Bavarian Times Magazine - Edition 01 - March/April 2017

Ein Produkt der

Edition #01| March 2017

Yeah, it's for free

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

New Netzaberg chapel ‘power projection platform’ for spiritual readiness //Page 6 OPINION: Jobs, volunteer work, my saving grace as a military //Page 16 wife

What you need to know about Avian Influenza in Europe

//Page 27

Bavarian Times | 2

index & imprint Page 04

Garrison commander unveils long range plan at USAG Bavaria

Page 08 Garrison employees provide feed back on how to do ‘less with less’ Page 13

Official and tourist passports: Why the difference matters

Page 17 German supervisors attend train- ing to support employee well-being Page 19 Soldiers can view promotion

results in the field, on smartphones

Page 23 Local trains, explained Page 32

Off-post car accident: What to do

Page 52

Nuremberg Zoo: Zoo offspring attracts visitors

Page 54 Dublin on a budget in a day and a half Page 56

BCSC president’s favorite travel sites in Europe

Page 65 Franconia brings together what belongs together

Page 22 Possible wolf may roam Hohenfels Training Area IMPRINT | Edition #01| 03/2017, 1th Volume A Publication of: Oberpfalz Medien – Der neue Tag, Oberpfälzischer Kurier Druck- und Verlagshaus GmbH, Weigelstraße 16, 92637 Weiden Internet: www.onetz.de | www.bavarian-times.com E-Mail: editor@bavarian-times.com

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tower barracks

Garrison commander unveils long range plan at USAG Bavaria

Col. Lance Varney, garrison commander at U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, recently unveiled his long range plan, which will serve as a framework to improve garrison services, ensure community security and enable U.S. Army readiness.

He released the plan after he and his team of directors and staff made a 90-day assessment mindful of higher headquarters guidance, emerging policy directives, internal garrison priorities and directorate operations. USAG Bavaria—the largest oversees Army garrison—is made up of the four communities of Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch.

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — The garrison commander here recently unveiled his long range plan, which will serve as a framework to improve garrison services, ensure community security and enable U.S. Army readiness.

Col. Lance Varney released the plan after he and his team of directors and staff made a 90-day assessment mindful of higher headquarters guidance, emerging policy directives, internal garrison priorities and directorate operations.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

“I directed the creation of this long range plan to improve the manner in which the garrison operates on behalf of those we serve,” said Varney. “This plan serves as the framework to accomplish the transformation needed to meet our external obligations, achieve our internal goals and ultimately achieve my ‘One Garrison, Four Communities’ concept.”

The ‘One Garrison, Four Communities’ concept refers to the four communities that make up U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria: Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch.

What challenges lie ahead In 2016, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Dahl, the commanding general of Installation Management Command — the agency that oversees all U.S. Army garrisons — explained in his June 2016 Service Culture Initiative that IMCOM would need to “buy back” critical areas associated with maintaining Army readiness.

“Therefore, IMCOM can no longer provide the same level of service that our customers have come to expect,” Dahl said.

“We must prioritize and deliver the right services, where the need is the greatest, to maximize the value of every dollar we spend,” Dahl said, adding that “We are not asking you to do more with less, or even the same with less; we will do less with less so we can concentrate on the most critical services we deliver.”

What Varney and his team of directors are trying to do is provide guidance in the face of these pending resource challenges and reductions in personnel and funding. Concurrently, the USAG Bavaria community must prepare for fluctuating services and infrastructure demand as result of a continual presence of rotational forces here.

“I aim to foster an environment in which we all together — as a combined and blended workforce — do our job and contribute and serve our communities,” Varney said. “For me that is always and will always be job number one, that’s what I get paid to do.”

Also shaping the plan was a series of trends that surfaced in a recent employee command climate survey, including reductions of resources, work overload and communication issues.

Those trends among garrison employees, Varney acknowledged, lead to low morale, high levels of stress and exhaustion.

“But these trends help us to formulate a plan for 2017 to be more predictable, and figure out how we can improve —or in some cases establish — processes required to support our communities,” Varney said.

Bavarian Times | 4

tower barracks But to get there is easier said than done. That’s why the long range plan is grounded in four core principles known as lines of effort.

Each line of effort, or LOE, recognizes and addresses long- and short-term strategic challenges; focuses on the development of operations of mission partners, stakeholders and customers; and addresses the differing needs of each of the four communities.

Practically speaking, these lines of effort — coupled with the garrison’s mission — will guide command decision-making as the garrison makes steps to “do less with less.”

LOE 1: Adaptive, Professional and Integrated Workforce Improve Civilian Personnel performance through talent management, developmental opportunities, & recognition programs • • • • •

Decrease hire lag to 120 days Improve performance management strategies Implement a standardized awards program Sustain a highly trained, and versatile workforce Provide Service Culture Initiative training

• • •

Build and systematize organizational design Develop and implement hub and spoke operations and service delivery concept at USAG Bavaria Support to Rotational Forces and European Infrastructure Consolidation

USAG Bavaria Mission: USAG Bavaria’s mission is to provide integrated base support in order to enable readiness, ensure community security and maintain quality of life within our garrison.

| by Andreas Kreuzer and Nathan Van Schaik, USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

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LOE 2: Community Readiness Adaptive programs and services that promote a confident, strong and ready Army, able to effectively navigate the challenges of military service by minimizing risks, fostering life skills, and strengthening resiliency • • •

• • • •

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Build trust and confidence through transparency Foster Soldier, Family and Civilian resiliency Enhance emergency preparedness and security

LOE 3: Sustainable Living and Training: Environment & Infrastructure Unity of effort and operations between all four USAG Bavaria communities; systematic service delivery at all four communities. Consistent and repeatable program prioritization Develop a multi-year major maintenance repair and recapitalization program Update/validate the Army systems of record for real property Reduce ecological footprint – energy and water Maintain and improve training land sustainability

5 | Bavarian Times

ew

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Members of USAG Bavaria are proud of their role, know that they are valued, and experience a positive and rewarding working environment.

LOE 4: Transformation: Four Communities, One USAG Bavaria Unity of effort and operations between all four USAG Bavaria communities; systematic service delivery at all four communities

N

Defining end state and charting the course to get there Varney’s ultimate goal in developing the plan is best summed up in its declared end state:

The Netzaberg chapel and its 115-foot tower overlooking the village is the community’s brand new landmark. The wave-like facade and interior curved design elements reflect the chapel’s Upper Palatinate surroundings.

Chaplain (Col.) James Watson, Installation Management Command – Europe; Col. Lance C. Varney, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, Auxiliary Bishop, the Archdiocese for the Military Services F. Richard Spencer; Chaplain (Col. Kevin M. Pies; Regensburg Bishop Dr. Rudolf Voderholzer; Brigadier General Antonio Aguto, Commander, 7th Army Training Command and Col. Matthew R. Tyler, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Europe cut the ribbon, officially opening the new facility. The Netzaberg chapel and its 115foot tower overlooking the village is the community’s brand new landmark. The wave-like facade and interior curved design elements reflect the chapel’s Upper Palatinate surroundings.

New Netzaberg chapel ‘power projection platform’ for spiritual readiness Netzaberg, Germany — The Netzaberg chapel and its 115foot tower overlooking the village is the community’s brand new landmark. The wave-like facade and interior curved design elements reflect the chapel’s Upper Palatinate surroundings.

Many U.S. and German military officials, religious and community members and local leaders attended the official dedication ceremony here Feb. 3, 2017.

Photo Credit: Andreas Kreuzer

Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese for Military Services Richard Spencer, Regensburg Bishop Dr. Rudolf Voderholzer, USAG Bavaria Chaplain Col. Kevin Pies and Installation Management Command Europe Chaplain Col. James Watson were among the dignitaries at the dedication. Commander of the 7th Army Training Command Gen. Antonio Aguto, USAG Bavaria Garrison Commander Col. Lance Varney and Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Europe Col. Mathew R. Tyler were also present to support the ceremony.

The new chapel, which replaces the aged one located on Tower Barracks, is scheduled to begin offering worship services in March, said Chaplain Pies.

While the old Grafenwoehr chapel holds about 180 people, the Netzaberg chapel’s main room accommodates nearly 600 people. The space can also be divided into two rooms. Additional classrooms and child care rooms are also available.

The $16.5 million project is the new home for many denominations. Plus, new features will accommodate more people and services.

“May it be a place of activity, of life and a facility of hope,” said USAG Bavaria Garrison Commander Col. Varney. “May it be a place that strengthens our community.”

Varney also espoused the chapel as a space of spiritual readiness.

“USAG Bavaria is described as a power projection platform.

Well, this chapel is a power projection platform for faith and resilience,” said Varney. “Let this chapel serve as a platform to strengthen our spiritual readiness.”

Pies thanked everybody involved in the construction of the symbolic structure.

“This is the BMW of the churches,” Pies said.

U.S. Army Europe Woodwind Quartet and Mr. Benno Engelhart and his ensemble performed at the dedication ceremony.

| by Andreas Kreuzer Bavarian Times | 6

tower barracks On the altar platform, architect Hösl explains the features of the new chapel to the U.S. military chaplains Maj. Michael Frailey, Lt. Col. Terry Simmons and Col. Kevin Pies (from left). The arches in the nave, which provides room for about 600 people, look like Heaven’s gates.

A Home for All: Netzaberg Chapel NETZABERG, Germany -- God’s greatness and almightiness is shown in the dimensions of the new chapel on Netzaberg. After almost three years of construction, the American military community’s religious multi-purpose facility was finished and opened on February 3, 2017.

The tower, opened with a row of windows, ha a height of 33 meters. The whole-body baptistery has a size of two by four meters and is located at the bottom of the tower and provides a view into the sky. The sign of the cross is movable and located behind the altar. The Corpus Christi can also be removed so that the church can be used by all denominations represented in the U.S. Army.

Andrea Hösl, architect and project with the U.S. department of public works says that “a beautiful and extraordinary project is coming to an end." She explains and provides data about Netzaberg Chapel: Construction cost was $16.5 million plus $1.5 million for technical equipment including light, sound and multi-media equipment and furniture. The worship center and the activity center are the heart of the chapel. The nave, that can be divided into two areas, provides room for about 600 people.

Two seminar and multi-purpose rooms offer room for up to 100 people. Offices, sacristy, a small chapel, library, kitchen and restrooms are located in the main wing and in the side wings of the building.

Netzaberg Chapel was designed by Brückner & Brückner Architects. The church is a round-arch construction that ascends towards the tower. The arches in the main wing look like Heaven’s gates and were meant to symbolize the rolling hills of the Oberpfalz region. 2,700 cubic meters of concrete and 300 tons of steel were used. t. A ceiling made of stretched fabric allows for indirect lightning. 350 lights and 680 meters of LED light strips were installed.

God’s greatness and almightiness is shown in the dimensions of the new chapel on Netzaberg. The large church with its tower an be seen from a distance.

Along with the schools, the child care center and the youth center, the religious multi-purpose center is the last EB-G project in the Netzaberg Village Center.

| by Gerald Morgenstern

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern (2)

Maj. Michael Frailey and Lt. Col. Terry Simmons, chaplains of the U.S. military community, call their new home "amazing.“ "The house with the tower is finished, now the people have to come," says garrison head chaplain Col. Kevin Pies. And planners and engineers did their best to make that happen.

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6,000 meters of cable were installed on the outside and 100,000 meters of cable on the inside, plus 8,000 meters for the multimedia equipment and the technical equipment on the stages.

The other numbers pertaining to the 2,400-square meter-complex are gigantic as well: A 170-kilowatt-gas heating plant provides comforting warmth, a smoke exhaustion system, a sprinkler system and a video surveillance system complete the technical equipment of the facility.

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tower barracks

Garrison employees provide feedback on how to do ‘less with less’ GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — The deputy to the garrison commander here recently asked all garrison employees at an allhands assembly for ways to scale back on inefficiencies and improve services.

Annette Evans, deputy to the garrison commander, recently asked all garrison

U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria’s Annette Evans solicited employee feedback just as the garrison makes moves to implement a long range plan.

So how will the garrison do “less with less?”

“It means that “[Garrison Commander Col. Lance Varney] has the authority … to stop or decrease some of the unnecessary tasks we are doing, so that we can focus on our customers,” Evans said.

One of the core principles embedded in the long range plan — known as a line of effort — is to unify effort and operations between all four USAG Bavaria communities, which include Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch.

employees at an all-hands assembly for ways to scale back on inefficiencies and improve services.

In doing so we will improve infrastructure and services that directly contribute to our Soldiers and families, said Evans.

Evans asked employees to list things they can stop or decrease.

To the community member that means that all USAG Bavaria Soldiers, civilians, and their families receive the same level of service across the USAG Bavaria footprint.

But how?

Garrison directors undertook an analysis of each directorate, cross-referenced the authorized positions with functions, and aligned authorizations with mission requirements.

“The next step of the process is to make sure we are performing our core functions and matching them with the staff that we have on board,” Evans said.

Additionally, Evans explained that employees will be asked to do “less with less.”

In 2016, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Dahl, the commanding general of Installation Management Command — the agency that oversees all U.S. Army garrisons — explained in his June 2016 Service Culture Initiative that IMCOM would need to “buy back” critical areas associated with maintaining Army readiness.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army

“Therefore, IMCOM can no longer provide the same level of service that our customers have come to expect,” Dahl said.

“We must prioritize and deliver the right services, where the need is the greatest, to maximize the value of every dollar we spend,” Dahl said, adding that “We are not asking you to do more with less, or even the same with less; we will do less with less so we can concentrate on the most critical services we deliver.”

“There may be things that each of us are doing that are based on ‘how we have always done this’ or based on some history. It is time to review everything that we do and ensure that we truly need to be doing it,” Evans said.

“For example, do we need 10 signatures on a form? Do we have the right operating hours if we have no customers at certain days/times? Do we have a better way to conduct a task that could be expedited with technology? Are we doing some tasks that exceed our core funding? You are perhaps performing them and all of the other things you do with less personnel than you had on your team 10 years ago,” Evans said.

Evans said that no services would be cut that compromise the life, health and safety of the community, adding that no laws would be broken or corners cut.

“In other words, we are looking to reduce tasks that ‘take away’ time and energy from these very vital functions.”

Employees submitted hand-written feedback and are encouraged to continue to provide ideas to their leadership.

“We are absolutely interested in improving our core missions with our workforce on hand, and shedding things which continue to cause us stress, extra work hours, and those which cause us to lose focus on our mission,” Evans said. | by Nathan Van Schaik and Camelia Streff, USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Bavarian Times | 8

9 | Bavarian Times

tower barracks

Garrisons implement 'Fight Tonight' mentality during Garrison Shock exercises

During

Garrison

Shock exercises, garrison officials quickly activate

their

Emer-

Operations

Garrisons conduct annual full-scale exer-

Center, which is the

cises that typically occur during normal

nerve center of data

duty hours and lack the element of sur-

collection and decisi-

prise. Garrison Shock exercises deliver

on-making.

no-notice realism.

gency

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- Garrison officials here recently received high scores during a function-focused inspection and a crisis response exercise.

in Garmisch, Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels and Vilseck. The storm loomed as a potential humanitarian threat, knocking out power, displacing families and interrupting major services.

Inspectors with Installation Management Command-Europe conducted a four-day-long inspection and triggered a crisis scenario pitting response teams against real-world events.

Garrison officials quickly stood up their Emergency Operations Center, which is the nerve center of data collection and decision-making. Weather reports were ushered in, followed by immediate notional AtHoc messages to the public. AtHoc is the primary means for mass warning and notification for the Army in Europe, said Jackson.

The objective of the inspection -- part of IMCOM's Organizational Inspection Program -- focused on a garrison commander's workforce force and its delivery of services and programs.

Inspectors assessed core areas common among all of IMCOM's 75 garrisons worldwide.

More specifically, they oversaw and graded garrison infrastructure, waste management, energy consumption, finances, emergency procedures, physical security, religious services, safety procedures and human resources functions such as its SHARP program and Army Substance Abuse Program processes.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army (2)

But the true test came when those same inspectors sprung a real-world crisis known as a Garrison Shock exercise.

"Garrisons conduct annual full-scale exercises that typically occur during normal duty hours and lack the element of surprise," said Ray Jackson, IMCOM-Europe emergency manager. "Garrison Shock exercises deliver no-notice realism."

At 5 p.m. during the inspection's first day, garrison officials began receiving reports of an inclement weather front that would shut down all four of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria's communities

"From de-escalating a hostage situation, managing a terrorist attack or tackling a quality of life issue, our ability to track a crisis and stand up an EOC is what we're prepared to do 24/7 every day of the year," said USAG Bavaria garrison commander, Col. Lance Varney.

"Our response demonstrated," Varney added, "how USAG Bavaria implements and exudes the 'Fight Tonight' mentality."

Staff made preparations to stand-up shelters, beef-up food supplies, secure vulnerable areas, and close schools and services -- all while keeping the public safe and informed.

By 9:30 p.m., garrison officials working from the EOC had control of the situation.

"We are always ready to 'Fight Tonight'," Varney said. "It's how we as a garrison contribute to the Army's strategic, operational and tactical readiness." | by Nathan Van Schaik, USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Bavarian Times | 10

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11 | Bavarian Times

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tower barracks

Environmental Division kicks off second annual Experience Spring contest GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — USAG Bavaria Environmental Division is hosting a nature contest to welcome the messengers of spring – local plants and animals whose appearance signals the coming of warmer weather and longer days.

From February 15 to May 17, children ages three to 12 can participate in the Experience Spring contest, based on Germany’s Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union’s (NABU) annual Erlebter Frühling contest.

This year’s signs of spring are the European hedgehog, tawny owl, banded snail and goat willow — all chosen by NABU to be the messengers of spring for 2017.

