Bavarian Times Magazine - Edition 05 - 2013

Edition #5 | December 2013

| www.bavarian-times.com

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

r fo fr ee

Christmas Tree Lighting

| Page 5

Safety first for the Bavarian winter

| Page 16

Standing strong

| Page 8

Family Law Cases in German Courts

| Page 31

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grafenwoehr gate 6 Phone +49 9641 92404-0

Vilseck Phone +49 9662 8779

Katterbach Phone +49 9802 957377

ansbach Phone +49 981 9700 127

Schweinfurt Phone +49 9721 67527-0

grafenwoehr gate 3 Phone +49 9641 92606-15

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| Index

Page 6

Healing Arts program puts Soldiers at ease

Page 12

Touching base

Page 20 Page 24

Page 46

Animals below the Christmas tree–“NO”

Safety first for the Bavarian winter

Page 56

Historic, romantic Christmas Market at Guteneck Castle

Holiday Sharing Program gives Soldiers a boost

Page 57 Romantic Christmas market at Thurn and Taxis Palace in Regensburg

Page 27 U.S. Ambassador to Germany tours Grafenwoehr Training Area Page 31

Page 33 Drive safely on ice and snow

Page 64

On skis into the new year

Page 65

Delicious Ideas for your Holiday Menu

Family Law Cases in German Courts

| Imprint

IMPRINT | Edition #05 | 12/2013, 5th Volume Publisher: Medienhaus DER NEUE TAG, DER NEUE TAG Oberpfälzischer Kurier Druck- und Verlagshaus GmbH, Weigelstraße 16, 92637 Weiden Internet: www.oberpfalznetz.de | www.bavarian-times.com E-Mail: editor@bavarian-times.com

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| Grafenwoehr

Grafenwoehr. On December 3 at 5 p.m., the U.S. Army is inviting everybody to the tree lighting ceremony at the shopping center. The military installation can only be accessed by foot through gate 1.

The children have been looking forward to this event for a long time. Santa Claus will make the girls‘ and boys‘ eyes sparkle again when he presents them with a sweet package. Before-

hand, the Christmas tree will be lit and thousands of colorful lights will shine.

Gingerbread, hot wieners, Glühwein and hot chocolate will also be served at the event. Food, beverages and the presents for the children will once again be sponsored by the German-American Community Council (GACC). | by Renate Gradl

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Thousands of colorful lights will sparkle

| Vilseck

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

Sgt. Matthew Richey, Bravo Company, Warrior Transition Battalion, puts the finishing touches on his mask during Healing Arts, Oct. 15.

Healing Arts program puts Soldiers at ease

“Healing Arts is not therapy, but it can be very therapeutic,” said Pech. “It creates an attitude of ‚this is something I can do outside of what I normally do.‘”

VILSECK, Germany – Spc. Kevin Boelter shifted nervously as he walked into the room at the Soldier and Family Assistance Center, here, Oct. 15. Glancing at the table lined with origami paper, paints, boxes and masks, he fidgeted, unsure of what to do.

The intent, explained Pech, is to let the Soldiers create freely.

“I‘m not really an artist,” announced Boelter of Bravo Company, Warrior Transition Battalion.

He relaxed once Tammie Pech, assistant station manager of the Grafenwoehr American Red Cross, suggested he channel his favorite sports team. Boelter grabbed a mask, some yellow and blue paint, sat down and intently painted a San Diego Chargersinspired mask.

Boelter and a handful of fellow Bravo Company Soldiers spent the afternoon creating art as part of the American Red Cross Healing Arts program, which serves primarily as a stress reliever.

Sun Tanning Studio Grafenwoehr Winter could be so nice

The Red Cross program focuses on wounded warriors, Soldiers returning from deployment and those about to deploy. There are no rules during the session and the Soldiers only receive help or instruction if they ask for it.

The local Healing Arts series is modeled after a similar program at Army medical centers like Walter Reed. There, Soldiers recovering from injuries or PTSD use creative arts, such as music, visual art and writing, as part of their therapy.

Trained counselors work closely with patients, using art to help them express themselves.

For one exercise, Soldiers paint masks depicting dual personalities. On the inside they paint how they see themselves; the outside shows the face they portray to the world.

The program in U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria however, lets Soldiers create what they want in a comfortable environment.

“Here, it‘s more of a relaxation session,” said Pech. “We didn‘t want to make it into a therapy session. We wanted to make it fun.”

Even Soldiers who come into Healing Arts with doubts loosen up once they have a paintbrush or pencil in hand. They unwind as they quietly create and chat.

Some are crafty art enthusiasts with their own oeuvre growing at home, while others are mixing paint and folding paper cranes for the first time.

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Sat/Sun/Public holidays 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The newness of the experience and the uncertainty is a large part of the fun for the Soldiers.

Bavarian Times | 6

| Vilseck

“It‘s either going to be a disaster, or it might end up being really cool looking,” explained Staff Sgt. Michael Czarnecki, cadre, WTB, as he brushed silver paint on a mask modeled after “The Terminator.”

As he finished his mask, Czarnecki picked it up, laughed, and put it into the “disaster” category.

His piece from a previous Healing Arts session, a “Happy Anniversary” painting that went over well with his wife, was in the “really cool” category.

Though the outcome isn‘t always museum-worthy, the Soldiers all agreed that the crux of Healing Arts is the artistic intermission from daily routines.

Boelter, who was initially doubtful that he could make anything, walked out of Healing Arts intending to hang his Chargers mask on his wall.

“It was actually relaxing,” he said. “It kind of reminds me of listening to music. It‘s a different type of coping skill to relax. You forget about everything. You focus on the song or that painting.

It‘s concentration.”

The next Healing Arts class will be Nov. 19, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Rose Barracks Soldier and Family Assistance Center, Bldg. 165.

The class is held the third Thursday of every month. Contact the Red Cross at DSN 475-1760, CIV 09641-83-1760 for more information.

“It‘s naturally relaxing,” said Czarnecki. “You get to take your top off, it‘s during the day, there‘s no emails. It‘s natural stress relief.”

Welcome to Thai Massage

| by Chelsea Bissell, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs

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

Spc. Aaron Clark, Bravo Company, Warrior Transition Battalion, paints a Halloween-themed box during Healing Arts, Oct. 15.

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| Hohenfels

Patricia Hannon, a teacher at Hohenfels Elementary School and breast cancer survivor, speaks to more than 200 participants at the 5K Breast Cancer Awareness Run in Hohenfels, Oct. 19.

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As part of the 5K Breast Cancer Awareness Run in Hohenfels, Oct. 19, Patricia Hannon, a teacher at Hohenfels Elementary School and breast cancer survivor, gave a speech to more than 200 participants at the event. The following is an excerpt from her speech: Even though I make my living via public speaking every day, I am actually terrified of speaking publicly to adults.

St. Anna Hospital Sulzbach - Rosenberg

Nothing I say today will look good on a pink T-shirt. In fact, I‘d like to start today with a confession. All those pink gifts everyone gave me over the past nine months to show solidarity with “the cause” -- I had to put them away in a special box, and they‘re only coming out for the first time today.

While going through treatment, they were a reminder to me of the femininity that I had lost. Once the surgeon cut up my breast and then my hair fell out, femininity was a concept for other people to enjoy; it was no longer mine.

St. Johannes Clinic Auerbach

It‘s only now, on the other side of treatment, that I can consider seeing pink as something other than what I am most decidedly not. I especially like my pink beads; now that the surgeon is done with me, I certainly won‘t be getting any at Mardi Gras.

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Bavarian Times | 8

Photo Credit: Lt. Col. Christopher David, Hohenfels Health Clinic

Furthermore, I‘m quite sure I‘m about to disappoint you. I have no hopeful words today; no uplifting message for you detailing how cancer was the best thing to ever happen to me.

| Hohenfels

I wasn‘t at the breast cancer walk in Hohenfels last year. I had a move scheduled that weekend, and I seemed to be picking up every little virus that came my way. I was exhausted and sick yet again. Every weekend seemed to be spent in a futile attempt to catch up with sleep and laundry.

The littlest things overwhelmed me, and the move loomed large for me. It was that weekend that I realized I could no longer run a 5K anyhow. At 38, I was officially a shadow of my former self.

Not that I was passive about this apparent decline in my health.

I ran regularly, I didn‘t smoke, rarely drank, and ate a very healthful diet. Over the course of five years, I saw doctors on three different continents looking for answers to my weak immune system and girly problems.

I ate brown rice, loads of fruit and veg, lentils, and oats every day. I discovered running about two years previous and had lost 20 pounds.

The doctors, using their best diagnostics and experience, said early menopause. One doctor in Japan told me I had too much fire. I smiled and told him he didn‘t know the half of it.

They all told me to relax, stop working so hard, and to wash my hands. They did their best, based on their diagnostics and my family history. They understood I was miserable, however, both doctor and patient understood their diagnostic limitations.

I was simply coming of age, I told myself. My lumpy breasts were only another Bat Mitzvah gift, much like a good brisket recipe. But this lump was different. It was hard. I could feel the ragged edges on the lump, and it hurt.

Being a modern girl, I naturally consulted my girlfriends and Google rather than a physician. Thank goodness they had their heads on straight and Google always imagines the worst.

I looked to my ladies for the comfort they always provided and suddenly didn‘t find it. “Are you nuts?” my girlfriends said. “Get your rear to a gyno!”

I begrudgingly obliged, reminding my girlfriends that I had my last girly appointment, including a clear breast ultrasound, only sixth months previous.

I felt like a total hypochondriac when I made the appointment and even more embarrassed when I arrived.

The kindly German physician told me I had breast cancer on Dec. 17. I had just had my 39th birthday. I had told everyone that it was my “last birthday” that year, as I didn‘t plan on celebrating my 40th.

Now, I hoped that my words hadn‘t been prophetic and my 39th birthday truly had not been my last.

The language barrier provided some comic relief in the early days. When I met my breast cancer doctor, he had these sage words of comfort: “Frau Hannon, this will not kill you.

You will just wish you were dead for about six months.”

It was this weekend, one year ago, that I found a lump.

I told myself it was just a benign cyst, like many I had had before. I come from a long line of lumpy, shelf-bosomed Jewish women. Many of my aunts and great-aunts had the same scares. It was just my turn.

Americans often choose to describe Germans as stoic, and my analysis would probably not have been any different 10 months ago.

Going to chemo for the first time was scarier than the mater-

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| Hohenfels

nity ward, my only other experience with hospitals. Previously, I had walked into the hospital to bring forth new life.

condescension. I made a promise to myself that if I made it through this, I would aspire to be more like her.

Now, the sole purpose was death, albeit on a controlled, cellular level.

And this is what I‘d like to tell anyone listening today: If you truly wish to help someone in crisis, be like the pudding lady.

I was about to meet the head oncologist, the doctor whose goal it was to kill a part of me while making sure not to kill me too much. As the automatic doors opened, I steeled my resolve and reminded myself that I should not expect any warmth or even kindness from my host nation caregivers.

It‘s not enough to be surrounded by services or people who want to help. Truly helping means making a connection, even with people that might be a world apart. You can give people a choice on how you will help them, but help them you must.

Imagine my surprise when I found one of the friendliest, most sincere places I‘ve ever had the pleasure to visit. It was full of bawdy laughter.

I was shocked. Why were people looking me in the eye? Why were they asking me to look at pictures of my children? Why were even the other patients willing to get so involved?

One would think that in the chemo ward, self-preservation and emotional protection from vulnerability would be everyone‘s primary objective. It was only after several weeks that I understood: Everyone here had unlocked the secret to life.

I‘ll share it with you today, free of charge: All that matters is love, and you can only get it by giving it. And boy, did they give it.

I especially enjoyed the putz-frau, or cleaning lady.

I‘m pretty sure it wasn‘t in her job description, but every few hours, she would wheel a cart through and ask each of us which we would like a pudding cup or a yogurt.

I recognized her tactic from years of working with children.

I call it the non-decision decision. She wasn‘t asking if we wanted to eat, she was giving a choice with what we would eat, and eat we must.

She asked every time with such kindness and sincerity, as if I was the one doing her the favor that I didn‘t feel a hint of

After two surgeries, 16 rounds of chemo, and 33 radiation treatments, I feel the same things today, coming out of cancer, that I did going in: no regrets and lots of gratitude.

My husband and I had already gotten our midlife existential crisis out of the way. That‘s why I was here in Hohenfels, working for DODDS. I didn‘t hold any regrets about leaving academia. We were already living our lives as we had dreamed of doing.

In cancer, I didn‘t find any inspiration to live every moment in the present; that was a lesson I had been lucky enough to learn previously.

The gratitude, however, was and remains ramped up in my life.

When people assumed my tears were from frustration, fear or pain, their genesis was and is most likely still gratitude.

I was, and continue to be, overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness by my administrators, colleagues, friends, family and students. They all showed me kindness and treated me with dignity and care.

I‘d like to give you an example. The day before my second chemo treatment, when my hair fell out and I felt conspicuous wearing a scarf, I arrived at school to find many members of the faculty wearing head-scarves, silently going about their business.

There was never any condescension, only love and dignity.

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| Hohenfels

My bosses, Mr. (Olaf) Zwicker and Mrs. (Ester) Harrison, showed me kindness by making sure I had whatever I needed to get the job done and that my students were looked after by a consistent and loving substitute. My friends arrived with meals, child care and cookies.

They laughed with me through chemo and made sure to ring the phone when I least wanted to talk, which turned out to be when I needed it most.

