) 11 Feb: FRG Basic Course, 9 – 5 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221 (limit 20 people)

New Parent Support Program Fridays, 10 Jan – 14 Feb: Great Expectations, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322.

(6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings) Tuesdays, 7, 21 Jan & 4, 18 Feb: Infant Massage, noon-1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 8, 22 Jan & 5, 19 Feb: Little Hearts Apart Club, 10-11:15 a.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 Clinics and Informational Classes

Every Tuesday: Breast Feeding Clinic, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

Every Thursday: Netzaberg, Teen Center, 9:30-11 a.m.

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

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

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

Relocation Readiness 9 Jan & 13 Feb: Successful PCS Moves 101, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 15 Jan: Civilian Sponsorship, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 15 Jan & 19 Feb: Military Sponsorship: Train-The-Trainer, 2 – 3 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 Thursdays, 16 Jan-27 Feb: SGI/ATS Belly Dancing, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 221 (Teacher meet & greet, Jan 16!)

16 Jan: Level 3 Newcomers’ Orientation “Welcome To Bavaria” Bavarian Nights, 5 – 9 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 24 Jan & 21 Feb: Level 2 Newcomers’ Orientation, Discover Amberg “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 15 Jan & 19 Feb: Immigration Workshop, 11 a.m. – noon, Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 27 Jan & 24 Feb: Level 1 Newcomers Orientation “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 31 Jan & 28 Feb: Level 2 Newcomers’ Orientation, Discover Weiden “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 Feb: Spouse Sponsorship, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 Every Tuesday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex Every Thursday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg. 322.

Military and Family Life Consultants are here for you Military Life Consultants provide solution-oriented consultations to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They are designed to provide anonymous, confidential support to Soldiers and their family members, especially those returning from deployments. To contact a military life consultant, call Rose Barracks 0152-0294-0761 / 017-4147-6846 or Tower Barracks 0152-0293-4290 / 0152-0241-5226, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.

10 Jan: Return and Reunion Workshop For Spouses, 1-3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 14 Jan: Helping The Service Member Reconnect With Their Child, 3-4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 17 Jan: Helping The Service Member Reconnect With Their Child, 1-3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 21 Jan: Making Marriage Work After Deployment, 3-4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 24 Jan: Making Marriage Work After Deployment, 1-3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 28 Jan: From Combat To Home, 3-4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 31 Jan: From Combat To Home, 1-3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

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

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

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

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

Rose Barracks Inventory Closure Dates 21 Jan: PXtra 22 Jan: Rose Barracks Express (Gas Kiosk OPEN) 24 Jan: Car Care Center 24 Jan: Military Clothing Tower Barracks Inventory Closure Dates 23 Jan: Tower Barracks Express (Gas Kiosk OPEN) 25 Jan: Netzaberg Express (Gas not available) 25 Jan: Algiers Express 25 Jan: Normandy Express 27 Jan: Car Care Center 27 Jan: Military Clothing 29 Jan: Tower Barracks Main Store Exchange food facilities and concessions are open for regular business.

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

Volunteers and other help needed Kontact Klub looking for committee members The Kontact Klub is looking for one or two family members who are interested in supporting our Events and Membership Committee. The club is planning many events for 2014 and needs some help. Please contact David Koenig if you are interesting in playing an active role in the German American Friendship. Daniel.koenig.vilseck@t-online.de, Tel: 01525 3634269

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

Health and Safety Instructors: Volunteers teach lifesaving skills in the community. Classes such as Babysitting, CPR, First Aid, AED and other safety presentations.

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

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

Office of Volunteers: Volunteers assist with writing volunteer job descriptions, setting up volunteer orientation courses, conduct volunteer screening interviews, help with volunteer placement, record keeping, and recognition. For more, Rose Barracks Red Cross CIV 0966283-1760 DSN 476-1760, Tower Barracks Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 475-1760.

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

Rose Barracks listings, here.