The contest aims to encourage kids to explore the outdoors, discover these plant and animal species and show their newly found expertise and experiences through creative projects.

Families, school classes and youth organizations are invited to take part in the contest.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

“We encourage children to turn discovering the signs of spring into a creative adventure and show us how they were inspired by them. Creativity knows no limits – the participant can lead a nature walk, design a poster, create their own experiment, become a nature photographer, make a movie or keep an exploration journal” said contest organizer, Christine Fox. Parents, scout leaders and teachers are encouraged to share in this exciting experience by assisting their children with activities and contest submissions.

“We hope this opportunity will connect children with native wildlife and help them foster an appreciation for these German species.”

Prizes will be awarded on June 1 with all participants receiving an appreciation gift. Last year, participants received a magnifying insect box and winners received other prizes, such as bird feeders and local nature guides.

In addition to participating in the garrison-wide Experience Spring contest, your child or class can also take part in NABU’s nature contest.

“We would like to show American support of NABU’s Erlebter Frühling contest,” said Fox. “If you want to take part in it, please mark the appropriate box on your entry form and we will mail your entry to NABU on your behalf.”

To enter, fill out the contest entry form, assemble your activities and submit your entry to the Environmental Division at Tower Barracks, Bldg. 389, by May 17, 2017. You can drop off submissions or email them to Christine.e.fox5.vol@mail.mil.

For fact sheets about each spring messenger, as well as entry forms and additional contest information, visit the Environmental Division webpage or the Environmental Division Facebook page. If you have questions, call 475-8999, CIV 09641-83-8999.

| by Christine Fox Bavarian Times | 12

tower barracks

PASSPORT

PASSPORT

official

tourist

Official and tourist passports: Why the difference matters

Two types of passports are important for DOD personnel and families stationed in Germany: the no-fee passport — distinguishing DOD civilians and command-sponsored family members as official government travelers — and the regular-fee tourist passport.

In general, these international documents are used to verify citizenship, as primary photo identification and to entitle travelers to the protection of their country’s laws while traveling on foreign soil. Passport control officers use passports to determine whether or not foreign nationals can enter the country.

But depending on the nature of travel, using one passport in place of the other could lead to major delays, fines or detainment at another country’s borders, according to travels experts.

Determining the level of passport scrutiny is largely a matter of discretion exercised by nations and protected by internationally-accepted sovereignty. As a general rule, however, the U.S. Department of State and DOD warn that passport officers will deny — or, at the very least, delay — visitors attempting to enter with passports that do not reflect the true intent of travel.

The U.S. Army reported in a 2009 news release that many countries, including France, Great Britain, Egypt and many Af13 | Bavarian Times

rican states, will not accept no-fee passports for leisure and personal trips across their borders.

No-fee and tourist passports may look identical, but understanding the distinction could save lots of money, prevent hassles and ensure a safe return.

“No-Fee” Passport Also known as the no-fee or special issuance passport, official passports are issued by specialized passport offices, such

Continued on page 24

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Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — A small, tightly-wound book with pages primed for international stamps and the promise of adventure, the passport is perhaps the single most important object for smooth and lawful travel across borders.

tower barracks as those on military installations. Official passports allow eligible individuals to sidestep the lengthier tourist application process and receive the document free of charge. They are issued — with necessary visas — to personnel traveling in an official government capacity to a foreign country and are valid for five years.

Who needs it?

All U.S. citizens, including DOD civilians, contractors and authorized command-sponsored family members, must have a no-fee passport for overseas permanent changes of station, temporary duty assignments and missions. Each U.S. citizen accompanying the sponsor and listed on official orders — even infants — must have a no-fee passport. Non U.S. citizens must acquire passports from their countries’ nearest embassies or consulates. Servicemembers are only issued official passports for missions to countries that do not accept orders as an authorized travel document.

Why? No-fee passports for German relocation have a Status of Forces Agreement, or SOFA, stamp. SOFA stamps exempt eligible DOD personnel from Germany’s 90-day visa limit and ensure they benefit from U.S. Customs subsidies. Non U.S. citizens in need of a SOFA stamp should contact the USAG Bavaria Passport Office for further guidance.

When do I use it?

No-fee passports are for “discharge of official duty” only, according to the State Department. U.S. civilians and eligible family members stationed in Germany should only use their no-fee passports to enter and exit Germany — regardless of the purpose of travel. No-fee passports can also be used for travel to, from and within the United States and as a supporting or secondary form of identification during international travel.

How much does it cost?

No-fee passports are just that: free.

When do I need to apply?

Apply at least four days before the passport is needed for travel.

No-fee passports can be renewed seven to 12 months before they expire. Non-emergency issuance for no-fee passport applications and renewals can take up to 30 days to process.

Applicants must submit paperwork to USAG Bavaria Passport Offices. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Germany are not authorized to accept passport applications.

Tourist Passport Tourist passports are required for international leisure, private business and personal travel. They act as proof of citizenship and establish travel status through visa stamps. Tourist passports are generally accompanied by a fee and have a significantly longer processing time. Here’s the good news: adult tourist passports are valid for 10 years. Tourist passports for minors, or anyone under 16, are valid for five years.

Who needs it?

Any person — regardless of citizenship — with plans for a per-

sonal trip across the border must have a tourist passport. U.S. tourist passports are only issued to U.S. citizens. In addition, U.S. minors must have both parents present to co-sign paperwork to receive a tourist passport. Non U.S. citizens must obtain passports from their countries’ nearest embassy or consulate.

Why? Tourist passports identify nationality and verify travel status through affiliated visas and travel stamps. These documents also serve as official international photo identification and are required for both entry into foreign countries and reentry into their country of citizenship. For more on visa and entry requirements for other nations, see the State Department’s countryspecific breakdown.

When do I use it?

DOD personnel stationed in Germany must use a tourist passport to enter and exit countries outside Germany or the U.S. for personal travel. A family stationed in Germany and vacationing in Italy, for example, would use their tourist passports at the Italian border upon entering and exiting and their no-fee passports to reenter Germany. In fact, both the State Department and DOD recommend traveling with both documents. U.S. tourist passports are also accepted forms of identification for travel within the U.S. How much does it cost?

Adult tourist passports cost $135 for an initial issuance and $110 for a renewal passport. Tourist passports for minors, or anyone below 16 years old, cost $105. The Passport Office also helps with Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, which costs $100, and issuing newborn passports. In accordance with the State Department, the Passport Office only accepts cashier’s checks and money orders, which can be obtained from an onpost bank or post office.

When do I need to apply?

The State Department suggests applying for a tourist passport at least six weeks prior to international travel. Keep in mind, however, that overseas processing can take anywhere from eight to 12 weeks. The open renewal period for tourist passports is anywhere from two to four weeks before the document expires.

Scheduling the Appointment Soldiers, DOD civilians and family members can schedule a passport appointment at the Passport Office through email or by visiting during open hours. To send an email or view building number and opening times for your location, visit the USAG Bavaria Passport page at www.bavaria.army.mil/passports.

One Final Note: Passport Photos The Passport Office provides photo services for no-fee passport applicants and both official and tourist passports for children under five years old. All other applicants must have standard photos taken outside the facility, such as at the Main Store photo booth or by a professional. For more on passport photo guidelines, see the State Department’s Passport Photo Requirements. | by Jackie Pennoyer Bavarian Times | 14

tower barracks Mayor Edgar Knobloch (center) provided wood-stove bread as provisions for the road to Washington. Two-star general Walter E. Piatt stopped at Grafenwoehr’s town hall to meet with "good old friends" while on temporary duty in Germany with his department head Douglas K. Wiltsie (left).

Maj. Gen. Walter E. Piatt visits Grafenwoehr Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

Grafenwoehr, Germany -- Mayor Edgar Knobloch was visited by old friends from the Pentagon. Maj. Gen. Walter E. Piatt stopped at Grafenwoehr’s town hall while on temporary duty in Germany. Piatt said that this friendship is important to him.

The two-star general served as commanding general, 7th Army Training Command from June 2013 to July 2014 and then until March 2015 in Wiesbaden as deputy commanding general, U.S .Army Europe. Currently, Piatt is assigned at the Pentagon as director, technical equipment and materiel, U.S. Army. In April,

he will assume command of 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, N. Y., America’s only mountain division.

In December, Piatt’s business trip took him to Wiesbaden, Stuttgart, Vilseck and Grafenwoehr, accompanied by his department head Douglas K. Wiltsie. "I had the privilege and the honor to command what probably is the most beautiful nature preserve and by chance also the most important training area in the world,” Piatt wrote 2015 in his personal farewell remarks. The two-star general re-emphasized this opinion during his latest visit to Grafenwoehr and confirmed to Knobloch that the U.S. Army does not have a comparable training area. Sharing his personal opinions, Piatt said that he was not worried about Grafenwoehr.

He said that he fondly remembers the good cooperation and connections with the many friends in Grafenwoehr, as well as taking part in many customs and events. His family loves the location and the time in Bavaria. Mayor Edgar Knobloch thanked him for the visit and presented the American guests, who traveled back that same evening, a wood-stove bread and onion cake from the city mill as provisions for the road. | by Gerald Morgenstern

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tower barracks

USAG Bavaria volunteer Victoria Thompson, second from right, helps serve military families and Soldiers at the 2016 Red Cross Zombie Apocalypse on Tower Barracks.

OPINION: Jobs, volunteer work, my saving grace as a military wife When we landed in Germany, the air was cold and snow was falling softly to the ground, painting a beautiful winter wonderland.

Like most, we were placed in a hotel and given a few weeks to find somewhere to live. Not knowing anyone and having to find a new home, all while being seven and a half months pregnant, wore me down. I tried to stay positive, but without friends, family, or even a car, there was no way for me to get to my doctor appointments.

We got lucky and found a nice house for rent with a wonderful land lady and soon our possessions and car arrived from the States. I spent the next few weeks drowning in boxes trying to get everything ready before our little one came. Thankfully, we got the house set up just in time, as our son came early.

This is when I realized how hard things could be. We were alone in a foreign country with a newborn. We did not live on post surrounded by other military families. There were no family or friends to help us adjust to our new roles as parents. The village that was supposed to help us raise our child was an ocean away.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

I was learning that there are a lot of things no one tells you about having a baby. They don’t tell you that love doesn’t always come instantly when you have a child. Or that you will continue to look pregnant for a while after your baby is born. My expectations were being crushed under a flood of reality.

When our little man turned six months old, I knew that I needed a change of pace from the constant baby talk. I felt like I was starting to crack. Joining the ACS Newborn Group was the only thing that kept me sane at the time. I never realized how important adult interaction is in daily life.

I also tried to get a job, but, with so many spouses seeking work and so few positions on post, nothing ever came of my efforts.

Since I was 14, I’ve always had a job, and these constant rejections were the last straw.

I fell back into depression, lacking the desire to cook, clean or even get dressed. I took care of my son and let everything else descend into chaos.

After some time, I tried volunteering at a few places on post. I still applied to jobs, when they became available. I met other spouses in the same boat as me, looking for work and volunteering to help keep their resumes current. I started my volunteer experience with the Red Cross and met a few women volunteering at the clinic because no paid positions were available for nurses.

Knowing that nurses couldn’t find positions made me feel better about my predicament with the jobs on post.

“

That’s when I decided to put all my efforts into volunteering.

It took a while to find a good fit for me, but after several tries I found a few organizations that I really enjoy. Volunteering has been my saving grace as a military wife. I found new friends with common interests and started building my new “village.” I have always believed that volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, but now I also see it as a great way to make connections, build relationships and develop professionally.

Whether you are trying to make friends, build your resume or help your community, volunteering is a great place to start. Volunteering has enabled me to find fulfillment again. If you are considering becoming an active volunteer here at USAG Bavaria, contact the Volunteer Coordinator at ACS at DSN 476-2650, CIV 09662-832650. You can also volunteer at partner organizations like the American Red Cross and USO. Volunteer opportunities are all over post. Don’t be afraid to ask. | by Victoria Thompson Bavarian Times | 16

tower barracks Claudia Jung, therapist and deputy chief of the German Specialist Integration Service, discusses how German supervisors can support local national employees struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges. Thirty-seven local national supervisors attended the Mental Health, Resiliency, Occupational Well-Being, Suicide Prevention awareness training here to help employees cope with, and overcome, emotional or behavioral challenges, Mon, Feb. 13, 2017.

German supervisors attend training to support employee well-being

USAG Bavaria’s Directorate of Human Resource and Hella Wagner, the USAG Bavaria representative for civilian handicapped employees, invited the Specialist Integration Service of the Oberpfalz.

Mr. Hans Dumbach, program manager for workforce development, highlighted the importance of being aware of employee’s mental issues.

“While there are many military programs, like resilience training or SHARP, there is no specialized training with all the off-post resources and processes. “ Dumbach said.

Claudia Jung, therapist and deputy chief of the German Specialist Integration Service said: “Psychological illnesses and disorders are the third most common ailment affecting people across the globe. “ According to Jung, one out of five people develop a mental issue at least once in their life. Just 25% of the affected population actually seek and follow a treatment program.

“Mental illnesses can develop for many reasons, such as biological predispositions, unfortunate life experiences or stress”, said Jung.

Jung’s speech covered many facets of mental issues. She also provided resources for comprehensive help and prevention in the German system.

17 | Bavarian Times

According to Jung, some indicators are: • Depressive or manic-depressive mood • Loss of fun and interest in anything • Listlessness and tiredness • Physical symptoms – like cardiac and circulatory troubles or loss of weight “If you detect some of the mental issues, please don’t diagnose what kind of mental issue it could be. This is not your job.” Jung said, “Try to find a way to help within your work environment and find professional help for the person.”

What to do “The earlier a depressive episode is treated, the lower the risk of a fallback.

Talk to the person and ask how you can help. If they are reluctant, find the proper resource for the person. Usually employees with emotional or behavioral challenges are hesitant to talk about it. It’s important to start the conversation as soon as possible.” Jung reported.

Resources for local nationals • Medical Specialists • Specialist Integration Service • Therapists • Social Psychiatry Service • Specialized hospitals • Crisis Helpline 0800/111 0 111 • Specialized outreach clinics

| by Andreas Kreuzer

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Thirty-seven local national supervisors attended the Mental Health, Resiliency, Occupational Well-Being, Suicide Prevention awareness training here to help employees cope with, and overcome, emotional or behavioral challenges, Mon, Feb. 13, 2017.

u.s. army Photo Credit: Adobe Stock, goodmoments

Carry a passport when traveling outside the country U.S. Army Europe Office of the Provost Marshal officials want to remind members of the American forces community in Europe to carry their passports when traveling to countries to which they are not assigned.

person of wrongdoing, and in some nations only a national form of identification such as a passport is recognized as valid ID. A passport also establishes citizenship if its bearer needs assistance from a U.S. embassy or consulate.

A common misconception is that European borders without checkpoints can be crossed freely. However, while this may be true for residents of countries within the European Union’s Schengen zone, the agreement does not extend to U.S. or other non-EU citizens.

A military ID or Status of Forces Agreement card is not a substitute for a passport. Penalties for being caught without a passport are fines, searches and detainment.

In some European countries federal police have the right to pull vehicles over and check passports without suspecting a

| by U.S. Army Europe Public Affairs news release

For more information and links to an FAQ from the U.S. State Department and European Union on travel requirements and resources. http:/www.bavarian-times.com/carrypassport

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u.s. army Staff Sgt. Reag Wood of 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 5th Brigade, 1st Armored Division, illustrates how he uses an iphone to obtain a visual image of a mock with insurgent

activity

during

a field training exercise at White Sands Missile Range, N.M.

Soldiers can view promotion results in the field, on smartphones The U.S Army Human Resources Command website has undergone several updates in the past year that give users several options when it comes to searching, viewing and getting alerted of updated information.

The site also went responsive several months ago, meaning users will be able to successfully view and interact with the site on different devices.

Photo Credit: Lt. Col. Deanna Bague

"The HRC website is a place where Soldiers, veterans or really anyone can go to search for information any time of the day or night," said Lt. Col. Janet Herrick, public affairs officer, HRC. "We have a great search feature and different customization options because we are constantly looking to provide better avenues to the information we have available."

MyLinks MyLinks is a feature that gives users the ability to be alerted any time a wepage is updated. Waiting on some points to publish?

Waiting on a Milper announcing the next promotion selection board? MyLinks is a way to be alerted the moment a page is updated.

Users can choose to select whether they would like to bookmark the page, get an email update every time the page is updated, or do both. Users can use any email address for the alerts.

To set up your MyLinks, go to the "My HRC" tab in the top menu bar. That tab will bring you to a screen with ten suggested web-

19 | Bavarian Times

pages to add to your MyLinks. Those ten suggestions are the most visited webpages from the previous month.

This same screen is also where a user can go to delete any alerts and bookmarks they have set.

On the individual webpages, there is a green circle with a white cross inside it. Clicking that circle will bring up the option for bookmarking and getting an email alert.

Profile On the My HRC page is a "profile' tab. This tab offers users the option to change the theme and color scheme of the site any time they are logged in.

DS Login The HRC webpage also allows users to login in with a DS login, which means Soldiers in the field could view selection results on their smartphones.

"The DS Login is a good thing to have and a good thing to know because since we've made the website responsive and you can use it on your mobile phone, not very many people have CAC readers for their tablets or phones but with the DS Login you can log in and you can look at those CAC-protected pages," said Scott Patterson, HRC website product line manager, Personnel Information Systems Directorate, HRC. There are added benefits to have a DS Login is that it can be used to access multiple to access different websites across the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Additionally, the DS Login can also be used by veterans, spouses, some family members over 18 years of age, and former spouses who are DoD beneficiaries.