They brought chocolate, flowers and Cinnabons to my home.

I‘m humbled and inspired by them every day and I only hope to pay forward their kindness in my years to come.

Another area where I feel gratitude is my health care. I feel especially fortunate to have received cancer treatment in a European country.

When one is looking to find their way, it is often best to get lost. This is why I believe in and heartily endorse world travel.

The Japanese have a wonderful tradition. When they repair something that is chipped or cracked, they do so with gold or another beautiful decorative element. They do not try to cover the scars, but instead highlight and thus sanctify them.

It is the fight in and of itself that is beautiful and worth honoring. Many of you are walking or running today to honor someone who struggled and fought.

So, today, together, let us celebrate the fact that there is honor and wisdom in the chips, cracks and scars of our human porcelain. As a breast cancer survivor, and on behalf of all cancer patients, I thank you.

Despite what the pundits, lobbyists and talking heads would have us believe, the rest of the world is not waiting for the invention of aspirin. My treatment in Amberg would be rivaled only in the top hospitals of the States, and was expertly supplemented and supported by the Hohenfels Clinic.

| by Patricia Hannon, Hohenfels Elementary School

No less than eight highly qualified physicians, each experts in their field, gave me their all. My standing here today is as much their win as it is mine.

When I look out at a sea of pink-clad women, marching for a health care cause, I would be remiss if I didn‘t pay homage to the women who came before us.

Our mothers burned their bras hoping for equality in health care. Rosalyn Carter and Betty Ford spoke out, giving the euphemistic “long struggle with illness” an actual name. The Komen Foundation allowed “women‘s issues” to finally become “breast cancer.”

I only hope that we can honor their passions for social justice by having clear, meaningful dialogue about what‘s best for women, absent of both social stigma and profit incentives during these turbulent times of high stakes in women‘s health care.

Prof. Dr. med. Theodor Klotz, MPH Clinic for Urology, Andrology and Pediatric Urology Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG

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| Vilseck

Kathy Aydt, deputy garrison commander, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, addresses a group of 20 supervisors from the garrison‘s Directorate of Public Works during an employee-initiated Local National Workforce Transformation briefing on Rose Barracks, Oct. 31.

Touching base VILSECK, Germany – It‘s not common, especially amid the current fiscal situation, for employees to generate more work for themselves.

But that‘s exactly what local national employees Hans Dumbach, Ulli Pfosch and Marga Boese did recently.

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

The trio planned, coordinated and administered two Local National Workforce Transformation briefings for more than 60 LN employees at Tower Barracks and Rose Barracks, Oct. 30-31.

The primary goal of the briefings was to ensure fellow LNs have the opportunity to speak up and contribute to making the garrison a better place to work, and to equip leaders with the right tools to manage their workforce.

“We realized that the LN workforce needs to hear from fellow LNs where we stand on transformation, what we can do to cope with the current situation, and how our role working for the U.S. Army will change in the future,” said Dumbach, a Workforce Development specialist at U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria‘s Directorate of Human Resources.

As the Directorate of Public Works employs a majority of local nationals at the garrison, Dumbach said it made sense to brief DPW supervisors first, and have them push the information out to their employees.

“We have to figure out how we can do less, better, but we have to do that with a deliberate process, and that‘s where you all come in,” Aydt said to the 20 supervisors in the audience.

She explained the long-term transformation plan for enduring garrisons in Europe, along with the realities associated with working in a fiscally constrained environment.

“The leaders realize we have set expectations up here, but our purse strings are down here,” she said, motioning in the air to depict the disparity.

Following her briefing, Aydt fielded questions from the audience.

Several of the supervisors‘ questions centered on ways to communicate better with customers about the services DPW provides.

“We have to establish what we do in policy so that we can shape (customers‘) expectations,” Aydt said.

After the question-and-answer session, Dumbach, along with Pfosch and Boese, who serve as the chief of manpower, USAG Bavaria‘s DHR, and management-employee relations specialist at Grafenwoehr‘s Civilian Personnel Advisory Center, respectively, briefed supervisors on topics such as motivation, team development, work assignment, conflict management and resiliency.

The next session will be held in Hohenfels, Nov. 4, with another session planned for the Garmisch community in the near future.

“It‘s important that we have a dialogue with you and give you the tools to get through challenges that lie ahead,” Aydt said.

The plan is to hold briefings for supervisors for the rest of the garrison‘s directorates throughout November and December.

Kathy Aydt, deputy garrison commander, USAG Bavaria, opened the Oct. 31 session at the Multipurpose Room on Rose Barracks.

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

Bavarian Times | 12

S

| Hohenfels

From right: American Idol finalist Phil Stacey and Trevor Hager share some songs at Hohenfels‘ Club Beyond as part of Anti-Bullying Month, recently.

Phil Stacey croons some tunes at Hohenfels Stacey said he enjoyed hanging out before the show and getting to meet many of the Club Beyond youth members.

Stacey‘s song “Be good to each other” was picked to be part of the National Bullying Awareness Campaign.

“These kids here are special,” he said. “I‘m going around talking bully awareness -- these kids are amazing to each other. They treat each other with such incredible dignity and respect. This is more like a ‚congratulations you guys are awesome‘ show.”

“I feel my job as a singer is part of my job as a human being. I‘m supposed to be touching other people‘s lives, doing the best I can to be a positive force in the world,” Stacey said.

Stacey has toured with the likes of Taylor Swift and Trace Adkins, but his down-to-earth demeanor earned him many fans at Hohenfels.

As a Navy veteran, Stacey said he has a passion for the military community, and was thrilled to be asked to tour across Europe

by Club Beyond and interact with military children.

“I got to hang out with them a few hours before they actually did their performance, and they‘re so laid back, so funny, so sarcastic and just a great group of guys,” said 16-year-old Mikaela Strange.

“They‘re the leaders of tomorrow,” he said. “I want to inspire these guys because they‘ll go home and they‘ll be leaders. And when they say ‚Guys, that isn‘t right to treat people with disrespect,‘ people are going to listen to them.”

The son of a preacher, Stacey grew up in a musical family and has been singing his whole life.

“Music was a way of coming out of my shell,” he said.

Known primarily as a contemporary Christian performer, Stacey said the issue of bullying crosses all denominational boundaries.

“No matter what your religious affiliation, or even if you have none, bully awareness is something we need to talk about,” he said. “The problem today is there are more fierce consequences (to bullying.) Lots of suicides, drug addiction -- because they get home from school and they see it online.”

Stacey sang lead vocals in the Navy Band Southeast, but his musical career really took off when he missed a friend‘s wedding while deployed.

“He said the only way he‘d forgive me is if I auditioned for America Idol,” Stacey said.

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A N T I K H O F

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

HOHENFELS, Germany – Hohenfels‘ Club Beyond welcomed former American Idol finalist and Navy veteran Phil Stacey for a free community concert as part of October‘s National AntiBullying Month, recently.

SCHÖNFICHT

One of 103,000 other hopeful contestants, Stacey waited in line for 13 hours for his chance to perform. While there, his wife gave birth, and Stacey said that made all the difference.

“It‘s not about how well you sing, you need a great story,” he said. “There were weeks when I was terrible, and people would vote me through. I guess they were like, ‚Yeah, he just had a baby, he needs a job.‘” It was more than a story, though, that carried Stacey through to the top five of the competition, and he has the record deals to prove it.

His first album, the self-titled “Phil Stacey” peaked at number 8 on U.S. Billboard‘s Top Country Albums. His latest album, “Into the Light,” reached the 27th spot on U.S. Billboard‘s Top Christian Albums.

“I‘m very fortunate,” he said. “I love my life.”

For Stacey, though, it‘s not about the glitz and glamour.

“I just did a stadium show just last week,” he said. “But I could get paid $25,000 for a show and it wouldn‘t be as rewarding as being with these kids.”

Stacey said he also wanted to help draw attention to Club Beyond, the chapel based, community focused program sponsored by military chaplains as part of the overall Command Religious Program.

“It‘s a wonderful organization. Sometimes we all need people to lean on, we need people around us who care about us, and they‘re here. They‘re available for the people in the community and I want to encourage families to take advantage of their presence,” Stacey said.

“Students have come in and told us it‘s like family here, that they can be themselves and it‘s a different atmosphere than they find anywhere else,” said Michelle Hollenbach, Hohenfels‘ Club Beyond community director. “To know we can create that kind of community for them is really rewarding.”

The show was a huge success with Stacey and fellow performer Trevor Hager interacting with the crowd, answering questions and encouraging the audience to sing along.

“If you don‘t know the lyrics just make up random syllables. I did that for a whole season on American Idol and nobody caught me,” joked Stacey to the crowd.

Through the songs, stories and the discussions, Stacey‘s message and genuine caring shone through.

“I really loved his stories, and just coming out of this, I feel like I‘m a whole new person,” said Strange. | by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Hohenfels Public Affairs

Bavarian Times | 14

| Grafenwoehr

All Saints‘ Day is a celebrated tradition in Germany and involves visiting the graves of deceased family members.

All Saints‘ Day a holy tradition The tradition of All Saints‘ Day, however, remains the celebration of choice for Germans.

The chiming of the church bells signals the souls to release and community members gather at local cemeteries to pay their respects.

U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria in Grafenwoehr invited community members to witness this sacrament, Nov. 3, with a visit to the Haag and Langenbruck cemeteries on the Grafenwoehr Training Area and Rose Barracks, respectively.

But the ceremony is more religion than ghosts and goblins. It‘s a tribute to holy deities observed by the Catholic Church and a time to pay homage to the deceased.

Both towns were displaced when the training area expanded in 1938-39 and the ceremony will bring former residents and family members on post for the observance.

On Nov. 1, family members visit the graves of deceased relatives, decorating them with flowers and candles that burn well into the evening. The candles are said to guide the spirits home.

For more information regarding the celebration, call DSN 4758885, 475-7775 or Civ. 09641-83-8885, 09641-83-7775.

All Saints‘ Day is a public holiday in the states of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bavaria, Rheinland-Pfalz, Nordrhein-Westfalen and Saarland, and began in the year A.D. 825.

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

Known previously as All Hallows (“hallow” meaning saint or holy person), the celebration usually began the day before, or the “eve of hallow,” which transformed into the term Halloween.

The Halloween as we know it has no roots in Germany, although the influence of the American community has birthed pockets of towns that began adopting the ritual of costumes and trick-or-treating in the 1990s.

The ninth 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 email tips or suggestions to bavariannews@gmail.com.

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GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – The souls of the dead are said to walk the earth among the living on All Saints‘ Day, celebrated the day after Halloween.

| grafenwoehr

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

Pueschel Wolfgang, USAG Bavaria safety specialist, measures a car‘s tire tread depth to ensure it can perform in freezing rain or snow.

Safety first for the Bavarian winter GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – With record high temperatures experienced throughout the summer in Bavaria, it might be easy to overlook the fact that the winter months are approaching. The fall season is the perfect time to start preparing your vehicle for safe winter driving.

Windshield wipers and fluid: Drivers should ensure their vehicles have a good pair of wipers.

Worn out wipers can be a hazard and are not as effective during rain or snowy conditions. It is also important to switch to a windshield fluid that will not freeze.

The Automotive Skills Centers have the necessary tools, equipment and the skilled staff to assist you with preparing your vehicle for winter weather. Several components of a vehicle should be inspected to make your vehicle winter ready.

Lights: Be sure all of the lights on your vehicle are in working order.

These include the high beams, headlights, day lights, fog lights, brake lights and tail lights. Properly functioning lights are important so visibility is not affected. Shop staff can advise drivers on how to clean their headlights and headlight covers if they are yellowed.

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| Grafenwoehr

All season tires with M/S designation on the side are considered acceptable for winter driving, although not ideal. While all season tires are allowed, they still might not protect the driver from getting a ticket for not having proper winter tires in the event of an accident.

Drivers should also check the tread and air pressure on their tires. These two factors determine how much traction the tires will have to properly grip the road.

Antifreeze: In Bavaria, the temperatures during the winter months frequently drop below freezing. The staff at the Automotive Skills Centers can help you check the concentration of the coolant and antifreeze. It is important to check this periodically, especially before the winter months when the coolant requires more antifreeze and less water.

Other components: Check the battery and voltage regulator and ensure the ignition and thermostat exhaust system are working appropriately. Verify that the heater and defroster in your vehicle are functioning.

Check the brakes and have them adjusted if necessary. Be sure to switch the vehicle‘s oil to winter weight oil.

Check the weather conditions: Throughout the winter months it is important to know what the driving conditions are before you hit the road. Community members can check the garrison webpage (www.grafenwoehr. army.mil) for up to date driving conditions.

nonperishable food in your trunk. Having these items in your vehicle will keep you safe in the event you are trapped in a storm for a long time.

In addition, it‘s also a good idea to maintain the gas tank at least half full at all times.

If you are not sure how to check any of these components on your vehicle, you can visit the Automotive Skills Center and have a staff member show you how. You can also join us for our educational workshops on winterization where we invite you to bring your vehicle for a day dedicated to getting our vehicles ready for the winter.

Visit FMWR‘s webpage (www.grafenwoehr.armymwr.com) or social media sites for updates on upcoming workshops.

Automotive Skills Centers Tower Barracks, Bldg. 528 DSN 475-6239, CIV 09641-83-6239 Rose Barracks, Bldg. 711 DSN 476-2521, CIV 09662-83-2521 Hohenfels, Bldg. 392 DSN 466-2690, CIV 09472-83-2690 Garmisch, Bldg. 256 DSN 440-3580, CIV 08821-750-3580 For more information, visit USAG Bavaria‘s Facebook page or call CIV 09641-83-7623.

