Bavarian Times Magazine - Edition 02 - 2013

Edition #2 | May 2013

| www.bavarian-times.com

Bavariantimes News & Magazine for Grafenwoehr | Vilseck | Hohenfels | Garmisch

r fo fr ee

Cancellation of the 56th German-American Volksfest on Grafenwoehr Training Area

| Page 10

Language need not be a barrier in Germany

| Page 28

Storyteller becomes the story

| Page 14

Culture- and Shopping Night “Weiden is dreaming�

| Page 52

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| Index

Page 6

Freecycle Center

Page 8

Spring cleanup is a team effort

Page 17

Volunteers honored at Hohenfels ceremony

Page 19

Health Clinic showcases young artists‘ talent

Page 24 Warriors test their resolve in The Amazing Race: Garmisch Page 32 Sit and be fit: Tips to stay healthy at work

Page 36

Audi RS6

Page 42

2014 Corvette Stingray

Page 54

My horticultural show “Nature in Tirschenreuth 2013”

Page 56

Climbers‘ Paradise Frankenjura

Page 60

Stockholm: Five tips for the land of three kings

Page 62

Rhodes: Lots of sunshine, turquoise- colored ocean and romantic bays

| Imprint IMPRINT | Edition #02 | 02/2013, 2nd Volume Publisher: Medienhaus DER NEUE TAG, DER NEUE TAG Oberpfälzischer Kurier Druck- und Verlagshaus GmbH, Weigelstraße 16, 92637 Weiden Internet: www.oberpfalznetz.de | www.bavarian-times.com E-Mail: editor@bavarian-times.com

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| Feature Story

Return from Afghanistan, August 2012.

Boom and Bohnemann in front of the partnership wall and the brigade emblem.

Grafenwoehr. “Task Force Blackhawk,” the black falcons of the 172d Infantry Brigade will be deactivated in a formal ceremony on May 31, 2013. With the deactivation, the changeful history of the brigade, which has been stationed in Grafenwoehr since 2008, comes to an end. Brigade Commander Col. Edward T. Bohnemann and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael W. Boom are looking back on a good time in Bavaria which, however, was also accompanied by deceased and wounded Soldiers during two deployments.

In August 1917, the 172d Infantry Brigade was activated at Camp Grant in Rockford, Ill. and participated in World War I. The brigade llooks back on a changeful history with deactivation, reactivation, renaming and deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom I in Baghdad. In 2008, the brigade was reactivated in Schweinfurt, Germany, as the first new heavy brigade combat team and the name was formally changed to 172d Infantry Brigade “Blackhawks.” At the end of 2008, the brigade was relocated to Grafenwoehr. However, due to a lack of available family housing, parts of the brigade remained in Schweinfurt. After a twelve-months deployment to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom 08-10, the brigade returned to Grafenwoehr in November 2009. During the deployment, the brigade lost nine soldiers.

The 172d Infantry Brigade was comprised of six battalions and four separate companies. To expand German-American relations, partnerships with the cities of Eschenbach, Pressath and Kirchenthumbach were established in September 2010 during an event on Netzaberg. A partnership wall with the cities’ and battalions’ crests was jointly unveiled. In June 2011, the colors of the 172d Infantry Brigade “Blackhawks” were cased again and the brigade’s 4,000 soldiers assembled below the Water Tower for a deployment ceremony before leaving for Afghanistan. “Task Force Blackhawk” was stationed in the Pakita Province in Southeastern Afghanistan for twelve months.

In August 2012, the 172d Infantry Brigade’s redeployment ceremony focused on commemorating the soldiers who had lost their lives in Afghanistan. With ten deceased and 85 wounded soldiers, the Blackhawk troops paid a heavy price. At that time, it had alrea5 | Bavarian Times

dy been decided that 172d Infantry Brigade would be deactivated as part of the U.S. Army’s transformation. The commander was tasked to reduce the troop strength from 4,000 to zero. All that will remain in Grafenwoehr is a memorial stone commemorating the fallen soldiers, which the Blackhawks unveiled on the parade field below the Water Tower in November 2012.

Also remaining will be the memories of a beautiful and great time, say Col. Edward T. Bohnemann and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael W. Boom. “We love Bavaria and have lived in a great region where we experienced a lot of friendship,” recall both partnership events and other meetings. The commander and his command sergeant major lived on Netzaberg with their families and often visited Eschenbach, the other partner cities and Grafenwoehr. The brigade also received great support from the Joint Multinational Training Command with regard to using the ranges and training facilities on Grafenwoehr Training Area, and the U.S .Army Garrison Grafenwoehr as far as military community support was concerned.

Currently, 1,100 soldiers of the brigade are still stationed in Grafenwoehr and Schweinfurt, although many soldiers have already been transferred to other units in Grafenwoehr, Vilseck and throughout Germany and the United States, or have left the Army. Col. Bohnemann will take a new position at Ft. Leavenworth, Ks. while Command Sgt. Maj. Boom will retire in Grafenwoehr after thirty years of duty in the Army and then return to Northern California.

During the interview, Boom highlights the great achievements of Col. Bohnemann during the unit’s deployment to Afghanistan where mission accomplishment and a safe return of the soldiers were always his main focus.

The brigade will officially deactivate during a ceremony on May 31, 2013 but it will most likely take until October before the last Blackhawk soldiers will have left the installation. Both soldiers remain confident that new units will take their place in Grafenwoehr.

Time will tell whether the 172d Infantry Brigade will ever be reactivated again, says Bohnemann.

| by Gerald Morgenstern

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

172d Infantry Brigade will be deactivated

| Grafenwoehr

Om Earth Day, the Freecycle-Center was opened on Grafenwoehr main post. Deputy Garrison Commander Kathy Aydt (fourth from left) cut the ribbon with the ladies who had the idea for the center. Also in attendance were Col. Bryan L. Rudacille (right) and the command sergeants major.

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

Freecycle Center Grafenwoehr. The freecycle center of the US Army garrison was established to avoid waste and to put usable items to new use. A lot of military leaders were present when the second hand store was opened on Earth Day in the old gas station on main post.

In her opening speech, Kathy Aydt, the deputy garrison commander, recognized the idea of Christina Stover and Lesley Gagnon. Both ladies brought the idea with them from Schweinfurt, where such a center had already been established. People can

drop off household goods, toys, clothes, electronic devices, computers and even furniture. Containers for drop off are located under the roof of the former gas station. Volunteers from the military community sort the items and provide them for free every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., hence the name freecycle center. Only ID-holders are allowed to pick up items.

The new recycling center was established by the garrison’s utilities branch, led by Werner Ohla. Aydt said that the new facility will save the US Army money for waste disposal while protecting the environment through the reuse of items. Also attending the opening ceremony were JMTC Commander Col. Bryan Rudacille and the command sergeants major of the garrison and JMTC. Together with the ladies that will manage the center, a ribbon was cut and freecycle center officially opened.

Many other events will also take place during the upcoming earth weeks. The Federal Forest Office and Vilseck High School will plant a hedge together, a children’s’ fest and a “green classroom” will be held and tours of the nature protection areas in the training area are planned. The goal of the environmental office, the garrison and the schools is to present the students, Soldiers and family members their ideas and projects to preserve and protect the environment. | by Gerald Morgenstern Bavarian Times | 6

| Grafenwoehr

The new silhouette is one meter high and diagonally two meters long. It was made by the company of Sören Triebel (behind). Peter Nittmann (right) and Elisabeth Dobrich (left) from the US construction office supervised the project. The general contractor was the Mickan Co., represented by construction chief Jochen Henzler (second from left).

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The construction office of the US Army Garrison Grafenwoehr awarded the renewal contract to general contractor Mickan Co. from Amberg which was represented during the installation by construction chief Jochen Henzler. Peter Nittmann, Theresia Lang, Alfred Dietl and Elisabeth Dobrich of the US construction office conducted the bidding process and supervised the project. Peter Nittmann said that the project cost more than 32,000 Euro. The majority of the cost was caused by the construction of the special scaffolding which required a special structural analysis. The scaffolding with an electric elevator was put up and taken down by Söll Co. from Jahnsdorf near Chemnitz. Triebel Locksmithery from Schneeberg produced the canon silhouette and the five-meterlong stainless steel pole with a brass swivel and the tower cupola.

The old steel plate silhouette was scanned and the vane, made from V-4-A stainless steel, cut out with a plasma cutter. The entire vane with mount and cupola was then galvanically covered with copper, says Sören Triebel. His company specializes in such work and has, among other things, also rebuilt the cross on the Frankfurt cathedral. Triebel is sure that the canon-shaped vane is the only one of its kind on a tower in Germany. An artillery canon used by the Bavarian Army Corps served as the model for the silhouette.

Now the new “canon” rests again on top of Grafenwoehr’s landmark and will hopefully make it through the next 100 years. Many will probably just now notice the new vane with its copper coat of paint. The old “canon” will find its new permanent home in the Military Museum of the Local Historic Society which also features a model of the Water Tower. | by Gerald Morgenstern

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

1912 was hammered into the swivel of the old vane, says Sören Triebel, the junior manager of the Schneeberg metal company which produced the original copy of the old vane. Only a few employees on main post noticed that a wind gust had knocked over the old vane and blown the canon silhouette off the tower. Construction of the Water Tower started in 1909. Weiß Co. from Weiden built the tower which is responsible until today for the water pressure on main post with its 450 cubic meter water tank. Quickly, the 43.5 meter high, half-timbered-style tower with its bays, stair tower and the canon silhouette on top became the landmark of the training area and the city. It was a miracle that, together with the Forest House, it survived the bombardment of April 1945 unharmed, although bombs fell all around the two buildings. The landmark was renovated and painted many times, beams exchanged and the roof newly covered. Parts of the half-timbered structure were renewed in 2010 and tower received another new coat of paint. The vane, who did not show any signs of wear and tear, was never touched but then, after 100 years, “personally” required its renewal.

22

Grafenwoehr. The canon-shaped vane is back on the Water Tower. A specialized company from Schneeberg in the Erzgebirge Mountains replaced the old vane that fell off the tower a year ago.

It had lasted for exactly 100 years.

The new silhouette is one meter high and diagonally two meters long. On top of a five-meter-long pole, it was fastened in the socalled Emperor‘s beam, the highest tower beam, which has been preserved until today. That’s how Sören Triebel, who is enthusiastic about the old craftsmanship, describes the mounting , 43 meters above ground.

W

Water Tower Vane

Peter Nittmann from the construction office during the final inspection of the new silhouette. The photo was taken from the gable of the tower, near the revolving approach light.

Josephsthal 1 92655 Grafenwöhr Phone: 09641/454741 www.josephsthal.de

| Grafenwoehr

The 2013 Spring Cleanup, May 13-17, is a community responsibility. Areas of concentrated emphasis are homes, work places and designated common areas.

Sponsoring units will also participate in their respective areas.

Focus will be on the entire building (basements, washrooms, storage rooms, etc.) and a 50-foot perimeter around the buildings and the common areas. The end state is a complete cleaning of housing buildings, common areas and grounds.

Self Help will have tools and equipment available. Special materials required should be obtained from Self Help no later than one week prior to the Spring Cleanup (paint, topsoil, beauty bark, etc). All checked out equipment must be returned one week after scheduled cleanup.

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

Spring cleanup is a team effort Grafenwoehr. Germany – After the wrath of this past winter, it‘s time to begin anew. The newfound sun shining down on the garrison is the perfect setting to step outside for a bit of spring cleaning.

As large unwanted items pile up, the Grafenwoehr SORT Program will come to the rescue with curbside pick-up.

The Bavarian Military community, to include off-post housing areas, will participate in the 2013 Spring Cleanup, May 13-17 to improve the appearance of community facilities by cleaning areas of responsibility.

Bulk pick-up for Grafenwoehr and Rose Barracks on-post housing will take place Tuesday, May 14. No material should be set out before May 10 or after 8 a.m. on the day of pick-up.

Troop billet areas will receive pick-up on Thursday, May 16.

The garrison reminds community members that Spring Cleanup is everyone‘s responsibility. All Soldiers, civilians and family members are required participate.

Items to be picked up are as follows: furniture, mattresses, carpets, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, large TVs, ovens, stoves, bicycles and other items that cannot be dismantled, torn or broken down to a size that would fit.

This applies whether you live in government or governmentleased quarters, as well as at the work place. Areas of concentrated emphasis are homes, work places and designated common areas.

Refrigerators and freezers must be handled and placed with care so that the cooling coils will not get damaged.

Useable unwanted items can be donated to community at the new Freecycle store, Grafenwoehr, Building 441, or on-post thrift stores, Grafenwoehr Building 508 and Rose Barracks Building 221.

Maximum participation of housing occupants and Soldiers‘ quarters is necessary to successfully execute this program.

Soldiers will report to their area/building coordinators to receive specific instructions for cleanup.

| by Molly Hayden, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

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Each May, the Electrical Safety Foundation International sponsors National Electrical Safety Month to raise awareness of electrical hazards at work, home or anywhere. However, Soldiers, Family members and civilian employees can benefit from understanding their electrical risk any time of year.

“There isn‘t a lot of information readily available to educate consumers about potential electrical safety hazards,” said Mike Evans, electrical safety program manager, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center. “Every member of our Army Family must know about these hazards and have an evaluation performed before adding new components to their home electrical system.”

Evans said there are many simple improvements homeowners can make to their electrical systems without undertaking a major renovation. These include installing arc fault circuit interrupters that prevent fires by detecting hazardous arcing conditions, ground fault circuit interrupters that prevent shocks, and tamper-resistant receptacles that replace standard wall outlets to protect children from shocks and burns.

The USACR/Safety Center has developed an electrical safety page (https://safety.army.mil/soh/INDUSTRIALSAFETY/ Electrical/tabid/547/Default.aspx) to help Family members and civilian employees understand common electrical hazards. Evans said another good resource is the ESFI‘s “Virtual Home” website, available at http://virtualhome.esfi.org.

| by Directorate of Communication and Public Affairs, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center

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Electrical injury and property damage are typically the result of human error, most often from Soldiers not using personal protective equipment or following proper procedures while servicing equipment. Those same trends transfer to the home environment.

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According to the National Fire Protection Association, failures or malfunctions of home electrical systems cause more than 50,000 fires each year in the United States, resulting in 450 deaths and nearly 1,500 injuries on average. Soldiers aren‘t immune to electrical mishaps; injuries suffered in both onand off-duty electrical accidents result in about 50 restricted duty days annually Army wide. In addition, the Army loses an average of five vehicles and two buildings to electrical fires each year.

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| Grafenwoehr

Photo Credit: Matthias Plankl

Cancellation of the 56th German-American Volksfest on Grafenwoehr Training Area Grafenwoehr. Germany, April 30, 2013 – It is with regret that the Commander, USAG Grafenwoehr is announcing the postponement of the 56th Annual U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr German-American Volksfest for 2013. The fiscal challenges facing the Nation requires the Garrison to make tough decisions. We are postponing our fest in order to focus our resources on critical services, but that does not mean we are postponing the fest forever.

Indeed, the entire Department of Defense has severely cut its expenditures to provide necessary support to deployed forces and is only financing health, safety and security requirements.

Other money saving measures such as the cancellation of all entertainment events in Europe, the Pacific region and the USA for this fiscal year includes all fests, performances by the US military aerial flight and parachutist teams, the US military‘s participation in exhibitions with Soldiers and military equipment as well as performances of US military bands that require an overnight stay. Even 4th of July celebrations will be scaled back in most locations.

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The Garrison Commander, COL James E. Saenz, ensures everyone in the community that “our commitment to our Host Nation partners remains strong despite the postponement and we will actively work to reschedule the more than half-century-long tradition sometime in the near future. We‘ve faced many challenges together as friends, some that have caused postponement of events, but we‘ve always worked to open our doors to our neighbors as soon as it was possible again.”