More information about the DS Login can be found at http://go.usa.gov/x9Uys

| by Daniela M Vestal (ARNEWS Org Page)

tower barracks Mold sprays can fix the problem temporarily, but they often contain chlorine and can be harmful if inhaled or touched. Most important is to open windows completely a few times a day for a few minutes to allow moist air from the inside to escape and be replaced with more dry air from the outside.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

Environmental: How to avoid mold in the house U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria has many nice buildings. But even the new buildings can easily develop mold, if certain precautions are not followed. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided.

Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores. The spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, but none of them will grow without water or moisture.

ture content indoors. If there’s mold in the shower or elsewhere in the bathroom that seems to re-appear, increasing ventilation (running a fan or opening a window) and cleaning more frequently will usually prevent mold from recurring.

Mold sprays can fix the problem temporarily, but they often contain chlorine and can be harmful if inhaled or touched.

Most important is to open windows completely a few times a day for a few minutes to allow moist air from the inside to escape and be replaced with more dry air from the outside.

New windows that seal completely require ventilation. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).

Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

The U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Environmental Division runs regular stories. For more visit the environmental news page or go to the Environmental Division webpage at www.bavaria.army.mil/environmental.

Though it is impossible to get rid of all mold and mold spores indoors, one can minimize the amount by controlling the mois-

LIKE US. CONNECT US.

| by U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

www.bavarian-times.com

Bavarian Times.

/BavarianTimesMagazine

Bavarian Times | 20

Things you didn’t know: Easter traditions in Germany GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — When it comes to celebrations in Germany, colorfully decorated trees aren’t just for Christmas anymore.

Roughly four weeks before Easter — which falls on March 27, 2016 — handcrafted eggs dangle from the branches of birch trees, symbolizing new life and fertility, and towns, big and small, are painted in a sea of pastel.

Public fountains are adorned elaborate greenery, garland and florid Easter eggs to welcome the spring season and offer thanks for life-giving water. Each town seeks to make its decorations bigger and brighter than the next, and one local village, Sulzbach-Rosenberg, still holds bragging rights.

Photo Credit: pexels.com/Public Domain Pictures

In 2005, this small town just 18 kilometers south of Vilseck entered the Guinness Book of World Records for the most eggs used to decorate an “Osterbrunnen,” or Easter fountain. The townspeople managed to hang a total of 16,500 eggs, beating out the previous record of 11,600 held by Baden-Wuerttemberg.

While the ornamentation comes early, the official Easter holiday in Germany begins on Gruendonnerstag (Maudy Thursday). Gruendonnerstag means “Green Thursday” and is believed to be the day on which the Last Supper was held. It is tradition to clean your house thoroughly on this day, a custom possibly linked to the preparation of a Passover Feast.

Green food, such as spinach, kale, cress, leek, chives and other herbs are traditionally eaten on this day.

21 | Bavarian Times

Tower barracks

In both cultures, Good Friday is a day when Christians reflect on the crucifixion of Christ.

In Germany, the day is known as both Karfreitag meaning “sorrowful Friday” and Stiller Freitag, or quiet Friday. Unlike the U.S., Good Friday, along with Ostermontag (Easter Monday) are national holidays in Germany.

While there are apparent differences, many other German and American traditions overlap throughout the four-day celebration.

Easter eggs are dyed and children anticipate a visit from the “Osterhase” or Easter Bunny. Ostersonntag (Easter Sunday) brings church services, family gatherings complete with culinary overindulgence, rousing Easter egg hunts and baskets filled to the brim with chocolate and candy.

Germany stands alone, however, when it comes to the Saturday night bonfire (a symbol for the sun as the giver of life), and the baking of a braided sweet bread in the shape of a wreath, (Osterbrot), which is found in German bakeries around the holiday.

But America holds her head high as the birthplace of the infamous chick-shaped marshmallow treat; because nothing says “Happy Easter” or “Frohe Ostern” quite like a candy Peep. | by Molly Hayden

hohenfels

Possible wolf may roam Hohenfels Training Area

There is a possibility that a wolf may still roam the HTA.

Photo Credit: pexels.com/Pixabay

Troops training at HTA have been notified and future troops training here will be notified. All food remains — such as a meal ready to eat, or MRE — must be collected and disposed properly. All official government organizations as well as farmers that raise animals and interest groups nearby Hohenfels have been informed.

All USAG Bavaria community members are reminded to remain calm and stay clear of all wildlife. It is important not to feed or attract these animals. Please respect the natural shyness of wolves.

Wolf spottings indicate a thriving environment and the commitment of the USAG Bavaria Environmental Division in partnership with the Federal Forestry Service.

The safety of our community and our animals is our top priority.

It is very unlikely, but if you see a wolf — or if you accidentally hurt or kill one on the road — notify the MP front desk or German Polizei and stay clear. Contact the MP front desk at DSN 466-2812/2713, CIV 09472-83-2812/2713. Contact the German Polizei at 110.

For more on wolf behavior and wolves in Bavaria, visit www.bavariannews.com/wolves-make-a-comeback-in-bavaria.

Wolf

photographed

with a trail camera

No instances of human injury or contact with a wolf have been reported.

in the Grafenwoehr Training Area Sept.

5, 2016.

The wolf is a federally-protected species, and it is forbidden by law to bother, disturb, chase, hurt or kill a wolf.

| by USAG Bavaria Public Affairs Bavarian Times | 22

Photo Credit: Federal Forest Service Grafenwoehr

HOHENFELS, Germany — An adult female red deer was found dead inside the Hohenfels Training Area in early January. The Bavarian Ministry for Environment (LfU) took DNA samples of the deer and determined that it was killed by a wolf of the central European population.

rose barracks Travelers board a train in Vilseck, recently. Taking the train can be a viable, efficient option when traveling in groups or when the winter weather sets in.

Local trains, explained

And I'll admit it, I'm one of them (though I'm more aware of my volume in public spaces now). I even get a nostalgic tingle at the mere mention of the words "road trip."

But recently I've begun to leave my car in the driveway and haven't looked back. The train gets me there in a reasonable amount of time and the experience is much more pleasant than white-knuckling it on the autobahn.

The train is especially useful when I have visitors in town and in the winter, when driving can be dicey and painstakingly slow.

The key to car-free European adventures is knowing your options.

Not all ticket machines are created equal Though it sounds easy enough, simply buying a ticket, when combined with the language barrier and the not-so-consistent ticket machines, can be overwhelming. When all else fails, ask the experts.

Although they tack on a two-euro fee, Deutschebahn (DB) agents in the train stations can help you find the best fare.

The fee is a small price to pay when you consider the time you save.

Locally, Wolfgang Burczyk, the owner of Burex Travel Center in the Vilseck Train Station, has a nose for finding deals. He's so adept, in fact, that DB conductors still call him with technical questions about tickets and pricing.

23 | Bavarian Times

"You have to know the crazy rules," said Burczyk, who worked for DB for 25 years before starting his own company. His English-speaking staff thinks like a budget-minded traveler and often suggests flexible options you might not even have considered.

For example, last week I started planning a trip to Brussels in early October. The best roundtrip deal I could find online for two people was 376 euros. Burczyk and his staff found a ticket for about 300 euros with faster connections.

Then, when I stopped in to purchase the ticket, Alex Stolte, a seasoned member of Burczyk's staff, found an even lower price when combined with a Bahn-25 card.

In the end, I saved more than 100 euros and will be able to use the Bahn card to get 25 percent off all qualifying tickets I purchase for the next four months.

The experts can help you get started, but several bread-andbutter deals are always available at the ticket kiosks. The following are by no means an exhaustive list, but should get travelers off on the right foot.

Exploring your backyard Most people are aware of the flagship of train deals in Bavaria: the Bayern Pass. Perfect for day trips with a group of friends or even last-minute solo traveling, this ticket provides flexibility and fun.

Bayern Pass: For up to 5 people on regional trains throughout Bavaria (and to Salzburg), good on weekdays from 9 a.m.-3 Continued on page 24

Photo Credit: Jeremy S. Buddemeier, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs

VILSECK, Germany - Living in Europe for the past four years, I've come to the realization that some cultural stereotypes exist because they're true: Americans are loud in public and they really do love their cars.

a.m. the following day; on weekends, valid from midnight until 3 a.m. the next day. One person: 22 euros; each additional person is 4 euros, so 5 people can travel all day in Bavaria, including S-bahn, U-bahn and buses, for 38 euros.

Tagesticket Plus: Lesser known than the Bayern Pass, but probably a better deal, the "Day Ticket Plus" is a great deal for travelers who live near stations in Freihung, Vilseck or Amberg.

Suggested uses: A day trip to Dachau or Munich's biergartens; a leisurely jaunt to Salzburg or wine-tasting weekend in Wuerzburg.

Two adults and up to four children under the 18 years old can travel all day for 16.80 euros. As an added bonus, if you purchase the ticket on Saturday, it's also valid all day Sunday, as well.

Hint: If you use the Bayern for an overnight visit Salzburg, consider buying your return Bayern Pass at the same time (you can specify your return date at the kiosk), as not all ticket machines in Salzburg sell the Bayern Pass.

Photo Credit: pexels.com/Pixabay

Night Bayern: Same stipulations as the standard Bayern Pass except it's good from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. the next day (and until 7 a.m. on Saturday morning); 22 euros, 2 euros for each additional passenger up to five.

The Friday night Bayern is perfect for a late night in Nuremberg. Travelers can take the first train Saturday morning, which leaves Nuremberg at 5:30 a.m., and be back in Vilseck by 6:20 a.m., before the ticket expires.

Caveat: Bayern Passes apply to regional trains (not ICE) and your train must depart after 9 a.m. on weekdays. In addition, always ensure your train will arrive before your ticket expires, and don't forget to write your name on the ticket.

Major cities in the VGN network include Nuremberg, Bamberg, Bayreuth and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Weiden and Regensburg are not included, but you might consider driving to Freihung to take advantage of this deal.

Suggested uses: Saturday overnight trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber's Christmas market.

Further afield When traveling outside of Bavaria, four standing tickets stick out.

QDL: The name says it all. The Quer-durch-Land, or "across the country" ticket allows travelers access to all regional trains throughout Germany for one day, Monday-Friday. Like the Bayern Pass, it's good for up to five people; 44 euros for one person, 6 euros for each additional traveler, so five people can travel all day around Germany for 68 euros.

Bavarian Times | 24

rose barracks Cost is 27 euros for one person, 4.50 euros for each additional up to five; good on weekdays from 9 a.m. until 3 a.m.; on weekends, from midnight until 3 a.m. the next day.

Suggested uses: Group trip to Karlovy Vary or Cesky Krumlov. Considering that it takes about 4 hours to drive to Cesky Krumlov, and the train can get you there in 5 hours, it's not a bad option. Consider buying your return ticket at the same time (you can specify your return date at the kiosk), as not all ticket machines in the Czech Republic sell this pass.

Prague Spezial: Prague is one case where the train fails the efficiency test -- in most scenarios it just makes more sense, time-wise and price-wise, to drive. However, the Prague Spezial is great for when you have visitors in town who would like to venture out on their own.

Cost for a one person roundtrip ticket is 56 euros, and is good for one month from the first day of travel. Stolte recommends beginning the journey in Amberg or Schwandorf to reduce the number of connections.

Bahn cards Bahn cards are a fantastic deal for travelers who use the train frequently, but often the Bahn card proves its worth on the first purchase. Before purchasing a ticket to travel outside of Bavaria, ask about how getting a Bahn 25 or 50 would affect the price.

Bayern-Bohemian: Bridging the border between Germany and the Czech Republic, the Bay-Boh ticket operates like the Bayern Pass, but also includes several major Czech cities, including Cesky Krumlov, Plzen, Karlovy Vary and Ceske Budejovice, where the precursor to Budweiser is brewed. Prague is not included for this ticket.

Bahn 25: Travelers get 25 percent off all regular and saver fares; cost is 61 euros for one year. DB often publishes trial offers, like a Bahn 25 card for 29 euros that is valid for four months. The 25 percent discount does not apply to special offers like the Bayern Pass.

Bahn 50: Travelers receive 50 percent off all regular fare purchases (but not saver fares). According to Stolte, this card provides flexibility and efficiency, and is best for travelers who use the train several times each month outside of Bavaria.

Although there's no substitute for good advance planning, many of the standing ticket offers in Bavaria provide flexibility for the spontaneous traveler. Taking the train offers several benefits and can even be a viable, inexpensive option when traveling in a group.

Sure, in some cases a car will get you there quicker, but getting there faster isn't always the best way to travel.

The eighth in the Insider's Tips for Auslaender series, which focuses on ways to make the most of your tour in Bavaria. Look for articles with this tag and if you have tips or suggestions, e-mail bavariannews@gmail.com.

| by Jeremy S. Buddemeier, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs 25 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: Deutsche Bahn AG/ Volker Emersleben

Schoenes-Wochenende: Similar to the QDL, but for a flat fee of 42 euros; good for up to five people and valid on Saturdays or Sundays, from midnight until 3 a.m. the following day.

history & Nature Feeding of game animals on the training area. Deer are fed large “grass drops” by the forest rangers.

Deer is fed on Grafenwoehr Training Area during down-time – Wolf and white-tailed eagle also stop by Grafenwoehr, Germany -- Snow, ice and a long period of frost put animals in danger this winter. On Grafenwoehr Training Area with its large deer population, forest rangers and employees of the Federal ‘Forest Office take care of the animals.

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern (2)

The animals know the large Fendt tractor very well. Forest ranger Andreas Irle and engine driver Michael Speckner are on the road early in the morning. During down-time, they resupply the feedlots which are located close to the open grass lands and the impact area. The grass on the open grass lands was cut in the summer months, pressed and turned into silage fodder. The Stegenthumbach forest district, one of nine forest districts on the training area, has a stock of more than 300 of these large, 600 kilo-“drops” on hand. “No food for fattening, just pure, speciesappropriate fodder from the deer’s habitat,” says Irle. In winter, deer save a lot of energy by totally their metabolism and bio rhythm. “The deer need a lot of peace and quiet now,” explains Irle. Thanks to the great understanding of the U.S. Armed Forces, the feeding areas are effectively kept quiet. “That’s good for the suffering animals and good for the forest. The cooperation with the responsible U.S. Army staff is great in that area as well,” says Ulrich Maushake, director of the Federal Forest Office.

That the deer can truly enjoy peace and quiet is shown by the fact that they do not even veer away more than 100 meters from the feedlots when the forest tractor with the grass bales on its front and rear end loaders appears to replenish the feedlots.

From near-by, they observe the operation which takes place twice a week. Following the rutting season, stags and does with the calves go their own ways again and have their individual feedlots. Additionally, young pine forests near the feedlots are being thinned because the deer eat the soft bark of the stems and the peeled wood can so be put to further use. This practically eliminates any damage to young trees. Occasionally, other training area residents stop at the feedlots. Camera traps show photos of the inquisitive white-tailed eagle, accompanied by a crowd of

common ravens, at the feedlots. Boars only find little food at the feedlots. Like all pigs, boars like to rummage around with their snouts and are able to break open even severely frozen ground to look for roots, insect larvae, grubs and mice nests. Boars also feed on dead animals and thus, are part of the training area’s health police. A spectacular “newcomer” on the training area is the wolf. As of last summer, forest rangers have to deal with this new training area resident. | by Gerald Morgenstern

From the book: Grafenwoehr Training Area, Yesterday – Today “Grafenwoehr Training Area, Yesterday – Today” is the title of the bi-lingual book written by Reserve Sergeant Major Gerald Morgenstern. On 288 pages with more than 800 photos, he does not only tell the history of the training area since 1910 but also covers the development of the training area in recent years. The book includes chapters about nature, wildlife and forest. “Grafenwoehr Training Area, Yesterday – Today” is available in bookstores and at various locations on post.

For more information, go to www.grafenwoehr.trainingareabook.com or visit us on Facebook.

Bavarian Times | 26

health

What you need to know about Avian Influenza in Europe GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — There has been an increase in Avian Influenza across Europe and Germany with wild and domestic birds contracting the disease.

•

4. Seek immediate advice from your physician if you show signs of fever after being in contact with poultry, farmed birds, wild birds or other animals.

5. If you have any concerns regarding pet birds, call the veterinary clinic at DSN 476-2370, CIV 09641-83-2370, visit in-person at Rose Barracks Bldg. 222, or message on Facebook.

• Avian Influenza is the bird flu, and the strain H5N8 has become prevalent according to news sources. Currently, humans are unaffected, and in an effort to prevent further transmission, culling of domestic poultry is being implemented.

Photo Credit: pexels.com/Public Domain Pictures

“Our on-base and local authorities are doing everything to maintain situational awareness of the disease. Because we live and work near large bodies of water and lakes, we are susceptible to coming into contact with waterfowl that may be carrying the H5N8 virus,” said Tom Janis, USAG Bavaria Emergency Manager.

Capt. Rachel Lawrence is the officer in charge at Rose Barracks Veterinary Treatment Facility. She advises community members remain vigilant and offers these guidelines to follow: •

• •

1. Do not touch or pick up dead or sick birds. It is important to report sick or dead birds – both wild birds and poultry – to local authorities. Contact the Military Police and/or Polizei within your community.

2. It is completely safe to eat appropriately-cooked poultry.

The virus cannot be spread in this manner.

3. Wash hands properly and often. You should always do so after handling birds or other animals, when cooking or preparing animal products, and before eating.

27 | Bavarian Times

The first H5N8 incident in Germany occurred in November 2016.

The origin of this strain remains unidentified and no direct cause has been determined. According to news sources, testing continues, but the virus cannot be eradicated without this information. | by Camelia Streff

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health Pure stress until exhaustion can also be caused by a magnesium deficiency.

Exercise helps reduce stress hormones.

Are you stressed a lot?