If you learn that there will be inclement weather, plan your trip accordingly and consider whether or not you have to drive. If driving cannot be avoided, be sure to have an ice scraper and broom in your car, dress warmly and in layers, keep water and

| by Catalina Victoria, USAG Bavaria Family and MWR Marketing

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The treads on a tire control the stopping power of the car. Low tread levels can make a vehicle very dangerous to drive and cause tires to slide. Be sure tires have a tread depth of at least three millimeters and make sure they are properly inflated. Check your spare tire for proper inflation as well.

| garmisch

Aryn Lockhart finishes the final event of the German Truck Pull Championship strapping a 7.9 ton semitruck to her back during the German Truck Pull Championship held in Chemnitz, Germany, Oct. 11.

Photo Credit: Ina Hofrichter

Strongwoman squares off with a semi CHEMNITZ, Germany – If you told me seven years ago, I‘d be strapping a 7.9-ton semi-truck to my back and pulling it 65 feet, I am certain I would have looked at you as if you should be committed.

it, but I found the strongman community to be unique. At first glance it appeared to be a boys‘ club where men would gather to train and compete while women were little more than accessories.

But that‘s exactly what I did, here, for the German Truck Pull Championship. My husband, Matthias, and I competed in this two-day event, Oct. 11-12, and I was the sole international athlete in a field of eight women and 23 men.

As I began to train for my first women‘s competition, however, I had found a connection to the sport. Soon I found myself wondering how much I could lift and how hard I could train, which led me to my first truck pull competition.

The competition consisted of three events: truck pull with a harness and no rope, hand-over-hand truck pull, and truck pull with rope for a distance of 65 feet. The women pulled a 4.6-ton truck for the first two events and a 7.9 ton truck for the final event.

The truck pull is a tough competition; it‘s part strength, part technique and part endurance.

The men pulled the same 7.9-ton truck for the first and second events, however, the final event brought them face-to-face with an 18 wheeler weighing 15 tons.

My husband brought me to this sport. He has been competing in strongman competitions throughout Germany for 17 years.

When he took me to the first competition, I honestly didn‘t get

Most of us can‘t strap a big rig onto our backs and do training.

So, I do the best I can training with weights and any other method that gets close to the effect I want to achieve. If I‘m lucky, I may get an opportunity to coordinate one opportunity to borrow a truck to test. That‘s it. After that, it‘s all luck.

Before the event started my nerves were jangled. I did not know if I could finish. I was the smallest athlete at only 5 feet 2 inches. My mind was racing.

What if I came all this way and can‘t move this truck? I thought.

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Luckily, I got a dry run before the event and harnessed myself to the 4.6-ton truck. Low and behold, it moved. Now infused with a bit more confidence, I took a breath.

I needed to keep my technique and move the truck 65 feet.

Successful, I finished the first event in 48.44 seconds.

The second event was taking that same truck and pulling it hand over hand toward me for 65 feet. Speed, grip strength and the ability to pull were crucial to success.

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Bavarian Times | 18

| Garmisch

Aryn Lockhart, with husband, Matthias Martin, prepares for the hand-over-hand event. Lockhart completed the round in 43 seconds.

Unfortunately, my only training consisted of pulling our station wagon, which, as you might imagine, is worlds lighter than the truck. Again, I worried about the results, but 43 seconds later, I finished event number two.

That truck dwarfed me like the whale in front of Jonah. I knew we would have a harness and rope to pull the truck, but I‘d never tested this. It was anyone‘s guess if this metal mammoth was going to move.

The toughest part was just getting it moving. So, strapped in, I pulled with all of my might and like molasses, it slowly began to move. With each successive inch, my forearms burned, my legs wiggled like gelatin.

Editor‘s Note: Lockhart is a senior visual information specialist at the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. | by Aryn Lockhart, Special to the Bavarian News

I had two voices screaming in my head. The first yelled, “Ugh, just stop it‘s soooooo heavy.”

The second voice could hear my competitors, my husband, and the crowd cheering and screaming, “Keep going! Push!

Don‘t give up!”

Fortunately, the second voice won out.

I ran out of time after 75 seconds but went 56 feet. I never gave up. Competitors, friends and others greeted me with hugs and cheers, hailing my triumph as I made the final steps.

I placed fifth in my class and seventh overall that day. Five women and eight men went to the finals in day two. In the end, I wanted to do my best, but my placement isn‘t as important to me as the experience.

Seven years later, I still dread training and going to the gym, but the competitions and the camaraderie are priceless.

There‘s something about the crowd and your competitors cheering you on. It‘s not about strategizing and mental games; it‘s simply the strongest athlete wins.

While I may never have imagined I would strap a 16,000-pound truck to my back, I am grateful for the opportunity to compete with such stellar athletes while being stationed in Germany.

19 | Bavarian Times

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The last event was pulling a 7.9-ton, 18 wheeler cab for 65 feet. This was the big time.

| Vilseck

Spouses of deployed 2nd Cavalry Regiment Soldiers are picking up the pace by exercising their way to Afghanistan. So far they‘ve logged more than 1,000 miles by swimming, rowing, running and dancing.

Spouses ‘Walk to Afghanistan’ in support of troops VILSECK, Germany – How long does it take to travel from Rose Barracks to a Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan?

The families of Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, are well on their way to finding out.

And when they do, well, they‘re turning around and coming back.

Photo Credit: Courtesy photo

Jasmine Tucker, a family readiness group leader for the unit, organized a “Walk to Afghanistan” aimed at inspiring spouses and families to exercise by collectively walking 3,927 miles, the distance from Vilseck to Afghanistan and back.

Tucker said. “Plus, it‘s getting them a taste for fitness while doing something active that‘s not competitive.”

Weekly mile contributions have ranged from two to 74 miles.

Always full of energy, Tucker serves as a cheerleader to those who may be disappointed at their weekly totals.

“We have a spouse now that emailed that she only did three miles. I said, ‚By all means, it‘s better than nothing!‘ She was able to set goals because of it,” said Tucker. “You can see the positive changes because of it.”

Tucker said spouses run for their mental and physical health, for some socialization, but also for love.

But it‘s not limited to walking or running; families are swimming, rowing, pedaling, and even dancing their way downrange.

“I think they want to shock their husband when they come home. They want to look their best for them.”

Every Wednesday, families send their weekly miles to Tucker, who keeps both a running total, and the motivation coming.

In one month, FRG families have put in 1,021 miles. Tucker says they are well on their way to reaching their goal.

This is Tucker‘s fifth deployment as a military spouse, and over those years, she witnessed the impact exercise has on spouses during a long separation.

And when they‘ve “arrived” in Afghanistan, they‘ll be swimming, rowing, running and dancing their way back.

“It‘s something to pull women and families out of their houses, so they don‘t dwell alone and inside during a deployment,”

| by Caroline Schaeffer, Special to the Bavarian News

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| Grafenwoehr

Child, Youth & School Services is restructuring its childcare fee policy in an effort to standardize costs of services across the Department of Defense and comply with the school year 2013-2014 DoD Child Development Program Fee Policy. The new policy will be implemented on Nov. 1.

CYSS adopts new fee policy GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – It‘s meant to make things simpler, but there is always an adjustment period.

DOD-wide fee policy and will apply to anyone enrolled in CYSS programs.

Child, Youth & School Services is restructuring its childcare fee policy in an effort to standardize costs of services across the Department of Defense and comply with the school year 2013-2014 DoD Child Development Program Fee Policy. The new policy will be implemented on Nov. 1.

These changes, which began in 2010, will be finalized by 2015.

“The purpose is to align the Army‘s fee structure with the Department of Defense‘s,” said Anita Payne-Landgraf, chief of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria‘s CYSS. The Army subsidizes fees on a sliding fee scale for every family, regardless of rank, grade or income, and fees are based on total family income, or TFI. TFI, according to Payne-Landgraf, includes all family income and basic allowance for housing. The calculation is based on a family‘s total income, (like the name suggests), for instance if the spouse works or receives any child support or additional income.

The family‘s total income puts them into one of 9 categories, which determines the rate that family pays. In addition, families with more than one child receive multiple child discounts.

A letter sent out to parents in early October detailed several changes within the new policy, including an increase in late payment fees and revised parent participation discount guidelines.

However, the changes will impact families in different ways.

According to Payne-Landgraf, the modifications are very individualized. It‘s not an across-the-board increase; it‘s more of an adjustment. DOD will make minor modifications each year until the standardized cost is met. The end result will be a single

21 | Bavarian Times

Comparatively, military families pay much less for childcare than they would pay in the private sector. According to ChildCare Aware of America, the average cost of fulltime childcare for an infant in 2011 ranges from $4,600 in Mississippi to $15,000 in Massachusetts, regardless of annual income. The Army Family paid from $2,832 (annual income under $30,000) to $7,368 (average income over $128,000).

For more information, view the policy letter in the link above or contact Parent Central Service in Rose Barracks DSN: 476-2760, CIV: 09662 83 2760, Hohenfels DSN 466-4860, CIV: 09472 83 4860 and Garmisch DSN: 440-2248, CIV: 088217 750 2248.

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

Photo Credit: Courtesy photo

Families can expect to see a slight increase or decrease in fees with a maximum increase of 18 dollars per child per month.

“The fees are being phased in over a period of time to reduce the impact on families,” Payne-Landgraf said.

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| Health

Pfc. Maria Clasby, a military police Soldier with 2nd Platoon, 529th Military Police Company, 95th Military Police Battalion, lets a group of children get a closer look as she shares a laugh with them at the Mannheim Library on Benjamin Franklin Village in Mannheim, Germany, during the weekly after school reading program sponsored by the platoon.

that every year more than 31 million Americans say they suffer from depression. It can affect men, women, the elderly and even children.

When you hear about depression, you may think to yourself, “I don‘t know anyone who is depressed. I will never be depressed.

No one around me will ever be depressed. No one I care about will be impacted by depression.”

Photo Credit: Sgt. Adrienne Killingsworth, 18th MP Brigade, PAO

According to the figures above, though, your spouse, mother, sister, child, grandparent--or even you--could become depressed.

In addition, depression affects not only the individual who is depressed, but can impact families, friends and coworkers.

Courage to seek help, laughter offer relief from depression Depression is one of the most common medical conditions. It can affect anyone at any time. This year, the Army is joining organizations and communities across the nation to raise awareness about the dangers of depression. The Army‘s theme, “The Courage to Seek Help,” emphasizes that depression is one of the most treatable behavioral health conditions. Getting an early diagnosis and treatment may help reduce the intensity and duration of depression symptoms.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated one in 10 Americans report depression. This means

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It may be hard to believe, but one of the most effective ways to help yourself or someone you love with depression is with laughter. Laughter is such a powerful, inexpensive and dependable tool that is always available. Did you know that laughter can ease stress, pain and sadness? There are many other ways laughter is good for your health: • Laughter helps make you happy. Laughter increases the release of endorphins, which are the body‘s feel-good chemicals that make you feel well and can even relieve pain.

• Laughter helps you relax. The harder you laugh the more muscles you use in your face, arms, legs and stomach.

Using these large muscle groups increases oxygen flow, so that your muscles relax more efficiently.

• Laughter helps you stay healthy. Laughter decreases stress hormones, helps protect you against infections like a cold or the flu, and increases your ability to fight off infections.

• Laughter makes you smarter. OK, laughter cannot really make you smarter, but it can boost your memory and learning ability by increasing important brain activity in your cerebral cortex, which controls your higher functioning (now you are smarter, right?!).

Consider some ways you can incorporate laughter into your life.

The simplest way is to start with a smile--a smile is the beginning of laughter, and it is contagious. Another easy way to start on your path to laughter is to simply make a list of things you are happy about in your life. Another simple idea is to surround yourself with people who laugh and are playful. If you hear laughter, move towards it--most often, people are happy to share what they are laughing about because it gives them the opportunity to laugh again.

Bavarian Times | 22

Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo illustration by Pfc. Paige Pendleton, 1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. PAO

| Health

The Army is joining organizations and communities across the nation to raise awareness about the dangers of depression. The Army‘s theme, “The Courage to Seek Help,” emphasizes that depression is one of the most treatable behavioral health conditions.

Some events are clearly not occasions for laughter, but most life events do not push you towards either laughter or sadness. Most events fall into the in-between place of simple, ordinary life--this gives you the choice to be sad, or the choice to laugh. Although studies do not show that laughter adds years to your life, there is evidence that laughter will add life to your years!

For those who feel they need more than laughter to deal with depression, primary care or behavioral healthcare providers can provide screening and care. The Department of Defense also offers anonymous behavioral health assessments for Soldiers, family members and civilians 24 hours a day, seven days a week, online at www.militarymentalhealth.org. | by Judith Woodward, Registered Nurse, Health Promotion Officer, U.S. Army Public Health Command

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| Grafenwoehr

Sgt. 1st Class Ryan Barnard, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, USAG Bavaria, hands 25 commissary gift cards to 1st Sgt. Darrell Vargas, Bravo Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe, as part of the Holiday Sharing Program in USAG Bavaria, Nov. 14.

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

Holiday Sharing Program gives Soldiers a boost GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – This holiday season, the Chaplains Office will donate $24,000 worth of commissary gift cards to Soldiers and families in need in U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria.

even single income families with four kids who are just struggling,” are eligible for the program, explained Sgt. 1st Class Ryan Barnard, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, USAG Bavaria.