COL Saenz personally informed the mayor of the city of Grafenwöhr, Helmuth Wächter, and the other German partners about that decision. During the meeting, COL Saenz explicitly thanked them for their dedication and cooperation regarding the organization of the Fest which is the largest Volksfest in the region, with approx. 100,000 visitors over three days.

The extraordinary training available here at Grafenwoehr is known throughout the world. The beauty of Grafenwoehr and Bavaria, matched by the beauty of its people, are known throughout the United States Army and continue to attract the United States Army’s best Soldiers, Civilians and Family Members to live and work here. | by USAG Graf. PAO

Bavarian Times | 10

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| Grafenwoehr

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

Local Soldiers sentenced for misdeeds At a special court-martial convened on Rose Barracks, May 2, Spc. Wilforde J. Camille, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade, was found guilty, in accordance with his pleas, of one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 107, UCMJ, false official statement, and one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 121, UCMJ, larceny of government property (BAH).

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The military judge sentenced Camille to be reduced to the grade of E-1, to be confined for a period of 60 days, to be fined $2,000, and to be discharged from the service with a bad-conduct discharge.

At a special court-martial convened on Conn Barracks in Schweinfurt, April 28, Spc. James N. McNally, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 72nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion, was found guilty, in accordance with his pleas, of one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 128, UCMJ, aggravated assault, and one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 134, UCMJ, drunk and disorderly conduct.

The military judge sentenced McNally to be reduced to the grade of E-1, to be confined for a period of 10 months, and to be discharged from the service with a bad-conduct discharge.

At a special court-martial convened on Warner Barracks, Bamberg, April 23, Sgt. Kyle A. Hanes, 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment (Rear), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, was found guilty, in accordance with his pleas, of one charge and three specifications of a violation of Article 134, UCMJ, communicating indecent language to a child under the age of 16.

Bavarian Times | 12

| Grafenwoehr

At a special court-martial convened on Katterbach Kaserne in Ansbach, April 18, Pvt.2 Timothy J. Prescott, A Company (Rear), 412th Aviation Support Battalion, was found guilty, in accordance with his plea, of one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 108, UCMJ, negligent damage to government property.

The military judge sentenced Prescott to be confined for a period of 60 days, to be reduced to the grade of E-1, and to be discharged from the service with a bad-conduct discharge.

At a general court-martial convened on Rose Barracks, April 16, Sgt. 1st Class Gregory T. May, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 69th Signal Battalion, was found guilty, in accordance with his pleas, of one charge and two specifications of a violation of Article 120c, UCMJ, indecent exposure.

Photo Credit: Gina Sanders_Fotolia.com

The military judge sentenced May to be reprimanded, to be confined for a period of six months, and to be reduced to the grade of E-5. In accordance with his pretrial agreement, he will be reduced to the grade of E-6.

The military judge sentenced Hanes to be reprimanded, to be confined for a period of nine months, to forfeit $500 pay per month for nine months, to be reduced to the grade of E-1, and to be discharged from the service with a bad-conduct discharge. In accordance with his pretrial agreement, he will be confined for a period of seven months.

At a general court-martial convened on Warner Barracks in Bamberg, April 22, Sgt. Lynch Myers, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 391st Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, was found guilty, in accordance with his pleas, of one charge and two specifications of a violation of Article 86, UCMJ, failing to go to his place of duty and absence without leave; one charge and three specifications of a violation of Article 92, UCMJ, violation of an a general regulation; and one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 121, UCMJ, larceny of government property (BAH).

The military judge sentenced Myers to be reduced to the grade of E-1, to be confined for a period of 90 days, to be fined $7,000, and to be discharged from the service with a bad-conduct discharge. In accordance with his pretrial agreement, his fine will be capped at $5,000.

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Not guilty At a general court-martial convened on Rose Barracks, from April 11-12, Sgt. Matthew J. Jenkins, 574th Quartermaster Supply Company, 18th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, was found not guilty, in accordance with his plea, of one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 120, UCMJ, sexual assault.

At a general court-martial convened on Conn Barracks in Schweinfurt, from April 1-2, Spc. Josue Ortega, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 72nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion, was found not guilty, in accordance with his pleas, of one charge and four specifications of a violation of Article 120, UCMJ, aggravated sexual assault of a child, abusive sexual contact with a child, and indecent liberties with a child; one charge and one specification of sodomy with a child; and one charge and one specification of a violation of Article 92, UCMJ, violation of a lawful order.

| by JMTC Office of the Staff Judge Advocate

| Vilseck

DoD Military Broadcast Journalist of the Year Sgt. Rebecca Schwab records a sound bite for the AFN Bavaria audience, recently.

Photo Credit: Sgt. Carl Greenwell, American Forces Network, Bavaria

Storyteller becomes the story VILSECK, Germany – Soldiers training in the Joint Multinational Readiness Center get to see and hear Sgt. Rebecca Schwab a lot.

She goes where they go, slogging through the mud at Grafenwoehr, trying to ignore the rain in Hohenfels, or getting up at zero-darkthirty in Vilseck, along with a video camera slung over her shoulder.

Schwab won the award by submitting a compilation of her work in a competition pitting her against the best military broadcast journalists in the Department of Defense.

Schwab is a “Jill-of-all-trades” for the Vilseck, Germany, station AFN Bavaria, writing copy, hosting DJ shows, producing announcements and shooting feature stories.

The 33-year-old woman enlisted in the Army in 2007 after completing a two-year master‘s degree program in Middle Eastern History at Tel Aviv University, Israel.

Wherever she goes, whether it‘s Germany, New York or Iraq, she tells the Soldier‘s story. The Iraq stories came while she was deployed to Baghdad Province 2009-2010.

“I‘m very proud of her and all the other AFN Europe winners,” said AFN Europe Commander Lt. Col. Sherri Reed. “But what means just as much to me is that the awards indicate we are communicating Department of Defense messages and stories in an interesting and engaging way.”

Today, a lot more people know her name.

The Department of Defense just named Schwab Military Broadcast Journalist of the Year. You can figure out the key to her success when she talks about what she does.

“This job is awesome,” she said, “because you get to experience life through someone else‘s eyes and then tell their story.”

Like any good story, Schwab‘s tale has a surprise or two.

What‘s a tad ironic is the military journalist who would prefer to tell a Soldier‘s story, rather than her own, is now the story.

When AFN Bavaria announced her accomplishment, the station got 124 likes and 12 comments in one day, a station record. | by George A. Smith, AFN Europe Bavarian Times | 14

Summer Fun at the PLAYMOBIL-FunPark Zirndorf, April 29, 2013 – “Playing, exercising, discovering“ is the motto of the PLAYMOBIL-FunPark in Zirndorf. 90,000 square meters with eight different PLAYMOBIL real-size theme worlds offer a lot of room to run around, play and climb without any kind of rides.

From Wild Life to Pirates’ Festival In cooperation with World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF) four different PLAYMOBIL ”Wild Life” theme worlds were built in at the end of 2012.

If you want to learn more about the work of WWF, visit the FunPark on June 15 and 16. A lot can be learned about endangered species and the world-wide projects of the nature protection organization.

Additional, a colorful play and fun program is awaiting the guests to include the face painting of animals faces, a WWF rally, animal riddles and a photo opportunity with FunPark-mascot Pirate Rico and the WWF panda.

On June 23, the CVJM (Christian Association of Young Men) presents itself at the FunPark, offering a great interactive program for the entire family together with the park staff. The day starts with a church service at 10 a.m., followed by playing, jumping, climbing and, of course, a lot of fun.

“He ho – the pirates are coming!“ is the motto on July 13 and 14. This weekend is a must for all pirate fans.

Firing cannons, boarding the pirates’ ship, games and much more -- every pirate captain will get his money’s worth.

Additionally, every little pirate may have his photo taken with a real pirates’ team, or go on a treasure hunt with the crew of the pirates’ musical “Captain Silver Tooth.” The question is what’s hidden in the treasure chest!

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There‘s a world full of exciting adventure in Zirndorf. Take one step through the huge castle gate and discover a wonderful play paradise for the entire family with the popular PLAYMOBIL themes Knights‘ Castle, Pirates‘ Ship, Wild West and much more to play with, climb on, and discover!

Summer party with “Donikkl & the Weißwürschtl” The concert of “Donikkl & the Weißwürschtl“ on August 4 at 3 p.m. will be the absolute highlight of the FunPark summer. At the beginning of the Bavarian school vacation, the children’s music band will present new and old songs, putting the entire family in a party mood with their groovy and funny, being in a good spirit-type of songs. Everybody is invited to participate, and laugh, sing and dance along.

Bad weather – no problem And if the sun doesn’t shine, Fun-Park visitors can play and climb in the 5,000 square meters large HOB-Center. The huge PLAYMOBIL play town, the indoor crag and the many events on the HOB-Center’s stage will make you forget about the bad weather.

Guests who want to learn more about PLAYMOBIL, should pay a visit to the second floor of the HOB-Center. A small, permanent exhibition displays important milestones of the company and brand. Additionally, three PLAYMOBIL collectors have put together displays of the theme worlds fairies, knights and Noah’s Ark. Admission and Opening Hours During the summer season from May 1 to June 30, the FunPark is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Admission is 9 € per person. Starting on July 1, daily admission is 10 € per person. Admission is free for children under the age of three and for all children on their birthday (ID card must be shown).

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| Vilseck

Sgt. Allen Clapper, 902nd Vertical Construction Company, 15th Engineer Battalion, observes the finished prop of King Triton‘s throne at Vilseck High School.

Photo Credit: Warrant Officer Carlene Davis, 902nd Company, 15th Engineer Battalion

15th Engineer Battalion gets crafty for school play VILSECK, Germany – “There is nothing better than putting the knowledge and skills of your Military Occupation Specialty to use for a good cause,” said Warrant Officer Carlene S. Davis, 902nd Vertical Construction Company, 15th Engineer Battalion. “It started with a hunt for volunteer opportunities for Soldiers to stay proficient in MOS fields. What we got was a rewarding and fun way to give back to our community.”

In the beginning of May, the Vilseck High School will perform a theatrical version of “The Little Mermaid” called, “The Little Mermaid, Jr.” In order to help the students prepare for the production, the 902nd Vertical Construction Company, 15th Engineer Battalion, provided time for four of its Soldiers. Sgt. Allen Clapper, Spc. Brandon Barrett, Spc. Deandre Gavin, and Pvt. Diallo Young used their carpentry skills to help the school.

Through all of April they used their creativity and carpentry skills to provide the school with stage props. Davis, the Officer in Charge of the project, said the Soldiers were responsible for creating “eight different props: King Triton‘s throne, a little love boat, a ship, sea floor rocks, sea floor waves, Ariel‘s grotto (hideout), Ursula‘s Cauldron, and coral reefs.”

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Clapper, the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the project, directed the Soldiers to attain their training goals, while ensuring that the vision of Malia Jakus, the school drama teacher, was reflected in the design and construction of the props.

Gavin often drew the designs of the props which Barrett would then saw out of plywood. Young, who originally trained as an electrician, cross-trained as a carpenter, drawing, cutting and nailing together stage props.

“The project was estimated to cost well over $1,200,” said Davis.

The Soldiers however, “worked with old, recyclable materials, bringing the cost down to only $508.”

In the end, the project was both “an exciting and rewarding way to get our Soldiers engaged in their MOS-related skills and in the community,” said Davis.

| by 2nd Lt. Abraham Richardson, 15th Engineer Battalion Public Affairs

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| Hohenfels

Volunteers who logged more than 200 hours each pose with Hohenfels leadership during the Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, April 23.

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

Volunteers honored at Hohenfels ceremony HOHENFELS, Germany – Hohenfels celebrated its many volunteers at the annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, April 23.

A total of 248 volunteers registered in the Volunteer Management Information System donated nearly 28,000 hours of their time to help save the Army approximately $558,960 this year.

“That‘s what we have recorded,” said Col. John G. Norris, Joint Multinational Readiness Center commander. “There are many people out there in our community volunteering everyday that choose not be recognized but contribute thousands of hours annually.”

Junior Micaela Carr, winner in the 9-12 grade category, related a story about when she was part of a service project as Sacred Heart Academy. Part of her duties included grading papers, reading to students, and tutoring students in math or language arts.

A young student whom Carr had helped with her multiplication tables approached her for a hug and said, “I want to be just like you when I get into high school.”

Twenty-nine volunteers who distinguished themselves by logging over 200 hours were presented with coins and tokens of appreciation.

Capitalizing on the fact that Volunteer Recognition Week occurred during the Month of the Military Child, Terri Carr, Army Community Service Volunteer Corps commander, sponsored a youth essay contest on “How Volunteering Helps Strengthen our Community.”

The two winners shared their essays with the gathered crowd.

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Nate David, winner in the 6-8 grade category, talked about the benefits of volunteering, not just to the community but to the volunteer as well. David discussed studies that show that volunteers have stronger social networks and healthier lifestyles, as well as greater self confidence and better leadership skills.

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As president of the Student Council, David took part in a charity fund raising event that earned over $600 for breast cancer awareness.

Debbie Strange, wife of Lt. Col. John J. Strange, Jr., said she was really touched by David‘s statement about emotional health being improved by volunteering.

“I have benefited significantly by virtue of the friendships and sense of connectedness I‘ve gained in my volunteer activities,” she said. “Volunteering in the community may not necessarily come without pain, without difficulty or without cost, but it is so very worth it.”

17 | Bavarian Times

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| Hohenfels

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs Volunteers selected as “Volunteers of the Year” pose with Hohenfels leadership during the Volunteer Recognition Ceremony, April 23.

“That was the moment that I realized how much my simple jobs meant to these fourth graders. Since then, I found many opportunities to help my community,” Carr said.

Carr has volunteered with a cancer patient support group, a neonatal intensive care unit, and she currently tutors other students and volunteers with the Red Cross.

“Service in the community is an amazing opportunity to meet new people and have them share their story with you, to let people you do not know inspire you to make your community better,” she said.

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“The people in our community … inspire me,” Strange added.

Nominated by various units across the Hohenfels Military Community, nine individuals earned Volunteer of the Year in six categories.

Active Duty Volunteer of the Year Sgt. Brian Steddum with the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment Headquarters and Headquarters Company, said he didn‘t begin volunteering with Outdoor Recreation for recognition but out of a sincere interest in encouraging his fellow Soldiers and their families to get out of their homes and barracks and have some fun.

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“When I follow up with people months later and still see them getting out and getting active, that‘s a great feeling,” he said.

The Leible family, awarded Military Family Volunteer of the Year, are all active volunteers at various functions, including the three children; 11 year old Jake, 9 year old Joshua, and 6year old Jase.

Jake said the reward comes from knowing they‘re making a difference, such as at the Community Bazaar where the three children served as “pretzel boys.”

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“That story was absolutely awe-inspiring,” said Strange. “It reminded me of how much volunteers really do touch and inspire others … Maybe that‘s the magic of volunteering and getting involved. We inspire and motivate each other.

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“That was my favorite volunteer experience because we got to see our hard work pay off by collecting all the income that went to ACS,” said Jake.

Youth Volunteer of the Year Athena Hills volunteers with many organizations across the garrison including the Hohenfels Community and Spouses Club and the National Junior Honor Society.

She also plays music at her church and participated in the Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) conference. Like most volunteers, she‘s not in it for the accolades.

“I just enjoy doing stuff that benefits everybody,” Hills said.

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs Bavarian Times | 18

| Hohenfels

HMHS students consider their ‚life space‘ in a permanent collection on display at Hohenfels Health Clinic.

HMHS art students create works that showcase the five dimensions of physical, emotional, social, family and spiritual health for display in the Hohenfels Health Clinic.

HOHENFELS, Germany – The Hohenfels Health Clinic recently unveiled its spectacular new art collection featuring original pieces by a group of 23 talented artists who all share one thing in common. They are Hohenfels Middle/High School students.