Photo Credit: djd/Wörwag Pharma/COLOURBOX (3)

Stress can also be caused by a magnesium deficiency (djd). The slightest provocation makes you nervous or causes stress. When that happens, many people think that they are no longer able to come to terms with their everyday chores.

A current Forsa survey shows that nearly 60 percent of all adults believe that their lives have become more stressful during the last three years. 23 percent of those surveyed said that they often feel stressed. The feeling of constantly being irritated and stressed out can also be caused by a magnesium deficiency.

Effects mutually reinforce each other Stress often destroys magnesium. Stress hormones can increase the body’s need of this mineral substance. Since most people’s diet does not supply them with a sufficient amount of this mineral substance, a deficiency can develop which makes the body more vulnerable to stress. Those effects can mutu-

ally reinforce each other. However, this vicious circle can be broken. One option is to purchase over the counter medication containing magnesium in the pharmacy. They can quickly compensate the magnesium deficiency and support energy metabolism as well as he function of muscles and nerves.

A healthy diet is important A balanced magnesium level cannot only cause stress but also muscle cramps, eyelid tremor, restlessness and bad temper. Heart problems caused by a magnesium deficiency can also be treated if the body receives a sufficient amount of the mineral nutrient. A healthy, balanced diet plays an important role. Recommended food includes whole meal products, nuts and pulses to bring back stress relaxation and productivity.

A healthy, balanced diet provides your body with all important vital substances such as magnesium.

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health Breakfast 30 minutes

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We sit an average of 14 hours per day and lack the exercise that stimulates our blood flow.

Walking instead of sitting is one way to make our blood plates circulate healthily.

A healthy blood flow enhances your well-being

(djd). We all know that our blood plays an important role for our well-being because it supplies our organs with oxygen and vital nutrients. Therefore, a healthy blood flow is absolutely important. However, our every day life with its stress, occasional fast food meals, and especially our lack of exercise often have a negative impact on a healthy blood flow.

Self-test to determine a healthy blood flow A self-test helps you determine whether your blood circulation is impaired and shows you what you can do against it. One reason is the fact that we sit all the time, according to experts an average of 14 hours per day. You can alleviate that by continuously integrating exercise into your daily life. A healthy diet is also important. Whole grain food and a lot of vegetables should be a regular part of your diet if you want to keep your blood 29 | Bavarian Times

plates moving healthily. The ingredients of tomatoes are also helpful. The water-soluble parts of tomatoes, when highly concentrated, have an important impact on the surface condition of our blood plates, making them less prone to stick together.

Highly concentrated tomato extract is contained in Syntrival, for example, an over-the-counter dietary supplement available in pharmacies.

Exercising together Generally, it is important to change your way of life, preferably together with colleagues, friends or your spouse so you can motivate each other. Together, it is easier to get up from the couch or the office chair and go exercise, for example, with the help of a pedometer. Why not start a competition to see who takes the most steps every day?

Photo Credit: djd/Wรถrwag Pharma (2)

Energize your body with exercise and a healthy diet

health

Tick season 2017 starts: Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), caused by a tick bite, is on the rise

After having taken a trip into nature, inspect clothes and your body for ticks.

(djd). When the temperatures rise, ticks wake up. They become active when temperatures reach five degrees Celsius and start looking for a suitable host. If they find one, the bite of an infected tick can transfer TBE viruses or bacteria such as Borrelia.

Photo Credit: djd/GSK/drubig-photo/Photolia

The danger of the TBE-virus is often unknown You can protect yourself against an infection. A survey by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), however, shows that only every third person thinks about protection measures such as a vaccination or repellents. Additionally, current studies by Robert Koch-Institute (RKI) prove an increase of TBE-inflicted disease by 64 percent in 2016. According to the survey, every second person does not know anything about tick-borne encephalitis. .

Ticks transfer the TBE-virus when biting, causing the illness. After nan incubation period seven to 14 days, the disease often proceeds in two phases, starting with unspecific, flu-like symptoms. In the second phase, high fever accompanied by the specific neurological signs of TBE such as encephalitis, inflammation of the spinal and the bone marrow, or an inflammation of the brain can occur.

TBE risk areas: A vaccination can protect you TBE high-risk areas in Germany are Bavaria and Baden-Wuerttemberg. Hesse, Thuringia, Saxony, Saarland and RhinelandPalatinate are also affected and the risk is increasing. However, you can also infect yourself in the other German states during

main tick season which lasts from March to October. The survey

by GSK also shows that 29.1 percent of those interviewed do not know whether they live in a TBE risk area. A vaccination, recommended by Germany’s Permanent Vaccination Commission, provides the best protection against TBE. Three vaccinations are necessary to achieve immunization protection. The first booster vaccination must be done after three years. Within a few weeks, you can achieve immunization. There is a special vaccine for kids which has been approved for kids, ages one and older.

It is recommended that parents and kids regularly extend their protection with booster immunizations.

How to professionally remove ticks (djd). The tick can be grabbed by its proboscis close to the puncture and carefully removed with a special tick card. It is even safer to grab the tick by its proboscis with tweezers and vertically remove it from the skin. "TBE-viruses can be transferred immediately after the bite which is why an early removal of the tick does not protect you from a viral infection,� says parasitologist Prof. Dr. Heinz Mehlhorn. It is important not to squeeze the tick when removing it to avoid injecting other bacteria such as Borrelia into the puncture. This also happens when covering ticks with glue or nail polish before removing them.

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cars & traffic If you incorrectly use your turn-signal, you risk causing an accident and a fine.

Dangerous trend: Drivers refuse to use their turn-signal

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock, Edenwithin

(dtd). Every car has them but not every driver uses them: Turnsignals aren’t used as often as they should be when driving every day because drivers are distracted, careless, or simply don’t know how to correctly use them. The result are dangerous situations that could easily be avoided with a small movement of the hand. Therefore, every driver should regularly recap the correct use of these bright warning lights.

Fair behavior while driving increases safety and the fun of driving. Already ten years ago, a survey by the German automobile club AVD showed that only a third of all drivers regularly use their turn-signal when driving in the city. But that is the one place where it is extremely important to use it because in the city, drivers more frequently encounter “weaker” traffic participants such as pedestrians or cyclists. But even on highways and Autobahns, clear communication increases traffic safety.

Generally, you should get accustomed to using your turn-signal at all times, even when you do not even see any other traffic participants. And use it as early as possible: When making a regular turn, or when turning at a red light, and do not wait to use it until the light has already turned green. When changing lanes, overtaking and merging, drivers must first check by using the rear-view mirror or by looking over their shoulder that no other vehicle coming from behind, is blocking the lane.

31 | Bavarian Times

Traffic law stipulates that the turn-signal must also be used when leaving driveways or merging into traffic from the curb.

Correctly using the turn-signal in a traffic circle is a little bit more complicated: You do NOT use your turn-signal when entering a traffic circle, but you MUST use it when exiting it.

And don’t forget to check whether pedestrians or cyclists are crossing the exit road. If you do not obey these traffic rules, you endanger yourself and other and risk a fine of 10 Euro.

Photo Credit: dtd/thx

Turn-signals should be used consistently and correctly

cars & traffic GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — With 391,125 accidents in the state of Bavaria in 2015 alone, the question of what to do when involved in an off-post car accident should have been on my personal radar. Well, it was not! As things go, I got into a fender bender off-post in Germany.

Vaguely remembering something about 911 not being the emergency phone number in Germany, a reflective vest I was required

to buy to pass my privately owned vehicle inspection, and a warning triangle, I was utterly unprepared for this situation.

Well, I moved my van out of traffic and did what I always do when trying to share responsibility — I called my spouse. I got lucky.

Not only did he answer the phone immediately, but he had the Military Police, or MP, phone number and contacted them for me.

The German police was contacted by the other party involved and — as I found out later — by the MPs. Two German Police Officers ensured that all parties involved in the accident exchanged contact and insurance information. They explained to me that they do not ascertain who is at fault, but who caused the accident. On site, I was found not to be the cause of the accident — a fact which had impact on my insurance deductible and, as I found out later, implicated possible charges.

The German Police explained they would not conduct a detailed investigation or take photos, but they recommended that I take pictures of damages of the involved cars. The officers provided me with their names and precinct information for follow-up questions and told me that a police report will be sent to the MP station. Lastly, they explained that the report will not be given Bavarian Times | 32

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock, Fotosenmeer.nl

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock, Paolese

Off-post car accident: What to do

cars & traffic to private persons, but that a lawyer or insurance agency can request the report easily.

“In the excitement of an actual accident, it might prove rather complicated,” said Maenner.

I got lucky – big time! There were no injuries, and other people contacted the right authorities for me. Here is what you should know about correctly handling an accident off post.

Who to notify Once the situation is assessed, any possible injuries are ascertained, first aid is provided and the accident is secured, contact the MPs at CIV 0711-680- 5262 and the German Polizei, advises Green. German emergency numbers for the police are 110 for an ambulance and 112 for the fire department.

Stop and assess the situation “First, check to see if everyone is OK and, if necessary, provide first aid,” said Staff Sgt. Robert Green, the garrison’s Traffic Management and Collision Investigation Supervisor.

German law requires everyone on and near the scene to help the injured to the best of their abilities.

“If you do not know how to help, get immediate help elsewhere.

Bystanders are also required to help,” said Gerhard Maenner, USAG Bavaria German Polizei Liaison.

“

However, whatever you do, safety is the main concern.

Secure the scene Next secure the scene. If possible and no one is injured, pull your vehicle to the side and out of the traffic flow, explained Green.

“Put on your safety vest and set up your warning triangle. You may get fined if you neglect to do so,” said Green.

“Before you move your vehicle you may take photos and mark the position of the vehicles with chalk. Most first aid kits include chalk,” said Maenner.

There are rules pertaining to distance from the accident site and where you set up the warning triangle. The rule of thumb is to set the warning triangle the distance in meters that corresponds to the speed limit.

“If the speed limit is 50 kilometers per hour, set up your warning triangle 50 meters from the accident site. If you have an accident on the Autobahn, you need to set it up at least 150 meters from the accident site. The guard poles on the Autobahn are set up every 50 meters. You can use them as a guideline to measure the distance,” said Maenner.

“Make sure you stay safe when securing the accident site. If your accident took place on the Autobahn, everyone needs to get out the vehicles immediately and go behind the guard rails. Put on your safety vest and walk behind the guard rails to set up the warning triangle,” said Maenner.

Further, Maenner recommends practicing setting up warning triangles.

33 | Bavarian Times

“It doesn’t matter if you confuse the two numbers, the police will contact the ambulance and fire department and vice versa,” said Maenner.

“If you call us, we contact the Polizei for you too, even if everyone involved is a DOD ID card holder. We are dealing with their traffic flow in those situations,” said Green.

Provide a short description of the situation, and report any possible injuries and your location. You should find street names at all junctions. Landstrassen, Bundesstrassen and Autobahn have poles with little plaques identifying their location. The little small black arrows on the poles indicate the direction of the nearest emergency phone, explained Maenner.

In most situations, German police do not trace your GPS signal if you call them from your cell phone. While you are not required to notify the Polizei in all circumstances, it is in your best interest to do so, said Maenner. If you bump into a vehicle, and the owner is not present, you must notify the police under all circumstances — even if damages are not visible. If you leave the accident site without doing so, it is considered a hit-and- run.

“If you are not sure what do or just have a question, don’t hesitate to call us (German Polizei). We will tell you what needs to be done,” said Manner. “ Information for your insurance At the accident site, the German Polizei or MPs will help you obtain all necessary information required for an insurance claim.

The Police will provide their names and precinct information. Information required includes full name of everyone involved, vehicle type and make, accident type, accident place and time, license plate numbers and insurance information.

If you are unable to obtain the insurance information from everyone involved, however, your insurance can do it through the license plate number, explained Maenner. He further explained that the police do not conduct full investigations for smaller accidents without injuries.

“If you do need photos for your insurance you need to take them yourself. Take photos of all sides and all cars involved, even if you do not see any damages,” recommended Maenner.

Editor’s note: This piece is based on the experiences and research of staff writer Rabia Coombs. | by Rabia Coombs

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cars & traffic

How to correctly use your signal horn and flash light (dmd). Your heart is bleeding, it’s difficult to say goodbye. But sooner or later the time will come for you to prepare your beloved motorcycle for winter storage. A procedure that requires great care. If you do sloppy work, you will regret it in spring. Damages caused by inappropriate storage can be very aggravating.

The most important step to prepare your bike for the time under its winter cover is a thorough cleaning and drying. However, you should not only clean the frame. Experts of Technical Control Board North (TÜV Nord) also recommend cleaning the cold motor block by spraying it with a cleaning agent and then scrubbing it down with a brush. If you then polish the paint and conserve it with wax, you’re on the safe side. .

Photo Credit: dmd/thx

If you thoroughly cleaned and polished your bike, it is recommended to let it dry outside for a couple of hours. Then you should warm up the motor one more time to ensure that all moisture is completely gone before putting your bike in storage.

New motor oil guarantees a good start into the new season.

Therefore, you should not only change the oil before putting your bike up for the winter months, but also the oil retainer ring on the oil drain plug. If the motor is run for some time after changing the oil, the lubricant will be evenly spread.

Every driver should know the rules governing the use of warning signals.

Another good idea is to lubricate the chain before the new season. Additionally, it should be tightened a little bit before putting the bike away for the winter. If you own a bike with a cardanshaft drive, you should use the lubricating nipple to press a few batches of grease into it.

The battery should be disconnected and stored in a dry place.

To relieve the seals and the air suspension, decrease the pressure in the suspension struts and the fork, respectively. Additionally, emptying the float chambers of the carburetors prevents the gumming of the fuel.

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The fuel tank should be as full as possible during the winter months to protect it from corrosion. The opposite applies to plastic tanks. They should be as empty as possible. Tire pressure should be increased by .5 bar and pressure on the tires relieved by carefully jacking up the bike. Then you should check the spark plugs and inject a little bit of motor oil into the combustion chambers. If you’ve done all that, you should be able to enjoy a quick and unproblematic start into the new motorbike season in spring.

Bavarian Times | 36

Wrong-way driver: How to react correctly If you encounter every driver’s nightmare, you must react immediately (dmd). They are the mobile fear and terror of every driver: Wrong-way drivers. They appear out of nowhere, cause the worst accidents and can unfortunately not be eradicated. Annually, wrong-way drivers cause about 75 to 80 accidents. Reacting correctly is essential for surviving in such a situation.

The most important rule is obvious: Always turn on the radio and activate the radio traffic service when traveling on the Autobahn.

Although it is impossible for radio stations to react immediately to a wrong-way driver, they do so as soon as possible. And it is better to know about it at all, than not to know anything and have a wrong-way driver appear unexpectedly in front of you.

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If the radio broadcasts a warning about a wrong-way driver, you should immediately reduce your speed, go into the right lane and stay on the right there as much as possible. Do not overtake at all until the radio has broadcasted an all-clear message, regardless of how pressed for time you are. Keep a larger distance to the car in front of you to increase security in case the wrong-way driver collides with that car. If you want to be absolutely safe, stop at the next parking area or rest stop and wait until the all-clear message is broadcasted.

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Additionally, you should be aware of where and when you are driving because this increases or decreases your chance of encountering a wrong-way driver. Statistics have shown that half of the 2,200 wrong-way drivers that are reported every year are on the road when it is dark outside and 40 percent of them on weekends, most of them on short stretches of Autobahns. During those times, you should drive even more carefully. Additionally, a study conducted by the German automobile club ADAC showed that more wrong-way drivers are reported in western than in eastern Germany.

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cars & traffic Cleaning your car with a pressure washer is fast and easy. The water stream effectively removes dirt without damaging the car’s paint.

Photo Credit: djd/www.kaercher.de (2)

Car care: You should thoroughly clean your car after the winter season (djd). Humidity, cold, wet dirt and salt on the streets: The winter season puts a lot of stress on cars. To make sure that winter won’t leave any lasting traces on your car’s paint and technology, you should invest in a thorough spring cleaning. And that does not only mean that you should make your paint shine again, on the contrary: Removing aggressive winter dirt helps you maintain the value of your car.

Thorough cleaning with a pressure washer If you do not want to drive your vehicle through a car wash and prefer to clean it manually, you should use a pressure washer.

First remove coarse dirt with the high-pressure stream. Use a The dirt from the winter season must also be thoroughly removed from the car’s interior so it won’t cause any permanent damages.

special detergent to remove persistent dirt such as insect residues on the front of the car or brake dust and salt on the rims.

During the residence time of the detergent, put a cleanser mixture on the rest of your car and use a cleaning brush to gently clean the paint. Finally, rinse the car with the pressure washer using a flat stream and keeping distance of approximately 30 centimeters from the surface. Modern pressure washers, such as those made by Kärcher, are well-suited for car cleaning.

Water pressure and the dosage of the cleanser can easily be regulated with the buttons on the pistol. An LCD-display on the pistol shows all important settings. If the car is clean again, paint and windows can be checked for any road stone damages. Small paint chips can be fixed with a touch up applicator. A comprehensive insurance policy usually covers all glass repairs.

Vacuum the interior of the car After cleaning the car’s exterior, clean the vehicle’s interior. The deep tread of winter shoes transports a lot of dirt into the car. A strong multi-purpose vacuum cleaner such as the WD 5 is perfect for that. Equipped with an angled suction nozzle for cars and an extra-long joint nozzle, you can even clean areas that are hard to reach. Suction brushes with hard bristles remove persistent dirt on the carpet and upholstery. Brushes with soft bristles are used to clean easily scratched surfaces in the dashboard area.

Bavarian Times | 38

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Mileage combined from 5,3 l/100km–10,7 l/100 km. C02-emissions combined from 139 g/km–249 g/km (IAW VO/715/2007/EWG).