Bavaria Community and Spouses' Club events Go to their Facebook page for upcoming events and club news. Over the summer the Grafenwoehr Community and Spouses Club (GCSC) disbanded and turned over its assets to the Vilseck Community and Spouses Club (VCSC). The

Vilseck Community and Spouses Club is undergoing a name change and will now be the Bavaria Community and Spouses Club (BCSC) which will serve our entire community including Tower Barracks and Rose Barracks.

Bayern Rangers hockey team The Bayern Rangers ice hockey team is looking for new players. The team invites interested players to practice: 12 Jan: noon-1:30 p.m. in Weiden (outdoor Shinny); 18 Jan: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in Pegnitz (outdoor tourney); 19 Jan: noon-1:30 p.m. in Weiden (outdoor Shinny); 26 Jan: noon-1:30 p.m. in Weiden (outdoor Shinny); 2 Feb: noon-1:30 p.m. in Weiden (outdoor Shinny) 20-22 Feb: 22nd Annual Military Championships in Garmisch. To join in the fun, just show up. Players must provide their own equipment and chip in to cover the cost of ice time -- normally 10 euro for a 90 minute skate. For more info please see the team page at www.facebook.com/bayernrangers.

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

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

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

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

Sundays are Family Bowling days Sundays: Every Sunday from 2-8 p.m. at the Tower Barracks 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.

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

Rugged Terrain Obstacle Run Registration Now-3 March: Service members, civilians and family members in Europe are challenged to participate in the second Grafenwoehr Rugged Terrain Obstacle Run on April 12. Run, climb and jump past 13 hard-core obstacles spaced out over a grueling, 13-kilometer course along the Grafenwoehr Training Area’s Rough Terrain Trail. Obstacles include cargo net and rock climbs, tire flips, sled pulls, a stair run and a filthy mud crawl. Complete the run to earn a commemorative T-shirt. Participants register online at www.grafenwoehr.armymwr.com. Pre-registration fee is $25 per participant, participation is limited (1000 person). All U.S. and NATO ID cardholders over 18 years of age are eligible to participate as either individuals or teams.

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

Get Fit at your Library!

9 Jan: The libraries are partnering with the Fitness Centers to get you moving in January. Fitness instructors will provide demonstration classes and the Libraries will have the best of the fitness materials on display throughout the month.

Fitness instructors for Personal Fitness Trainer information, Massage Demos, ZUMBA, Yoga, Spin and more will be available throughout the library. Pre-registration by is required by calling DSN 475-1740, CIV 09641-83-1740. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat or towel to place on the floor. Tower Barracks Library, 4:30 - 6 p.m.

BINGO! 9 & 23 Jan: Try your luck with America’s number one game, BINGO! This is your chance to win big while also enjoying a delicious dinner. Only ID card holders 18 and older, please. Doors open at 5 p.m., early bird 6 p.m., regular 7 p.m.

Tower View Conference Center, Tower Barracks, Bldg. 209.

Meet, Greet & Bowl for Thursday & Friday Night Leagues 9 & 10 Jan: Length of the league and fees will be discussed in this meeting. League will commence upon completion of the meeting. The Thursday Night League will meet on 9 Jan and the Friday Night League will meet on 10 Jan. Rose Barracks Bowling Center, Bldg. 2201. 6 p.m. both nights.

Headlight Lead Cross Country Skiing 9 Jan: Looking for something fun to do on those long winter nights? Why not join Outdoor Recreation for an evening of cross country skiing. Leaving from the Outdoor Recreation Center, we will make our way through the forest trail and back.

Prices: $20 per person. *Customers must stop in Outdoor Recreation prior to trip for equipment fitting. Wild B.O.A.R. Outdoor Recreation, Bldg. RC 600, DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529. 6 p.m.

NEW Sport Lead Climbing Course 9 Jan: Learn how to climb without a belay. You will learn the technique free climbing and clipping as you go. Contact the Wild B.O.A.R. to sign up and for more information. Offered the second Thursday of each month, 6-8 p.m., at Wild B.O.A.R. Outdoor Recreation, Tower Barracks, Bldg. RC 600. DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529.