When Lt. Col Christopher J. David, U.S. Army Health Clinic Hohenfels commander, arrived in Hohenfels, the clinic was undergoing major renovations. Not until the construction was complete did David realize what was missing.

“I just assumed that decorating was included, and unfortunately it wasn‘t,” said David. “So we had to figure something out to make it look less institutional.”

David turned to Michele Mihanovich-Franz, HMHS art teacher.

“I am very appreciative of Lt. Col. David bringing in the art department,” said Mihanovich-Franz. “I mean, he could have used photographs, but his concept of actual original work for an original collection that is available for the community is a great advocacy for the arts.”

David said the idea came to him while watching the popular comedy television show, “The Big Bang Theory.”

“And Sheldon on ‚The Big Bang Theory‘ said basically, if you want to impact a problem you have to attack it at the youth level,” said David.

Using a graph that charts the 100 minutes of health care versus the 525,600 minutes in a year, David showed the HMHS art students what amounts to a large empty circle.

“So, what I asked the kids to do was make that white space their ‚life space,‘” David said.

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

Health Clinic showcases young artists‘ talent

To help stimulate their imaginations, David presented a slide show for the students highlighting the complexity of today‘s Army medicine, from veterinarians inspecting food to an actual ear being grown from a patient‘s own cells.

“One of the challenges is that we don‘t really have a definition of health,” David said. “So we use the Comprehensive Soldier Fitness model which looks at the five dimensions of physical, emotional, social, family and spiritual.”

Mihanovich-Franz said that those dimensions were the only pa-

David explained that the average person visits the clinic five times a year for an appointment that lasts roughly 20 minutes.

“So, collectively, the average person only spends 100 minutes a year on their health care,” David said, pointing out that there are 525,600 minutes per year.

In keeping with Army medicine‘s transformation from a health care system to a system for health, which consists of a more preventative focus, David asked himself how he could influence people to be more proactive with their health.

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19 | Bavarian Times

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| Hohenfels

rameters placed on the students, and otherwise they were given ‚carte blanche‘ in creating their work.

“Art tells a story and these kids all have their own story to tell in their ‚life space,‘” she said.

Unfortunately, the clinic only had so much room, and not every student could participate. Mihanovich-Franz had to choose only two classes.

“I selected my middle school class because they only get me for one semester and being in a permanent collection is a great identity building experience for them,” she said. “I also chose one of my advanced drawing classes.”

The results are inspiring and available for the community to view down the clinic‘s central hall. Work ranged from portraits of organs, a collage of faces, healthy activities and even the innermost workings of the mind.

“There are some really unique projects,” said David.

The art was unveiled at an opening ceremony featuring the artists discussing the meaning behind each piece to the gathered crowd of clinic staff, HMHS administration, ACS workers, and proud parents.

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

Sophomore Lilian Lucero created a charcoal drawing of a woman clearly in mental distress that was so powerful, David admitted he was somewhat alarmed at first viewing.

Sophomore Lilian Lucero‘s charcoal drawing reflects the stress people can feel on a daily basis.

“My ‚Life Space‘ is about the stress that everybody goes through during everyday life. Careers, school, etcetera, can cause stress and when asked how you are people always say, “Me, I‘m fine” even if they are really screaming on the inside,” said Lucero.

David and Mihanovich-Franz are discussing plans for adding more artwork in the coming years.

Ashley Herndon, also a sophomore, drew a woman sitting on a globe with her hair flowing down into the earth like roots.

“These kids get to go back to America as internationally exhibiting artists,” said Mihanovich-Franz. “They will always remember this.”

“My ‚Life Space‘ represents women taking control of their space by making decisions at the side of the doctor that will cause them to grow as a healthy person. I did not paint her face and chose her back because I did not want her to represent one specific person, rather, everyone in the world,” Herndon explained.

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

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| Hohenfels

Terrain, obstacles, challenge Warriors at Hohenfels Sophomore Lilian Lucero‘s charcoal drawing reflects the stress people can feel on a daily basis.

Twenty-four teams of up to four members each struggled along five kilometers of torturous trails while splashing through freezing cold mud pits, lugging logs, and flipping 200 lb. tires.

“I‘ve always loved obstacle runs, and I think they‘re a fun way to get people involved,” said Emma Lawson, Hohenfels fitness coordinator, who spear-headed the event.

Lawson said she created the obstacles based on the terrain and the materials available.

“I wanted to make it so anybody could come and do it, while still keeping it challenging,” Lawson said. “And that‘s why we had teams of four; they could help each other and have that camaraderie of a team.”

Other obstacles included a sled pull, a five gallon water jug carry, and running a tire drill. Most participants agreed, though, that the toughest obstacle was the trail itself.

“This terrain is no joke,” laughed Lawson. “Those switchbacks are tough.”

“It wasn‘t the obstacles, it was getting to the obstacles,” said Pfc. Kris Gorbea, one of the members of Team Awesome, which won first place with a time of 24:05.

had an all male team,” grinned Todd Pitt. “And we made it happen.”

Nor did they leave all the heavy lifting to the men. Laura Eaton took her turn flipping tires next to Stu McFarlane.

“The whole time, though, I kept thinking ‚where the heck is Todd?‘” Eaton laughed.

Team B.A.B., the only all-female team finished with a time of 39:24. Even through the last obstacle, the team was laughing and joking the whole way.

“Our goal was to come out and have a good time, and we accomplished it,” said LeAnna Brown.

“This is truly a team event,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth McKoy, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels command sergeant major, pointing out that the acronym for team is Together Everyone Accomplishes More.

“When we come together to put on events like this, they‘re always special because everyone across the community participates and that‘s what makes Hohenfels such a unique and special place,” he said.

“This was truly a cross-country event,” agreed Maj. Bryce Kawaguchi, also from Team Awesome. “It‘s a big difference running on flat, hard-packed ground versus side hills, uphills and downhills with loose rocks and roots. So you really have to pick your stride throughout.”

Spc. Seth Householder said Team Awesome‘s strategy involved going at about 80 percent of max on the runs and then giving 100 percent for the events.

“And we switched off for everything so nobody got burned out,” added Gorbea.

Team Mixed Bag took top slot in the co-ed category, finishing at 25:26. But winning wasn‘t their main goal.

“The goal coming out here was to beat our battalion commander with our girlfriend and our fiancé on our team while they

21 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

HOHENFELS, Germany – Nearly 100 competitors took the Hohenfels Warrior Challenge and braved the tough terrain of the garrison‘s first obstacle run, May 4.

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

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Local artists shine at Hohenfels‘ Celebration of the Arts HOHENFELS, Germany – Artists from around the community came together in support of the Hohenfels Community and Spouses Club‘s fund raising event, Celebration of the Arts (COTA), held here April 20.

“COTA started three years ago when a young Eagle scout, Clinton Schwarz, partnered with our club. This event was started to foster the arts program in the school. Out of that came the Schwarz Fine Arts Foundation (SFAF) and the HCSC‘s love of supporting artists,” said Heather Rowley, HCSC president.

The celebration was an all day affair, beginning with an arts and craft fair at the Hohenfels Middle/High School great hall. Local artisans filled booths with hand crafted items such as postcards, stuffed animals, knitted and crocheted items and even furniture.

“We‘re hoping people will be interested in the art we have to offer because it‘s coming from local artists and there are some amazing pieces,” said Christel Breeze, coordinator for this year‘s COTA. Local photographers and artists displayed their work and offered their services for such things as portrait photos or commissioned paintings.

Hohenfels Elementary School students Bennett Schmid and Julianna Hills sing a duet during the third annual Celebration of the Arts, April 20.

Athena Hills, a 14 year old freshman at HMHS, is a self taught artist who specializes in “anime,” the Japanese comic book style that has become so popular in the past decade. She had several

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“This year COTA‘s vision was to showcase our local Hohenfels community artists, big, small, spouse or Soldier,” said Rowley.

| Hohenfels

Albany Briley (R) shatters a pair of boards held by HTA Taekwondo teammate Jessica Roycroft during the Celebration of the Arts, April 20.

A student museum displays art from HMHS students at the third annual Celebration of the Arts.

paintings for sale including a special print she created for COTA featuring “Megurine Luka,” one of several mascots for a Japanese voice synthesizing computer program.

“I love the color of (Luka‘s) hair which reminds me of cherry blossoms, so with the sudden coming of spring I decided to do a painting combining the two,” said Hills.

Throughout the fair, various groups provided entertainment and performances on stage. Hohenfels Elementary School students Bennett Schmid and Julianna Hills sang to the musical accompaniment of Jill Ann Hills, and the Hohenfels Training Area Taekwondo team demonstrated forms and board breaking.

“It‘s as much an art as dancing or anything else,” he said.

Various organizations donated art-themed baskets for auction and even professional services such as dance instructions and craft classes.

The festival continued at an evening gala held at the Zone where the auction continued along with a spectacular buffet of fine foods and decadent desserts.

Upstairs, a student museum featured a selection of artwork created by HMHS students who are members of the National Art Honor Society (NAHS), the SFAF and attendees of Creative Connections.

“The SFAF started the whole kit and caboodle three years ago, and the spirit of the SFAF continues and our association with the students and the art studio at HMHS,” said Breeze.

“I‘m extremely pleased with the fact that SFAF is still up running in Hohenfels,” said Clinton Schwarz, founder of the foundation, who now resides in Norway. “The difference it makes within the community and school is transparent in the fact that its beneficiaries continue to maintain the local committee. That alone makes the whole effort worth it.”

This is the first year that the NAHS has had a chapter at Hohenfels. The program is designed to inspire and recognize students who have shown an outstanding ability and interest in art and to bring art education to the attention of the school and community.

23 | Bavarian Times

HMHS freshman Athena Hills donated several paintings as part of the community fundraiser, Celebration of the Arts, April 20.

“In our pioneer year we‘ve had 30 members join,” said Michele Mihanovich-Franz, HMHS art teacher. “I‘m very pleased that so many positive comments have come my way concerning the student museum at COTA. As always, I‘m an extremely proud art teacher.”

In addition to the museum, music, food and fun, the main event of the evening gala was the live auction.

“The craft fair today was just a sample of what our community has to offer,” said Rowley.

Attendees bid on paintings, sculptures, services, and hand crafted home décor items. Rowley said that the auction was designed to showcase the community‘s artists, especially some of Hohenfels‘ talented Soldier artists.

“The talent that is resident in the community is amazing,” said Lt. Col. John J. Strange, Jr., U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels commander. “People came prepared to support their community‘s fund raising efforts and the generosity of those bidding on items, as well as the artists who donated their work, was awe inspiring.”

The day‘s event netted upwards of $8,000 which will go back to the community in the form of grants and scholarships.

“This may come as a surprise, but actually we are a “giving club,” not just a coffee or wine drinking club,” said Rowley. “The proceeds from tonight will … support our local community and our students, both high school and adult learners.” | by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

While some may not recognize how taekwondo fits into a celebration of the arts, instructor Michael Green explained that not only are the forms representative of hundreds of years of tradition, but to learn them requires grace, concentration, commitment and study.

| Garmisch

Members of A Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, celebrate as they receive the Commander‘s Cup trophy following their triumph over C and D Companies during The Amazing Race: Garmisch on May 1.

Photo Credit: Linda Steil

Warriors test their resolve in The Amazing Race: Garmisch Garmisch, Germany – Despite forecasts to the contrary, the weather held up in the Alpine town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen as Soldiers and civilians from the Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe battled through the final challenge of the highly competitive Commander‘s Cup. The event coordinator, D Company Athletic Trainer Ellie Thometz, described the event as both entertaining and useful to the rehabilitative process that the Warriors of the WTB-E face.

And this year‘s group is “more excited and engaged than we have even seen them in the past,” said Thometz.

The last stage of the Commander‘s Cup, officially known as The Amazing Race: Garmisch, was inspired by the popular CBS reality

From right, Staff Sgt. Dequinn Nickerson, C Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, Capt. John Merson, C Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, and Spc. Jordan Debruhl, C Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, eat sauerkraut atop the Bavarian Alps during The Amazing Race competition held in Garmisch, May 1.

television series. With 17 events in total, the challenges assessed the Warriors‘ ability to use both their physical and their mental attributes to overcome an array of challenges that ranged from Zumba to mountain exploration.

Wounded Warrior Project and American Red Cross volunteers from across Germany joined the contestants to support their quest through the Alps, providing everything from guide services to much needed logistical support. “(The Warriors) love a challenge that pushes them beyond their limits,” said Ryan Paddock, A Company Rehabilitation Therapy Technician.

Garmisch Outdoor Recreation personnel and WTB-E assets worked together on the event to plan challenges that would test Warriors within the limits of their highly diverse physical limitations.

The Wounded Warrior Project and American Red Cross handled much of the event‘s promotion and logistical considerations.

The combined experience of the Wounded Warrior Project, Army Red Cross, ODR, and WTB-E teams ensured the safety and wellbeing of all Warriors participating in the Amazing Race. While the number one priority of the WTB-E is transitioning Warriors, it is

Bavarian Times | 24

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Photo Credit: Linda Steil

Sgt. Christopher Glutting, A Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, participates in Zumba during the first challenge of The Amazing Race in Garmisch, May 1.

crucial that the transition includes tasks that continue to challenge the Warriors as Soldiers.

“Our adaptive sports program is not just about building strength and endurance; it‘s about building confidence and Esprit De Corps and you really see that on days like today,” said Lt. Col. Douglas Galuszka, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe commander.

Walking from site to site, Galuszka smiled as he spoke with Warriors, staff, cadre, family members and volunteers. He couldn‘t hold back his outward display of appreciation for the overwhelming support rendered by the European military community.

“We have an amazing partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, the American Red Cross, and Garmisch Outdoor Recreation.

Without all entities working closely together none of this could have happened,” said Galuszka.

For more information on the WTB-E, contact Capt. Samuel Stahlmann at DSN 483-7625, CIV 01520-40-34792.

| by Capt. Samuel Stahlmann, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe Public Affairs

25 | Bavarian Times

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| USA EUR

Members of A Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, celebrate as they receive the Commander‘s Cup trophy following their triumph over C and D Companies during The Amazing Race: Garmisch on May 1.

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

Gen. Odierno talks drawdown and furloughs in town halls Wiesbaden, Germany – Assisting the force‘s ability to understand transformation and spending time with commanders, Soldiers, Department of the Army Civilians and their families were the focal points for U.S. Army General Raymond Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff of the United States Army, in his three-day visit to three U.S. Army garrison‘s in Europe this week.

Themes echoed throughout the trip were best summarized in the opening comments Odierno offered to over 1,000 Soldiers, DA civilians and family members who assemble at the Clay Kaserne Fitness Center for one of two town halls he conducted.

“Our priorities continue to be … make sure our Soldiers deployed have the leaders, the training and the equipment necessary to be successful. To make sure we stay globally responsive and regionally engaged. That we develop the best leaders in the world and that we maintain the highest standards of our profession, and

finally our ability to sustain the all-volunteer Army. To make sure we continue to have the right resources; that we continue to have the right compensation packages to support our great volunteers who raised their right hand in order to serve this country and in order to ensure that we sustain our security over time.”

“Historically the Army is here to fight our nation‘s wars which we will continue to do,” but according to Odierno, “it isn‘t enough. We have to have the ability to shape the future environment to prevent conflict.”

Globally responsive and regionally engaged are the two things Odierno feels the nation wants in the Army of the future. He expanded on these terms in his second town hall held at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy.

“We have to go back to an expeditionary mindset which means we have to deploy in small packages, to places in immature theaters, for shorter periods of time.”

At to r n e ys - At- L A w

He continued, “Regionally engaged means that we are going to have forces that are aligned to regions that will allow us to do everything from operational deployments, to building partner capacity, to training foreign nations, do doing joint exercises in order for us to build their capabilities and to shape that area of operations.”