The cards, given in $50 increments, are to help Soldiers with tight budgets pay for their holiday meals. Twenty to 30 cards will be given to each battalion in the garrison to disburse.

First sergeants disburse the cards to their Soldiers with little fanfare.

The Holiday Sharing Program has been a fixture in USAG Bavaria for nearly a decade.

Each year, the Chaplains Office works with everyone from battalion commanders to company first sergeants to generate a list of Soldiers in need that holiday season.

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“A lot of folks aren‘t willing to ask for help even though they need it, so we try to do it discretely,” said Barnard.

The first set of cards was handed out today to the Bravo Company, Warrior Transition Battalion-Europe. Of the 57 Soldiers in the unit, 25 will receive the gift cards this month.

“They‘re going through trying times,” said 1st Sgt. Darrell Vargas, Bravo Company, WTB-E. But, the commissary gift cards will help makes the holidays less stressful and more enjoyable for his Soldiers.

“They will get to celebrate Thanksgiving together and take a little less out of their pockets,” he said. “They‘re focusing their vouchers on food so they can buy gifts for the holidays.”

The Service Credit Union is also donating $25,750 in commissary gift cards in November and December.

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| Grafenwoehr

Lt. Col. Kyle Reed, commander of the 1st Squadron (Airborne), 91st Cavalry Regiment, pins an award on the individual winner , Capt. Adam Green, from the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany.

Paratroopers, families run to remember in 24-hour relay GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – “Like a dark, evil cloud, 1,200 came down on him and 29 more. They fought for their lives, but most of them died in the 173rd Airborne.”

These lyrics from Big & Rich‘s tribute “The 8th of November,” pays homage to the lives that were lost in Vietnam during Operation Hump, as Soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade were ambushed.

Hantak succeeded, completing 16 laps for a total of 67.2 miles, finishing second in the individual category behind Capt.

Adam Greene from Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels with 71 miles.

“On my last deployment, my friend Even Batista died right in front of me; I am running this for him,” Hantak said as he pointed out scars on his legs from that day last year. “I want to earn a spot in the history of the 173rd.”

Forty-eight American Soldiers lost their lives that day.

Each year, for the past seven years, the Running of the Herd commemorates the 1,805 Soldiers from the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) that have lost their lives in conflicts from Vietnam to the present day.

This year, Soldiers and families from both the 1st Squadron (Airborne), 91st Cavalry Regiment, and the 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, showed their support by running this 24-hour relay in conjunction with the 173rd IBCT‘s event at their headquarters in Vicenza, Italy.

Soldiers and families gathered at Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr to continue the tradition for the seventh annual Running of the Herd.

Both teams and individuals participated, completing as many four-mile legs as possible during the 24-hour run that began Nov. 7 at 9:30 a.m.

Staff Sgt. Anthony Hantak of Alpha Battery, 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, set out to beat Sgt. Derek Stutz individual record of 56 miles from the event at COP Baraki-Barack in 2012.

25 | Bavarian Times

As many runners ran in honor of their fallen comrades, others had something different on their minds.

First Squadron (Airborne), 91st Cavalry Regiment‘s Bulldog Troop commander, Capt. Colin Bair ran for his Army family.

“It‘s all about supporting the team and our family over here.

Unit pride is an important part of what we do every day.”

“It‘s about everyone coming together and being a part of something bigger than yourself,” said 1st Lt. Virgil Smith 1-91st Cav. Regt. squadron medical officer, who participated in the event at COP Baraki-Barack in 2012. “Last year we put on our own event in Afghanistan. Everyone finds a way to commemorate the event no matter the circumstances.”

And commemorate they did, running a combined total of more than 3,000 miles over the 24-hour period that ended on the anniversary of that fateful day in 1965.

Final results: Team Winner: B Battery, 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment – 329 miles Individual Winner: Capt. Adam Greene, JMRC Hohenfels – 71 miles. | by Laura Reutinger, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs

Photo Credit: Laura Reutinger, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs

Still, 48 years later, there is proof that paratroopers never forget.

Commissaries will soon begin scanning customers‘ Department of Defense ID cards at checkouts. The Schweinfurt Commissary at Askren Manor will begin scanning ID cards Nov. 19, 2013, and the roll-out should be complete for every other commissary by mid-January 2014. Both commissaries at U.S. Army garrisons Ansbach and Bamberg will also begin scanning ID cards, Nov. 19.

Commissaries to start scanning IDs

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Public Affairs

Fort Lee, Va. (Nov. 14, 2013) – Commissaries will soon begin scanning customers‘ Department of Defense ID cards during checkout, as the Defense Commissary Agency continues its pursuit to deliver a 21st century benefit.

The commissary at Fort Lee, Va., became the first store to scan ID cards, Oct. 22, as the first part of an agency-wide roll-out to all stores that began Nov. 10, and will be completed by midJanuary.

The Schweinfurt Commissary at Askren Manor will begin scanning ID cards Nov. 19, said store manager Marie Glaser, and the roll-out should be complete for every other commissary by mid-January 2014. According to store director Peter Sloan at the Ansbach Commissary at Urlas Housing and according to the assistant store director Evelyn Hairston at the Bamberg Commissary at Warner Barracks, both commissaries will begin scanning ID cards Nov. 19, as well.

Commissary shoppers are used to showing their ID cards to establish their eligibility to use the commissary. By scanning the ID at checkout, DeCA will no longer need to maintain any

personal information on customers in its computer systems, such as the system used for customers who write checks.

Scanning will also assist in improving the commissary benefit for all patrons, according to Joseph H. Jeu, DeCA director and CEO. “In addition to verifying customers as authorized commissary patrons, we‘ll gain information that will give us a better understanding of our patrons, allowing the agency to provide the commissary benefit more effectively and efficiently,” Jeu said.

Cross-referenced with other DOD data, the scan data will give DeCA useful information about patron usage, by military service, along with customer demographics that does not identify specific personal data of an individual. This will eventually help the agency identify shopping needs and preferences -- information that is essential in today‘s retail business environment.

It will also allow more accurate reporting to military services on commissary usage.

The demographic information DeCA will use is strictly limited to card ID number, rank, military status, branch of service, age, household size and ZIP codes of residence and duty station.

DeCA will not be using any personal information such as names, addresses or phone numbers.

“The methods, processes and information we‘ll use will not compromise our customers‘ privacy, they can be sure of that,” Jeu said. “We‘re putting technology to work to better understand our customers and ensure the commissary benefit continues to remain relevant to them now and in the future.”

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Bavarian Times | 26

| Grafenwoehr

The Honorable John B. Emerson, left, U.S. ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, and his wife, Kimberly Emerson, speak with Franz Zeilmann, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs community relations officer, while visiting the 7th Army Joint Multinational Training Command, Nov. 8. During his visit of the training area the ambassador toured military displays and spoke with Soldiers, was briefed by the JMTC commander, training facility directors, and met with local German politicians and representatives.

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – The new U.S. Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, the Honorable John B. Emerson, toured the facilities of the 7th Army Joint Multinational Training Command, here, Nov. 8.

The ambassador, accompanied by his wife, Kimberly Emerson, and a small group of U.S. consular officials, visited JMTC to meet with local mayors, JMTC leadership as well as U.S., NATO and multinational partner Soldiers training at the Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas in the Bavarian Oberpfalz region of Germany.

“I really enjoyed visiting these state-of-the-art military training facilities, which are the biggest and most modern the U.S. Army has in the world outside the United States,” said Ambassador Emerson.

“It was especially great seeing firsthand the realistic and valuable training that JMTC provides to tens of thousands of NATO and partner Soldiers each year in preparation for deployments to Afghanistan and elsewhere.

27 | Bavarian Times

The Honorable John B. Emerson U.S. ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, and his wife, Kimberly Emerson, meets and speaks with Brig. Gen. Walter E. Piatt, far right, and Soldiers of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment during a tour of the 7th Army Joint Multinational Training Command, Nov. 8.

“I also appreciated talking to local Bavarian mayors and officials and having the opportunity to thank them and the Bavarian people, especially those here in Oberpfalz, for being such wonderful hosts of American forces and their families for more than 65 years,” said the ambassador. “We really value our partnership and relationship with the German people.”

Prior to his departure, Emerson met with a delegation of local German politicians and regional representatives and spoke with them about the 7th Army JMTC‘s relationships with the surrounding communities, as well as JMTC‘s long history of environmental protection and stewardship of its training lands within Germany.

The 7th Army JMTC is the largest training command outside the continental United States, providing realistic and relevant training to U.S. Army, joint service, NATO and allied units, and is a regular venue for some of the largest training exercises for U.S. and European forces. | by 7th U.S. Army Joint Multinational Training Command Public Affairs

Photo Credit: Michael Beaton, Joint Multinational Training Command Public Affairs (2)

U.S. Ambassador to Germany tours Grafenwoehr Training Area

| Grafenwoehr

From left: Col. James Saenz, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, and USAG Bavaria‘s Command Sgt. Maj. William Berrios, uncasing the USAG Bavaria colors with support from the garrison color guard.

Community‘s ‘bootprint’ is now U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Grafenwoehr, Germany – In an effort to promote solidarity within the Bavaria Military Community, U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwoehr officially became U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria at a designation ceremony, here, Sept. 24, outside the Tower Barracks Headquarters Building.

The event was intimate and dignified with Joachim Herrmann, Bavarian State Minister of the Interior, Kathleen Marin, region director, Installation Management Command-Europe, and Brig.

Gen. Walter E. Piatt, commander of the 7th U.S. Army Joint Multinational Training Command, in attendance.

Col. James Saenz, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, and USAG Bavaria‘s Command Sgt. Maj. William Berrios, began by casing the USAG Grafenwoehr colors with support from the garrison color guard. The casing was immediately followed by the uncasing of the USAG Bavaria colors.

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

The transition from USAG Grafenwoehr to USAG Bavaria, said Marin, is much more than just a name change.

“We are enshrining an extraordinary legacy while acknowledging the importance of this community,” said Marin. “IMCOM Europe is preparing for the future today by consolidating, divesting and investing right here in Europe.

se,” said Saenz. “Together, we truly will be the Bavaria Military Community.”

Saenz said the key to success throughout the transformation lies in the empowerment of leaders and the workforce, stressing quality customer service, communicating best practices and customer expectations. Ensuring Soldiers‘ needs are being met, both downrange and at home, is also a top priority.

“As you look around, you will see we are enabling the Bavaria Military Community to be ready and resilient,” said Saenz.

While the ceremony sought to bring together garrisons in Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels and Garmisch, it also strengthened international relations.

“I would like to say how very grateful I am to members of the German military and government, as well as our community neighbors, who took time to celebrate this special day with us,” said Saenz, addressing the German dignitaries in attendance.

“Everyone‘s presence here today illustrates the close relationships that we have, and will continue to build. You, too, are part of the Bavaria Military Community.”

Herrmann echoed Saenz‘s sentiment.

“Consolidation not only decreases the space between us, it decreases our costs, our footprint, and it increases our sustainability,” she said.

Col. James Saenz, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, said the transition also reflects how U.S. Army Europe and IMCOM-Europe are streamlining their organizations into more efficient support structures for a leaner, more adaptable force.

“As we transform, it is imperative that we take deliberate steps to meet the needs of our community across the entire enterpri-

“Bavaria has traditionally enjoyed very close relations with our American friends. Especially here, at the U.S. installation in Grafenwoehr, which has been under American administration for almost 70 years,” said Herrmann. “We enjoy an excellent partnership that goes above and beyond just military issues.”

| by Molly Hayden, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs Bavarian Times | 28

| Grafenwoehr

The soldiers of the German Army and the U.S. Army were impressed by the border facilities. Many of them had never experienced the time when the situation at the border was still life-threatening.

Mödlareuth – The divided village on the former inner German border

The German Military Representative (GMR) and commander of German troops stationed at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Lt. Col. Hans-Joachim Gehrlein had invited his soldiers and local American soldiers on an educational trip to Mödlareuth. Soldiers and civilians from the office of the GMR, Joint Multinational Training Command (JMTC), 702d Explosive Ordnance Div., and the 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team took part in the trip which had been organized by OCS cadet Andre Potzler (GMR).

The American delegation was led by Brig. Gen. Walter E. Piatt, Commanding General, JMTC. Ingolf Hermann, a former captain of the East German Border Patrol gave the visitors a tour of the museum. In the museum’s auditorium, Hermann explained the history of the small village of Mödlareuth, located on the border of Thuringia and Bavaria, which took a very special turn when Germany and with it the village, were divided. The citizens of Mödlareuth became victims

29 | Bavarian Times

of history when their town was first separated by a wooden fence and since 1966 by a wall. Speaking English perfectly, Hermann used photos to explain the construction of the border facilities and spoke in a very personal way about the fate of the inhabitants of Little Berlin. During a walk along the small border creek Tannbach, German and American soldiers saw remnants of the original wall and the reconstruction of the barricades in the strip of death. Watch towers, observation facilities, wire fences with spring guns, mine fields and the wall in the strip of death impressed and and depressed the mostly young soldiers. Herrmann also talked about the access rules governing the strip of death, the structural organization of the border patrol, the set up of the American border camps which were formerly staffed by soldiers of the 2d US Cavalry Regiment which is now stationed in Vilseck on Grafenwoehr Training Area. The German soldiers, stationed at the military installations of the Border Brigade, were tasked to secure the inner German and German-Czech border with additional barricades in the event of deployment.