Fitness Day 11 Jan: Take a morning to check out all the fitness classes and wellness services that are available to you for free. Our professional fitness staff can assist you with your set fitness goals. Try out fitness classes, massages, fitness assessments, equipment orientation and much more. 9 a.m.-noon at the Tower Barracks Physical Fitness Center, Bldg.

170. Call DSN 475-8207, CIV 09641-83-8207 for more.

NEW Ladies Only Climbing Night 16 Jan: All ladies are invited to come out and get your climb on. Contact the Wild B.O.A.R. to sign up and for more information. Offered the first and third Thursday of each month. DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529. Wild B.O.A.R. Outdoor Recreation, Tower Barracks, Bldg. RC 600 from 6-8 p.m.

Game Day 19 Jan: The Tower Barracks Warrior Zone and the Langenbruck Center on Rose Barracks are showing football games and hosting events to help you keep up with your fantasy football leagues! There will be food, drinks and prizes at each event. 5 p.m.

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

The Bavarian Ski Club will be hitting the slopes for two trips in January: 17-20 Jan: Saalbach-Hinterglemm, MLK weekend. Cost is 370 euros and includes 3 nights accommodation at a 4-star hotel with breakfast and dinner, a 3-day lift ticket and transportation to/from the Graf PX with sandwiches and beverages on the bus. Contact Ingrid Knodt via email or DSN 475-6349, CIV 09641-83-6349.

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

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

Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop The Thrifty Tower is located in Bldg. 508 in Tower Barracks. Consignments are Tuesdays only. Hours are Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and the 1st Friday of the month, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. All pink colored tickets are half off. Volunteers and Donations are always welcome. DSN 476-2649, CIV 09662-83-2649, or email for more information. Volunteers and donations are always welcome.

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

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

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

Service Credit Union closed 20 Jan: Service Credit Union will be closed on 20 Jan in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. All branches will resume normal business hours on 21 Jan. Please plan ahead.

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

Weekly Bible Study Velburg Truth Center meets for Bible Study every Wednesday at 7 p.m. In addition to weekly Bible Study, we also have church service every Sunday at 11 a.m. We are located at Alleeweg 2 Velburg, Germany 92355. Please email Brenda Means or call 0172-892-3771 for more.

Off post church services Eschenbach - Roman Catholic Mass Saturday services at St. Laurentius: 6 p.m. (1st Mass of Sunday) Sunday services at St. Laurentius: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Monday services at St. Laurentius: 6 p.m.

Tuesday services at Apfelbach: 6 p.m.

Wednesday services at St. Laurentius: 8 a.m.

Thursday services at St. Laurentius: 4:15 p.m. (geared toward children) Grafenwoehr Sunday services at Friedenskirche: 8 a.m. and 10.30 a.m. Family services every 1st, 3rd and 4th Sunday Monday services at Maria-Himmelfahrtskirche: 8.30 a.m.

Tuesday services at Friedenskirche: 7 p.m.

Wednesday services at Seniorenheim St. Sebastian: 4.30 p.m. 2nd Wednesday of every month; 7 p.m. at MariaHimmelfahrtskirche

Thursday services at Friedenskirche: 4:15 p.m., students’ service Friday services at Friedenskirche: 1-2 p.m. 1st Friday of every month; 7 p.m. 1st Friday of every month.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday services at Josefs Kirche: 7 p.m.

Saturday services at Josefs Kirche: 5 p.m.

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

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

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

High Point Baptist Church Anton-MannStr. 5 92249 Vilseck Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.

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

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

During business hours: Tower Barracks Chapel: DSN 475-1570, CIV 09641-83-1570. Rose Barracks Chapel: DSN 4761570, CIV 09662-83-1570.

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

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

FAST Classes 22 Jan-4 Feb: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The registration period for these classes starts 2 Dec and lasts until the last working day before the particular class begins. Functional Academic Skills Training (FAST) provides Soldiers with instruction in reading, mathematics, and language skills and is an excellent tool to prepare Soldiers to raise their GT score. This class is a 60-hour long course and is limited to twenty students. For more information please contact the Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University We offer undergraduate and graduate programs in aviation, aerospace, logistics, business and project management.