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In his view this process will “reduce the instability that we see around the world in support of the combatant commanders.”

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Beginning his trip with a brief visit to U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, Odierno had his first opportunity to engage with Gen. David M. Rodriguez on his own ground. Rodriguez recently took the reins of the U.S. Army‘s sixth combatant Bavarian Times | 26

| USA EUR

command from its former commander Gen. Carter Ham on April 5.

He then traveled to U.S. Army Europe‘s new headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany for his first engagement here since Lt. Gen. Donald M. Campbell Jr. assumed command in January. USAREUR recently transitioned from historic Heidelberg‘s Campbell Barracks to its new location on Clay Kaserne, formerly known as Wiesbaden Army Airfield.

Vicenza was the third leg of the trip where Odierno visited with U.S. Army Africa‘s commander, Maj. Gen. Pat Donahue, and with Col. Andy Rohling and his Soldiers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, who recently returned from Afghanistan.

Odierno had the opportunity to meet with leaders and Soldiers at all levels of command both in Wiesbaden and later in Vicenza. In small group sessions these individuals were able to share their issues and concerns, while Odierno had the chance to share issues close to his heart.

A recurrent theme in many engagements and in both the town halls was budget uncertainty and current and potential effects of sequestration.

During Wiesbaden‘s town hall Odierno summed up the issues of budget very succinctly.

“It will work itself out,” he confirmed. “It might be frustrating, it might be a bit unpredictable but it will work itself out.”

He expounded upon this thought highlighting that the Army is currently in “a position of strength,” with the, “most capable, experienced combat force we have ever had.”

“What I have to do is maintain a balance, and the balance is end strength and modernization… and our overall readiness,” he assured audiences. “We are going to maintain that balance.”

Certain advancements, such as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle replacing the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HUMMWV), the Ground Combat Vehicle replacing the Bradley fighting vehicle, will still occur.

Among other programs, the Army will continue to modernize its aviation fleet and invest in its information technologies where the Soldier of the future will have an “iPhone like capability that gives them intelligence, maps and everything else,” said Odierno.

Many of these are still under development and may be brought about slower than originally anticipated.

There are concerns, however, when it comes to reductions in training due to budgetary uncertainty, said Odierno.

“Because we have had to reduce our training dollars, and we have actually decreased the amount of training, I worry that that could stretch into (20)14 and (20)15 and effect our capability to provide trained and ready forces for unknown contingencies.”

Funding is available to train units deploying to Afghanistan.

There are also concerns regarding the potential furlough of the DA Civilian force for 14 days later this fiscal year. According to Odierno the furloughs equate to $780 million for the Army, so in order to eliminate them, the money must be “found” somewhere.

“I think it is the right thing to do so we are trying to find the dollars to keep (the furlough) from happening,” he said.

There currently exists the potential for the 14 days to be reduced to seven; that decision would need to be made in the next 30 days and implemented before June.

Regardless of the meetings and engagements with the elements of the U.S. Government back in the states and regardless of the challenges posed by budget uncertainties, Odierno remained clear throughout his visit as to his feelings regarding the U.S. Army‘s forward presence across Europe.

“U.S. Army Europe continues to play an important role in our national security for our nation. Whether it be continuing support and building relationships with our native allies as well as other partners here in Europe, but also in support of the conflicts in Afghanistan and other areas of instability whether it be in Syria, Israel, Turkey, as we continue to deploy forces around the world in order to support our own security needs,” Odierno said.

He further stated that our ability, “to stay connected and build relationships,” is vital to what the force is doing abroad.

Odierno stated that he believes continued engagement with our European partners and NATO is critical, “so that the first time you are talking to someone isn‘t when you are deploying.”

| by U.S. Army Europe Public Affairs

Lodging and Dining Satisfaction in the Upper Palatinate The country inn Zur Post in Kuermreuth can accomodate up to 90 guests in the restaurant. The restaurant offers fine regional cuisine which varies from season to season. Angelika Spiess tells her guests: ”A freshly tapped beer or a good wine, accompanied by our delicious cuisine, and you will feel right at home in our country inn.“ At the entrance to the country inn Zur Post is an inviting patio where guests can dine outdoors in the beautiful Bavarian weather and enjoy the flower garden surrounding

the patio. Additional space for 50 guests is available. It is not unusual to find hikers at the inn enjoying a hearty “Brotzeit“ (a Bavarian platter similar to the British “Ploughman´s Lunch“) following their walking tour.

The Post goes international!

You may be surprised to find that our website offers an English description of our country inn. The U.S. Army installations at Grafenwoehr and Vilseck are located nearby. Many of our regular guests are

among the many American military personnel stationed there. Whether Germans, Americans or any other fellow countrymen, we believe the language of food and hospitality brings all of us together. wa rate Kir We celeb . 7–12 g from Au d and music! nal foo io it d a with tr

Landgasthof ”Zur Post” Kürmreuth | Dorfplatz 1 | 92281 Königstein | Phone: 09665-504 | marko.spiess@t-online.de | www.landgasthof-zur-post.net

| Living

Your local Army library offers an array of tools to help you through the perils of a new language.

Photo Credit: Molly Hayden, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

Language need not be a barrier in Germany Grafenwoehr, Germany -- Moving to a new country yields an obvious learning curve, and Germany is no exception. Driving on the autobahn for the first time often warrants a brief word with the Almighty, and seeing the word “Ausfahrt” larger than life will no doubt expel fits of laughter.

Learning a new language can be overwhelming, but when it comes to your new surroundings, communication is often more than just words. With a few easy tips you‘ll say “tschuess” to old habits and “hallo” to embracing new adventures.

gen,” (good morning) “Guten Tag,” (good day) and “Guten Abend” (good evening) are all acceptable greetings Germany-wide.

Bavarians also say “Servus” as a form of greeting (both for hello and good-bye). It is a word they learned from the Roman occupiers 2,000 years ago and literally means “servant.” Romans used to call out for “Servus” when they required service. At that time Bavarians thought it was a greeting, so it crept into the culture where it remains today.

The language barrier:

Greeting and salutations: “Gruess Gott” is the standard welcome greeting in Southern Germany, and means “God greet thee.” Using this greeting in the North, however, may raise some eyebrows. (It would be like a Texan using “Howdy” in New York City). When in doubt, “Guten Mor-

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Have you ever had a German tell you something like “you will come here” or “you must sign there?” It sounds horribly impolite in English, like they‘re ordering you around, (and we Americans do not like to be ordered around!) But the truth is, they are not.

The issue stems from English and German being two completely different languages (and cultures), and while words sound similar, they may mean slightly different things.

For example, the English “must” and the German “muessen” sound very much alike and even mean something similar - just not exactly the same. In English, “must” indicates a mandatory requirement or order (“you must do this, or else …”). In German, “Du musst” simply means “you have to” or “you need to.” It‘s a poignant way to express the need. It‘s a similar story with a statement like “you will come here.” Most likely, they‘re trying to ask you politely to come with them.

Next time you encounter such seeming impoliteness, don‘t take it personally, especially if you notice that the German‘s English isn‘t the best. There is always a language barrier to take into account.

Bavarian Times | 28

| Living

Keep it simple:

It‘s all Greek to me:

No one expects Americans to step off a plane and speak fluent German, in fact, no one expects that to happen if you‘ve lived here for five years. In the same manner, don‘t assume everyone you encounter speaks English.

With common expressions, Americans and Germans often say the same thing, but express it very differently. Below are a few common phrases in English followed by their German translations.

Keeping it simple is the most effective way of getting your point across. For example, if you and your family are traveling through Germany and you‘d like to ask someone to take a photograph, instead of bombarding a non-native English speaker with a mouthful of words, simply hold up the camera and say, “photo, please.”

English-speaking or not, they will most likely understand your need.

Hands are also an acceptable way of communicating. When at a bakery or restaurant, simply point to the item that you would like adding a “bitte” (thank you) for posterity.

It‘s also important to learn phrases like “Ich spreche nicht Deutsch” (I do not speak German), or “Sprechen Sie Englisch?”

(Do you speak English?) to help set the tone of conversation.

A Bavarian way of life:

It‘s all Greek to me

Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof (I only understand “Bahnhof”)

I‘m fed up with it

Ich habe die Nase voll (I have the nose full)

Keep your fingers crossed for me

Drueck mir die Daumen (press your thumbs for me)

Don‘t buy a pig in a poke

Kaufe nie die Katze im Sack (never buy the cat in the sack)

A miss is as good as a mile

Knapp daneben ist auch vorbei (a near miss is still a miss)

The early bird catches the worm

Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund (morning hour has gold in its mouth)

Bad weeds grow tall

Unkraut vergeht nicht (weed doesn‘t die)

Don‘t trust the cat to save the cream

Mache nicht den Bock zum Gaertner (don‘t make the goat a gardener)

Learning a bit about the German culture and language can ease the transition of living in a new place, or make the country you‘ve called home for a while seem that much more like home. But start now, because as we all know “the morning hour has gold in its mouth.”

Those of you who speak German may have already had their encounters with the local dialect and it is not so easy to understand, even for other Bavarians! Below are a few basic words to help you fit in like an Oberpfaelzer.

Leberkaese:

Mass:

Seidl:

Freibier:

Bavarian food specialty consisting of beef and pork and spices (but neither liver nor cheese as the name would suggest).

1 liter (1/4 gallon) of Bavarian beer, served in a Masskrug (large beer mug).

1/2 liter (1/8 gallon) of Bavarian beer, served in a Seidlkruegl (small beer mug).

Sponsored free beer.

damisch:

Simply put, means crazy or unintelligent.

Gaudi:

Wolpertinger:

Preiss:

Kirwa:

Dirndl:

This word means fun and originates from the Latin “gaudere” meaning to rejoice, be joyful, and take delight.

This very rare animal is only found in Bavaria and is a crossing of several native animals.

According to statements of witnesses, it also lives in the JMTC Training Area.

This term refers to non-Bavarian persons from the Northern, Western or Eastern parts of Ger many living above the Weisswurst equator (the Main River being its natural border). You may have heard the motto “It‘s nice to be a Preiss, but it‘s higher to be a Bayer!”

A town fest in celebration of the consecration of a church.

Traditional Bavarian dress for ladies.

Lederhosen:

Traditional Bavarian leather trousers for men.

Juchzer (also known as Gurzerer): This primal scream of the Upper Palatine popula

tion may possibly equate to “need more beer.”

Schnodaheupfl: Rhyme-song in Bavarian dialect, at times con taining bawdy (yet hilarious) content.

29 | Bavarian Times

| by Molly Hayden, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

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| Health

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

May is Healthy Vision Month Everyone knows how important your eyes are for your quality of life. Even so, it is estimated that millions of people in the United States have undetected vision problems, eye diseases and conditions that affect their ability to see clearly and effectively or can result in future permanent damage to the eyes.

May has been designated by the National Eye Institute to be Healthy Vision Month to help educate people and to promote the early diagnosis and treatment of visual and ocular conditions. So, what are the keys?

Getting a comprehensive dilated eye exam is probably one of the best things that you can do to maintain healthy vision.

More than just checking your eyeglasses, during this procedure an eye care professional examines the eyes more thoroughly to look for common vision problems and eye di-

seases, many of which have no signs or symptoms until the condition has progressed.

This comprehensive examination enables you to detect eye conditions and diseases early and can often prevent any subsequent loss of vision.

The question of how often you should have a comprehensive eye exam can be determined between you and your eye doctor and depends on your age, overall health and family history. As you grow older you should have exams more frequently, and some medical conditions such as diabetes make annual exams a must.

And everyone has heard about eating carrots and living healthy. This is true for the eyes as well.

Bavarian Times | 30

| Health

Eating a diet with fruits and vegetables (especially leafy greens like spinach) are important for eye health, too. There is recent research showing the benefit for the eyes from eating fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and tuna. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight helps prevent you from developing high blood pressure and diabetes, which can also affect the eyes and lead to blindness. In short, eating right will always help to protect your sight.

protection was used. Make it a habit to wear the appropriate type of eye protection at all times and encourage your coworkers to do the same. And, when eye injuries do occur, report it to your supervisor.

As well, research has linked smoking with the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and optic nerve damage. So, if you smoke, quit. And if you do not smoke, never start.

Wearing protective eyewear should not stop when you leave at the end of the workday; keep them on when playing sports or doing potentially dangerous activities around the house.

And don‘t forget to wear proper sunglasses that block ultraviolet light when you spend time in the sun. As always, a little prevention goes a long way.

Also, remember to give your eyes a break. Almost everyone works with a computer, which can cause the eyes to dry out and become fatigued. So, remember to rest your eyes every so often.

To help you to remember, try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes or so, look up and away from your computer at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This can help reduce the effects of eyestrain.

Not only does this make a record of the event that may protect you, it can also result in lessons learned that will prevent similar injuries from happening in the future.

So, while May is designated as Healthy Vision Month, it is simply a month to help you remember things that should be done year round.

Remember, your eyes are a precious gift and you only have two of them. Give them the care and consideration they deserve so that they last you a lifetime.

Finally, protect your eyes. It is you and your employers‘ responsibility to protect your eyes at work and yet, it is estimated that 90 percent of all eye injuries would not occur if eye

| by Michael D. Pattison, U.S. Army Public Health Command

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| Health

Taking time to stretch and move around the office space can improve mental and physical health.

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

Sit and be fit: Tips to stay healthy at work Do you want to feel better and more energized at work? Simple changes to at-work habits can have a positive impact on staying healthy. Whether trying to manage a chronic condition or maintain a healthy lifestyle, the tips below can make a difference in your overall health and make your workday more enjoyable.

Eat better at work. Pack your lunch and keep healthy snacks on hand. Skipping breakfast decreases metabolism, so if you

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don‘t have time to eat breakfast, pack your breakfast as well.

Healthy snacks can help you resist the sugary foods that often plague the office. Good alternatives are cut-up vegetables, fruit slices, light popcorn, low fat whole-wheat crackers with peanut butter and low fat soup in a cup.

Burn calories at work. Make office exercise a part of your daily routine by adding active activities or 10-minute “exercise blasts” to your office routine. Multiple increments of exercise can add up to the 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day that is recommended for health benefits.

• Look for opportunities to stand or move. Stand up while talking on the phone or walk to other offices instead of local e-mails and phone calls.

• Organize a walking group or schedule walking meetings.

Do laps inside your building or take your walking meetings outdoors.

• Take a one-minute “cardio burst” to march or jog in place, do jumping jacks, simulate jumping rope, or walk up and down the stairs.

Turn breaks into a short fitness routine. Store resistance bands or small hand weights in a desk drawer. Try these exercises:

Bavarian Times | 32

| Health

• Arm curls. Hold weights at your sides, palms facing upward, bend your elbows, bring your hands up. Keep your arms by your side, lower your hands slowly and repeat.

• Side leg lifts. Stand straight and lightly brace yourself on a desk. Tighten your abdominal muscles and the muscles on your outer thigh. Raise your leg to the side, knee straight, foot flexed. Do 12 repetitions, and then repeat with the other leg.

• Oblique crunches. Sit up straight in a chair; clasp your arms behind your head with your elbows back. Tighten your abs as you bring your opposite knee up toward your opposite elbow. Alternate sides.

• Quad lifts. Sit in a chair with your abs contracted, extend your leg with your foot up, knee straight. Raise your thigh off the chair, lower and repeat. Alternate legs.

Photo Credit: contrastwerkstatt_Fotolia.com

Stretch more at work. For people whose jobs require them to sit for long hours, taking a few minutes to stretch can relieve stress, increase productivity and make you feel better. Fit these stretches, along with relaxed breathing, into your schedule.

• Neck stretches. Close your eyes. Let your chin drop down to your chest until you feel a stretch along the back of your neck. Slowly bring your shoulders up toward your ears, and then relax them down. Take the right ear to the right shoulder, then roll your head forward and then the left ear to the left shoulder. Keep the shoulders relaxed and do not hurry. Take three to five rolls and then switch directions for another five rolls.