39 | Bavarian Times

Autohaus Hofmann GmbH Kümmersbrucker Straße 6a, 92224 Amberg Phone: 09621-78230 info@autohaus-hofmann.org www.volvo-zentrum-amberg.de https://www.facebook.com/VolvoHofmann

cars & traffic

BMW Announces the new 2018 BMW 4 Series.

BMW announced updates to the 2018 BMW 4 Series. Available in three distinct body variants, the BMW 4 Series embodies the very essence of dynamics and aesthetic appeal in the premium segment. “The arrival of the first BMW 4 Series marked the beginning of a new era for BMW. The Coupe, Convertible and later the Gran Coupe signposted their ‘extra portion’ of dynamism, elegance and exclusiveness over the BMW 3 Series with their own designation. The model update distinguishes the 4 Series cars even more clearly from their sister model series and ensures that this ‘extra portion’ makes its presence felt both inside and out” Karim Habib, Head of Design BMW Automobiles. The 2018 BMW 4 Series, Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe will be available as 430i, 440i xDrive models starting March 2017. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle launch.

Photo Credit: BMW USA

The BMW 4 Series Coupe.

In the US, the BMW 4 Series success story dates back to September 2013 and the launch of the original BMW 4 Series Coupe. Built at BMW Group Plant Munich, the 4 Series Coupe adds its own brand of aesthetic appeal and performance to its qualities. With a notably wider stance and longer wheelbase than its predecessor, the body of the BMW 4 Series Coupe has a low-slung silhouette with sporty, elongated lines. Sporting the brand’s trademark short overhangs, a long hood and a passenger compartment set back with a flowing roof line, the BMW 4 Series Coupe boasts a perfectly composed design language, while still offering high levels of everyday practicality.

The BMW 4 Series Convertible.

Shortly after the launch of the BMW 4 Series Coupe, the convertible entered the U.S. market. Raising the roof line produces a broad-shouldered look and a graceful, sporty outline that is emphasized by the long trunk lid. Opening the roof, meanwhile,

creates the impression of a wraparound boat deck rear. The Convertible is manufactured at BMW Group Plant Regensburg.

The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.

The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe was BMW’s second fourdoor coupe after the 6 Series Gran Coupe. The car’s dynamiclooking, elongated styling succeeds in uniting sedan-like functionality with the sporting elegance of a coupe. Built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the addition of rear doors gives the 4 Series Gran Coupe an even sleeker appearance.

The BMW 4 Series Design.

“The maxim guiding the BMW 4 Series model update was ‘stick to the proven formula but add extra richness to the cars’ character’. That’s why the exterior design shines the spotlight most brightly on the dynamic and elegant qualities of the BMW 4 Series family” Domagoj Dukec, Head of Exterior Design BMW Automobiles.

Styling cues derived from the spectacular BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe from 2012 are clearly visible in the design of the new BMW 4 Series, with the new models including elements such as hexagonally shaped full-LED headlights, a large air intake with eye-catching bars and full-LED rear lights. The restyled nose of the BMW 4 Series expresses the model range’s dynamic overall personality to great effect. Crisp contours alternate with expansive surfaces to create a broad, sharply-contoured front end of three-dimensional muscularity that hugs the road in sporting fashion. The defining feature at the front of the new BMW 4 Series is an unbroken central air intake that increases in size towards the outer edges, lending the entire nose section a more imposing presence and a greater sense of width. StanContinued on page 42 Bavarian Times | 40

cars & traffic dard Sport line features high gloss black finish surroundings enhancing the vehicles powerful and sporty character.

Photo Credit: BMW USA

LED light arrangement with a sharper gaze.

Twin headlights help ensure the front end of the BMW 4 Series models sticks to the traditional BMW design. The 2018 BMW 4 Series Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe are equipped with new bi-LED headlights as standard. The headlights are composed of a familiar silhouette: flatbottomed headlight tubes encircled by daytime running light rings and a dynamic cropped look produced by the characteristic “eyebrow” design. The tubes’ dark-colored holders give the interior of the headlight assemblies a clear, cool look. Standard LED front fog lamps remain standard. All models in the new BMW 4 Series are now optionally available with a standout feature such as adaptive full-LED headlights, whose highly expressive light arrangement intensifies the front end’s dynamic and technically advanced appearance. The familiar layout with twin circular headlights has been incorporated into a hexagonal setting that creates an even greater sense of precision and sophistication than standard trim. The headlights have been deliberately designed to make the space-saving technology in the headlight tubes clearly visible. The headlight units are cropped off slightly at the top by the LED indicators that form the headlights’ “eyebrows”.

Multifunctional Instrument Display.

Now available with the Executive Package, BMW offers the Multifunctional Instrument Display as an option for the BMW 4 Series, which gives the driver the choice of different display options depending on the driving experience mode selected.

COMFORT mode brings a more classic display layout inspired by the traditional analogue instrument cluster. The standard displays show speed, engine revs, a fuel gauge, engine oil temperature, the current fuel consumption and the gear selected.

If the super-efficient ECO PRO mode has been selected, the BMW EfficientDynamics technologies become the center of attention. The driver is notified of additional range and brake energy regeneration performance which aids the driver’s economical driving style.

When SPORT mode is engaged using the Driving Dynamics Control switch, the Multifunctional Instrument Display focuses on performance-related readouts, such as vehicle speed, engine revs or the engine’s current output.

Wireless smartphone charging and Wi-Fi hotspot.

Compatible smartphones can be charged in the BMW 4 Series wirelessly. The inductive charging tray is located in the center armrest and establishes a wireless connection between the smartphone and the car’s external aerial for improved telephone reception, particularly in areas with a weak signal. Wireless Charging also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot – which provides high-speed in-car internet access for up to ten mobile devices – plus two USB ports in the center console. Thanks to their current ratings of 2 amps each, both USB ports are also suitable for charging tablets. Apple CarPlay is available as an option, allowing optimum integration of an Apple iPhone in the new BMW 4 Series models.

(BMW USA) Bavarian Times | 42

F-150 dependability Award undersocres built Ford tough

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 22, 2017 – American truck owners who value Built Ford Tough pickups are taking in some more great news today: Ford F-150 is J.D. Power’s 2017 Vehicle Dependability Study award recipient for large light duty pickup.

“All customers demand quality vehicles, and truck customers depend on toughness and reliability most of all,” said Bennie Fowler, Ford group vice president for quality. “That’s why Built Ford Tough is much more than a slogan. It’s how we develop the F-150 and how we deliver on our promise to customers to continuously improve America’s favorite pickup truck.”

Ford Fusion named best family Sedan in 2017 The 2017 Ford Fusion has won the 2017 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Family Sedan.

The smartest, most technology-packed Fusion ever is the first Ford vehicle in North America to offer adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection. These are among 20 driver-assist technologies available across the Fusion lineup, including Fusion Hybrid, Fusion Energi and Fusion Sport models.

Fusion Sport features a 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost® engine, along with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and continuously controlled damping for an even more fun-to-drive experience.

Every year, MotorWeek assesses new cars, trucks and SUVs, judging vehicles from a buyer’s point of view and taking into account such factors as trends, innovation, value and reliability.

(Ford Motor Company) 43 | Bavarian Times

In January, Ford celebrated a major milestone as F-Series became the top-selling truck in the United States for the 40th consecutive year and the best-selling vehicle for 35 years. Ford has sold more than 26 million F-Series trucks since January 1977.

Ford research shows F-150’s dependability – paired with its capability and toughness – is a key differentiator for the truck over the competition. Truck shoppers say they prioritize a pickup truck’s quality above all other attributes.

In addition to F-150 ranking highest among large light duty pickups, Ford takes home second most-improved brand in a tie in the annual J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study released today.

(Ford Motor Company)

Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company

F-150 builds on its renowned toughness as truck is recognized for top dependability among large light duty pickup pickups in the J.D. Power 2017 Vehicle Dependability Study. Truck shoppers prioritize F-150 quality above all other attributes, and consistently say it is a differentiator, according to internal Ford research. 2017 marks 40 consecutive years for Ford F-Series as top-selling truck in America.

cars & traffic

Mazda CX-9 was named “Best Large Utility” by MotorWeek Mazda CX-9 was named “Best Large Utility” by MotorWeek, a stalwart in automotive television content, as a part of the 2017 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards.

The editorial team at MotorWeek evaluated the vehicles during its annual Drivers’ Choice Awards from the “buyer’s point of view,” and the list of winners represent what the television program identifies as a practical guide for car shopping. After evaluating more than 150 vehicles every year, the winners are chosen based on what buyers value the most: driving performance, technology, practicality and dollar value.

Mazda CX-9 checks all the boxes. It sets itself apart from most three-row SUVs with KODO—Soul of Motion design and a sophisticated interior to match. In addition to its sleek design, CX-9 delivers in the performance department, with its SKYACTIV-D 2.5T turbocharged engine. CX-9 proves that a large utility vehicle can still have good looks and dynamic performance.

(Mazda North American Operations)

Photo Credit: Mazda North American Operations (2)

Chicago News Names 2017 Mazda CX-3 best Crossover of the Year Recognized for its unparalleled combination of premium amenities, efficiency and value, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 has been awarded as the “Best Crossover of the Year” by Chicago News.

The 2017 CX-3 won competing against four other vehicles in the segment and was recognized for its “seamless integration into the entire Mazda lineup.”

The award for “Best Crossover of the Year” was presented to Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, Special Assignments during the 2017 Chicago Auto Show.

“Mazda CX-3 is a perfect balance between style and substance with its beautiful design, upscale interior and allweather utility,” said Robert Davis, senior VP, Special Assignments, Mazda North American Operations. “We’re thrilled that the 2017 CX-3 was named Best Crossover of the Year

by Chicago News, as it’s a perfect vehicle for on-the-go Chicagoans who desire the ruggedness of a crossover SUV in a smaller, more efficient package for the urban jungle.”

(Mazda North American Operations) Bavarian Times | 44

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cars & traffic

2017 Jeep Compass The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass expands the brand’s global reach with an unmatched combination of attributes that includes legendary and best-in-class 4x4 off-road capability, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, premium and authentic Jeep design, superior on-road driving dynamics, open-air freedom, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology offerings.

A truly global all-new compact SUV, the 2017 Jeep Compass will be manufactured in Brazil, China, Mexico and India, for consumers in more than 100 countries around the world.

“Our all-new 2017 Jeep Compass enters an extremely important and growing segment worldwide, and does so with an unmatched list of attributes that includes benchmark 4x4 off-road capability, exceptional on-road driving dynamics, fuel-efficient powertrains, countless advanced technology and safety features, all wrapped in a premium, authentic Jeep design,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “Built around the world for customers everywhere, Jeep Compass raises the bar in the compact-SUV segment.”

Photo Credit: FCA US LLC.

The 2017 Jeep Compass is available in four different trim configurations: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk.

Best-in-class off-road capability with two leading 4x4 systems The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass delivers best-in-class off-road capability, courtesy of two advanced, intelligent 4x4 systems, each of which can send 100 percent of available torque to any one wheel: • Jeep Active Drive – full-time 4x4 system • Jeep Active Drive Low – class-exclusive full-time 4x4 system with 20:1 crawl ratio Both Jeep Active Drive and Active Drive Low 4x4 systems include the Jeep Selec-Terrain system, providing up to five modes

(Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud modes, plus exclusive Rock mode on the Trailhawk model) for the best four-wheel-drive performance on- or off-road and in any weather condition. For even greater Trail Rated off-road capability, Selec-Terrain includes Selec-Speed Control with Hill-descent Control on Trailhawk models.

Compass features a disconnecting rear axle and power take-off unit (PTU), in order to provide 4x4 models with enhanced fuel economy. Jeep Active Drive and Active Drive Low 4x4 systems instantly engage when 4x4 traction is needed.

Superior on-road driving dynamics FCA’s “small wide architecture,” a fully independent suspension, segment-exclusive frequency damping front-and-rear-strut system, and precise electric power steering combine to deliver superior on-road driving dynamics in the all-new 2017 Jeep Compass.

Compass boasts a rigid foundation. The upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit for a stiff and more mass-efficient structure, and it is designed and built with an extensive use of high-strength steel and liberal use of structural adhesives. More than 65 percent high-strength steel is used for maximizing vehicle dynamics and crash performance while optimizing weight efficiency.

Advanced fuel-efficient powertrains A total of five engines – three gasoline and two diesel – will be offered, depending on the market worldwide. In North America, the proven, fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine will power the Compass, delivering best-in-class 4x4 highway fuel economy of 31 mpg when paired with the six-speed manual transmission.

Authentic Jeep design with premium features and open-air freedom The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass features a premium, sculptural design aesthetic. The exterior design is expressive and emotional with a wide stance and exceptional glass-to-wheel proportions. The all-new compact SUV is immediately recognizBavarian Times | 46

able as a Jeep with its distinctive traditional Jeep design cues.

Jeep designers gave the legendary seven-slot grille a fresh look by setting each of the individual chrome slots in a Gloss Black field. Headlamp bezels featuring a black outline add personality and attitude to the front of the all-new Jeep Compass.

The exterior of the 2017 Jeep Compass features a traditional clamshell hood with a double break line and center bulge.

A fast, dramatic roofline and muscular fenders and shoulders create a stunning profile. The available Gloss Black painted roof adds a unique, premium appearance in the compact SUV segment. An available dual-pane sunroof provides the largest opening possible, connecting Jeep drivers and passengers to the outdoors and open-air freedom.

For added consumer convenience, the 2017 Jeep Compass features a power liftgate helping ease cargo storage.

Advanced technology that delivers thorough use of all-new infotainment systems The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass offers four new Uconnect systems for North America (Uconnect 5.0, 7.0, 8.4 and 8.4NAV), de-

er v o th i w ...

ar s o e y 20

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The new lineup includes easy-to-use features, enhanced processing power, faster startup times and touchscreens that display high-resolution graphics.

(FCA US LLC.)

nce e i r e exp

Full service Warranty work Diagnostic Brake service Body work Accident repair Tuning Tire shop and something much more

Feel free to call us!

47 | Bavarian Times

livering communication, entertainment and navigation features that drivers and passengers desire, including the segment’s largest full-color LED instrument cluster.

Photo Credit: FCA US LLC.

A standout feature of the rear of the Compass is its unique LED tail lamps. Slim and rectangular in shape, the tail lamps flow into the liftgate for a commanding yet premium appearance instantly recognizable as a Jeep Compass on the road or trail.

Schneider’s Auto Service Conrad-Röntgen-Str. 30 92637 Weiden 0961/48 27 20 www.schneiders-auto-service.de info@schneiders-auto-service.de

We accept VAT-forms and credit cards and also work on all brands

Transporting a dog by car – Regulations for the securing of loads

Misdemeanor Animal improperly secured ... endangering others ... causing damage

Fine Points 30 EUR 60 EUR 1 75 EUR 1

Dog transport by car Transporting animals by car without properly securing them poses severe traffic safety risks. The worst consequence is an accident. If you want to transport a dog or a cat, you must take proper preparations before traveling.

If you are planning a long trip, you should first determine whether you even want to take your dog or cat along, or if it would not be better to give the pet to trustworthy friends or put it in a certified animal hostel. A vacation with animals can be stressful, especially for sensitive animals. In that case, you should avoid transporting your dog by car.

However, if you do wish to transport or travel with your animals, there are several ways to do that. Depending on the size of your pet, a variety of accessories are available for purchase at specialty stores including • safety belts for the back seat • transport boxes for dogs and cats for use on the back seat or in the trunk • dog guards for the trunk • car seat for dogs (for use on the back seat) Bavarian Times | 48

Photo Credit: Alexandra Walberer

You must pay attention to several regulations for the securing of loads if you want to transport your pet by car. After all, you do not want to torture your pet by subjecting it to improper transport conditions. At the same time, you want to avoid being fined because you have improperly secured your load.

pets We recommend looking for suitable equipment early on in specialty stores. It must fit the dog’s size and temper. A lively dog, for example, might suffer in a dog box. Mounting a dog guard that separates the back from the front seats, however, provides him more room to endure a long journey unstressed.

be secured so it will not be thrown around the inside of the car when suddenly applying the brakes. if your cat get very restless when transported by car, you can also transport it on your passenger’s lap.

If you are planning to take your dog on a long trip by car, you should allow for enough time to try out transport boxes or other devices to ensure your dog accepts and tolerates them. Also keep in mind that some means of transport must be mounted before they can be used. Don’t mount them at the last minute because you will have a lot of other things to do on the day of departure, and stress often transfers to the pet.

Should dogs be transported in the trunk?

Dogs are transported on the back seat.

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock, Photo-SD

If your dog is accustomed to traveling on the passenger seat, he might want to climb to the front. This causes risks because it distracts the driver and the dog might injure himself when climbing to the front. Therefore, a dog guard is useful to maximize the dog’s security in the car. The dog guard can also be mounted in such a way that it allows for the dog to travel on the back seat. This is the best method of transport for large dogs. Small dogs often feel more comfortable in a dog transport box because they feel safer in there. All animals are different and pet owners should try out various ways of transporting their dog by car.

Seatbelt law for dogs Humans must wear seatbelts. But is there a seatbelt law for dogs? A dog may not be transported on the passenger seat without properly being secured. This is a violation of the regulation for the proper securing of loads. The dog maybe thrown around the interior of the car, can get nervous and restless and move around the car’s interior and thus pose a safety risk. Since seat belts for humans do not properly fit dogs, seat belts for dogs can be bought in animal supply stores. You can buckle up your dog with them and properly secure him in the car. But be careful: When you buckle up your dog in the car, always check the proper position of the belt to avoid painful strangulations!