The group also visited the museum where vehicles of the former border troops are on display and a U.S. Willys Jeep is parked next to a Trabant of the NPA. Hermann presented Brig.

Gen. Piatt with a miniature black-red-golden boundary post. Piatt, in turn, presented him with his unit coin that now features the white and blue Bavarian rhombs. | by Gerald Morgenstern

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

Grafenwoehr, Germany – The Americans called it “Little Berlin,” the divided village Mödlareuth on the former line of demarcation. Here, the American units in the border camps, the German troops from the military installations along the border and the border guards of East Germany’s National People’s Army (NPA) were facing each other. German and American soldiers from Grafenwoehr now patrolled as visitors through the former strip of death and through the German-German museum.

| Grafenwoehr

The Altenweiher Ursprung spring in the impact area of the training area is an idyllic place and a rare hydro-geological peculiarity. Professor Dr. Holger Weiß (left) and postgraduate student Pablo Borges De Amorim (right) found proof that the gas welling up at the Ursprung comes from the volcanic inner mantle of the Earth. Forest rangers Jochen Scharrer and Heiko Weiß (from right to left) accompanied the scientists on their excursion.

“The Earth breathes” at the Ursprung spring

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

Artesian spring and hydrological peculiarity in the training area Grafenwoehr / Vilseck, Germany – “The Altenweiher Ursprung spring is a diamond in the crown jewel Grafenwoehr,” says Professor Dr. Holger Weiß. The environmental scientist presented new geological research results: Gases well up from the artesian spring in the impact area of the training area which partially come from a magma chamber located approx. 30 kilometers below ground. This is the first scientific proof of a link to the Eger Rill which runs east of the Franconian Line.

Weiß works for the Helmholtz-Center of Environmental Science in Leipzig. His cousin Heiko Weiß, a forest ranger at Grafenwoehr Training Area, told him about the hydrological peculiarity at the Ursprung spring. Following their scientific interest, Weiß and his colleagues determined the isotopic composition of the ascending gases with the help of isotopic mass spectrometry and compared it to the gases from springs in the Eger Rill and in Thuringia. Pa-

blo Borges De Amorim, a Brazilian postgraduate student at their department, used a gas sampling pipe to collect six liters of the scantily ascending gas above the Ursprung spring.

Weiß explained the results of his research to members of the Federal Forest Office, the U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, the U.S. Army’s Joint Multinational Training Command, and other interested guests. Taking part in the research were the famous geologists Dr. Karin Bräuer, Dr. Gerhard Strauch and Dr. Reiner Stolberg. Of special interest to the scientists were the two helium isotopes found in the gas which mainly consists of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The ratio measured at the Ursprung spring, so far has only been found in active volcanic areas.

Weiß explained that this “breath of the earth” of volcanic and sub volcanic origin in the region had previously only been detected at the mineral springs and mofettes in the Bohemian spas of Karlsbad, Marienbad and Franzensbad. The springs and mofettes are directly located above the Eger Rill which features magmatic activity at a depth of 30 kilometers. In Schönbronn in the Vogtland region, 30 kilometers northwest of Bublak, helium gas from volcanic depths was detected whose iso-chemical composition is very similar to that of the Altenweiher Ursprung spring.

Weiß and the other scientists are certain that the Altenweiher Ursprung is linked to the gas chambers of the Eger Rill and that gas is welling up from the inner mantel of the Earth. This is the first proof of such a gas emanation west of the Franconian Line, the dividing line between the Old and the New Mountains. | by Gerald Morgenstern Bavarian Times | 30

| Law

Family Law Cases in German Courts Therefore, some military families have to face separation and divorce with all of its sad und unpleasant side effects. Some of them even while they are far away from their home, and maybe even while they are deployed.

A lot of affected spouses do not know that they have the possibility to have their family situation reviewed by the German legal system as long as their last joint residence was within Germany and one of the spouses is still here.

Although they do not have their home of record in Germany but physically live here, a lot of them with children, U.S. and German law allows for divorce cases being taken to the German family court in the district of residence of the parties involved.

International marriages, including those of American families, can be divorced by the German legal system because the system refers to the laws of the plaintiff’s home country and state, and the German court system divorces U.S. couples in Germany according to American State Laws.

In many cases, it is a lot easier to get in contact with local authorities, judges in court, social workers and lawyers to discuss the family situation during a separation and/or seek legal assistance.

The German legal system focuses on the well-being of children of separated spouses and offers a lot of assistance when husbands and wives do not get along anymore, and the children are in the middle of the parents’ fight over them.

Since German courts close to U.S. military installations, such as the courts in Weiden, Amberg, Neumarkt and Regensburg, are aware of and adhere to the special regulations set forth in NATO Status of Forces Agreement, all service of court paperwork, subpoenas and decisions are in accordance with U.S. military law and, therefore, are affective and acknowledged in the United States and in Germany. Once a case is filed in one court, it cannot be filed in another court in Germany, or the United States.

After having been served with court paperwork and subpoenaed by the German le-gal system, it is mandatory for at least one party to personally appear in court for a divorce hearing in front of a judge.

If necessary, and in cases of emergency, judges have the right to make temporary decisions about physical custody, alimony and support without a hearing and issue a temporary court order which is executable and valid until a final decision is made.

In 2009, Germany family law changed. Since then, it is mandatory to be represented by a lawyer in support and alimony cases, as it has always been mandatory to have a lawyer file for divorce in family court.

Since being sued for support and a divorce both have great impact on a spouse’s personal life and financial situation, a lawyer can assist and advise the client regarding any legal questions. The lawyer will also accompany his or her client to all court hearings.

If you are in a similar situation, make sure you do not wait until the last minute to seek out legal services.

Look for more information on that subject in the next edition of Bavarian Times.

A lot of social workers are almost fluent in English, and if they are not, they have a translator to assist them with solving family problems.

Note: The information in this article is provided for general information only and may not be practical under certain circumstances.

In stressful situations like separations and the arguments associated with them, a lot of spouses appreciate the possibility of personal advice from J.A.G. representatives and, if needed, local lawyers who can take their cases to court and represent them there.

| by Jutta Carrington, LL.M.

31 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: Stauke_Fotolia.com

Nowadays, it is common knowledge that a lot of marriages do not last forever anymore in today’s hectic world.

| Cars & Traffic

Equipping your car with the right tires in the winter time, should be a given. In some countries, they are required by law.

Other countries, other customs

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Winter tires: These rules apply in other European countries (djd/pt). Nothing works without winter tires. Drivers are responsible for having their cars equipped with the right tires when the roads are winterly or icy. If you violate that, you will be fined. Similar rules apply in other European countries. If you travel with your car to the popular winter sports regions in Austria, Italy, or Switzerland, you should inform yourself about the rules and regulations beforehand. Almost every country has its own set of rules.

Rules in the Alpine Region “In order not to endanger himself and others, every driver should pay attention to having the right tires on the car in the winter time,” says Stephan Schweda, press spokesperson of the Association of German Insurers (GDV) in Berlin. With winter tires, you are also safe when traveling abroad. Often, different rules apply regionally. Austria, Switzerland and France, however, do not have a law that requires cars to be equipped with winter tires.

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“In those countries, winter equipment is required for several roads, such as country and mountain roads. “Cars without winter equipment are prohibited from traveling on these roads which is shown by the respective road sign,” says Schweda.

Apart from putting snow tires on your car, you should also carry snow chains in your trunk, especially when traveling into the Alps. Special rules also apply in Italy: “Here, winter tires may be required for certain roads based on the weather conditions. In the Aosta Valley, for example, snow tires are required from October 15 to the middle of April the following year,” explains Stephan Schweda.

Winter tires in the northern countries Many tourists travel to the north in the winter time. Scandinavia lovers should know that winter tires have been required by law for quite some time in Norway and Sweden. However, the law does not apply to tourists. That is different in Finland: “Winter tires and year-round tires are required on all streets.

That also applies to tourists,” says Schweda. But not all tires qualify as winter tires. Tires that meet the criteria are marked “M+S” (for slush and snow. “To ensure that tires function as desired, they should at least have a tread depth of four millimeters.”

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If you practice in your warm garage beforehand, putting on snow chains won’t be that difficult when you have to do it in the cold.

If you drive with the wrong tires in the winter, you are not only careless, you also run the risk of being haevily fined.

Drive safely on ice and snow

Rulands. If you slow down traffic, or cause an accident, a significantly higher fine will be imposed on drivers. “In Germany, both summer and winter tires must also have a minimum tread depth of 1.6 millimeters by law.”

Tip: Prepare your car for winter

(djd/pt). If you do not prepare your car on time for winter, you are not only careless, you also run the risk of being fined.

Since 2010, for example, there has been a law in Germany that requires cars to be equipped with winter tires on their car, if the weather demands it.

German law stipulates that only M+S tires, or tires with a snowflake symbol may be driven on icy roads, snow, slush, ice or frost. “If the police catch you with the wrong kind of tires, drivers will be fined 40 Euro and get a point in the Flensburg Traffic Registry, “explains Bridgestone expert Wilfried

Driving into the mountains: Try out your snow chains in dry conditions In the alpine regions, snow chains are required by law on some roads. Therefore, your car should be quipped with them when you are driving into the mountains. This also applies to four-wheel-drive vehicles. Although putting on snow tires isn’t as difficult as it used to be, it does require some practive.

“In order not to lose too much time during snow and cold weather, you should test putting them on at home in the warm garage,” says Rulands, advising a dry run.

When traveling in winter, an ice scraper and a hand broom should always be on board, and you should carry a lockdeicer in your coat pocket or purse. Waterproof, lined gloves make snow and ice scraping more comfortable. “It helps if you protect your front and rear windshield with cardboard or foil. This also protects the windshield wipers,” adds Rulands.

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The BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Athletic ability, efficiency, compulsive allure, and innovations designed to enhance the driving experience: the BMW 5 Series has always contained the signature ingredients of a best-selling BMW model. Consistently rising sales figures have fortified its position as a global leader in its class. Now, for the 2014 model year, another new chapter in this success story is poised to begin. Precise modifications to the design, the addition of a new inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine for the Sedan, and even more of available equipment all raise the appeal of the BMW 5 Series family a notch higher.

Design: Developing the Five’s signature sporty character.

Fresh contour lines for the surround of the BMW kidney grille and redesigned lower air intakes reinforce the sporty appearance of the 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan. The accentuated width of the rear end is underlined by an extra crease in the apron, as well as slim, sharply contoured and therefore more striking rear lights.

The 2014 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo receives a modified front apron exuding presence and solidity. Its redesigned rear end creates a longer and lower visual impression. A three-dimensional surface design for the area around the license plate holder and a chrome strip in the rear apron add further depth to its dynamic character.

gains over its gasoline-fueled counterpart. US EPA figures will be available closer to the on-sale date. BMW’s xDrive intelligent allwheel drive system is also available on the new 535d Sedan.

The top-of-the-line engine of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan now features an updated V-8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and BMW’s Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, developing a monstrous 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.

The 5 Series chassis technology – which includes a double-wishbone front axle, integral rear axle and Servotronic variable power steering function – has been honed to deliver an unrivalled balance between sporty performance and ride comfort. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with standard air suspension, including automatic self-leveling rear suspension. The Driving Dynamics Control switch on the center console is standard on all models. Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering are systems unmatched by other players that can be specified as options.

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Xenon Adaptive headlights are fitted as standard on all 5 Series models, while Adaptive LED Headlights join the options list for 2014. Elsewhere, the side indicator lights are now integrated into the exterior mirrors. Also new in the BMW 5 Series are the Luxury Line and Modern Line, in addition to the popular M Sport choice, each containing select design and equipment features.

Functionality and desirability at new levels.

New details lend further refinement to the premium impression of the new BMW 5 Series’ interior and a new layer of functionality.

The Central Display of the standard iDrive operating system is now bordered in the Sedan by chrome trim. The storage compartments and cup holders in the center console of these models now have increased capacity.

A revised rear section increases the luggage capacity of the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo by 2.1 cu-ft to 17.7 cu-ft (European figures, preliminary). New exterior paint colors, light-alloy wheels, upholstery colors and interior trim elements for all BMW 5 Series models enhance their appeal and increase the scope for individualization.

Engines: more power, now with the choice of BMW Advanced Diesel.

The introduction of the 2014 BMW 5 Series family also heralds an expansion of its engine range. The BMW 535d has been added as BMW’s latest diesel variant in North America. Its inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology makes 255 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 – 3,000 rpm (preliminary figures). Simultaneously, the new BMW 535d Sedan is expected to show substantial fuel efficiency 35 | Bavarian Times

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mics technologies now also includes a coasting mode (which disengages the powertrain while coasting), and the ECO PRO Route function, which can be selected via the Navigation system. Additionally, updated aerodynamics is a key factor in the latest advances made by the engineers in the area of fuel efficiency.

Comfort Access system, which allows the tailgate or trunk to be opened hands-free, has been extended to include a closing mechanism, which means that a movement of the foot under the rear apron can now be used to prompt the tailgate to close as well as open.

More innovative than ever: BMW ConnectedDrive.

The galaxy of innovations on the options list borne by BMW ConnectedDrive technology allows the 2014 BMW 5 Series family to underline its leadership in the areas of connectivity, infotainment, convenience, and safety. For example, the function of the optional

In addition, the 2014 BMW 5 Series offers customers a new rearseat entertainment system with tablet-style displays, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system and a new version of the ambient light option with a facility which allows the interior lighting to be alternated in tone between orange and white.