• Back stretch. Place both feet flat on the floor. Bring your hands onto your knees. On an inhale, arch the back and look up toward the ceiling. On the exhale, round the spine and let your head drop forward. Repeat for five breaths.

• Seated forward bend. Push your chair back from your desk. Bring both feet flat on the floor. Interlace your fingers behind your back. Straighten your arms, drawing the interlaced fingers down. Fold at the waist, bringing your interlaced hands over your back. Rest your chest on your thighs and release your neck.

• Seated spinal twist. Sit sideways in your chair, feet flat on the floor. Twist towards the back of the chair, holding the back with both hands. Repeat the other way.

Following these simple tips to eat better and move more during the work day can improve your overall health. | by Lisa Young, Health Educator, U.S. Army Public Health Command

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| Health

It is not always that peaceful in German beds. One of the main reasons for sleeping disorders is the spouse‘s snoring.

Millions of Germans complain about significant sleeping disorders and therefore are extremely tired in the morning.

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Sleeping well

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Expert tips on how to manage sleeping disorders (djd/pt). About five million Germans complain about significant sleeping disorders. Many are unable to fall asleep, others wake up in the middle of the night after only a few hours of sleep. According to Professor Dr. Egon Stephan, director of the sleep laboratory at the Psychology Department at the University of Cologne, such sleeping disorders can lead adversely affect the immune defense and, if chronic, lead to high blood pressure and/or heart disease. People who suffer from constant fatigue, should consult a physician, especially if personal measures to improve the situation have failed.

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Become physically active Anger and stress are common causes for having difficulties falling asleep. If that is the case, Professsor Stephan suggests relieving the stress with physical activity. It effectively reduces stress hormones and the resulting physical fatigue makes it easier to fall asleep.

A recurring problem regarding sleeping disorders is the spouse’s snoring. “Alcohol, heavy meals, or chain smoking can aggravate snoring,” explains Dr. Lennart Knaack, a physician and sleeping disorder specialist from Cologne. Weight reduction, on the other hand, can alleviate the problem. Checking for potential allergies in connection with an ear, nose and throat check-up can also be helpful. Snoring can also be a symptom of obstructive apnea, a severe illness that requires a medical diagnosis and treatment.

Precautionary measures Mental stress on the job cannot only lead to sleeping disorders, but at worst to depression. The mental disorder may turn into a chronic illness and the employee may no longer be able to do his job. According to Christoph Andersch of Ergo Direkt Insurances, people should take precautionary measures. “You should definitely procure a disability insurance as long as your health is good and you are not suffering from any illnesses, or ailments.”

Bavarian Times | 34

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Pöllinger Leder & Tracht has ten stores in Bavaria. The family-run business was founded in 1860. For more information, go to www.trachtenstore.com where you can also place orders in our online store.

A majority of our collection is designed by our team, or in cooperation with well-known designers, and produced by famous manufacturers. Pöllinger attaches great importance to traditional cuts, accurate manufacture and highquality materials – following current fashion trends.

Discover the beautiful Bavarian cities of Amberg, Regensburg, Ingolstadt, Denkendorf, Straubing, Hemau, Kelheim, Abensberg and Rothenburg and combine your trip with a visit to Pöllinger Leder & Tracht – it is worth it.

Discover a large selection of affordable and practical traditional fashion for women, children and men, including dirndl, leather pants and accessories for you or as a present for others.

Welcome to Poellinger

10 x in Bavaria

Herrnstrase 2 - 4 • D-92224 Amberg  +49 96 21 - 24 958 Owner: Franz Pöllinger Kirchengasse 8 • D-93155 Hemau  + 49 94 91 - 427 info@trachtenstore.com Here you will find the most beautiful Bavarian dresses for women, men & children!

If you want to buy outfits for an entire group, no problem! Ask us for our special offers!

www.trachtenstore.com

discount on

everything that does not have a screw!

Valid from May 1 to August 31, 2013

*Except for already reduced items and special offers, clocks, repairs, batteries. cleaning utensils and contact lenses and fluids.

ViSiOn CArE HEArinG AidS JEwElrY Stadtplatz 7 – 95478 Kemnath Phone: 09642-7591 Schulstraße 1 – 92655 Grafenwöhr Phone: 09641-8430

| Cars & Traffic

Test Drive: Down-Sizing leads to more Value

Although it features less horsepower, the new Audi RS6 is faster and configured tighter

RSZ Automobile RSZ Automobile in Weiden

in- We Weiden sell new and used cars

- We offer repair service for - We sell new and used cars most car models

Let’s be honest: Eight cylinders, four liters capacity, 412 kW/560 HP and 700 Nm are not really something to complain about. Especially since the handling of the vehicle has improved. The new RS6 station wagon now only needs 3.9 instead of 4.6 seconds to reach a speed of 100km/h. And if you spend an additional 12.900 Euro for the Dynamics Package Plus on top of the car’s 107.900 Euro base price, you do not only get LED lights but also a more tightly configured chassis and carbon breaks. Plus the car is allowed to reach a top speed of 305 km/h which allows it to easily tailgate an Audi R8.

-- We repair servicework for We offer perform guarantee most car models for VW, Seat, Skoda, Audi -- We perform guarantee Accessories, tuning work for Skoda, Audi andVW, tireSeat, service -- Accessories, tuning Car body work and tire service - Car Insurance - Car body work - TÜV/AU - Car Insurance Inspection -- TÜV/AU Car rental Inspection - Car rental

Obere Bauscherstraße 16 92637 Weiden Telefon 0961/4040 www.rsz-stegmann.de Obere Bauscherstraße 16 info@rsz-stegmann.de 92637 Weiden Telefon 0961/4040 www.rsz-stegmann.de info@rsz-stegmann.de

(dmd). The new generation Audi RS6 is now available and offers its owners a more family-friendly more interior space and is the most sporty station wagon of all times regarding design and handling. That sounds like a contradiction if you learn that the new model features two cylinders, 1.2 liters capacity and 20 horse powers less than its predecessor. However, it moves more swiftly across the asphalt. We wanted to find out why and took the new Audi RS6 station wagon on a test drive.

Englisch speaking ffh Engstliasc speaking staff

But there is another argument that speaks for the eight cylinder vehicle – its gas mileage. Despite the fact that this does probably not interest anybody that can afford a car in that price class, it sends a morally clean message that the vehicle uses only 9.8 liters thanks to its light-weight construction, eight-gear automatic transmission and cylinder turn-off cylinders, 30 percent less than its predecessor.

The car’s power is safely put on the streets by a tightly configured sports chassis. The base version features air cushioning that brings the station wagon 20 millimeters closer to the asphalt. Dynamic Ride Control is available for a surcharge.

The shock absorbers work crosswise and, in combination with an intelligent oil circulation that varies with the respective driving situation minimize any pitching and rolling so that the

Dr.-Johann-Stark-Str. 8 92637 Weiden Tel.: 0961/67095-0 Dr.-Johann-Stark-Str. 8 Fax 0961/27173 92637 Weiden info@auto-raab.de Tel.: 0961/67095-0 www.auto-raab.de Fax 0961/27173 info@auto-raab.de www.auto-raab.de

Schertl Heribert Schertl Heribert

Power rating of our repair-shop:

inspection, brakes, exhaust emisPower rating of electronic, our repair-shop: sion control, calibrating of axes, general ininspection, brakes,control, electronic, exhaust emisspection/exhaust climate technique, sion control, calibrating of axes, general intire-service, glassspection/exhaust control, climate technique, and window service, tire-service, glasslacquering, car HiVILSECK and window service, fi, used cars, tires lacquering, car inch Himointed to 30 VILSECK firims , used and cars, more. tires mointed to 30 inch rims and more.

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Schertl Heribert Robert Boschstrasse 3 92249 Vilseck Schertl Heribert Telephone: 09662/422635 Robert Boschstrasse 3 h.schertl@freenet.de 92249 Vilseck www.schertl.autofi tpartner.de Telephone: 09662/422635 h.schertl@freenet.de www.schertl.autofitpartner.de

WEIDEN

GRAFENWOEHR

WEIDEN

WERNBERG-KOEBLITZ

SULZBACH-ROSENBERG

SULZBACH-ROSENBERG

WERNBERG-KOEBLITZ

| Cars & Traffic

Photo Credit: dmd/Audi

Although it features less horse power than its predecessor, the new Audi RS6 station wagon is currently the most dynamic car built by Audi.

vehicle stays on the street like the famous flat shelf. And although you could drive the car on a race track, it is more likely that the home of the vehicle will be the Autobahn. Therefore, a comfort mode has been programmed which truly lives up to what its name promises. Appointments at the chiropractor’s office are unnecessary.

The car features a 1.680 liter trunk and very sporty features, to include large air boxes on the front with the clearly visible “Quattro” sign and no room for fog lights. With its wide, flat on

the top wheel boxes, the RS6 station wagon looks a lot like the original Audi Quattro introduced in 1994. The mirrors are covered in frosted, Audi-style aluminum. The rear features a diffuser with two oval exhaust pipes that give the car an even sportier look.

The interior is styled in a very sporty manner as well. The leather seats are well-shaped and the design follows the look of the front guard. The body trim is made from carbon and aluminum, and the steering wheel is flattened on the bottom.

| Cars & Traffic

Prices start at 107.900 Euro.

The RS6 will soon be joined by the RS7 sedan to allow sports car lovers to spend their money on something other than a station wagon.

Audi RS6 – Technical Data:

V8-bi-turbo direct inject engine with cylinder turn-off, 3.993 ccm cubic capacity, 412 kW/560 HP, 700 Nm, all-wheel drive, 8-gear-automatic transmission, 0-100 km/h in 3.9 s, top speed 305 km/h, gas consumption 9.8 Liter, CO2 229 g/km, energy efficiency class E, price: 107.900 Euro

Sports station wagon, luxury class. Length: 4.98 m, width (without mirrors) 1.94 m, with mirrors 2.08 m, height: 1.36 m, trunk space: 1.680 liters.

THE EXPERT FOR US-CARS

car repair shop

English speaking staff!

Conrad-Röntgen-Straße 30 92637 Weiden phone: +49 (0)961/482720 info@schneiders-auto-service.de Opening Hours: Monday–Friday 08:00 – 17:00 Saturday 09:00 – 12:00

Franz Schneider

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CONRAD RÖNTGEN STR 30

Photo Credit: dmd/Audi

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The interior is also designed in a sporty way.

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| Cars & Traffic

The air bag vest D-air Street by Dainese received a better test rating.

The AirNest by Helite received the rating “good.”

Motorcycle air bags: The faster, the safer

For over 45 years we are a licenced dealer for Volvo and Landrover cars. We have constantly over 120 used cars in our stock - description in English on our homepage!

We offer: • English speaking staff • qualified, from the manufacturer certified and low cost repair • we only use original parts • we take care of any insurance claims • we accept Visa and MasterCard • we do accept VAT-form We are

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(dmd). They belong to the few items motorbike riders may wear to protect themselves during a crash: air bags integrated into vests. However, how well they protect the wearer depends on how quickly and dependably they open up during a collision. The ADAC recently tested two of the motorbike vests with integrated air bags that are currently available on the market.

Best in the test and receiving the rating “very good” was the air bag vest Dainese D-air Street. This protective system is sold with the electronic steering unit M-Kit which must be permanently installed on the bike. In the event of a hard collision, the unit sends a radio signal to gas generator in the vest. The ADAC reports that the system reacts very quickly, generating an effective air bag during the test only 45 milliseconds after the crash. The Dainese protective vest can be combined with existing protective clothing. The only disadvantage is that the system is only effective when worn on a bike that is quipped with an M-Kit. The second system tested was the AirNest jacket by Helite.

This air bag vest is activated with the help of a rip cord that has to be attached to the bike before the ride. This system also reacted very quickly during the test and its protective potential was also very high. However, since it did not react immediately after crashing with another vehicle, the air bag vest only received a “good” instead of a “very good” rating.

Bavarian Times | 40

Photo Credits: dmd/ADAC

The ADAC tested two chest airbags that are integrated in vests

| Cars & Traffic

Photo Credit: General Motors

2014 Corvette Stingray The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license.

“The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet’s mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology that very few manufacturers can match, and none can even come close for $52,000.”

Standard features on the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray include: • Seating with lightweight magnesium frames for exceptio-

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nal support, and eight-way power adjustment • Five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors up to 12 vehicle attributes • New seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching • 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine with direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system • Carbon fiber hood on all models, and a carbon fiber removable roof panel on coupes • Aluminum frame that is 99 pounds lighter (45 kg) and 57-percent stiffer than the previous model’s structure • Advanced, high-intensity discharge (HID) and light-emitting diode (LED) lighting • Dual, eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, with next-generation Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and rear vision camera • Bose nine-speaker audio system with SiriusXM Satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and SD card and auxiliary input jack • Keyless access with push-button start • Power tilt/telescope steering wheel • An all-new, fully electronic top on the convertible that can be lowered remotely using the key fob As shown at the North American International Auto Show, the Stingray coupe fitted with the major available options would be $73,360, including: • 3LT interior package, with leather-wrapped interior ($8,005)

OPENING HOURS: Mon–Fri, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

0800-522-6274 or 800-WSA-SHIP (972-7447) For a free rate request, please email: info@worldwide-ship.de Visit our Website: www.worldwide-ship.de

Bavarian Times | 42

Photo Credit: General Motors

| Cars & Traffic

• Z51 Performance Package ($2,800) • Competition sports seats ($2,495) • Exposed-carbon-fiber roof panel ($1,995) • Magnetic Ride Control with Performance Traction Management ($1,795) • Dual-mode exhaust system ($1,195) • Carbon fiber interior trim ($995) • Sueded, microfiber-wrapped upper interior trim ($995) • Red-painted calipers ($595) • Black-painted wheels ($495)

The 3LT interior package includes: Bose 10-speaker surround-sound audio system; SiriusXM Satellite radio with one-year subscription and HD radio receiver; color head-up display; memory package; navigation system; heated and ventilated seats with power lumbar and bolster adjustment; premium Napa leather seating surfaces; and leather-wrapped dash and instrument panel, console and door panels.

The Z51 Performance Package includes: high-performance gear ratios; transmission-cooling system; larger 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels and tires; larger, slotted rotors and brake-cooling ducts; electronic limited-slip differential and differential cooling system; unique chassis tuning; and available Magnetic Ride Control active-handling system with Performance Traction Management. Equipped with the Z51 package, the Corvette Stingray is capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph in under four seconds, and more than 1 g in cornering. (General Motors) | by General Motors

 Service/Repair Service

English speaking staff VAT Forms accepted

 Repair – Technical & Electronic  Warranty Service for Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep  Car Body Repair and Maintenance Service

Authorized Chrysler, Jeep® & Dodge Sale & Service 43 | Bavarian Times

Hersbrucker Straße 28 • 91230 Happurg Phone 09151/8323-0 • Fax 09151/8323-23

www.koch-happurg.de

| Cars & Traffic

Certified Repair Shop Recycling • • • •

POV and truck recycling Automotive technology Sale of car parts and accessories Purchase of junk cars, damaged cars and cars with engine damage • Exports • Sale • Commercial road haulage • Container service • • • •

Scrap metal and metals Demolotions Disassembling Business and industrial solutions

Owner: Martin Barth

Industriegebiet Döllnitz • Weidener Straße 47b • 92690 Pressath Phone 09644-365 • Mobile 0171-3415995 • Fax 09644-1284

• Elegant sedan featuring refreshed exterior with wing-shape LED lighting • New interior design with new seats and available Ultra Luxury Interior Package • New advanced technologies: next-gen IntelliLink, standard eight-inch color display instrument panel, camera- and radar-based safety features that work with General Motors-patented Safety Alert Seat Buick today introduced the new 2014 LaCrosse, the evolution of the landmark luxury sedan that established the brand’s modern sedan lineup with design leadership and technological innovation.