Flexible schedules and convenient credit transfer help fit a busy schedule. An ERAU representative will be at the Vilseck

Education Center on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 10 a.m.-noon to answer questions. Contact the Hohenfels office at DSN 4664139 or CIV 09472-83-4139, or email for more information. Also, check out the ERAU Europe website.

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

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

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

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

University of Oklahoma The University of Oklahoma will soon be offering a Master of Education program. The 36 credit hour program focuses on Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum. Courses will be offered on-site by professors from the University of Oklahoma's main campus. OU is currently conducting a survey for planning and scheduling purposes. If you are interested in the Masters of Education degree and would like to have input into courses offered locally please visit GoOU.ou.edu to complete the survey. The direct link to the survey. Your feedback is very important. For more information about the Master of Education degree or any of our other Master's degree programs, call DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069, or visit us in Bldg 223 on Rose Barracks.

Central Texas College CTC provides soldiers and their families with associate degree programs in many Vo-Tech career fields with both face-toface classes and online classes. In the Vilseck-Grafenwoehr community, there are currently 3 face-to-face programs running continuously year-round. Below is the current line-up for CTC classes on Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks for Term 3 in Jan-Mar 2014: ROSE BARRACKS CLASSES: Introduction to Automotive Technology: AUMT 1405 – Meeting days & times: Tu/We/Th 6-10 p.m.. Start/End dates: 14 Jan / 6 Mar. Instructor: Charles Rosemond. 4 credit hours. Criminal Justice class: CJSA 1317 – Juvenile Justice System. Meeting days & times: Mo/We 6-9 p.m. Start/End dates: 13 Jan / 5 Mar. Instructor: Brian, Pinckney. 3 credit hours. TOWER BARRACKS CLASSES: Child Development class: CDEC 1319 – Chile Guidance. Meeting days and times: Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Start/End dates: 25 Jan / 22 Feb. Instructor: Birgit Keiser. 3 credit hours. For more, contact CTC field representative Chuck Sligh via email or DSN 4762362, CIV 09662-83-2362, Rose Barracks Bldg 223.

School News 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 09641-836132. Please remember if you wish to hand carry records to your child’s new school we will need 5 working days notice along with the last day notice.

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

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

DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641837133

Vilseck Elementary School 8 Jan: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read a story to their child.

9 Jan: Book Swap- please bring in a book to swap. In the main entrance from 9:00-11:00am 9 Jan: School Advisory Council Meeting in the library at 3pm. Parents are invited.

13 Jan: National Geography Bee for 4th & 5th graders in the MPR at 8:45 a.m. Each 4th & 5th grade class will hold a preliminary round to pick the top two students to complete in the school-level Bee. 15 Jan: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read a story to their child.

16 Jan: Lion's Den for Parents in the Annex 8:30-9:30 a.m. "FREE E-BOOKS FOR MY KIDS! 20 Jan: No School. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. 22 Jan: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read a story to their child 24 Jan: NO SCHOOL-Teacher Work Day 27 Jan: Begin 3rd Quarter 28-29 Jan: School Spelling Bee 29 Jan: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read a story to their child.

24-27 Feb. Spring Pictures 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 20 Jan: NO SCHOOL. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. nd 23 Jan: End of 2 Quarter.

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

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

14 Feb: NO SCHOOL. Parent/Teacher conferences.

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

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

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

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

P.E.: Mr. Gray, our P.E. teacher, is asking for old sport shoe donations of all sizes. Many kids forget their sport shoes and this way Mr. Gray can loan them a pair for class. All sizes welcome.

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

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

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

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

Check us out on Facebook here.

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

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

Netzaberg Middle School Are you PCSing soon? Please give Mrs. Ferdinand-Bessant a call so that she can assist you with your transition. DSN 472 9229, option 3 Student Absent? Please e-mail Mr.Chris Campbell at Willis.Campbell@eu.dodea.edu if your student is going to be absent from school. If a student is late, a parent/guardian must come to the office to sign them in.

Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office.

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

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

CIV 09645-917-9229 DSN 472-9229

Vilseck High School 10-11 Jan: Basketball @ Patch 11 Jan: JROTC Marksmanship @ Home 13 Jan: SAC Meeting 13-14 Jan: Auditions for the Spring Musical “Hairspray, Jr.” 15 Jan: JROTC Parent meeting/Awards/Promotion 17-23 Jan: Semester Exam Week 18 Jan: Basketball (Hohenfels) / Wrestling (Home) / JROTC Marksmanship (Hohenfels) 20 Jan: Martin Luther King Day – No School 22 Jan: Auditions for the School Talent Show nd st 23 Jan: End of 2 Quarter / 1 Semester 24 Jan: No School for students Teacher workday 25 Jan: SAT Test rd nd 27 Jan: 3 Quarter / 2 Semester Begins 5-15 May: AP Exams PSAT Results and Information Night: On 16 Jan at 6 p.m. in the multipurpose room at VHS. Back in October all 9th, 10th and 11th grade students took the PSAT during school hours. The VHS Counseling team is hosting this evening to go over results and explain what they mean.

Winter Sports Schedule: The schedule can be found on the front page of the Vilseck High School website at http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu nd SAC Committee: VHS SAC Committee meets every 2 Monday of each month while school is in session. Minutes of the previous meetings can be found on our school website at http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu/SAC.html.

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

VHS Facebook Page Discontinued: There will no longer be a VHS Facebook Page. Instead there is a Grafenwoehr Community Schools Page.

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

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

CIV 09662-832864 / Fax 09662-832480 DSN 476-2864

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

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

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

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

"Todo Flamenco" - Andalusian night in Weiden 10 Jan: There will be festive Spanish music with wine and tapas on Friday at the Weiden "Haus der Evangelischen Gemeinde", Weiden, Wolframstrasse. 8 p.m. Tickets at www.nt-ticket.de / www.okticket.de.

YESTERDAY - a Tribute to the Beatles in Weiden 15 Jan: Silver Beatles Show Band will present Beatles songs and show at the Weiden Max-Reger-Halle at 8 p.m.

Tickets at www.adticket.de / www.yesterday-concert.de

Fasching events!

11 Jan: Fasching Party of the City of Weiden at the Weiden Max-Reger-Halle. 8 p.m. Tickets at www.okticket.de.

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

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

To learn more about Fasching…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In 91522 Ansbach: every Wednesday and Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m., on Martin-Luther-Platz. ***In addition to the regular fresh produce markets, local farmers offer their fresh goods every first and third Saturday of the month at the farmers

market on Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Platz (same opening hours). Great opportunity to buy seasonal produce as fresh as it gets.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guided Tours Segway Tours The latest craze is guided tours through a city on a Segway. Various cities and locations offer those already; some regularly, some only on special occasions. These cities offer regular tours in German - contact them to see if they will do tours in English: Bamberg: ph 0911-933-250 or 09133-768-7819; Garmisch-Partenkirchen: ph 0173-4444-948; Munich: These groups lead tours in English. Segway Tour Munich and City Segway Tours; Nürnberg: 0911-933-250 or 09133-768-7819; Regensburg: Segway Tour Regensburg. Most large cities now offer Segway tours, for example Mindways Segway City Tours (in EN) has routes in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Köln, Lübeck, and Travemünde.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

German-American Kontakt Club The Vilseck Kontakt Club meets every Friday at 7 p.m. for Stammtisch at the Club House, Rose Barracks Bldg. 301.

Those interested in the Vilseck Club please register with Daniel Koenig or sign up with the Vilseck Kontakt Club at the website by filling out the Mitgliedsantrag (Member registration form). The Grafenwoehr Kontakt Club meets every Monday for bowling at the Grafenwoehr Bowling Center and every Wednesday for Stammtisch at the Clubhouse. For more on the Graf Club, call CIV DSN 475-7878, 09641-83-7878 or email.