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The range of BMW ConnectedDrive business solutions and driver assistance systems is more advanced and richer in variety than ever. The BMW 5 Series enables a scope of intelligent connectivity unique in the marketplace, allowing it to set the benchmark for incar use of office applications.

Alongside the globally unrivalled Concierge Service for hotel reservations and a selection of other services, BMW ConnectedDrive also offers an unusually extensive suite of office functions, including internet-based services. The dictation function, for example, provides a convenient way of entering text for SMS messages and emails during a journey. The array of search, travel, office and social media services can be accessed via the car’s integrated SIM card or the customer’s smartphone. iDrive4.2: Now with touchpad.

The newly-standard iDrive4.2 Navigation system makes use of an optimized menu display and allows access to Advanced Real Time Traffic Information. A new iDrive rotary controller with an integrated touchpad allows the input of characters for destinations, phone numbers, and other functions within the iDrive4.2 operating system.

Acclaim: BMW 5 Series top ratings, design awards.

The quality and popularity of the BMW 5 Series are reflected in the host of prizes and distinctions awarded to the members of the model family around the world. In early 2013 the BMW 5 Se-

ries secured class victory – for the third year in succession – in the readers’ survey “The Best Cars” conducted by the German motoring magazine “auto, motor und sport”. This success came not long after the BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition with BMW BluePerformance technology had been voted “Car of the Future” and awarded the ADAC automobile association’s “Yellow Angel”.

The BMW 5 Series as a whole had been named “Germany’s favorite car” in the same competition in 2011.

In addition to the red dot award, iF Product Design Award and Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany, the BMW 5 Series has also picked up a notable collection of international distinctions in recognition of its successful exterior design. Beyond these, the BMW 5 Series has been voted “Car of the Year”, “Best Car”, “Premium Car of the Year”, “Family Car of the Year” and “Executive Car of the Year” in various countries.

This broad spread of qualities has been recognized with a swathe of impressive ratings elsewhere as well. German car journal “Auto Bild” crowned the BMW 525d Touring “Value Champion 2012” on account of its high value retention in the used car market. The title had been awarded to the BMW 520d Sedan the previous year.

And the BMW 5 Series emerged from both the Euro NCAP and the US NCAP crash tests with the highest rating of five stars. It was also the first vehicle to achieve a 100 per cent score in the Safety Assist category of the Euro NCAP crash tests. (BMW USA)

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2014 Buick Regal in Ashen Gray exterior color and equipped with 18” wheels, sunroof and driver confidence page l and ll.

2014 Buick Regal Boasts More Power, Greater Efficiency The revamped 2014 Buick Regal now arriving in dealerships features the sport sedan’smost powerful standard engine ever – and increased fuel efficiency.

Photo Credit: General Motors USA

Producing an SAE-rated 259 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque from just two liters of displacement, the Regal has more standard horsepower and torque than the Acura TSX, Audi A4, Lexus IS 250, Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, Volkswagen CC, and Volvo S60.

The new turbo four-cylinder engine incorporates an improved twin-scroll turbocharger and a host of other advancements that result in a smoother, quieter engine with improved power and efficiency.

When compared with the 2013 Regal Turbo, the new 2.0L Turbo produces 18 percent more horsepower and 13 percent more torque while delivering more miles per gallon. Equipped with its six-speed automatic transmission, the 2014 Regal gets an EPAestimated 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, an increase of 3 mpg or 17 percent city economy over the 2013 Regal Turbo.

“Power and fuel efficiency are typically mutually exclusive,” said Mike Katerberg, chief powertrain engineer. “But with our new 2.0L Turbo, we were able to increase both and create one of the most torque rich and fuel efficient combinations on the market.”

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A Ward’s 10 Best Engine, debuting in the Cadillac ATS, the new 2.0L Turbo is comprised of about 95 percent new parts compared to the outgoing engine. Both powertrains use a cast aluminum cylinder block and direct fuel injection, but enhanced driving refinement was the goal of the second-generation 2.0L Turbo.

New design elements and components work harmoniously to enrich performance, efficiency, acoustics and durability. Changes to the new 2.0L Turbo include: • Relocated balance shafts inside of the oil pan help reduce noise • A two-stage, variable displacement oil pump now located inside the oil pan contributes to greater fuel efficiency and reduced noise • A new two-piece oil pan is constructed of aluminum in the upper section to promote structural rigidity and stamped steel in the lower for its acoustic dampening • A new cylinder head design that relocates the intake system/throttle body to the firewall side of the engine compartment and positions the exhaust ports on the forward-facing section of the engine • Proprietary computational fluid dynamics analysis techniques were used to develop an all-new combustion system

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2014 Buick Regal with Light Neutral interior seating with Cocoa accents is offered with Soleil Keisel leather seats and Rhythm wood décor.

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“We really strived to not only give the customer great performance, but also a smoother, quieter, and more refined engine, all essential elements in a Buick,” said Katerberg.

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In addition to the new standard turbocharged engine, the 2014 Regal turbo models now offer an available advanced all-wheeldrive system with electronic limited-slip differential and HiPer Strut front suspension for added performance and drivability in all types of road conditions.

The new Regal sport sedan also features refreshed exterior and interior styling. It now comes standard with next-generation IntelliLink connectivity including eight-inch color touch display, leather-appointed seating surfaces with heated front seats, rear vision camera, and 18-inch alloy wheels. A suite of active safety technologies including full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert is available. (General Motors USA)

Bavarian Times | 40

Photo Credit: General Motors USA

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with a higher compression ratio, which also helped boost efficiency • Dual continuously variable cam phasing with increased authority to maximize low-speed torque and fuel efficiency • An acoustic intake manifold cover with integrated soundabsorbing blanket for improved noise isolation • Structural front engine and camshaft covers are stiffer and more rigid, contributing to lower engine noise • Premium features including a forged steel crankshaft and an inverted-tooth camshaft drive chain that enhance durability and reduce noise

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The Chevrolet Silverado Cheyenne concept embraces the adage that less is more. With this performance-oriented concept of the all-new 2014 Silverado regular cab, a reduced curb weight and the performance of the new 420-horsepower 6.2L V-8 combine for a strong power-to-weight ratio and exhilarating performance.

Silverado Cheyenne Concept: Mini Mass, Max Performance The Chevrolet Silverado Cheyenne concept vehicle to be unveiled at the SEMA Show, embraces the adage that less is more. The performance-oriented version of the all-new 2014 Silverado regular cab combines a reduced curb weight with the performance of the new 420-horsepower 6.2L V-8 for a strong power-to-weight ratio and exhilarating performance.

Photo Credit: General Motors USA

A lowered ride height, a rear stabilizer bar and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes complement the Cheyenne concept’s high-performance character with enhanced handling and braking capability.

“The Cheyenne concept explores the performance possibilities of the all-new Silverado, which is already built on a mass-efficient layout and delivers a greater balance of performance and efficiency than any other full-size truck in Chevrolet’s history,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing.

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The unique lightweight features built into the concept vehicle include carbon fiber replacements for the bumpers, tailgate and inner cargo box, shaving approximately 200 pounds from the 4,503 pounds base curb weight of a 5.3L-equipped Silverado regular cab with a 6’6” box.

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Cheyenne designers matched the form of the lightweight components with their low-mass function. The carbon fiber front bumper includes racing-inspired ground effects styling complemented by carbon body-side ground effects while the carbon fiber tailgate incorporates a spoiler. The hood features a Camaro Z/28-inspired extractor vent.

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41 | Bavarian Times

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lighter than conventional steel rotors. On the Camaro Z/28, for example, they save more than 20 pounds – and it saves un-sprung weight, too, which enhances driving performance with more immediate and direct handling. The truck rolls on charcoal-painted 19-inch Camaro Z/28 aluminum wheels and high-performance tires.

The Cheyenne diet removes the trailer hitch, spare tire, interior center console and some of the sound-deadening material. The truck also has a lightweight aluminum driveshaft and composite rear leaf springs.

“Lightweighting is a time-honored method of making the most of a vehicle’s performance which Chevrolet has demonstrated time and again with vehicles like the original 2001 Corvette Z06 and the 2014 Camaro Z/28,” said Perry. “And like those vehicles, the Cheyenne complements its lower weight with more horsepower.”

The all-new EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 that powers the concept truck is rated at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque – the most power in the light-duty truck segment. It’s unavailable in regularproduction Silverado regular cab models, giving the Cheyenne a 65-horsepower and 77 lb-ft boost over the production 5.3L V-8. A Borla performance exhaust system adds an authoritative note to the 6.2L’s output.

What remains is the Silverado’s production six-speed automatic transmission, which features hill descent control, as well as fuelsaving electric power steering and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with hill start assist.

Inside, the Cheyenne’s performance theme is conveyed with Recaro sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel, similar to the steering wheel offered in the Camaro ZL1. Available safety features, including lane departure warning, front and rear park assist and a rear-vision camera, enhance safety without detracting from the truck’s performance.

All Silverado models feature a fully boxed frame that serves as the foundation for their strength and capability. The main rails and major cross members are formed from high-strength steel, providing a rigid base for maximum hauling capability.

“Elements such as high-strength steel in the frame and body structure are found on all production models, while some also feature aluminum suspension components, contributing to the Silverado’s everyday performance. With the Cheyenne concept, we’ve taken the low-mass concept to a new level – with exciting results,” Perry said.

“It is only a concept right now, but we are continually exploring new ways to give Silverado customers more.”

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FAST FACT: Cheyenne was introduced as a premium Chevy truck trim level in 1971. The name also appeared a futuristic 2003 concept vehicle. (General Motors USA)

Bavarian Times | 42

| Cars & Traffic

2014 Volvo XC90 Earns TOP SAFETY PICK+ in IIHS Crash Tests Luxury SUV embodies real-life crashworthiness and Volvo’s longtime commitment to safety

In a testament to Volvo’s longtime commitment to passenger protection, the 2014 Volvo XC90 luxury SUV earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Institute’s top safety award.

testing has addressed these crash scenarios because our commitment to safety is at the core of our values.”

To earn TOP SAFETY PICK+, a vehicle must pass a series of crashworthiness evaluations, including the small overlap front test — a real-life scenario that replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle strikes another vehicle or an object.

• Good structural performance in the small overlap front test • Low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of high severity • Side torso and side curtain airbags both deployed.

“The XC90’s structural performance was good in the small overlap front test, and the driver’s space was maintained well,” said IIHS in a released statement. “While many vehicles have had to undergo significant structural changes to earn good ra-

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“Small overlap collisions at high speeds are often very severe,” noted Adam Kopstein, safety and compliance manager for Volvo Cars of North America. “For decades, Volvo‘s research

In its evaluation of the XC90’s performance, IIHS noted:

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tings in the small overlap test, the XC90 has had the same basic platform since 2003.”

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An all-new XC90 will debut at the end of 2014 and go on sale in early 2015. It will feature Volvo’s next-generation safety and driver-support technologies, including Pedestrian Detection in Darkness and Road Edge and Barrier Detection with Steer Assist.

“In a competitive marketplace where every brand tries to stake its own claim to safety, Volvo continues to affirm our leadership,” said Volvo Cars of North America President and CEO Tony Nicolosi. “We very much appreciate the attention IIHS gives to real-life scenarios such as small overlap collisions and are proud of the XC90’s performance.”

The XC90 is the third Volvo model to earn the TOP SAFETY PICK+ accolade since the Institute began testing for small overlap protection in 2012. The 2013 Volvo S60 luxury sedan and 2013 XC60 crossover each earned the prestigious honor during earlier tests. (Volvo Cars USA)

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Bavarian Times | 44

Photo Credit: Volvo Cars USA

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

Since its launch, Volvo’s XC90 luxury SUV has won acclaim from legions of satisfied customers while receiving many awards internationally. The XC90 upholds a legacy of safety, such as its pioneering introduction of the world’s first Roll Stability Control.

Photo Credit: Alexandra Amschler (2)

Animals below the Christmas tree – “NO” A small puppy for the kids because they would really like to have a dog. The joy on Christmas Eve will be immense! Unfortunately, that joy won’t last very long once the daily routine starts. Every day, the new family member needs several hours of activities and attention. It does not matter whether homework needs to be done, whether you are sick ,whether it rains, storms or snows, whether it’s Grandma’s birthday, or if you have to stay in the office longer -- they need activities every day! And soon, the joy of the sweet Christmas present is fading away. Most of the times, such presents are not well thought through. Many parents think that the child has to take care of the dog if he or she wants to have one. But children cannot bear such a huge responsibility alone, especially since children view dogs as a playmate, or a sibling and not as a responsible “top dog.” So the parents end up having to do the work and they soon get pretty upset about the hasty dog purchase.

The Christmas story that started so happily, often ends with the dog being put in the animal shelter, being abandoned, or being

put up inadequately in a room in the house, knowing no out, no other dogs, wasting away in the house.

run

Animals are living creatures and cannot be returned if you do not like them anymore. They are looking forward to their new home and their new family. They are separated from the mother and their siblings, have to experience a long car ride, and then they are put in a box and given away. The new family member is supposed to be a playmate for the kids, a buddy for dad, and a snuggler for mom. But such dogs only exist as toys. Every dog breed, or every dog mix has individual character traits.

It takes a lot of time to make the decision for the “right” dog.

Unfortunately, most people buy “by the looks” and do not think about the consequences.