The full-size LaCrosse offers new interior and exterior design cues, advanced safety technologies and enhanced in-vehicle connectivity. New front and rear styling, featuring signature wing-shape LED daytime running lamps and LED wraparound tail lamps, complements its sculpted exterior design. The interior is more contemporary, with new seats, enhanced materials, redesigned central instrument panel and console – and an all-new, available Ultra Luxury Interior Package. The cabin also incorporates Buick’s next-generation IntelliLink infotainment system, with intuitive controls and natural voice recognition.

New radar- and camera-based safety features help surround the new LaCrosse with protection. They include Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation. GM’s patented Safety Alert Seat works with these features, providing seat vibration pulses indicating the direction of a potential crash threat.

Bavarian Times | 44

Photo Credit: General Motors

Buick Introduces the New 2014 LaCrosse

Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the LaCrosse to adjust vehicle speed, including stopping the vehicle in heavy traffic and accelerating again. “We evolved the interior and exterior design, increased luxury amenities and materials, and enhanced the safety and personal technologies to give customers more reasons than ever

to rediscover Buick,� said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing.

Globally, LaCrosse sales have exceeded 500,000 since its 2009 introduction and U.S. sales topped 57,000 in 2012, making it more popular than many other full-size luxury sedans, including Lexus ES, Acura TL and Lincoln MKS.

Photo Credit: General Motors

| Cars & Traffic

Autohaus Graser Gmbh

sheer driving pleasure

The 2014 LaCrosse is offered in front-wheel-drive and allwheel-drive models and offers two powertrains: a 2.4L engine with eAssist light electrification technology or a 3.6L directinjected V-6. Each is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

All models feature Buick’s QuietTuning engineering process that reduces, blocks and absorbs unwanted noise from the LaCrosse’s cabin, making it one of the quietest in the segment.

The new LaCrosse makes its public debut at the New York International Auto Show, where it will be on display March 29-April 7. It goes on sale this summer.

Welcome to AutohAus GrAser!

Your service Point for BMW and MINI US-Specification Cars and Base sales station for m-Performance Parts. Come and tune up your Car. Get original BMW automotive body parts and accessories. contact us: Phone 09644 9229-0, info@ah-graser.de, www.ah-graser.de Visit us: Eschenbacher Str. 1, D-92690 Pressath

Ultra Luxury Interior Package Sangria seating color and Ebony accents, with semi-aniline leather seats and trim, along with Shadow Tamo Ash wood décor, represents LaCrosse’s new Ultra Luxury Interior Package.

“The warm color combinations, premium interior materials and advanced technology in the 2014 LaCrosse provide the interior environment our discerning luxury customers are seeking,” said Ven Lai, Buick creative designer for color and trim.

The new Ultra Luxury Interior Package features premium semianiline leather. It covers the seats, console armrest and door armrests and is complemented by synthetic suede on the headliner and door pillars. The Sangria contrast color with the Ultra Luxury interior is exclusive to LaCrosse. | by General Motors Bavarian Times | 46

Photo Credit: General Motors

| Cars & Traffic

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| Eventcalendar

Army Community Service (ACS) 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.

25 June: Debt Blasters, noon-1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 New Parent Support Program Through 11 June: Body Back!, 3-4 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322.

10 May-14 June: Great Expectations, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322. (6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings Play Groups Every Tuesday: East Camp, Chapel Annex, 9:30 – 11 a.m.

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

Newborn Network for parents with babies ages 0 through Walking Every Tuesday: Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg. 322, 1 - 3 p.m. Hospital Tours Every 1st Wednesday (except for holidays): Visit Weiden Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Weiden hospital lobby Every 4th Wednesday: Visit Sulzbach-Rosenberg Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Sulzbach-Rosenberg hospital lobby.

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

Relocation Readiness 9 May – 27 June: SGI/ATS Belly Dancing, noon – 1:30 p.m.

Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 June: Spouse Sponsorship Training, 1–2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 Every Tuesday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Grafenwoehr, Chapel Annex Every Thursday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg. 322.

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

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

Thursdays: Paddling and rock climbing. Participants will learn to belay/rock climb and canoe/kayak on alternating Thursdays.

Classes will continue through the summer.

Little League baseball/softball looking for players & coaches The Bavaria Military Community American Little League (BMCALL) is looking for players and volunteer coaches to play in Little League International Europe and Africa International tournaments this summer. Experienced baseball and softball players ages 1118 are encouraged to try out. Tryouts should be in early to mid June. Volunteer coaches at all levels are also needed. Those interested in either playing or coaching should contact Phillip Lee or Graf Little League.

Was ist Los?

The Caribbean in Upper Palatinate The somewhat different leisure park in Hirschau play, sport and fun around the “white dune”

• sand-skiing and sand-boarding in summer • corner-boarding on sand • summer toboggan • camping at the most modern camping ground • lido swimming pool • high rope course in the woods • adventure play ground • Geo park • color woods • skater course Freizeitpark Monte Kaolino • mountain bike route

Infos:

Rathausplatz 1• 92242 Hirschau Telephone: 09622/81502 • Fax: 09622/81555 Mail: info@montekaolino.eu • www.montekaolino.eu

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.

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.

Bavarian Times | 48

1

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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.

Religious 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)

15 and 16 June 2013

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 Maria-Himmelfahrtskirche 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.

ns Attractio

E FRiE ssion

A 93 Exit 20 Windischeschenbach

adm

1 Trucker-Fest st

for the entire family Country bands

for the entire

family

Jumping castle, bull riding, climbing mountain, cart track, car wash by the Youth Fire Dept. and many more attractions, such as show trucks, contingency exercises by the Neuhaus and Windischeschenbach Fire Deps.

Saturday, 15 June

10 a.m. Fest starts with all attractions 6 p.m. Country band “Rebel Bunch“ 6 p.m. LINE DANCE GROUP “The Flying Boots”

Sunday, 16 June

15 June

9 a.m.

Weißwurst breakfast Church service with vehicle blessing 10 a.m. Barbari Bavarii Noon Country duo “Rascal & McLane” 3.30 p.m. Award presentation for the farthest travel and the most beautiful trucks

16 June Comedy band

16 June rlass.

Auf uns ist Ve

eventob

EVENTORGANISATION & BERATUNG

A 93 Exit 20 Windischeschenbach

EiE FdR on i m ss a

15 and 16 June 2013 with friendly support by the Waldnaabtal Trucker Friends

| Eventcalendar

Chaplain Crisis Line After duty hours, please call: MP STATION CIV 09662-832490 or 09662-83-3397 / DSN 476-2490 or 476-3397.

USAG-Grafenwoehr IOC CIV 09641-83-7226 / DSN 475-7226.

CHAPLAIN CRISIS LINE CIV 0162-296-0838.

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

Adult Education / Training FAST Classes 28 May – 7 June: Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center, Bldg 223, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The registration period for these classes lasts until the day the particular class begins. Registration is also available for FAST Classes at the Rose Barracks Education Center running from 3–13 June and 18–28 June.

Again, lasts until the day the particular class begins. Functional Academic Skills Training (FAST) provides Soldiers with instruction in reading, mathematics, and language skills and is an excellent tool to prepare Soldiers to raise their GT score.

This class is a 60-hour long course and is limited to twenty students. For more information please contact the Rose Barracks (Vilseck) Education Center at DSN 476-2653/3292.

Register now for UMUC summer classes The University of Maryland University College Europe’s summer schedule of courses is now available. Registration is available for Face-to-Face or Online course. Visit the USAG Grafenwoehr Education Center to see your UMUC Europe Field Representative, or go online at www.ed.umuc.edu. UMUC can help with financial aid, tuition assistance, using the G.I. Bill, evaluating military training for college credits, and more.

University of Oklahoma MA courses The University of Oklahoma in Rose Barracks offers degree programs to military service members and civilians in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult.

The university offers both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations and a Master of Human Relations. We are currently enrolling new students. Email Carla Miller or call her at DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069. Further information can be found at www.goou.ou.edu. Summer courses in Rose Barracks: 4–9 June: IR/HR COMM 5253 Cross Cultural Communication: Theory and Research. 6–11 Aug: IR HIST 6200 Seminar in European History: Aspects of the British Empire.

Central Texas College CTC provides Soldiers and families with associate degree programs in many Vo-Tech career fields with both face-to-face classes and distance learning (online) classes. In the VilseckGrafenwoehr community, there are 3 face-to-face programs running year-round. CTC classes for Term in May-July 2013: Classes in Rose Barracks: AUMT 1416 – Automotive Suspension & Steering Systems. Wed/The/Fri 6-10 p.m. 22 May-12 July. CJSA 1342 – Criminal Investigation. Tue/Thu, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 21 May-11 July.

Classes in Grafenwoehr: CDEC 1321 –Infant and Toddler. Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 18 May-29 June. For more, call Chuck Sligh at DSN 476-2362, CIV 09662-83-2362 or email him.

New! National Testing Center (NTC) University of Maryland University College - Europe‘s National Test Center (NTC) has relocated and is now back in the education center, Rose Barracks Bldg. 223. The NTC is open 20 hrs/ wk from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. The NTC offers computer based national exams for college credit, including CLEP, DSST, Excelsior, GMAT, IT certifications, and many other professional certification exams. Anyone interested in testing should contact the NTC at DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462, or email Sarah Anderson schedule an appointment.

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

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

Fascination Devil ’s Cave Pottenstein/Fränkische Schweiz Detailed information for our guests is available at the Tourism Office 91278 Pottenstein Phone: 09243-70841 www.pottenstein.de www.teufelshoehle.de

one of the longest stalactite caves in Germany Ê Tours, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ê Restaurant – bus parking Ê Pottenstein’s adventure mile Ê Area with the largest number of breweries in the world!!!

| Eventcalendar

Anna Market on Sunday, July 28, 2013 in Grafenwoehr Grafenwoehr. The city of Grafenwoehr invites everybody to the traditional Anna Market on the marketplace on July 28, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The planning committee has come up with many ideas to keep the market interesting.

cgoller@grafenwoehr.bayern.de . The fee for market booths is 4 â‚Ź per meter.

Merchants are invited to take the opportunity and open their stores on this Sunday. In accordance with the city and county regulations, Grafenwoehr#s stores may open on this market day from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 - 6 p.m.

An exhibition of old fire trucks will take place on Marienplatz from 1 - 5 p.m. Many collectors have agreed to present their valuable vehicles to the public. Needless to say, plenty of food and beverages will be available.

If you are interested in participating, contact the city of Grafenwoehr by phone at 09641-922013, or by e-mail at

| by Renate Gradl

#

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

Merchants and clubs are invited to participate!

#

| Event

Photo Credit: Pro Weiden

Culture- and Shopping Night “Weiden is dreaming” Weiden. Once again, Weiden will hold a culture- and shopping night this year, following the motto “Weiden is dreaming.” On Friday, July 19, events start in downtown Weiden. “Weiden is dreaming” means strolling through downtown Weiden, enjoying the warm summer weather and following a different dream on every corner.

Musicians, artists, acrobats, romantic light effects and much more turn Weiden’s inner city into a dreamscape whose attraction you can’t escape. Allow yourself to be captivated by the many stories that are waiting for you everywhere!

But not only the artists everywhere in town are what is special about “Weiden is dreaming”, especially for that event store hours are extended to midnight for that event. You can stroll through the stores and shop to your heart’s content, or enjoy and marvel at the larger variety of offers until midnight.

Hi everybody, are you looking for activities for Kids or yourself?

The event is held throughout downtown. About 100 stores feature special offers that night. Visitors can look forward to many shopping attractions and an entertainment program that will leave nothing to be desired.

In the pedestrian zone, many music band will provide entertainment, featuring various music styles. The musical variety is wide and ranges from guitar sounds to vocal performances. Musicians will put everybody in the right mood with classic rock songs, party hits, acoustical and traditional folk songs.

All musical stages will be illuminated with colored light objects so they can be easily seen from a distance. Even the Old Town Hall will be especially illuminated.

Culinary specialties will also be provided. Many food booths will serve a large variety of delicacies to visitors throughout downtown. Whether it’s a freshly drawn Zoigl beer with a Brezen, or Mexican specialties and refreshing cocktails - these offers will inspire young and old visitors.

An exciting event area can be discovered around the Issy-les-Moulineaux-Square on Sedanstrasse. There, you will find a cocktail bar with summer feeling and various performances, musical entertainment and dance.

Another highlight is waiting for you at the Lower Market. Artisans present a large variety of handmade treasures at the artisans’ market.

This is just a short summary of the large program that the PRO WEIDEN marketing association has put together. Be surprised and dream with us on Friday, July 19, 2013 from 7 p.m. to midnight.

My name is Sabine Ludewig, i’m an occupational therapist, riding therapist and riding coach.

Some of my offers are pony activities for babys 8 month, toddlers and older Kids Riding lessons for children and adults, riding therapy, kids fun camps, birthday parties and many more.

You’ll get 10 % off singing up until the end of June. Looking forward meeting you!

More information, the entire program and much more can be found at www.proweiden.de. | by Pro Weiden

Sabine Ludewig Schwand 6 92711 Parkstein-Schwand Cell: 0176-84259157 s.ludewig79@googlemail. com www.therapeutischesreiten-ludewig.de www.greenvalleyranchschwand.de

BräuWirt Restaurant and Brewery in Weiden’s Old Town!

Traditional dishes and typical Bavarian specialties served fresh from the kitchen during opening hours. Changing weekly offers and popular monthly promotions.

The offers high-quality, home-made Zoigl brewed folTraditional dishes andbrewery typical Bavarian specialties served fresh from thebeers, kitchen the Bavarian purity requirements awarded with the Gerduring opening lowing hours. Changing weekly offers and popularand monthly promoman DLG food certificate in gold. tions.

Visit us at the BräuWirt – we are looking forward to seeing you!

Gasthausbrauerei Bräu Wirt Unterer Markt 9, 92637 Weiden/Opf Phone: 0961 48 13 30 info@braeuwirt.de, www.braeuwirt.de

| Event

Open-Air Museum Neusath-Perschen Photo Credit: Blanka Matter

Experience everyday history

At the Freilandmuseum Neusath-Perschen near Nabburg, the open-air museum of the Oberpfalz region, this year’s motto is “Mills.” Special events will both inform and entertain visitors.

The early spring events will start with the “Spinning Day” on 21 April. .

For children, the school holiday program and the kids’ days are always fascinating. There will be lots of activities like bow and arrow shooting, felt bunny making or cooking herb candies and plenty more. A special day will be Easter Monday (1 April) when all the little guests are invited to join in on baking, handicrafts, playing historic games, or bowling like in our forefathers’ times.

Neusath-Perschen (close to Nabburg)

Upper Palatinate Open Air Museum

A hearty walk through the grounds will make you hungry and thirsty, but local delicacies at the museum pub should do the trick. And if you are a fan of German bread, you should visit on Sundays when the fresh bread comes out of the oven. It has a truly mouthwatering smell and has received several awards too.

To check the museum’s program for 2013, visit www.freilandmuseum.org.

The Open-Air Museum at Neusath-Perschen is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is closed on Mondays (except on holidays).

Experience everyday history!