Transporting cats by car Generally, cats are properly secured in the car when being transported in a transport box. Compared to transporting dogs, the size of cats is less problematic when transporting them. The box can either be put on the back seat or in the trunk and buckled up there. However, the safest place is on the floor behind the front seats. Nevertheless and in accordance with German traffic law, the box with the cat should always 49 | Bavarian Times

More tips for safely transporting animals An animal transport requires preparation If you have bought the proper accessories for transporting your animal, then you can safely put your pet in the car. Following are additional tips for a comfortable transport of your pet. If you follow these tips, you will enjoy a more pleasant trip.

• •

• • • •

•

Regular breaks are important for the driver and the animal.

Especially when transporting a dog, it is necessary to occasionally take the dog for a short walk to prevent him from getting restless.

You surely know which treats your pet likes most. Occasionally reward and pacify him with a treat on a long drive.

After consulting with your veterinarian, you may give your pet tranquilizers to help him make it through the trip.

Don’t forget your pet’s favorite blanket or toy. It provides familiarity and your animal is less frightened.

Pay attention to your animal’s signals. If the seat belt for dogs is too tight, it can strangulate the animal or inflict pain, Pay attention because your animal can only articulate itself by whimpering or making similar noises.

The way in which you secure your dog should meet his needs. A transport box is probably best when your dog is asleep while he might prefer to sit on the passenger seat when awake.

Transporting dogs by car – Be ware when traveling abroad!

Some countries have strict entry rules for pets. Some dog breeds, for example, may not enter Denmark. Pets must have an EU-pet passport when crossing borders within the European Union. It must include proof that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies. Animals younger than three months may only cross the border with a special entry. Pet owners must research the respective entry rules of the country/countries they wish to visit so there won’t be any bad surprises when crossing borders. | by Alexandra Walberer

Photo Credit: Alexandra Walberer (2)

Nothing speaks against transporting your dog in the trunk of your car if it is large enough. Traffic law allows for this method of transport and you will not be fined. The dog has more room there than in the passenger area. However, you should keep two things in mind when using this method of transport. First, you should put a blanket in the trunk to prevent your car from getting soiled or scratched. Secondly, you should consider separating the trunk from the front part of your car with a dog guard.

events

Local event tips Farmers Markets Farmers Market - Weiden Every Wednesday, Saturday | 8:00am - 12:30pm Weiden Farmer's Market every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Market includes produce, breads, meat and more. GPS Directions: Unterer Markt, 92637 Weiden. More farmers market info at www.bayerischerbauernverband.de/bauernmaerkte-oberpfalz.

Farmers Market (Grafenwoehr) Every Thursday | 9:00am - 2:00pm Farmer's Market offering fresh produce from the local area.

Grafenwoehr market square Local Farmer's Market (Garmisch) Every Thursday, 8 a.m., Partenkirchen, Ludwigstrasse, Farmer’s Market, Fresh produce and local food specialties.

German Events Volksmarch Kirchenthumbach Saturday, March 18, 2017 | 7:00am - 11:30am Schulturnhalle, Schulgässchen, 91281 Kirchenthumbach Start time is up to you. On Saturday, Registration opens at 7 AM and closes at 11:30 AM. On Sunday, Registration opens at 7 AM and closes at 11:30 AM. Kirchenthumbach is about 17 km (20 min. driving) from Gate 3 Tower Barracks.

Kids’ Stuff Second-Hand Bazaar (Grafenwoehr) Saturday, March 18, 2017 | 12:00pm - 3:00pm Open for expecting moms with one accompanying person max. at 1200. For all others at 1300 through 1500 in the teen center (Jugendheim). Toys and clothes.

Garrison Events Grafenwoehr USO | St. Patrick's Day Celebration Friday, March 17, 2017 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm WHERE: Grafenwoehr USO, Bldg. 150 Tower Barracks Grafenwoehr USO | Table Top Game Night Friday, March 17, 2017 | 6:00pm - 9:30pm WHERE: Grafenwoehr USO, Bldg. 150 Tower Barracks Babysitter’s Training & Pediatric CPR/FA Course (Hohenfels) Saturday, March 18, 2017 | 9:00am - 6:00pm American Red Cross babysitter training will be available on each day at the same time from 09:00am to 6:00pm. Age requirement: 11-17 years (specifically, participants need to be able to accomplish the physical skills of CPR, emergency response, and the carrying/transport of young children.)

Fee: $45 (payable online with registration) Registration will close 3 business days prior to event.

LOCATION: Hohenfels American Red Cross, Bldg. 359 BCSC Spring Market (Grafenwoehr) Saturday, March 18, 2017 | 10:00am - 3:00pm

Come shop local crafters for fabulous gifts or something for yourself. More Info: www.bavariacsc.com Exchange Rag-A-Bone Antique Auction (Tower Barracks) Saturday, March 18, 2017 | 10:00am The Exchange Rag-A-Bone Antique Auction is back at the Tower Barracks Exchange. Viewing on 18 March from 10am to 6pm and auction starts on 19 March at 1pm to 5pm.

LOCATION: Tower Barracks Mall Tent KONTAKT Club: Monthly Stammtisch (Hohenfels) Monday, March 20, 2017 | All day or non-timed event The Stammtisch is the perfect way to get started and learn more about the Hohenfels KONTAKT Club.

LOCATION: Landgasthof Schnaus in Oberpfaundorf (GPS: Dorfstraße 42, 93176 Beratzhausen) Hohenfels Health Clinic Patient Advisory Council Tuesday, March 21, 2017 | 2:00pm - 4:00pm Hohenfels Health Clinic Patient Advisory Council February 21: Hohenfels Health Clinic wants to hear from you! The Patient Advisory Council (PAC) benefits patients, the healthcare organization, and the provider. The PAC allows patients to become advocates for their community, partner with their healthcare organization and collaborate to improve patient-centered care.

All community members are welcome. The Patient Advisory Council will have its first meeting 21 FEB 2017 at 1400 in the Hohenfels Clinic Conference Room. No sign up necessary!

Grafenwoehr USO | Dinner for Service Members & Families (Tower Barracks) Tuesday, March 21, 2017 | 5:30pm WHERE: Grafenwoehr USO, Bldg. 150 Camp Aachen USO | Movie Night (Camp Aachen) Thursday, March 23, 2017 | 7:00pm - 9:00pm WHERE: Camp Aachen, Bldg. 1164 CYS Physical Clinic (Hohenfels) Friday, March 24, 2017 | All day or non-timed event Back by popular demand, the clinic will be hosting 2 dates dedicated to CYS physicals! If your child is due or will become due during the Spring season, please contact the clinic to book your appointment! For more, call Hohenfels Health Clinic 06371-9464-3300 Camp Aachen USO | PS4 Gaming Tournament Saturday, March 25, 2017 | 6:00pm WHERE: Camp Aachen, Bldg. 1164 April Fools 5K Fun Run (Hohenfels) Saturday, April 1, 2017 | 9:00am LOCATION: Hohenfels Post Gym Camp Aachen USO | Craft Night Monday, April 10, 2017 | 7:00pm - 9:00pm WHERE: Camp Aachen, Bldg. 1164 Bavarian Times | 50

REGENSBURG MAY

Event day: “Fit into Spring” Weiden, Germany -- Following the past cold and dark months, everybody is looking forward to getting rid of winter and starting physically fit into spring. City Marketing Weiden is inviting everybody to exercise together, talk to one another and get information about fitness, health, leisure activities and cars on the event day “Fit into Spring” on March 11, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can expect a diverse program with various exhibition and info booths in front of the Old Town hall.

Additionally, the farmers’ market attracts visitors with fresh fruit and vegetables and various specialties from regional farmers. The stores invite visitors on a shopping tour, offering attractive sales of seasonal goods.

www.r-dult.com

DULT MAY 12-28,, 20017 Fireworks FRI, May 12 and FRI, May 26,2017 starting at 10 p.m.

Senior Citizens Day For more information, got to

www.stadtmarketing-weiden.de

MON, May 15, 2017 in the Hahn fest tent

MON, May 22, 2017 in the Glöckl fest tent

starting at 1 p.m.

Kids & Family Day WED, May 17 and 24, 2017 Special fares twice at all rides all day long

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock, Tanja

Easter market in Grafenwoehr’s city park

Ladies' Night THUR, May 18, 2017 Every lady regardless of her age only pays 1 Euro per ride or admission starting at 7 p.m.

Grafenwoehr, Germany -- The traditional Easter market in the courtyard of the museum and in the city park takes place on Aril 2, 2017 and starts at 1 p.m. Arts and crafts made from glass, wood and metal, Easter candles, birdhouses and much more are for sale. Bratwurst, steaks, coffee and cake are also available. Children can decorate Easter candles. (abu)

Please make your reservations:

51 | Bavarian Times

Table reservations in the fest tent office (starting at 1 p.m.)

Phone: 0941-200 75 677 www.gloeckl.net

Phone: 0941-8979 5626 Fax: 0941-2800 4683 reservierung@hahnzelt.de www.hahnzelt.de

travel

Nuremberg Zoo: Zoo offspring attracts visitors

The city expanded the zoo after it was almost totally destroyed during World War II. The majority of animals lives in outdoor enclosures, free to move around as if they were in the wild.

Nuremberg Zoo is the largest in Germany with an area of 65 hectare. Large bodies of water, old trees, sandstone formations and a lot of meadows give you the feeling of being in the great outdoors. Whether it is alpine marmots, meerkats, polar bears, western lowland gorillas or giant kangaroos -- there is hardly a species that is not represented.

Nuremberg Zoo provides unique perspectives on the way of life of different animals. Additionally, visitors are informed about the protection of species, or learn interesting things about the animals’ behavior and its natural habitat. Visit the Aqua park with its generous habitat for polar bears, penguins, European otters and Californian sea lions. Or experience zebras at close range in their large, savannah-like enclosures. It’s also interesting to see how well ostriches and giraffes get along. A visit with the cats of prey is equally exciting. Here, you do not only meet tigers, lions and cheetahs, but also snow leopards. And why not pay a visit to the very rare yellow-throated martens. Regardless of how you plan your visit, you will always be inspired by the fascinating impressions.

The dolphin show is a highlight. In Nuremberg, all dolphinarium fans have the opportunity to experience the animals at close range. The show’s program consists of games and provides an insight into the keeping, care and training of the animals. The additional dolphin lagoon provides the animals with an outdoor compound that is more than 50 meters long, filled with threemillion liters of saltwater and a water depth of up to seven meters.

The underwater world is modeled after the animals’ natural habitat. It is the first outdoor compound of its kind in Germany and

offers dolphins and sea lions more room to romp around and a more species-appropriate way of life.

New perspectives on the animals’ way of life Nuremberg Zoo offers special tours and individual arrangements that provide surprising encounters again and again. Accompany the zookeepers and look forward to interesting insights into the life of the zoo’s inhabitants. The zoo’s tour guides will share their knowledge with you in a descriptive, entertaining and dedicated way.

Encounter with dolphins Get to know the dolphin lagoon and its inhabitants up close and personal. Allow the dolphins to ask you to play with them and experience the animals at close range. You will gain new insights into the way of life of these friendly marine mammals. The zoo’s tour guides will also share interesting background information about their habitat with you.

Morning tour A morning in Nuremberg Zoo is a very special experience. The zoo’s residents behave differently during that time of the day and visitors get new impressions and insights. Join our zoo tour guides on an exciting walk through the fascinating scenery of the morning zoo.

Opening hours Nuremberg Zoo is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Animal buildings close at 5.15 p.m., last admission is at 5 p.m.

Admission fees Family pass (parents or grand-parents with their biological children and grand-children up to 17 years of age): 31.50 Euro Partial family pass (One parent or grand-parent with his/her biological children and grand-children up to 17 years of age):

18 Euro Single adult ticket: 13.50 Euro Children, ages four to thirteen: 6.50 Euro Cash payment only.

| by Editorial Department

Stop by!

Bavarian Times | 52 www.tiergarten.nuernberg.de

Photo Credit: wikipedia.org/Jed

Nuremberg, Germany -- Nuremberg Zoo is one of Europe’s most beautifully landscaped zoos. About 300 species live in naturally-designed habitat between old trees, idyllic ponds and rock formations. Whether in summer or winter, a visit to the zoo is always worth your while.

travel Photo Credit: wikipedia.org/Mammalwatcher

Photo Credit: Stadt Nuremberg/Uli Kowatsch

Nuremberg Zoo with its ragged sandstones and its centuries-old trees in the middle of an idyllic landscape of wetlands and meadows is one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe. About 2,000 animals and 300 species are shown here in compounds resembling their natural habitat.

Dogs are not allowed in the zoo Dogs are domesticated predators and are recognized and feared as such by the zoo’s animals. dogs may also transmit infectious diseases. They also disturb our free-running animals such as marmots and squirrels. The animals at Nuremberg Zoo are not accustomed to dogs. Please respect the zoo’s decision to not allow dogs.

Visit the enormous DEVIL`S CAVE! Please note: In the Devil‘s Cave, there are over 400 steps. Photography is allowed only without flash!

Please stay with the group!

The residents of this region had named the tremendous cave gorge the „Teufelsloch“ (Devil`s Hole) hundreds of years ago. But after the discovery, as one could see the huge dimensions of the cave, it was called „Teufelshöhle“, which means `Devil`s Cave`. „Devil`s Hole“ is the first hall in the cave, is 30 feet high and above it there are 50 feet of stone. 27 years

further there was a cave-in. In October 1922 the cave-explorer, a mining engineer called Prof. Dr. Hans Brandt, gave the order to break a passage through the cave-in. His workers had to dig 30 feet before they found the natural course of the cave. During the next ten years the cave was extended to one mile, which can be visited up to now.

Right behind the entrance, one can see the first limestone- formations. The „Pope`s Crown“, the „Organ“ and the „Curtain“.

They are between 10 000 and 12 000 years old.

The limestones hanging from the ceiling are called stalactites and the ones growing out of the ground are the stalagmites. To build up 1 mm of limestone it takes 13 years.

Next to our journey into „Devil`s Cave` is

Bears Grotto. Visitors can see even a complete skeleton of a cave bear. The bear was approximately 12 feet high and his weight was 900 pounds. After passing the „Nibelung Grotto“ the visitor enters the „Barbarossa Dome“.

In this hall one can see „Barbarossas Beard“ which forms a fine waterfall. A stalagmite arising from the ground in the form of a Pagoda Pillar „Emperor Barbarossa“ is the most beautiful formation in the cavern and it is 200 000 years old.

If the visitor looks downwards in the „Barbarossa Dome“ he can see the deepest location of the cave: it is situated 230 feet below the upper surface of the cavern. The visitor has to go up „Mount Calvary“ and after he has reached the last step, he can see

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 53 | Bavarian Times 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!!!

the multi-colour illuminated „Crucifixion“ to his right. After the „Three-Kaisers-Grotto“ and the „Witches Shaft“ the visitor enters the „Colossal Hall“.

This cave is 42 feet high and above it there are 147 feet of stone. In this hall one can find the two oldest limestones of `Devil`s Cave`. The first stalacmite resembles a „tree“, the other one is called „Goliath“.

Their age is thought to be over 300 000 years.

Then one walks through the „Candle Hall“ and finally reavches the exit. As the exit is 82 feet higher, the visitor has to pass a romantic gorge to get back to the entrance.

THaNK yOu fOr viSiTiNG!

travel

Dublin on a budget in a day and a half DUBLIN — Thanks to a miraculous aligning of discount Ryan Air flights, sunny weather and an approved three-day pass, we booked a spontaneous trip to Dublin, Ireland.

Board the bus using Route 16 at Stop 7347, and climb the stairs to the upper deck. Dublin Buses leave every half an hour, and it takes about 30 minutes to arrive downtown.

If you’ve never thought about traveling there, you should consider. The country boasts food that is a contemporary blend of

Webpage www.dublinbus.ie - Total: €6 3:30 p.m.

ELEPHANT & CASTLE Nestled in the heart of Dublin’s Temple Bar district, this lunch spot has some seriously good food. The beef is of Irish origin and all burgers are prepared in house. We ordered a burger with buffalo mozzarella, pesto and roasted tomato and hand-cut fries, but the salads and main dishes looked just as thoughtfullycrafted and delicious.

Webpage www.elephantandcastle.ie Total: €30

American, Parisian and Irish cuisines. And many restaurants select food from organic farms and local vendors. The city is alive with music, vibrant pubs, friendly city dwellers and a sophisticated young population.

Photo Credit: Rothenburg Tourismus Service / W. Pfitzinger

The lodging website Airbnb offers an abundance of affordable houses and apartments, but plenty of hotels and hostels are also readily available throughout the city. If you fly out of Frankfurt Hahn airport, park at a private lot. It will save you up to €50 in transportation expenses.

This itinerary is based on my travelling preferences with my husband, which includes great food, drinks, museums and historical landmarks, and the suggestions of locals we met during our trip. If you follow our footsteps, bring some comfortable shoes — we walked ten miles — and about €300 for food, shopping and worthy tours.

4:30 p.m.

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE If you do nothing else in Dublin, you must visit the Guinness Storehouse. A few steps off Dublin’s main block, the massive complex has seven interactive floors that break down the iconic beer’s brewing process. At the end of the tour, visitors pour their own pint of Guinness and drift upstairs for a 360-view of Dublin. Buy tickets in advance online for a 10% discount.

Webpage www.guinness-storehouse.com/en - Total: €36 7:00 p.m.

THE PORT HOUSE PINTXO About a ten-minute walk away, the Port House Pintxo has a creative tapas menu with an Irish flair. Try the Pepito Solomillo, mini grilled sirloin steak on garlic toast, and the Paelle de Verdura, Spain’s traditional rice dish. The company also owns an incredibly cool, multi-level bar just around the corner.

Webpage porthouse.ie - Total: €25

Day 1

3 p.m.