Being alone in the animal shelter must be awful for these animals, and how abandoned must they feel. It must be horrible for a puppy to be put in yet another, new family where everything is different from what the dog was just trying to learn, where everything is different again, other people, kids, and impressions.

Most dogs are overwhelmed by that, become timid, pee into the apartment, or turn into fear biters.

If your friends tell you about such an idea, tell them about the fate of many animals and make it clear to them that owning a dog means having a lot of responsibility. If you would like to own a dog, sit down with your family after Christmas and take time to thoroughly plan and talk about buying a dog. Everyone should be able to voice his or her opinion. Every family member should agree to making the purchase because the new family member should feel well and welcome. You should be happy about your animal every day and smile at him. | by Alexandra Walberer

Bavarian Times | 46

| Christmas

Extreme Christmas decoration features 70,000 lights Karl-Heinz Eismann has built an entire zoo out of steel

The self-employed locksmith detected his passion 13 years ago when he started making animals out of steel which he put in his garden. And how many are currently out there? Eismann has to think about the answer and starts counting. The answer is 25 animals and about 25 trees, including a doe and a stag, a turtle, a camel, two cows, a penguin, and a cat. He has also created a snail.

“On the first Advent Sunday, the lights, around 70,000, are turned on and burn until Jan. 6, “Three Kings Day.” After switching to LEDs, the work got easier. But enough effort was put into the animals. I need about 50 hours for a large animal. The time it took to create the entire zoo adds up to about 600 hours,” says the steel artist. And what about the cost for the electricity? “Enormous,” says Eismann. About 3,000 hours altogether. But he is willing to pay that price because a lot of visitors come to Hütten who do not want to miss this Christmas special. Especially the kids are excited when they see the all the animals, some of which even move.

The business man already made the news with his house 15 years ago when he put in his 48-ton-roof structure. But Eismann is not only interested in steel during the Christmas season.

Steel sculptures are on display in his garden all year round.

47 | Bavarian Times

For Easter it’s rabbits, in the summer cows and scary ghosts for Halloween.

Starting Dec. 1, the gigantic sea of lights can be admired from 5 - 9 p.m. and watch the whale wave with its fins. But the spectacle is not only a feast for the eyes, it’s also a culinary event.

Glühwein and children’s punch are served with bratwurst, French fries, gyros, coffee and gingerbread, along with musical entertainment. The profit from this slightly different Advent market goes to the animal shelter in Tirschenreuth and the animal sanctuary Pegnitz. Viewing the Christmas illumination at Fasanenweg in Hütten is free. However, donations for the animal shelter and the animal sanctuary are welcome. | by Renate Gradl

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

Hütten. This is not a place in the middle of nowhere. Two elephants can be seen here as well as a whale, a giraffe, and even “Nessie.” And when it gets dark, they are starting to glow. When other people put reindeers in their garden during the Christmas season, Karl-Heinz Eismann in Hütten puts out an entire zoo.

| Christmas

Regional Christmas trees Every year, Germans put up approximately 25 million Christmas trees in their living rooms during the Christmas season.

Many of them come from Denmark and have been on a long journey before they arrive in our living rooms. It’s hard to believe, but many of those trees have already been cut in October.

Christmas trees from the “Pressather Tannenland” tree farm offer a great alternative. The trees that are grown there have been awarded the rating “from the Northern Upper Palatinate Nature Park.” It guarantees that the trees are fresh because trees with that label may not be cut before Nov. 25. Additionally, they must have been produced in an ecological manner.

If you like, you can reserve your tree by the end of November and then cut it yourself shortly before Christmas. Hand saws are available. That way, buying your Christmas tree turns into an exciting experience for the entire family.

The tree expert also offers a specialty: Shared trees, which are common in the USA, and a lot of American tree species. Such as the White Fir, or Colorado Fir with its silvery-blue needles which is very popular in America, or the Douglas Fir which features the smell of oranges, the Fraser Fir, or the blue Alpine Fir from the Rocky Mountains with its soft needles.

Also available is the Blue Spruce which grows in many beautiful shapes and whose original home are the states of Utah and Colorado.

And which tree is the most beautiful Christmas tree?

Normann Fir Based on sales figures and with a market share of more than 50%, the favorite tree in Germany is the Caucasian Fir. The natural home of this fir is the Caucasus. That’s were the seeds for the trees come from that are grown on large tree farms

in Denmark and Ireland, from where they are imported to Germany. They make up the largest share of commercially grown Christmas trees.

The Caucasian Fir grows fairly evenly, has soft needles and a dark green color.

The life span of its needles is relatively long.

The disadvantage of these tree is that they grow slowly at first and later very quickly. Therefore, the distance between the upper branches is usually a bit large. They are also pretty expensive.

White Fir or Colorado Fir Rocky Mountains are the home of the White Fir or Colorado Fir. It is not very comman in Europe because it requires a lot of care.

Its advantages are its beauty and the long life span OF ITS NEEDLES: It features very long, silvery grey needles. With proper care, it grows bushy and full. It’s the ideal tree for hot rooms, or for families who want the tree to last a long time.

Silver Fir or Noble Fir The American Northwest is also the home of the Silver Fir. Based on its price, it places first in the beauty contest. Its bluegreen needles and its evenly leveled branches match its name.

Unfortunately, it is difficult to produce and the percentage of trees that can be sold is rather low. Its branches are popular for decorating. The long life span of its needles and its aromatic smell are very well-liked.

Blue Spruce Based on sales figures, the Blue Spruce is the second most popular tree. It features beautifully blue needles. However, due to its pointed needles , it has become less popular over the past years with those who have to decorate the tree. Its needles have a medium life span. But it remains attractive due to its low cost.

Bavarian Times | 48

| Christmas

Tips for buying and caring for your tree The domestic Norway Spruce and the Scots Pine have experienced a tremendous loss in popularity despite the fact that they are very inexpensive. They grow in our forests but are usually very delicate and have weak branches.

The Pressather Tannenland is located directly at B299 between Pressath and Grafenwoehr. A visit is worth your while.

Opening hours, starting at the end of November: Every Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 1.30 – 5 p.m. as of 1 December, Monday thru Friday, noon to 5 p.m.

For more information, go to www.pressather-tannenland.de

1. Buy a local tree, if possible.

2. Different species have different life spans. The needles of the Colorado fir have the longest life period. A silver fir keeps its needles longer than a Caucasian fir. The latter lasts longer than the Korean fir. The needles of the spruce have the shortest life span.

3. When storing the tree before putting it up, pay attention to the following: Store the tree in a cold, wind-protected location to ensure it doesn’t dry up too fast.

4. When putting the tree up in the room, pay attention to the following: Do not put it up in front of a radiator or a tile oven.

| by Gerhard Hösl

What is the difference between a German and an American Christmas tree?

Here’s what he told us: “Compared to Germany and Europe, where the image of the ideal Christmas tree is mostly influenced by the Caucasian fir and the blue spruce, there is much more diversity in America. Americans prefer totally cone- or ball-shaped, extremely full and wide trees. Stem and branches can hardly be seen. He explains that the reason for that is the fact that sharing trees is common on the large American Christmas tree farms. Christmas trees are produced following that ideal.

All trees are cut with a bushwacker into a cone shape multiple times during the production process. As a result, the trees develop a uniform, cone-shaped, full appearance - similar to an artificial tree.

49 | Bavarian Times

“There are Christmas tree farms in America where trees are sprayed with a mix of food coloring and glue in October to give them a beautiful color and prolong the life of the needles.” | by Gerhard Hösl

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However, that treatment is not suited for all types of fir trees.

The Caucasian fir, which is so popular here in Germany, has difficulties outgrowing trimming at the apical shoot, and develops crooks. Well-suited for trimming are the Fraser fir, which is very common in the United States, the Douglas fir, or the Colorado fir.

“Meanwhile, I‘ve grown accustomed to the wishes of U.S. customers, asking me to cut the tree top and top row of the branches. At first, I thought that was a joke and prompted me to ask again,” says Hösl.



Gerhard Hösl, our tree expert from the “Pressather Tannenland” knows the answer. Many Americans who are stationed at nearby Grafenwoehr Training Area, are his customers.

Sedanstraße 8 • 92637 Weiden • Phone: 0961-4701520 right across from C&A

| Christmas

Romantic Christmas market at Burg Dagestein in Vilseck December 7 and 8, 2013

The enticing smell of baked apples, punch and bees wax candles fills the air when the booths of the Christmas market line up at Burg Dagestein. Warm candle light illuminates the wares of the artisans in the barns. Musicians tune their instruments.

Allow us to get you in the mood for Christmas!

Photo Credit: Adolfine Nitschke

It’s that time again on December 7 and 8. Many participants spoil the visitors with hot beverages smelling like Christmas, sweet and hearty food. And if you are still looking for a Christmas tree, or something small for the table of presents, you will find it here. Many clubs and artisans offer their goods for sale in the courtyard and in the barns. Handcrafted goods, felt and knit ware, wood and gridiron, mangers with accessories, bee products, liquors, antlers and everything that has to do with sheep farming.

Children should bring their wish lists. The Christmas post office in the courtyard accepts them on both days. They will be sent to the Christ Child in Himmelstadt where they will be answered.

Light tours in the castle’s tower will also be offered on that weekend.

ren from St. Josef kindergarten will be accompanied by St. Nicholas and the night watchman. After the official opening, St. Nicholas will present gifts to the kids. .

At 6.30 p.m. “Dirty Harry” will perform unplugged as a duo. Max Braun (vocals, keyboard) and “Dirty” Harry Zawrel (lead-vocals, guitar, bass) will create a very special atmosphere with a trip through the history of rock music.

On Sunday, December 8, starting at 2 p.m., the Vilseck Music Club and the tower brass band from Schlicht will put visitors in the mood for Christmas. Angels will meet at 3 p.m. At 5 p.m., the Christ Child and her angels will distribute small presents.

At 7 p.m., the Vilseck night watchman will provide visitors with some food for thought on their way home when he reads his traditional New Year’s saying.

For more information about the booths and the program, go to www.vilseck.de.

The market starts on Saturday, December 7 at 4.45 p.m. with a lantern parade from the market square to the castle. The child-

| by Adolfine Nitschke

Romantic Christmas Market Dagestein Castle, Vilseck December 7 and 8, 2013 Saturday 4.45 - 9 p.m.

Sunday 2-7 p.m.

The mouth-watering smell of baked apples, punch and bees wax candles fills the air, traditionally decorated wooden booths are lined up in the historic bailey, warm candle light illuminates the wares of the artisans in the barns, musicians are tuning their instruments...

Let us put you in the mood for Christmas! www.vilseck.de

| Christmas

Mine Christmas at the Maffei Mine Nitzlbuch. For more than ten years, a group of dedicated volunteers has worked hard to bring an old industrial site back to life. The booster club Maffei Playsd hass transformed the old Maffei mine into a site for cultural and other events. Currently, the historic mine buildings are being renovated. To finance that work, the club invites everyone to one the most beautiful Christmas market in the region on the second weekend of Advent..

Then, thousands of lights illuminate the former mine south of Auerbach. The Mine Christmas attracts the young and the old with its special flair below the old shaft towers. The northern-style booths are snow-covered. Nobody can influence the weather but thee many volunteers who put this special Christmas market together every year, have been working hard for weeks to make a Christmas dream come true. At the entrance, men in historic miner uniforms welcome you.

Here, you will be looking in vain for the regular merchandise of other Christmas markets. Hand-made treasures made of wood, metal, felt and wool can be found just like shimmering Tiffany objects, incense smokers, or bobbin lace pieces. If you continue to stroll along through the historic buildings, you will pass by beautifully decorated booths that offer fine jewelry or precious liqueurs.

Photo Credit: Sabine Wiesent

Christmas trees sparkle in every empty corner, old machines are glowing in the candle light. Thousands of lanterns create a festive atmosphere in the normally bare work area. And there is something new to discover everywhere. A very special, more than three-meter high, Christmas pyramid is glowing in the darkness, fire baskets spread flaming warmth and a special delicacy is brewed in the iron kettles.

For the hot “miner’s fire,” a brew of liqueur, fresh juices and lots of sugar, you will leave behind any Glühwein. With the cups in their hands, visitors can stroll to the show mine. A mine, built like an original mine, gives an impression of what work was like underground. Here, you will also find beautifully decorated booths that glow in the shine of the lights.

And because so much looking around makes people hungry, visitors follow the scent of spicy bratwurst, or try the freshly baked cream flat-cake from the wooden stove. If you prefer hearty food, you can try the goulash from the aurochs, or crisply roasted wild boar from the spear, followed by delicious waffles or fruit spears 51 | Bavarian Times

with chocolate from the “Sweet Hut” for dessert.

Needless to say, the market also offers a great entertainment program. Choirs sing classic and modern songs, the brass band plays Christmas songs, and the Auerbach Christ Child visits the kids and St. Nicholas has been seen before as well. There is a special goblin Christmas for kids in the basement of the mine shaft building where they can play, do handicrafts, or listen to stories.

The Mine Christmas is open on Saturday, December 7 from 1 to 9 p.m. and on Sunday, December 8 from 1 to 8 p.m.

On Sunday night, the Mine Christmas traditionally ends with the miners marching in with their torches and a festive prayer.