Upper Palatinate Open Air Museum Neusath-Perschen Neusath 200 · 92507 Nabburg Phone 09433/2442-0 · Fax 09433/2442-222

Opening Times: Tuesday – Sunday: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm 2013 Season: March 16 – November 03

| by Blanka Matter

-

www.freilandmuseum.org Motorway Nürnberg – Prag

53 | Bavarian Times

Motorway Regensburg – Weiden exit Nabburg

| Event

Photo Credit: Natur in Tirschenreuth 2013

My horticultural show “Nature in Tirschenreuth 2013” Reflections of houses in the water, animals that move into new habitats. Green oases that invite you to relax -- and people who are excited: The horticultural show has arrived in Tirschenreuth. After six years of planning and constructing, the citizens of Tirschenreuth and their guests started to take possession of this unique cultural landscape: the newly flooded city pond, which covers 6 hectare and surrounds the Fischhof (Fish Yard), architect Muttone’s historic Fischhof bridge which features its baroque brilliance again and, after 200 years, has finally turned into a bridge surrounded by water again – and, of course, the many newly designed areas and attractions on the grounds of the horticultural show.

More than 500 events will take place on 89 days in front of this impressive backdrop. And it will not be over then: Many areas and attractions will remain for the citizens of Tirschenreuth and their guests to use after the three-months event has ended.

Participate: The children’s’ area RootVolerMeadow is expecting its guests Monday through Friday from 2-5 p.m. and on the weekends and during school vacations from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Activities for kids, ages kindergarten and older, guarantee lots of fun! Registration is not required. However, the horticultural show organizers would like to remind parents that they must supervise their kids at all times!

Summer-Sun-Bathing: The Tirschenreuth outdoor pool directly borders the horticultural show area. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, diving goggles, towel and suntan lotion for a leap into the cool water!

Events (Abstract) On 89 days, the Tirschenreuth horticultural show offers a colorful program with many events for the entire family- Here are some of the highlights:

May 29 May

30 May

Opening ceremony of the horticultural show “Nature in Tirschenreuth 2013” Folk Music Day

June 1/2 June Colorful program of the Bayerische Rund-

funk radio station 09 June AOK Nordic Walking event with Rosi Mitter-

meier and Christian Neureuther 15 June Concert with the Vienna Vocal Ensemble

“Sing Out” 22 June Day of the Music Schools of the Oberpfalz region 23 June Shooter’s Fest with Shooter’s Proclamation

and archery 30 June Family Day of the publishing house “Der Neue

Tag” with a concert by the Big Brass Band July 6 July

EgroNet-Family Day with baptizing of the roses

and children’s musician Geraldino 12 July Concert by Reinhard Zeus, the “Songwriter

of the Heart” 14 July Police Day with a day-long program by the

Bavarian and the Federal Police 20 July Day of lay music with soloists from all over Bavaria 27 July Summer fest and Italian night with “I Dolci Signori” 28 July DGB-Day with a program for the entire family Bavarian Times | 54

| Event| Event

August 2 August

3 August

10 August 17 August

18 August 25 August

Concert by Klaus Doldinger, Germany’s No. 1 jazz musician Concert by Segam and Andi B., the popular hip-hop-duo from the Oberpfalz region American Weekend Folk Music Day of the Bayerische Rundfunk radio station Fish Day Closing day with passing of the flag to the “Nature in Alzenau 2015” and concert by the Havlicek Brothers; large firework display at the onset of dusk

Families

23,00 €

Single Parents

13,00 €

(two adults with their own children up to the age of 17) (one parent with his/her child up to the age of 17)

Ticket prices include admission to all events of the horticultural show on the day of purchase.

1 Children/Youths: 7 to 17 years; admission is free for children up to 6 years of age. Free admission for two teachers per kindergarten or school group

Beneficiaries: with ID: School children, students, apprentices, recipients of Social Aid or unemployment pay, type I + II, recipients of basic social care, Federal Volunteers, Soldiers, handicapped persons (admission is free for persons accompanying handicapped persons with handicapped status “B”).

2

Admission: Day tickets:

Opening Hours:

Adults Children/Youths 1 Beneficiaries 2 Groups

The horticultural show is open daily. The cash desks are open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and longer if events take place in the evening.

10,00 € 3,00 € 6,00 € 9,00 €

(20 persons and more)

E– R LEISUR ENTURE: O O D T U O V ION – AD AL INSPIRAT ICULTUR ORT ARIAN H OU! THE BAV Y ELCOMES SHOW W

per person

NATUR

| by Natur in Tirschenreuth 2013

IN TIRSCHENREUTH 29. MAY - 25. AUGUST 2013

Scan QR code to receive further information

www.gartenschau-tirschenreuth.de/englisch

| Event

At the Boulder Cup, climbers and those who are thinking about becoming climbers can test the sport indoors.

Photo Credit: Sabine Wiesent

Climbers‘ Paradise Frankenjura Auerbach - With more than 7,000 climbing routes and numerous boulder possibilities divided among nearly 1,000 rocks, the Frankenjura is one of Europe’s largest sports climbing regions. Last fall, the climbing area Auerbach-KönigsteinKrottenseer Forst, located in the center of one of the world’s largest climbing areas, namely below the so-called Steinerne Stadt (Stone City) in the Veldensteiner Forest, was introduced. Richard Lehmeier of the Nature Protection Association Amberg-Sulzbach e.V. was one of the lead developers of that concept. For several years, the IG Climbing, the Nature Protection Association, the Nature Park Fränkische Schweiz-Veldensteiner Forst, the cities of Auerbach and Königstein, as well as Sven König from the climbers‘ association “Frankenjura.com” have developed and marked climbing routes. More than 90 rocks and rock faces were climbed, looked at and then classified according to their level of difficulty and applicable nature protection factors, and then put into a guide on environmentally friendly climbing. The result were easy to read boards and brochures that do not only show the routes but also refuges

Welcome to Thai Massage

parking areas, animal rest areas and restaurants. Also involved was the Bavarian State Forest which provided two lots to put up the boards.

Richard Lehmeier was supported by Christine Rapp from the Upper Nature Protection Agency of the Government of the Oberpfalz region.

Barbara Eichler of the German Alpine Club, who has been involved for ten years in marking the routes, stated that the concept has become a positive example for others that is often portrayed in international climbing magazines. Wolfgang Geißner from the Nature Park Fränkische Schweiz-Veldensteiner Forst emphasized that climbing is becoming immensely popular in the region and asked restaurant owners to cater to the climbers’ needs.

Many sleepless nights were spent while putting the concept together, but yet a good consensus was reached.

SANSUK

in Auerbach

• Hot-Stone-Massage • Body-Massage • Herbal-Massage (= Massage with a stamp of herbs)

Eschenbach Grafenwöhr

A9

Auerbach Gaissach

military training space

Gmünd Freihung

Vilseck

Opening Hours: Mo.–Fr.: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sat.: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Untere Vorstadt 9 · 91275 Auerbach i. d. Oberpfalz Telephone: 09643/2062662

A detailed info system allows climbers and sports friends to easily find their way around.

Co-financing the climbing concept, the city of Auerbach contributed two lots for information boards, another one was provided by the city of Königstein. Auerbach‘s mayor Joachim Neuß also promised to expand the necessary infrastructure for the climbers. The participating communities from the Frankenpfalz region are also expected to participate. The climbing maps are available in the town halls of all towns in the region and in the restaurants in the surrounding area.

Hiking or biking are typical leisure activities that can also be enjoyed in the area, just like a vacation with kids.

Many child-friendly climbing areas in Franconia and the Oberpfalz region turn a stay with children into an exciting experience. A lot of forests and meadows, small rocks to try out climbing and the windings creeks are ideal places for children to have fun. And if you want to see indoor climbing, you should not miss the German Boulder Cup on June 15 and 16 in the Helmut-Ott-Auditorium in Auerbach, when the Germany’s best indoor climbers and youth boulder climbers meet in the former mining town.

Connected to Autobahns coming from all directions, the area is easy to reach from anywhere in Germany. The Frankenjura can be reached via A9 coming from the North and the South, via A3 from Frankfurt, or via A6 from Heidelberg when coming from the West, or via A6 again when coming from the Czech Republic in the East.

For more information, go to www.frankenjura.com | by Sabine Wiesent

57 | Bavarian Times

| Travel

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

On the road, all that glitters isn‘t gold HEIDELBERG, Germany -- Some people can run into bad luck while they are on the road and become legitimate candidates for charity. Unfortunately, there are other who are up to no good, warn officials at the U.S. Army Europe Office of the Provost Marshal.

“With the onset of summer we again expect to see cases of swindlers trying to defraud Americans traveling around Europe,” said Joseph Day, USAREUR OPM law enforcement chief.

Officials said one common scam involves someone in a vehicle flagging down other vehicles to get money by falsely claiming to need help. This approach often happens close to a barracks gate, at a highway rest stop or on a road outside a town where vehicles must move slowly.

Sometimes the scammers offer drivers what appears to be gold jewelry as “collateral” so they can pay a “loan” back later, OPM officials said, but the rings and chains usually turn out to be worthless brass imitations.

OPM experts warned of a second scam that involves a con artist stopping an intended victim and claiming to have run out of money at a trade fair. The scammer then offers to sell the victim his expensive goods -- often jackets or coats -- at a huge discount so he can buy gas to get home. But the fancy brand-name articles are nothing but cheap fakes.

Police in Bavaria recently reported another variation of the gold scam in which beggars give passers-by a gold ring that they claim no longer fits. If someone accepts the gift, the man or woman then begs them for money and can become quite aggressive. Again, the supposed gold ring turns out to be brass.

To avoid being scammed, Day recommends that members of the U.S. forces community in Europe keep these tips in mind: • Beware of distractions if you are in your car alone. Someone talking to you on the driver‘s side of the car could be trying

While on road trips or just your daily commute, be aware of roadside scammers looking to swindle Americans out of cash.

to divert your attention while a buddy steals your purse or wallet from the other side.

• Offers that sound too good to be true usually are. Articles with fancy brand names and gold jewelry are most likely cheap imitations.

• Always consider the relationship between the trouble a person claims he is in and what he is asking for. People in real need rarely ask for more than what is absolutely necessary.

• Never give large amounts of money to anyone on the road.

The most anyone should need is enough to fill a tank with gas.

Officials also noted that the German automobile association, ADAC, warns travelers that in some regions gangs may be involved in trying to scam motorists on main highways.

The crooks, they say, generally drive large, dark sedans and try to get drivers to stop with hand gestures, flashing lights or a raised gas container. When their victim stops, they demand financial help for their families or try to sell fake jewelry. If the victim gives up little or no cash, the solicitation can turn into a robbery.

ADAC advises drivers who encounter such situations to not stop, but continue driving.

Day advises that anyone approached in this manner write down the person‘s license plate number and contact the nearest military or civil police station. | by Robert Szostek, U.S. Army Europe Office of the Provost Marshal Public Affairs Office

INSIDE AND OUTSIDE DE CAR-CLEANING NOT ONLY FOR SHIPPING ...

Regensburger Straße 116 (via Dieselstraße) 92224 Amberg Phone: 09621 / 75646 Mobile: 0151 / 22807288 E-Mail: contact@car-detailing.de CAR-DETAILING.DE by KFZ-REINIGUNG-WEIDNER Ltd & Co.KG

| Travel

Sample 30 exotic and locally produced beers on tap with a visit to the Prague Beer Museum Pub.

With an ever-changing inventory of beers on tap, variety is the spice of life at the Prague Beer Museum Pub.

Photo Credit: Molly Hayden, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

The Bohemian side of beer PRAGUE – In the year 1516, Duke Wilhelm IV of Bavaria initiated the Bavarian Purity Act, which stated that beer should only be brewed from yeast, barley, hops and water.

with an amber head and lacing. Chocolate and malty up front, yet finishing with bitterness makes this beer the perfect afterdinner drink.

This act is one of the reasons that Germany is in the limelight when it comes to the frothy beverage. While no one can argue the rightful superiority of Germans when it comes to brewing, the variety of beer offered can be somewhat lacking.

But keep in mind, this isn‘t a place to get drunk, it‘s an institution for education of the finest beer products offered in the Czech Republic. A visit to this hidden gem allows beer enthusiasts to sample the more obscure and adventurous beers produced locally by smaller Czech brewers.

A hankering for an IPA or a coffee stout can leave a person restless when it comes to finding those beers in Germany.

A quick trip across the border and a visit to the Prague Beer Museum Pub, however, can quell the proclivity for variety. More pub than museum, this establishment offers 30 draft beers on tap ranging from English pale ales to exotic blueberry and chocolate-flavored concoctions.

The revelry is refined as .15-liter samples are delivered to the table in wooden paddles offering a tasting of five beers at a time. While the samples change with the season, the variety will have your palate swimming in ales, porters, stouts and lagers.

Outside of the Prague Beer Museum Pub, local pubs and restaurants line the streets offering an array of pilsners, the most famous brew of the region, along with its complimentary sidekick, the Bohemian black lager. (Budvar and Kozel are two popular brands).

Additionally, numerous tourists‘ organizations run beer tasting tours and pub crawls through the historic city. A quick Google search can point you in the right direction.

Whatever brew you choose, and how you choose to consume it, variety is the spice of life in Prague.

A surprising personal winner during a recent tasting was the “Opat Pepper,” a refreshing light brew with a strong pepper taste without the bitter aftertaste. Sample the “Kout tmavy” coined “dark as sin” for an explosion of creamy flavor with a caramel aftertaste.

An old Czech proverb states “Kde se pivo vari, tam se dobre dari” (where beer is brewed, they have it good) and while life is good nearly everywhere in the Czech Republic, for the connoisseur, life is better knowing where to go while visiting Prague.

The “Nomad IPA” balances citrus, pine and spicy herbs for a hoppy finish, while the “Opat Chocolate” lager pours dark

| by Molly Hayden, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

59 | Bavarian Times

| Travel

A statue of a Swedish troubadour welcomes visitors and residents to Stockholm Harbor. City Hall, where Nobel Laureates are awarded, is in the background.

Stockholm: Five tips for the land of three kings Stockholm, SWEDEN – Sweden is subtle. Its cuisine is hearty and simple, its aesthetic minimalist and politics neutral. Sweden‘s modesty often puts the country on Europe‘s tourism backburner, but for all its nuance, Stockholm, the capital, is an infectious delight with a distinct I-could-live-here vibe.

Stockholm is a singularly beautiful city packed with helpful citizens and enough activities to last visitors for months. However, few have that much time, so I‘ve listed my top five suggestions for a trip to the “Capital of Scandinavia.”

Get a tour at the Royal Palace An all-inclusive pass (140 SEK) to the Baroque style Royal Palace in Stockholm, valid for 30 days, allows access to the entire grounds and all the tours you can handle. Take the 25-minute tour of the Tre Kroner Museum, which houses the remnants of the original palace that burned down from a mysterious fire in 1697. The guide was engaging, charismatic and breezily answered every question thrown at her.

Make sure you: Plan your tour. Tours in English are every hour on the hour, but only for one area of interest in the palace. So, if you have interest in the Royal Chambers or the Treasury, the tour for each runs once a day.

Unterer Markt 23, 92637 Weiden Telephone 0961/44242 E-mail: info@alteseichamt.com

Traditionally home made Bavarian kitchen. Schnitzel, Pork roast, Bratwurst (Bavarian sausage) with Sauerkraut

infant kindness OFFER: every second child eats free of charge Native beer from the barrel Weddings, Family fests of all kind acceptance of credit cards, Salsa evenings

We are looking forward to your visit.

Your Mainusch family and Team

Walk around This might seem like an obvious diversion, but in a city with wet, inconveniencing weather, the extensive public transportation system can be seductive. Going through Stockholm on foot gives you access to the city‘s unique ambiance. Built on 14 islands, Stockholm boasts a compilation of 1/3 water, 1/3 parks and 1/3 buildings.

You can best appreciate these proportions on foot, traveling over bridges, strolling along countless wharves and passing through green space.

Make sure you: Pack foul weather gear. This goes for if you plan to walk a lot or travel luxuriously by taxi (lines can stretch outside museums.) Sweden has beautiful summers with midnight sun, but it rains frequently. Pack a rain jacket, umbrella and good shoes. Also, pack warmly during Sweden‘s notoriously cold winters.