DUBLIN AIRPORT Take Dublin Bus, the local commuter’s preferred method of public transportation, to the city center. A one-way ticket is €3.10, as opposed to Aircoach Express buses, which charges €7 for the same trip. All buses are just outside the terminal.

9:30 p.m.

THE BRAZEN HEAD Established in 1198, the Brazen Head is Ireland’s oldest pub. It was referenced in James Joyce’s book Ulysses, and the small venue offers live music every night with a great beer selection.

Webpage www.brazenhead.com - Total: €23 Bavarian Times | 54

travel 7:30 p.m.

THE WINDING STAIR We saved the best for last. The Winding Stair, which is named after a Yeats poem, is a restaurant stationed above an old restored Irish bookshop. The restaurant is quickly becoming one of Dublin’s favorite food hot-spots, so be sure to book a reservation in advance.

Webpage green19.ie - Total: €20

Webpage winding-stair.com - Total: €60

12:30 p.m.

PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL, CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL & DUBLIN CASTLE Time to walk off breakfast and do some sight-seeing. These sites were all founded in the 11th and 12th centuries and are about five minutes apart. Together, they capture Ireland’s rich history and cultural roots. Museums and services are also located in each at a reasonable price.

9 p.m.

THE PALACE BAR Walk past the Hard Rock Café and into this highly-regarded, historic Irish pub. A bartender recommended it, and we’re so glad he did. The pub is known for its beer and whiskey.

Webpage www.stpatrickscathedral.ie, christchurchcathedral.ie, www.dublincastle.ie

ONE FINAL TIP: Use the “Route Planner” on Dublin Bus to identify the nearest bus stop and save euros on your trip back to the airport.

55 | Bavarian Times

AM

B E RG

BRE WER

IES

FRIDAY, APRIL 21 5 P.M. – 11 P.M.

G · WINK L ER

6 p.m.: Official opening Music by „Tanngrindler Musikanten“

SATURDAY, APRIL 22 • 5 P.M. – 11 P.M. 6 p.m.: Official opening Music by „Kapelle Josef Menzl“

SUNDAY, APRIL 23 • 10 A.M. – 10 P.M.

HAN

starting at 10 a.m.: Frühschoppen with Music 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.: Music by „Austria 7“

ME

Ω Every additional beer chip: 2,– ¤

RT

· SC

T HL ODER E R · S

UD

Ω Personal beer mug + 3 beer tasting chips: 10,– ¤

M

Webpage www.jamesonwhiskey.com/ie/ - Total: €30

T S E F R E E B G AMBER

KU

5 p.m.

OLD JAMESON DISTILLERY (or GRAFTON STREET) Since you’re in the area, why not meander down one of Dublin’s main shopping strips and pick up some souvenirs? If you’re not the shopping type, though, Old Jameson Distillery is about 15 minutes away and they have some excellent tours and tastings.

Buy online and save 10 percent at €14.40 per ticket.

WITH AMBERG BREWERIES

BRUCK MÜLL ER ·

4:30 p.m.

STEPHEN’S GREEN Weather-permitting, walk through Dublin’s famously ever-green park. Ducks and swans bathe in the lakes, young couples dine on picnic blankets and kids splash in the fountains. It’s a great break from Europe’s grey winters.

celebrates

Webpage thefarmfood.ie - Total: €25

THE CITY OF AMBERG

·S

3 p.m.

THE FARM The Farm is the health-conscious and environmental crusader’s dream come true. Focused on local, free-range and organic food sourcing, the restaurant has a seasonal menu with contemporary Irish selections.

| by Jackie Pennoyer

1:30 p.m.

TRINITY COLLEGE & THE BOOK OF KELLS Easily the most romantic walk in Dublin, Trinity College is Ireland’s most prestigious university. The architecture and landscaping compete with the world’s oldest academic institutions for beauty and sophistication. Also, visit the college’s museum, which houses Ireland’s national treasure: The Book of Kells.

The self-guided tour walks visitors through the stages of illuminated manuscripts and showcases various pages from the ninth-century book of Christian gospels. Tickets for the museum tour are €10 each.

Webpage www.tcd.ie - Total: €20

Webpage www.thepalacebardublin.com - Total: €25

ER

K

APRIL 21–23

Fest tent Bleichwiese (ACC)

Organizer: Culture department of the City of Amberg in cooperation with Amberg’s breweries • Graphic design: M. Wilhelm | www.buero-wilhelm.de

Day 2

11 a.m.

GREEN 19 Green 19 is a hidden gem. It is owned by a young guy with a killer beard and loads of suggestions for tourists. The restaurant has a straightforward concept: a simple menu and affordable food. Order the “Full Irish” and porridge for a traditional Irish breakfast.

travel

BCSC president’s favorite travel sites in Europe Meert's top travel spots Europe

Special

When to go

Where

Webpage

Rad + Reisen: Self-Guided Bike Tours

All year round

Europe

en.radreisen.at

CenterParcs

All year round

Germany, France, UK, Belgium, Netherlands

www.centerparcs.com

Belgian Beer Festivals

All year round

Belgium

belgium.beertourism.com

Belgium Sand Sculpturesber

June – September

Oostende, Belgium

www.zandsculpturen.be

Brussels Flower Carpet

August

Brussels, Belgium

www.flowercarpet.be/en

Bruges Christmas Market & Ice Festival

November – January

Hasselt, Belgium

www.ijssculptuur.be/en/

Cesky Krumlov

All year round

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

www.czechtourism.com/t/ cesky-krumlov-unesco/

Kutna Hora

All year round

Sedlec, Czech Republic

www.czechtourism.com/t/ kutna-hora/

France

Breakfast in America (Paris)

All year round

Paris, France

breakfast-in-america.com/

Germany

Pick-Your-Own Farms in Germany

All year round

All over Germany

www.pickyourown.org

Nachtmann Crystal Factory Outlet

All year round

Neustadt an der Waldnaab, Germany

www.nachtmann.com/ werksverkauf/neustadt/

Rudesheim Seilbahn: Castle Tour & River Cruise

All year round

Rhine River, Germany

www.seilbahn-ruedesheim.de

Draisinen Bike Tour on Former Railroad Tracks

All year round

Kusel, Gernany

draisinentour.de

Germany’s Longest Suspension Bridge

All year round

Moersdorf, Germany

www.geierlay.de

Miniature Wonderland

All year round

Hamburg, Germany

www.miniatur-wunderland.com

Spargel (White Asparagus) Picking

April – June

Germany restaurants, festivals, harvesters

www.asausagehastwo. com/spargelzeit-everything-you-need-to-knowabout-white-asparagus/

Rhine in Flames

May – September

Rhine River, Germany

www.romantic-germany. info/things-to-do/leisuretips/rhine-in-flames/

Grape-Picking via Eberbacher Winery

September – November

Hallgarten, Germany

www.zoomvino.com/ winery/132948/weinguteberbacher-ho

Maduradam Miniature World

All year round

Den Haag, Netherlands

www.madurodam.nl

Zundert Flower Parade

September

Zundert, Netherlands

www.corsozundert.nl

Valkenburg Underground Christmas Market

November – December

Valkenburg, Netherlands

www.kerststadvalkenburg.nl

Poland

Boleslawiec Polish Pottery Festival

August

Bolesławiec, Poland

www.poland.travel/en-us/ news/pottery-festival-inboleslawiec/

United Kingdom

London Kids Week

August (Tickets go on sale starting in June!)

London, UK

www.kidsweek.co.uk

Highclere Castle

May – September

Newbury, UK

www.highclerecastle.co.uk

Belgium

Czech Republic

Netherlands

Bavarian Times | 56

travel Meert became the president of Bavaria Community and Spouses Club, an organization open to the whole Bavarian Army community, last year after the predominantlyvolunteer group elected her.

Meert and her family are finishing off their ninth year in Europe as active military. Together, they’ve built a pretty impressive travel portfolio, including lots of convenient, local and unique attractions often overlooked by travel agencies and passing visitors.

Many of the sites are family-friendly, tailored to appease the demanding energy of small children, and make for great, drive-able weekend adventures.

Since becoming president of BCSC, Meert has enabled a vision of inclusivity and expanded the scope of community impact. She’s reached out to single Soldiers and new military families and forged relationships with key community leaders. The group meets regularly for lunches, day trips and other committee meetings.

To learn more, or get involved, make the connection at www.bavariacsc.com or email president@baavariacsc. com. | by Jackie Pennoyer

Photo Credit: pexels.com/Pixabay

It’s the “hidden gems,” Jan Meert said — referring to lesser known travel sites off the beaten tourist path — that can really make the European living experience so much richer.

Discover London

What type of weather can I expect in London?

London’s climate is moderate with warm summers and cold winters. Avoid visiting London from October to December because it is raining a lot. Summer is the best time to visit London because of the pleasantly warm temperatures.

Which city district is best for my trip to London?

In the City of London, the economic heart of the metropolis, features modern banks but also the famous St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Many of London’s most famous sights are located in the Westminster district. They include Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. The multi-cultural district of SoHo is colorful and lively. Chelsea and Kensington are rich districts with numerous museums and large parks.

Natural History Museum Apart from a permanent dinosaur exhibition, the Natural History Museum features a collection of the largest and rarest animal Buckingham Palace, London

57 | Bavarian Times

species in the world. Admire the live-size blue whale, a 40-million-year-old spider and the impressive entrance hall of the museum. A ticket is required for special exhibitions.

Southbank Centre Southbank Centre is a world-famous arts center on the southern banks of the Thames river, featuring a lot of cultural events. Experience music, dance, art, performance art and Spoken Word.

Take part in the free activities and events and enjoy a large variety of restaurants, cafés, shops and markets.

Every year, more than 1,000 musicians and artist come here to perform and exhibit their work for 22 million visitors which makes Southbank Centre one of the most favorite cultural centers in the country. Additionally, festivals are held year-round. .

Southbank Centre was built in 1951 to host the Festival of Britain. Meanwhile, it has developed into a large festival ground with indoor and outdoor areas. Its goal is to inspire people to experience art in new, creative ways.

Coca-Cola London Eye Coca-Cola London Eye has become a permanent feature of Continued on page 58

Photo Credit: British Tourist Authority (VisitBritain)

When taking a vacation in London, visit exciting museums, stroll along the Thames river and admire the sights of the city such as Big Ben or Tower Bridge and relax in one of the well-kept English gardens. The capital of the United Kingdom is located in southeast England and with more than eight million inhabitants one of the world’s major finance and trade centers.

London’s skyline. Currently the world’s highest Ferris wheel with more than 32 glass gondolas, each providing room for 25 persons and weighing 10 tons. Take one of those unforgettable rides and see more than 55 of London’s famous sight sin only 30 minutes.

Victoria and Albert Museum The V&A with its fantastic pieces of art from around the world celebrates 3,000 years of art and design. The museum is true treasure chest and you never know what you will discover next: Furniture, paintings, sculptures, metal art and textiles, and much more. A ticket is required for special exhibitions.

Borough Market is one of London’s oldest food markets.

Science Museum The Science Museum always invites you to think: Whether it is the future of space flight or the unanswered question of who we are.

Here, you can see, touch and understand the largest scientific advancement of the past 300 years. Do not miss the impressive Imax theater. A ticket is required for special exhibitions.

Tower of London Discover the Tower of London, one of the world’s most famous buildings. Here, you learn everything about its 900-year-old history as a royal palace, prison, execution location, weapons’ arsenal, depository of the crown jewels and zoo! Go up White Tower, walk through the bedroom of an medieval king and admire the crown jewels.

Buckingham Palace Visit Buckingham Palace, one of the few royal palaces in the world that are still in use. The palace is the official residence of the Queen and has been the site of many historic events such as royal christenings and visits of leading international politicians.

You can visit the 19 impressive state rooms during the summer months. These luxurious rooms are decorated with some of the greatest treasures of the royal collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto.

The famous billboards will be turned off until the fall of 2017. Until then, the screens are covered with provisional banner ads.

London Eye is 135 meters high and Europe’s highest Ferris wheel. It is located in the center of London on the southern banks of the Thames river, near Westminster Bridge.

It is recommended to reserve tickets for a visit of Buckingham Palace.

Tower Bridge Exhibition The Tower Bridge exhibition tells you all about the historic background of the construction of the world’s most famous bridge and how it functions. Enjoy the fantastic view from the walkways, 45 meters above the Thames river and tour the old Victorian machines.

Wembley Stadium Tour Take part in the unforgettable Wembley Stadium tour, take a look behind the scenes and visit the locker rooms of England’s national soccer team. Follow the players’ footsteps through the players’ tunnel onto the holy lawn and proudly present the cup in front of the royal box.

Experience all of that on a Wembley Stadium tour before you can kick the ball yourself in Wembley.

Westminster Abbey Kings, queens, statesmen and soldiers; poets, priests, heroes and bandits: The abbey is a kaleidoscope of British history and a must-see for every visitor. Every year, Westminster Abbey welBavarian Times | 58

Photo Credit: pexels.com/skitterphoto; pexels.com/Negative Space; British Tourist Authority (VisitBritain)

A special exhibition is shown every year during the summer months at Buckingham Palace. It changes annually but always offers a fascinating look at royal life.

travel Tower Bridge was opened in 1894 and connects the city district Tower Hamlets in the north with Southwark the city district Borough of Southwark in the south. Tower

comes more than one million visitors who wish to tour England’s coronation church while several thousand other take part in the daily church services.

St. Paul's Cathedral Enter St. Paul's and admire the breathtaking interior of the cathedral. Use the new multi-media guides with touchscreens, or take part in a tour to discover this famous building. Both are included in the admission fee.

Go down into the crypt and discover the graves and memorial stones of some of the most famous national heroes such as Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Also visit the Oculus, an exciting, 270-degree-movie experience.

Try out the acoustic tricks in the Whispering Gallery and climb up to the Golden Gallery to enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view of London.

Photo Credit: Leisure Pass Group Limited

Big Ben The parliament building and the Elizabeth Tower, better known as “Big Ben,” are two of London’s most famous sights. Technically speaking, only the huge bell inside the clock tower with a weight of 13.76 kg is called “Big Ben.“ The tower looks especially spectacular at night when its four dials are illuminated.

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus is one of London’s favorite tourist attractions that you should not miss. Here, you can sit on famous Eros fountain, a favorite meeting point, or take a photo of the iconic billboards. From here, you can reach Regent's Street, Piccadilly or SoHo by foot.

St. James's Park St James's Park borders the mall and has a truly royal appearance. Enjoy two of London’s most beautiful views from the bridge across the large lake: Buckingham Palace in one direction and Whitehall in the other direction. The park is a perfect location for a picnic. You can also rent a lawn chair here and listen to the music in the pavilion.

59 | Bavarian Times

Borough Market The award-winning Borough Market is one of the largest food markets in the city, located below the railroad pillars of London Bridge and around it. It is a gourmet paradise, offering agricultural products of a high quality and handmade food from all around Great Britain and continental Europe.

Emirates airline cable car Take the Emirates airline cable car, London’s cable car across the Thames river. Between the Greenwich peninsula and the Royal Docks, you have a great view of London. The cable car is accessible for the handicapped and bicyclists and open seven days a week. | by Editorial Department

London Pass saves money London is one of the most expensive cities in the world.

And London’s tourist attraction do not make an exception.

If you visit the sights with a London Pass, you can save a lot of money. Free admission to 60 attractions, tours, sights and museums.

• •

Admission without having to stand in line. Avoid the long queues at select sights.

Free “Hop-on/Hop-off”- bus tours to see London’s most famous sights.

And much more

• • For more information, go to www.londonpass.com

Photo Credit: pexels.com/skitterphoto

Bridge is a combined hanging and flap bridge. It is 244 meters long and its two towers are 65 meters high.

travel Széchenyi spa and pool in Budapest, Pest’s first spa and built between 1909 and 1913, is one of Europe’s largest spa facilities.

World Heritage Site Budapest Budapest is divided into two parts by the majestically flowing Danube river: Buda with its small, romantic streets and Pest with its pulsating life.

The Buda side of the multifaceted capital which is divided by the Danube river features a lot of spas dating back to the days of the Turks on the foot of the gorgeous Gellért mountain and the quiet castle district with the royal castle and Matthias Church.

Pest, with its art-treasure-laden museums, fantastic Art Nouveau buildings, the Hungarian parliament, one of the most beautiful parliament buildings in the entire world, the cathedral in the center of the pedestrian zone, and the revitalized palace and Jewish district, offers a turbulent, vibrating experience.

Photo Credit: wikipedia.org/Marc Ryckaert

Apart from its historic treasures, Budapest is also known for its sophisticated cultural life. Its festivals, theaters, museums, concert halls and sports event can easily compete with those of the world’s metropolises. Visitors wanting to relax can take a walk or exercise on the famous Margarethen Island, the green heart of the city and considered one of Europe’s best islands, spend time in the beach pools which are surrounded by parks, or relax in the world-renowned wellness facilities and spas. Food connoisseurs should definitely try the delicacies of the Hungarian cuisine.

Traditionally dishes such as goulash and pörkölt are already wellknown but Budapest is also experiencing a gastronomic revolution, offering Street food-dishes made from local, organic produce as well as dishes from Michelin star-decorated chefs.

Budapest features a lot of interesting sights which most travelers do not visit because they are located further away from the center of town and not part of the regular city tours. Nevertheless, these sights are worth visiting.

Budapest Circus Budapest’s circus, located across from the Széchenyi bath, is one of the most frequently visited circuses in Europe with

320,000 visitors per year. The circus building, then made from corrugated sheet iron and an iron framework, was opened on May 7, 1891 by the German-Dutch circus director Ede Wulff. And because the building was then still located within the zoo, it could only be visited with a zoo ticket. Although the size of the building has not changed since its foundation, the number of available seats has decreased from 2,290 then to 1,850 today.