See the Vasa Museum Most tourist traps are lame. The Vasa defies this stereotype. The museum houses the Vasa, a warship that sunk one kilometer off shore in Stockholm Harbor on its maiden voyage in 1628. I was intent on seeing this resurrected ship, and this perfectly preserved

Opening hours: Café Quint: daily starting at 9 a.m.

Bar 23: Thu.–Sat. starting at 7 p.m.

Restaurant: Daily starting from 11.30 a.m.

Bavarian Times | 60

Photo Credit: Chelsea Bissell, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

Stockholm, known as the “Capital of Scandinavia,” delights visitors with its understated charm and friendly locals.

| Travel

Photo Credit: Capt. Scott Baker, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate

The shore of an island in the Stockholm Archipelago just off the coast of Sweden.

chunk of nautical history proved unparalleled. The Vasa certainly wows and the museum houses engaging displays and relics that give visitors a peek into a sailor‘s life in 17th century Sweden, how the ship sank and its remarkable re-emergence.

Make sure you: Skip the guided tour. The speech was scripted and boring. The museum has better sources of information, including 25-minute movies in English, which include all the content provided in the tour.

Explore the archipelago We had the most fun on an overnight trip to an island in the Stockholm Archipelago. The islands rarely see foreign tourists, but serve as summer -- and sometimes winter -- playgrounds for Swedes. The more habitable islands lie closer to Stockholm, harboring luxurious hotels and fine restaurants. For a more rustic and affordable ramble, go further out. We spent a day and a night on Finnhamn, 2.5 hours from Stockholm, where four-wheelers replace cars and cows are the only permanent residents. Vacationers and day trippers can kayak, lounge in the sauna, swim, hike and picnic. We rented a cabin for the night with electricity but no running water; a nearby pump fit the bill. Finnhamn also has a hostel and camping plots for those who can brave mosquitoes.

Make sure you: Plan according to your comfort level. If spending the day outside bores you, stay closer to Stockholm or consider a

day trip. Ferries reach most islands in the morning and in the evening. If bobbing through the Baltic makes you turn green, getting to the closer islands via bus or train is also an option. Alternatively, for those skippers out there, you can easily rent a boat and join the leagues of happy sailors. I found this site helpful to determine the most appealing islands and transportation: www.visit-stockholm. com. Click on “Where to go” and then “archipelago islands.”

Eat one fantastic meal Sweden is notoriously expensive and food is no exception, but you can eat cheaply. That said, Stockholm has emerged as a cuisine capital and indulging at least once is a pleasure. The Sodermalm neighborhood, undergoing a cultural renaissance, leans toward hipper and experimental tastes. For something more sophisticated, the Ostermalm neighborhood is posh without being stodgy. Try the laid-back Kungsholmen neighborhood for local eateries near City Hall. We chose Heat, a “modern Thai” joint near Fridhemsplan for its late kitchen and left with a new appreciation for Asian fusion.

Make sure you: Know where to eat cheaply to allow yourself to splurge one night. Swedes love their coffee, and coffee houses everywhere serve cheap food, too. Kebab joints are plentiful and blogger The Hairy Swede recommends sampling strommig (a “delicious” fish) from a food cart outside of the Slussens subway station. | by Chelsea Bissell, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr Public Affairs

Our Indian cook spoils you with original Indian culinary.

Special Highlight: Lunch menu‘s Monday – Saturday at 5 €

We would be pleased to take reservations for company events, birthday parties and more.

Special highlight: lunch menu’s Monday – Saturday.

Wiesenstr 1, 92637 Weiden, Telephone: 0961/20633155

More information: ganesha-weiden.de

OPENING HOURS: 11 am – 2 pm and 5 am – 11 pm

| Travel

Lots of sunshine, turquoise-colored ocean and romantic bays Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

Rhodes - the sunshine island in the Southern Aegean

When it is raining in Germany and the temperatures barely reach 15 degrees centigrade, vacationers at Rhodes only smile because not a single drop of rain falls from the sky in the months of July and August. The sunshine island keeps all it’s promises and lives up to its name.

Legend has it that Rhodes owes its sunshine to sun-god Helios. When godfather Zeus divided its empire among the gods of the Olympus, every god received its piece of land. Only one god was missing: Helios. When the sun-god returned, Zeus noticed that he had forgotten him. The sun-god suggested to Zeus to give him an island he had seen on his travels. Helios thought the fertile island was very attractive. The sun-god received the island he had asked for and named it Rhodes, after the beautiful Rhode. He had met the nymph on his travels sand fallen in love with her ...

With an area of 1,300 square kilometers, Rhodes is the fourth largest Greek island. The climate is Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Hardly any rain falls between May and September and Rhodes features almost 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. That fact and the turquoise-colored ocean are probably the main reasons why so many tourists, about one million, come here every year to enjoy the sun and relax.

Nobody needs to be afraid or skeptical that someone might go on strike here regarding Greece’s economic crisis and there is a reason for that: So much work is done during the season that the money that is made also lasts through the months of November to March, when tourists do not visit the island.

If you do not want to spend your entire vacation on the beach, you can rent a car and discover Rhodes on your own. Another possibility are guided tours during which you learn a lot about Bavarian Times | 62

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

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the culture and history of Greece. In 1306, the island was sold to the Knights of the Order of the Holy John of Jerusalem.

They took over Rhodes in 1309, after a long fight against the residents. Rhodes, however, had already been founded in 408 B.C. In 1948, the Greek flag was finally hoisted on Rhodes.

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Sights worth seeing in the old town are the city wall, the palace and the avenue of the crusaders as well as many churches and mosques. Lindos is a town located on the South-Eastern coast of Rhodes, about 55 kilometers south of Rhodes City. Along with its acropolis, it has been declared a historic monument.

Even 3,000 years ago, Lindos, with its two natural harbors and unconquerable acropolis, was an important city. Later, one of the harbors was named after the apostle Paulus who is said to have landed here to evangelize the residents of Lindos.

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Naturally, the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, offers a lot to talk about. The statue was made of bronze and 31 meters high. To date, no proof has been found about how and where the colossus was put up. Historic reports say that the statue had been put at the entrance of the harbor in such a way that ships had to sail through its legs to anchor in the harbor. But many of these historic reports are mere fantasy, to include descriptions of the colossus.

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No fantasy, however, is the island of Prassonissi, a true surfers’ paradise. In the Northern, modern part of Rhodes you mainly meet young people from all over Europe who often come to the island as part of a youth or other travel group to have fun and enjoy themselves in one of the many bars. | by Renate Gradl 63 | Bavarian Times

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Three days in Budapest

Day 1 – PEST Travel north along the Danube toward the Hungarian Parliament Building. Breathtaking in scope, this impressive Gothic Revival building -- largest building in Hungary -- houses the country‘s legislative and executive branches of government. If you‘re interested in an English speaking tour, make sure to book online in advance of your visit.

Walk the maze of streets from Parliament south past St. Stephen‘s Basilica until you arrive at a street known as Andrássy út. A stroll along this iconic boulevard gives visitors a chance to experience the pre-Soviet luxury of the city. Andrássy út is home to a number of Budapest‘s Art Nouveau and Neoclassical mansions, the Hungarian State Opera House, boutiques and embassies as well as being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can easily walk from the Opera House until the boulevard ends at Heroes Square. This massive plaza is marked by the Millennium monument and flanked by the Palace of Arts and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Beyond the square lies City Park, where you can follow the paths meandering through abandoned Soviet-era tennis courts, random sculptures and ancient oak trees. Explore the architecturally mishmashed Vajdahunyad Castle and bargain hunt at the park‘s weekend flea markets. Vendors accept the Euro, but use the local currency:

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the Hungarian Forint, in order to avoid a vendor‘s sloppy arithmetic in exchange rates.

At the outer edge of the park stands the stunning Széchenyi Thermal Baths complex. This beautiful yellow Neoclassical building houses the largest medicinal bath in Europe and no trip to Budapest is complete without a soak in one of their pools. Visiting during the winter?

The baths offer a memorable opportunity to sit in the outdoor thermal baths and enjoy a snowfall. Allow for a two to three hour visit and check the bath‘s website for day-specific details. Pack your swimsuit and flip-flops, and grab a towel from your hotel before heading to the baths. Book your tickets in advance at your hotel to reserve a cabana for changing and to store your belongings while you swim.

Day 2 – BUDA The old city of Buda houses some of the grandest reminders of the city‘s imperial history. Begin your day early in order to beat the crowds. Stroll across the Chain Bridge to the Victorian-era Funicular, where you can ride the antique vehicles almost vertically up the side of Castle Hill. Wait times for the funicular can be long in the summer months, but there is an alternative: Just hike it. The trek is long but allows for some of the most vast and beautiful scenery across the Danube. It‘s also shaded by trees, keeping the summer heat at bay.

Atop the hill, visit the National Gallery housed inside the former Royal Palace. Wander the castle grounds making your way through archeological remains of the Palace complex, destroyed during WWII bombing raids. You can spend your entire day strolling the nearby hill-top neighborhood lined with quaint 18th and 19th century houses and shops, perhaps treating yourself to a piece of antique Hungarian porcelain at one of the many antique stores.

Navigate your way toward the rainbow-roof of St. Matthias Church and the Fisherman‘s Bastion, a 19th century terrace that resembles a sandcastle. This vantage point offers postcard-worthy pictures of Parliament, the city‘s three major bridges and Gellert Hill to the south. Explore the area by simply wandering the complex and take pictures from the numerous viewpoints accessible for free. The tallest tower of the Bastion houses a bar where you can sit riverside and sip an espresso or a pint of the locally brewed lagers Dreher or Soproni. In the summer time, order the Hungarian version of a white wine spritzer called fröccs (pronounced “fru-ch”).

Another must is participating in a wine tasting. Hungarian wine is a coveted gem of Hungary and is rarely exported. Although integral to the history of the country, Hungarian wine was banned from commercial production prior to 1990, only adding to its elusive status. The selection and experience you will have at Faust Wine Cellars is one to remember. For each wine you sample you‘ll receive instruction Bavarian Times | 64

Photo Credit: Leslie Brians, U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Public Affairs

Budapest appeals to the Cold War history buff. It‘s definitely got something for the couple searching for a romantic and unique getaway.

And young single will find a lively social scene. Comprised of two cities with distinctly different flavors, the capital of Hungary is youthful and vibrant while still managing to honor its rich history. Separated by the Danube River and each uniquely different, Buda to the west is a quaint and ancient reminder of the city‘s imperial Ottoman era.

Pest, on the eastern side of the Danube, is the newer, more cosmopolitan of the two cities; a center of Art Nouveau architecture, sprawling boulevards, delicious cuisine and haute shopping. In three days you can get a true taste of everything the “Pearl of the Danube” has to offer.

Comprised of two cities with distinctly different flavors, B¬¬udapest, the capital of Hungary, is youthful and vibrant while still managing to honor its rich history.

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Photo Credit: Leslie Brians, U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Public Affairs

The Hungarian Parliament Building is an impressive Gothic Revival building “largest building in Hungary” and houses the country‘s legislative and executive branches of government.

in its background and production. Getting to the cellar is a little tricky. Immediately next to the St. Matthias church and the Fisherman‘s Bastion, you will enter the Hilton Hotel. Follow the signs through the hotel and then down to the foundation of a 13th century Dominican cloister. There in a tiny cellar room you are treated to tasting some of the finest wines the country has to offer. Make sure to email or call the company to make reservations prior to your visit and allow two to three hours for a six-wine tasting. Keep in mind that the funicular closes at 10 p.m., so plan a walk down the hill if your wine tasting or visit to Castle Hill runs beyond that time.

Day 3 – SOUTHERN PEST & BUDA Atop Gellért Hill, in southern Buda, sits the Citadella and the Sovietera Liberty Statue. From here you have the opportunity to fill your camera with even more postcard worthy panoramas of the city and the Danube River. You can follow the various paths leading you down the hill and wash off your post-hike sweat in the Gellért Hotel and Baths. The Art Nouveau bath house, built between 1912 and 1918, features an artificial wave pool, saunas, a plunge pool, bubble baths and massage services.

After your soak, walk across the jade-hued Liberty Bridge and make sure to visit the breathtaking Great Market Hall. The building is almost impossible to miss with its rainbow-colored tile roof. Upon entering the gigantic Victorian building, you are almost overcome with exotic scents and vibrant colors of each vendor selling their own unique product. The first floor overflows with cheese, fresh produce, warm breads and meat from every animal you can image. Take the escalator to the top floor and make your way though booths selling Hungarian linens, paprika, porcelain and hand tooled leather. Grab a snack to tide you over until dinner, or partake in one of their Hungarian cooking classes. Spend the remainder of your day walking the neighborhoods between the Market Hall and Andrássy út. The area is full of boutiques and souvenir shops that offer opportunities to find that “perfect” Budapest memento.

TRAVEL TIPS: HOW TO GET THERE Budapest is an easily accessible city by both train and by air. Fly into the Budapest Ferihegy Airport and take a train or taxi into downtown.

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Alternatively, reach the city by train, arriving at one of the three main rail stations and then hop on the metro to reach your destination.

WHAT TO PACK Although part of the European Union, Hungary does not use the Euro as its currency. The country is still on the Hungarian Forint, a currency commonly used in denominations of thousands. Paying for an item with thousands of any currency promises to make one feel like royalty, even if it is only when paying for a bottle or water. Visit a conversion website prior to your trip. Also make sure you prepare for possible issues involving international currency.

Don‘t forget your passport. While residents living within the EU often cross borders freely, the agreement does not extend to U.S. or other non-EU citizens.

Be sure to leave enough room in your luggage for the bottles of wine or other delicacies you will surely want to bring back with you. After your wine tasting and Market Hall experience, it‘s nearly impossible to want to leave the city without a delicious bottle of Tokaji or pack of Hungarian paprika.

WHERE TO STAY For a central location, look for a hotel situated near the Chain Bridge.

If you don‘t wish to stay near the central portion of town, which can

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be flooded with tourists especially during the summer, look for a hotel that sits along one of the main Metro Lines.

GETTING AROUND While the city is easy to walk, Budapest‘s underground rail system is simple and easy to follow. There are three lines that connect the city, with a fourth currently under construction. For a time travelling experience, hop on the historic Metro Line 1 (Millennium Line), the oldest underground railroad in continental Europe. With its white tile walls, decorative columns and wood accents, not much has changed since the line opened in 1896. Purchase a block of 10 single tickets for 3,000 HUF (about $13) and be sure to validate each ticket before entering the train. While there are no automated entrance systems for the metro, tickets are checked manually by the pass controllers may inspect tickets anywhere within the metro system. Caught without a ticket? Expect a pay-on-the-spot 8,000 HUF fine.

WHERE TO EAT Hungarian food is more functional than, say, French cuisine. It is based heavily on meats, vegetables, fruits, fresh bread and cheeses. When dining, try the goulash (gulyás), which ingredients change seasonally, or a savory strudel (Hortobágyi palacsinta) filled with veal, cheese and vegetables.

To start your day you can opt for a full brunch experience and duck into the eclectic Most! Bistro near the Opera House, where you can sip on a Kir Royale and treat yourself to their delectable goat cheese omelet. For a lighter breakfast at one of the city‘s famous coffee houses you can visit the historic and elegant Café Gerbeaud or sample the artisan bread made fresh daily at Gerlóczy Café.

For a dinner of authentic Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist, venture to Tigris Restaurant. Here you can indulge in traditional Hungarian staples such as goulash soup and foie gras while sipping on a glass of locally produced Tojaki- wine. Another option is to step back in time to pre-Soviet Budapest with a jazz dinner at Lado Café, an elegant and simple bistro that appears unchanged since the 1930s.

| by Leslie Brians, U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Public Affairs

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Photo Credit: Leslie Brians, U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Public Affairs

Heroes Square is marked by the iconic Millennium Memorial. It lies at the end of Andrássy ut and marks the entrance to City Park.

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