Zoological and botanical Garden Built in 1866, the zoological garden is the oldest zoo in Hungary and features the most prominent collection of flora and fauna in the country. Until 1950, it was the only zoo in Hungary. Since 1986, its 11 hectares-area is a nature protection area. The zoological garden is the home of about 3,500 plants and 750 animal species and a total of 5,000 animals. In the 1990s, renovation started, providing almost all species with new and modern homes which are not only spacious but also meet the species‘ biological needs. The zoo features a variety of architectural styles. The elephants‘ house and the entrance gate are great examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Although you can see them from the outside, they are worth exploring a little closer. Little kids can get close to the animals if they visit the pen where they can pet and feed young animals. Animal sculptures and descriptions in Braille assist the blind and visitors with impaired eyesight. All roads and buildings are barrier-free and accessible for people in wheelchairs.

Chain bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) It is the first bridge in the capital that was designated as a monument and it is a spectacular sight with Buda Castle in the background that has lured many visitors to Budapest. The bridge was designed by William Tierney Clark by the order of Count István Széchenyi and built by Adam Clark from 1839 to 1849. The bridge did not survive the destructions of World War II and was reconstructed in 1949, the year of its 100th anniversary. You can walk up the tunnel on the Buda side from where you have a great panoramic view of the Danube river.

Bavarian Times | 60

travel Parliament building (Országház) The largest building of the country is located on the right side of the Danube river, the parliament, built in neo-Gothic style. Designed by Imre Steindl, it was built between 1884 and 1904. It has 691rooms, a length of 268 meters, and the height of the dome is 96 meters. Hungary’s crown jewels are on display in the parliament since 2000: The crown of St. Stephan, the scepter, the orb and the sword from the Renaissance period.

Wholesale market hall The large market hall on Fővám Square is one of Budapest’s most beautiful commercial buildings. Its architect Petz Samu said that "a building is only beautiful if it combines harmony and functionality." And he succeeded because the citizens of Budapest are proud of their large market hall. The gorgeous architectural ceramics on the roof were made by the Zsolnay factory. Sales started in February 1897. When entering the building, you will be

The chain bridge is a hanging bridge that connects István and SzéchenyiSquare (Széchenyi István tér), marking the end of Pest’s downtown area.

surprised by its dimensions and train station-like interior. Residents of Budapest can be seen everywhere, picking out the best of the many fresh products. Mostly groceries are offered on the ground floor, traditional Hungarian folklore wares are sold on the first floor and a supermarket is located in the basement.

Continued on page 62

Bicycles for all occasions!

Photo Credit: pexels.com/Pixabay

Főutca und Víziváros Hauptstrasse was one of the most important business streets in Buda in the 18th century. During the siege of Buda, the entire water town was destroyed. Today, the water town is located below the castle district. Following the Turkish rule, German merchants and other citizens moved here and their Baroque buildings are still an important part of Budapest‘s architectural heritage today.

The church on Szervita square with its eclectic front is worth visiting.

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Leihstadtmühle 4 · 92637 WEIDEN · Phone 0961 4708-200

travel

BUDAPEST CARD Owners of the BUDAPEST CARD get a discount at 100 sights and free and unlimited use of Budapest’s public transportation company BKK.

Shoes along the Danube-river bank This monument is located on the Danube river bank, near Steindl Imre Straße. It was put up on April 16, 2005 and commemorates the many Hungarian Jews who were murdered along the Danube river, mainly on the Eastern side of Margarethen Island. They were forced to line up along the Danube river bank, then shot in the head by the so-called Pfeilkreuz troops and fell into the river.

Széchenyi Baths and Pool Széchenyi spa, the first spa in Pest, is one of Europe’s largest spa facilities. It was built upon the initiative of Vilmos Zsigmondy, an engineer who initiated successful drillings in the city park.

As early as 1881, a temporary Artesian spa was operated there which soon no longer met the demands of the time. As a result, Győző Czigler built Széchenyi spa in 1913. In 1927 it was expanded into a public pool for men and women including a beach pool. It was remodeled in the 1960s and a group spa (bathing suits must be worn) and a medical day spa featuring a large physical therapy department.

Photo Credit: Budapest Festival and Tourism Center Nonprofit Ltd.

The pools were renovated in 1999. Today, the adventure bath features rare attractions such as an entrainment corridor, underwater swirls neck showers and massage streams emitting from the benches.

The spa is supplied by St. Stephan’s fountain No. II. Hot spring water with calcium, magnesium, hydro carbonate, sodium and sulfate, rich in fluoride and meta phosphor acid. The water of the drinking fountain contains calcium, magnesium, hydro carbonate, sulfate and alkali metal salts and is rich in fluoride.

Flee market on Ecseri street Address: 19th district, Nagykőrösi Street 156 One of the largest flee markets is the Ecseri Market. It’s exciting because all items have a long history. The market resembles Portobello Road market in London and the flea market in Paris. Apart from private sellers, the owners of the local antique stores also offer their wares here and often, you will find valuable antiques among the sales items. The market is located in the outskirts of the city and features everything ranging from simple wares to antiques worth several millions.

Ecseri Market is worth a visit, especially on Saturday morning when a lot of sellers offer their goods. It is mandatory to bargain when buying something because there are no price tags. Visiting

For more information about the Budapest Card, go to www.budapestinfo.hu

the market is easy, even when it is raining, because the market has a rain cover. Take Metro 3 to Ecseri Street and then bus 84E, 294E and 194.

Lookout point on János Mountain and chairlift Address: Zugliget station Budapest is a metropolis with heavy traffic and with two million inhabitants it is sometimes difficult to endure the crowds, the large number of cars and advertisements. Luckily, you do not have to go far to relax. The lookout point on János Mountain ( 529 meters) is not only the highest location in the city, it is also an island of peace from where you can look over the entire Pest district.

Take a trip up there when the weather is nice to have the most beautiful view of the city.

Taking the chairlift is an exciting experience. For many decades it has taken tourists accident-free between Zugliget and János Mountain. Take bus 291 to the chairlift. The ride to the top of the mountain takes 15 minutes. .

During the trip, you can enjoy the panoramic view and the beauties of nature. When exiting the lift, it is a five-minute walk t the lookout point. Located in a nature preserve, nature must be protected there. Littering will result in a high fine. Take the chairlift back to Zugliget station and then bus 158 to Moskva Square.

| by Editorial Department

Bavarian Times | 62

travel

Experience Iceland’s nature and hiking paradises intensively in small groups (djd). Nature that has not been taken over completely by man and phenomena such as geysers, glaciers and volcanos and wide, scarcely inhabited landscapes that offer refugia for rare flora and fauna. This is the image most people have when they think about Iceland. These days, experiencing nature in such an intensive way is hardly possible anywhere else in Europe.

What does not match this image, however, are hosts of tourists.

"Iceland is not a destination for mass tourism but for individual tours. In small groups, the quietness and the dimensions of nature are especially impressive,” says travel journalist Beate Fuchs.

Traveling in small groups Some travelers discover the volcanic island in the Northern Atlantic Ocean completely on their own by motor home or motorbike. However, if you want travel experts to plan and prepare your trip, yet travel in a small group, you should choose a specialized travel agency, such as contrastravel that offers many hiking and adventure trips for small groups with friendly, professional tour guides. Most groups consist of eight people or less which makes them small enough to be responsive to . spontaneous requests and allow for visiting unique locations and experience special situations.

A wide landscape, scarcely inhabited, a glaciated volcano and the characteristic Iceland horses: Snæfellsnes peninsula offers many of Iceland’s attractions.

Ice, glaciers and the ever present volcanism make for fascinating natural spectacles in Iceland as seen here in the geothermal region Kerlingarfjöll in the central highlands.

A vacation with a view: A glacier hike or, as shown here, a sightseeing flight over the mighty Vatnajökull plateau glacier are definitely highlights of every

Hiking and discovering On most trips for small groups, travelers spend the night in small guesthouses or on farms, often in their own sleeping bags. All tour guides love Iceland and enjoy passing on their passion. An interesting trip for Iceland newcomers and for those who return is the two-week tour "Hiking and Discovering Iceland" with lodging in small guesthouses and country hotels. It includes the well-known attractions of Iceland as well as secluded, rarely visited hiking paradises. In Southern Iceland, travelers will hike along the glacier tongues of the of the plateau glacier Vatnajökull and discover the difficult to access Laki craters. In the east, there is enough time to explore the secluded Víknaslóðir region, the home of elves and trolls. In the north, groups visit the well-known Mývatn region and the hilly Tröllaskagi peninsula with its mighty basalt plateaus. And finally, the small group crosses the central highlands. Apart from the rich in contrast nature, travelers also experience the hospitality of the Icelanders and the traditional and modern Icelandic cuisine.

63 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: djd/contrastravel.com (3)

Iceland vacation.

travel You can visit the engine Emma and a complete movie set

You can test your acting skills in the visual effects studio.

of Michael Ende‘s famous book "Jim Knopf and Lukas, the train driver" during a tour through the movie town.

Bavaria Movie Town: A look behind the scenes of movies and TV shows Bavaria Movie Town: Learning, participating, having fun

Photo Credit: djd/Bavaria Filmstadt (2)

(djd). Bavaria Movie Town is a small world of its own and with a long tradition on an area totaling 300,000 square meters. For almost one-hundred years, cinematic entertainment has been produced here in the south of Munich. Large TV shows with a live audience such as "1,2 or 3", popular TV series such as "The Rosenheim Cops”, “Storm of Love” or “The Old Guy” are produced here just like the daily weather shows with Claudia Kleinert, Sven Plöger and Karsten Schwanke for Das Erste TV program.

Be in the center of the action of "Jim Knopf and Lukas, the train driver" During a tour behind the scenes of the famous movie studio, you learn how blockbusters and TV highlights are produced and get to know exciting details. For example about "Jim Knopf and Lukas, the train driver", a movie based upon the famous book written by Michael Ende. Long before the movie will be shown in loal theaters, visitors can tour the complete movie set with the volcano and Emma, the engine. A tour guide explains how the movie’s architect and the craftsmen turned the author’s phantasies into reality.

If you want to be a movie star yourself, you can participate in many live events during a tour of the movie world, or test your acting skills in the Bullyversum movie world, for example at in the "Space Ship Surprise - Period 1"-show, on the set of the weather studio, or in the visual effects studio. Later, you can buy the short movies featuring you as a "Bavaria Star" as a souvenir.

Form ore information about the tours, go to www.filmstadt.de

Try out exciting virtual reality adventures Two 3D-theaters offer a „wow“-effect“ with moving seats and special effects and you can experiene first-hand how intensie a movie experience can be. The animation adventures "Lissi and the wild Emperor’s ride" and "Wild West Mine Ride" make you feel like you’re a part of the movie. Movie and reality become one during these virtual reality shows. With special VR-glasses and especially produced 360 degree views of movie production scenes, visitors become a part of the movie scene. In addition to the regular program, there are stunt work shops for kids, stunt and trick shows, meetings with ,movie professionals or fan events with the actors of "Storm of Love" and "The Rosenheim Cops.“

Vitsitor information for your visit of Bavaria Movie Town: (djd). BavariaMovie Town is open daily year-round and only closed on December 24 and 25. The program "Movie Town Complete" with Bullyversum, 4D-Adventure Movie Theater and tour taked about four hours.

During the main season from April 8 to Nov. 5, 2017 the movie town is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last entry for the "Movie Town Complete"program is at 2:30 p.m.

During off-season, starting on Nov. 7, the movie town is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, go to www.filmstadt.de.

Bavarian Times | 64

Aerial view of the quaint town of Karlstadt on the Main river.

Asparagus can be served classically with ham, potatoes and Sauce Hollandaise, or more elaborately as shown here.

Asparagus and wine: Franconia brings together what belongs together

Photo Credit: djd/TVF/Fränkisches Weinland/Andreas Hub

tors to taste wine in Karlstadt and the surrounding communities year-round. The most important dates are listed in a calendar that can be downloaded for free from the website of the tourist information. A special brochure for wine connoisseurs offers information and tips regarding seasonal wine rooms, wine trails and addresses of tour guides.

Photo Credit: djd/Stadt Karlstadt, Eleonore Schuch

(djd). In Germany, asparagus season traditionally starts at end of April and ends on Johannis Day, June 24. Many restaurants offer asparagus menus, accompanied by a selection of fine wines. During this season, the Franconian wine area is a destination worth visiting for gourmets and wine lovers. Here, wines are served that go extremely well with the “royal” vegetable.

One great location, for example, is Karlstadt. This quaint, winegrower’s town on the Main river features many restaurants that offer asparagus menus and fine wines.

Which wine goes with asparagus?

In the end, it is a matter of one’s personal taste which wine tastes best with asparagus dishes. Geology, soil, climate, location, grape variety and, last but not least, the winegrower make every Franconian wine unique. "Dry white wines, like the ones predominantly grown here in Franconia, go best with asparagus,” says Kornelia Winkler, Tourism Manager of the town of Karlstadt. The most important grape varieties are Müller-Thurgau and Silvaner, followed by Bacchus, Riesling and Kerner.

"Generally, wines from Franconia are grown rather dry and with a very low amount of residual sugar,” says Winkler. And dry white wines, softly spiced and with a fine acidity are the perfect companions for asparagus dishes.

Why only until Johannis Day?

And as far as asparagus dishes are concerned, nothing is left to be desired in Karlstadt and its surrounding communities.

Served classically as white asparagus with ham, potatoes and Sauce Hollandaise, or more elaborately with grilled pikeperch or a sophisticated wolfish filet, "an ounce of practice is worth a pound of theory.” Winkler advises to take a short vacation and simply try different asparagus dishes with different types of wine.

BräuWirt Restaurant and Brewery in Weiden‘s Old Town!

In Germany, asparagus season ends on Johannis Day, June 24. But why is that so? Theoretically, asparagus could be harvested much longer than that? That is true but the harvest would then be much smaller in the following year. Therefore, asparagus growers use Johannis Day as the cut-off date in their very own interest. This preserves the fields and guarantees a good asparagus harvest in the following year.

Tradit Traditional dishes and typical Bavarian specialties served fresh from fr om the kitchen. The brewery offers high-quality, home-made Zoigl be beers, brewed following the Bavarian purity requirements.

Visit us at the BräuWirt!

Year-round enjoyment in Franconia You can enjoy good food and wine in Franconia year-round and not only during asparagus season. Wine and farm fests, small, cozy seasonal wine rooms and wine tasting days invite visi65 | Bavarian Times seit 1993 19 in Weiden/OPf.

www.braeuwirt.de Gast sthausbrauerei BräuWi äu rt · Unterer Markt 9 · 92637 Weiden/OPf. · Phone: 0961 481330 äuWi Gasthausbrauerei BräuWirt

food & drinks

Delicious home-made poultry burger:

Photo Credit: djd/Deutsches-Geflügel.de

Turkey burger with goat cheese and fig mustard in dark bread with coleslaw (djd). Health-conscious connoisseurs love chicken whether served the classic way with cheddar cheese, Mediterranean-style with pesto and tomatoes, exotic with fig mustard, or without any bread for low-carb fans.

Thanks to the many ways of preparation whether with chicken, turkey or duck meat, a burger is always a new, tasty creation: Mildly spiced, ground turkey meat or roasted chicken schnitzel lure connoisseurs without a fast food image. When buying poultry, you should choose chicken, turkey and duck meat from Germany, recognizable by the “D” on the package. It guarantees a strictly controlled production with high standards for animals, environmental and customer protection.

Bergwirtschaft Auf dem Mariahilfberg 2 · 92224 Amberg Telefon 09621-12248 www.bergwirtschaft-amberg.de

Home-style cooking e.g. Schnitzel, steaks, fish, asparagus and venison plus seasonal dishes upon request Home-made cakes, tarts and cream puffs, also to go!

Visit our patio with its beautiful view over the city.

Closed on Mondays.

Das Bier, das uns zu Freunden macht The Erras Family is looking forward to your visit.

Thanks to the many ways of preparation whether with chicken, turkey or duck meat, a burger is always a new, tasty creation such as a turkey burger with goat-cheese.

Recipe tip: Turkey burger with goat cheese and fig mustard in dark bread coleslaw Ingredients for four persons: 400 g ground turkey meat, 1 red onion, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs, salt and pepper, 1 tablespoon rapeseed oil, 4 large goat-cheese patties (30 g each), 2 branches rosemary, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 4 rye whole-grain rolls, 4 slices of bacon, 4-8 tablespoons fig mustard.

Ingredients for coleslaw: 1 white cabbage (about 1.,4 kg), 2 carrots, 1 onion, 150 g sour cream, 6 tablespoons mayonnaise, 3-4 tablespoons white-wine vinegar, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon pepper and 1 tablespoon sugar.

Cut the white cabbage in strips, peel the carrots and grate them. Dice the onions. Mix and knead everything. Mix the mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, pepper and sugar with the white cabbage, cover it and put it in the refrigerator for four hours. Season to taste again with salt, pepper and vinegar.

Dice the red onions and mix it with the ground turkey meat, egg and bread crumbs; season with salt and pepper and form four burger patties. Sear the patties in rapeseed oil and put them on a baking sheet.

Mince the rosemary. Season the goat-cheese patties with pepper, rosemary and sugar, put them on the burger patties and caramelize the cheese in the oven at 220 degrees Celsius (430 degrees Fahrenheit) and finish cooking the patties. Cut the bacon strips in half, sear them without shortening and put them on a paper towel. Cut the rolls in half and put fig mustard on the lower half. Put the bacon, burger patty and caramelized goatcheese on top and cover it with the upper half of the roll. Serve the turkey burger with the coleslaw.

Nutritional value: About 780 kcal per portion, 61 g fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 30 g protein. Preparation time: About 40 minutes plus 4 hours to let the coleslaw steep.

Bavarian Times | 66

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