Entrance bracelets for the Christmas market can be bought for adults and teens, ages 16 and older, for 2 Euro at the Marhabu book store in Auerbach. Included in the entrance fee is a bus transfer, a special service offered by the organizers. On both days, visitors can use the shuttle bus service from the ZF parking areas in Auerbach’s Industriegebiet-Süd to Maffei. Follow the signs “Auerbach Süd.” Signs lead to various parking areas in the town of Auerbach. From there, shuttle busses go to the Christmas market every 15 minutes.

There is no parking at the Christmas market.

But there are also nice walkways that lead to the mine. The admission fee of 2 Euro for both days is only used for the upkeep of the Maffei museum. A bus transfer is also available from the Neuhaus train station. For information about the schedule, call CIV 09643- 204 9573, or go to www.bergwerksweihnacht.de. For more information about the events and for the shuttle bus schedules, go to www.bergwerksweihnacht.de. | by Sabine Wiesent

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Large program at the Upper Palatinate Advent Market on December 7 – German-American Opening

Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013, Grafenwöhr market square Market hours: 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Program: 2 p.m.: German-American opening with Christ child and children’s choir of the Grafenwöhr Elementary School Music club “Klingende Töne“, Grafenwöhr city band, Kaltenbrunn Brass Band, visit by St. Nicholas, Servant Ruprecht and Santa Claus – (children can take pictures with them) German-American choir “The Encores“ Free horse carriage rides, manger exhibition and wood carving

 Large raffle with many prizes  Large assortment of Christmas goods  Free children’s carousel  2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Military and Cultural Museum open

The entire population is cordially invited to attend!

7.

The German-American opening with the Christ Child and the children’s choir of the Grafenwoehr Mi8ddle School will take place at 2 p.m. Visitors can listen to the music all afternoon, or simply enjoy it while Christmas shopping. The music club “Klingende Töne” and the Grafenwoehr City Band will entertain visitors with Christmas music starting at 3 p.m. St. Nicholas, his servant Ruprecht and Santa Claus are expected to stop by as well. Children may take photos with them.

Starting at 5.50 p.m. different styles of music will be played. The German-American choir “The Encores” will bring international flair to the Advent Market and at 7 p.m.. the youth group “Starkstrom” will play rock music.

The large raffle will be a special attraction again this year. Children can ride the children’s carousel, or take rides in the horse carriage. Adults can take an extensive stroll over the market, looking for Christmas presents while enjoying culinary delicacies.

The large Christmas manger of the carvers‘ association will be a special eye catcher. Beautiful mangers and the carvers at work can be seen at the former AOK building. The Grafenwoehr Culture and Military Museum will be open from 2-5 p.m. | by Renate Gradl

Bavarian Times | 52

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

Upper Palatinate Advent market

Grafenwoehr . On Saturday, December 7, the goal is to meet everyone’s taste -- and that does not only apply to the palate but also to entertainment. The Upper Palatinate Advent Market in Grafenwoehr does not only present a large assortment of Christmas goods but also a colorful entertainment program that will take place on the stage on the market square.

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Christmas music, petting zoo and castle ring fire

Large Christmas market in Kirchenthumbach on December 7 and 8 Kirchenthumbach. The Christmas market in Kirchenthumbach takes place on the second weekend of Advent and has become a tradfition. The market starts on December 7 at 5 p.m. with a service in the candle-lit church and music by the Kirchenthumbach Dreigesang and the church choir. Afterwards, booths with culinary delicacies on the romantically illuminated market square invite visitors to linger. The brass group of the Kirchenthumbach brass band will play Christmas music. At 9 p.m.. the Kirchenthumbach night watchman will perform with his tower brass players.

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

On Sunday from 2 to 7 p.m., the market place will transform into a city of booths with more than 30 vendors. Many local clubs and artisans will offer their goods and food and beverages to the visitors. Arts and crafts, extraordinary presents, books, toys, jewelry, paintings, wood carvings, calendars with local motifs, mangers and much more will be on sale.

The culinary choices are enticing. Schnitzel sandwiches, pizza, gyros, French fries, fish, grilled specialties, Christmas cookies, chocolate covered fruits, GlĂźhwein, castle ring fire, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s punch will be on sale. St. Nicholas and the Christ child, who will distribute presents, will also stop by. Children can ride on ponies, turn the wheel of fortune, or try their luck with the treasure chest- There will be a petting zoo and the manger will be put up under the Christmas tree. A punch theater will perform in the Nussstein cellar.

Market visitors will be entertained all afternoon by a diversified music program. The Kirchenthumbach Brass Band and the youth group of the brass band will provide atmospheric entertainment. The market ends on -Sunday at 7 p.m. | by Renate Gradl 53 | Bavarian Times

Amberger

Weihnachtsmarkt 28 th christmas market at the marketplace in Amberg From November 28 th to December 23 th AY W EDNESD MONDAY to m p 08.0 0 10.0 0 am to AY to SATURD THURSDAY m 09.0 0 p 10.0 0 am to SUNDAY 08.0 0 pm 13.0 0 am to

| Christmas

Angels, petting zoo and Snow Cruizer

Eschenbach holds its 9th Christmas market on December 15 Eschenbach. On Sunday, December 15, a Christmas market will be held below Eschenbach’s town hall. It starts at 1 p.m.

At 3 p.m., the Christ Child, accompanied by two angels, will read the prologue. Visitors can stroll by the many booths and warm themselves with Glühwein. Bratwurst and steaks, as well as sweet delicacies, will also be offered.

During the Christmas market, there will be a large variety of musical entertainment. The Eschenbach City Band and the music school will play Christmas music. The latter will perform in the foyer of the bank. The American choir from Netzaberg Middle School and even St. Nicholas will stop by as well. He will bring a large bag of sweets which he will distribute among the kids.

Needless to say, there will also be a manger with the Holy Family that can be admired.

This year, the Snow Cruizer will be a special highlight and a lot of fun for the young and the old. It’s a hydraulically moved snow board on which you have to try and stay as long as you can, much like electric bull riding. A petting zoo and horse carriage rides with the Christ Child will be offered for the kids.

Eschenbach’s night watchman will officially close the Christmas market at 7.30 p.m. The final musical performance of the market will be a concert by “I Bonifaci” at 7 p.m. at the church. | by Renate Gradl

Amberg winterly beautiful!

• Historic down town • City tours • City museum • City theater • Air Museum

the market square Christmas Market on , 2013 Nov. 28 – Dec. 23

hlight City tours in torc eater Amberg’s world thinter King W e th of n The autum 14 May 23 - June 9, 20

Air Art Location

Amberg Tourist-Information Hallplatz 2, 92224 Amberg Phone: 09621-10239 Mail: tourismus@amberg.de www.tourismus.amberg.de

Marktweihnacht in Kaltenbrunn Kaltenbrunn. Mit der vierten Auflage der Marktweihnacht wartet die Vereinsgemeinschaft am Sonntag,22.Dezember (Vierter Advent) auf. Nach dem Ausfall wegen Regen im letzten Jahr hoffen die Verantwortlichen diesmal wieder auf passendes Wetter. Erstmals stehen zusätzlich fünf neue Holzbuden der Gemeinde zur Verfügung. Eröffnung ist um 16 Uhr auf dem Marktplatz. Die Vereine wollen die Besucher kulinarisch verwöhnen. Des Weiteren werden Deko- und Töpferartikel verkauft. Zwischen 16 und 17 Uhr geht der Nikolaus mit kleinen Geschenken durch die Reihen. Posaunen kündigen um 18 Uhr die Aufführung der Herbergssuche vor lebender Krippe an. Die amerikanischen Mitbürger auch aus den Nachbarorten sind willkommen. | by Siegfried Bock Bavarian Times | 54

| Christmas

Christmas time in Weiden

Christmas market from November 28 to December 23 Weiden, Germany – The historic Weiden Christmas market, held around the Old Town Hall from November 28 to December 23, 2013, offers a romantic atmosphere that puts you in the spirit of Christmas. The Christmas market entices visitors with its glamorous, romantically lighted booths and its many Christmas goods, embedded into the Old Town with its beautiful Renaissance houses, and located around the Old Town Hall on the Upper Market.

Traditional Christmas decorations, fluffy knit wear, and many hand-made goods as well as culinary Christmas delicacies and sweets will bewitch you. Weiden’s Christmas market will dazzle all your senses. Enjoy hot Glühwein, gingerbread, candy,

or traditional Christmas tree ornaments. You can also enjoy a children´s carousel, the manager on the market fountain and the Christmas pyramid.

Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Christmas music will be played in the music hut in the middle of the Christmas market on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m. | by Pro Weiden

| Christmas

Historic, romantic Christmas Market at Guteneck Castle This year, a beautiful historic, romantic Christmas market will be held for the ninth time at Guteneck Castle near Nabburg.

Let us enchant you and take you back to the Middle Ages on all four Advent weekends (every Saturday and Sunday, and on the last two weekends also on Friday). On all days. a vibrant, diverse medieval market place with ancient craftsmanship is waiting for you: Woodcarvers making Christmas mangers, torch makers, blacksmiths, knife sharpeners, felt makers, glass makers, soap stone carvers, bookbinders, candle makers, leather punchers, bobbin lace makers, potters, tin makers, carpet weavers, and many more.

A93 and A6. Leave the highway at the Nabburg exit, heading towards Oberviechtach until you reach Unteraich. When leaving Unteraich, turn right towards Guteneck. Follow the signs to the castle. For a fee of 2 € you can use the parking lots.

1,000 fortified parking spaces are available for visitors.

Dates: Saturday, November 30, 2013 and Sunday, December 1, 2013 Saturday, December 7, 2013 and Sunday, December 8, 2013 Friday, December 13, 2013, Saturday, December 14, 2013 and Sunday, December 15, 2013 Friday, December 20, 2013, Saturday, December 21, 2013 and Sunday, December 22, 2013

Medieval knights will reenact historical camp life.

Photo Credit: Schloss Guteneck

And various booths will offer culinary delights and beverages.

You can enjoy your food and drink in one of our heated rooms with a seating capacity of 800 – 1,000 seats.

Parking lots for cars and busses are available.

Shuttle busses run every 20 minutes from the Nabburg railroad station, Nabburg Nordgauhalle (parking lot) and the commuter parking area (near exit ramp A93). Shuttle bus tariff: 2 € per round trip. If you arrive by train, you can use the shuttle bus for free from Nabburg railroad station when showing your train ticket. If you arrive by car, you take highways

Fridays from 4 - 8 p.m.

Saturdays from 2 - 8 p.m.

Sundays from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Admission Fridays: Adults € 3,00 Admission Saturdays: Adults € 4,00 Admission Sundays: Adults € 5,00 Bus groups of 20 people and more pay € 3,00 per person on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free for children up to the age of 12. | by Editorial Department

9th historical, romantic

Christmas Fair At the Guteneck Castle Nabburg / upper Palatinate

1st to 4th Advent • Saturday & Sunday on the 3rd and 4th weekend also on Fridays • Open: 4 – 8 p.m.

WWW.SCHLOSS-GUTENECK.DE

Opening hours: Fridays 4-8 p.m. / Saturdays 2-8 p.m. / Sundays 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Admission: Fridays 3 € / Saturdays 4 € / Sundays 5 € Bus groups of 20 people and more pay 3 € per person on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Free admission for children up to the age of 12

| Christmas

Romantic Christmas market at Thurn and Taxis Palace in Regensburg Every year, thousands of visitors come from around the world to escape into the times of horse carriages, noblemen and court ladies.

Protected by the impressive facade of the palace, the courtyard is lit by thousands if lights, candles, lanterns and torches, and offers a lovely decked out village with a colorful market in the middle of the pre-Christmas season. Traditional artisans, ranging from wood turners and blacksmiths to candle makers, manger carvers, felt makers, glass makers, basket weavers, potters, brush and broom makers, or the famous “hat maker from the cathedral” produce their goods and unique wares in the Christmassy-decorated wooden booths.

Open fires provide warmth and coziness everywhere in the booth streets. Glühwein specialties are made over the open fires, ranging from the “Fürstenkelch” to the “Prinzentrunk.” There is something for everyone’s taste. The extraordinary culinary old Bavarian delicacies and treats, range from boar on the spit to the old Upper Palatinate Christmas onion. The elegant “Café in the Court Yard” in the East wing, the oldest part of St. Emmeram Palace, offers rest for tired legs.

Visitors can find new strength for new activities in the cafés cozy warmth, enjoying coffee and cake, or a good “Thurn and Taxis” beer.

and the surrounding region create a reflectively pleasurable preChristmas atmosphere. Concerts of internationally-known orchestras, choirs and music groups, theme evenings such as the “Original Old-Bavarian Christmas,” “The Christmas Story,” or the “Upper Palatinate Forest Christmas” provide sophisticated entertainment daily.

Princess Gloria of Thurn and Taxis and her family often casually join the visitors. At the end of each market day, “Silent Night” is played live from the palace balcony by a trumpet player, followed by a closing fanfare.

The high-quality cultural program plays an important role at the “Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Palace in Regensburg.”

Every evening, excellent singers and musicians from Regensburg

Group discount: Groups of 10 persons receive a free ticket (9+1)

Admission: Mon – Fri Sat and Sun Children (6 – 16 years) Handicapped visitors

6,00 € 7,00 € 2,00 € 2,00 €

Revelers‘ Tariff: Sun – Thurs., starting at 8 p.m.

Fri – Sat, starting at 9 p.m.

2,50 € 2,50 €

Romantic Christmas market with traditional artisans

| by Editorial Department

Experience one of the most beautiful Christmas markets of the world!

at the Thurn and Taxis Palace in Regensburg

to r e b m e v o N 8 2 13 0 2 r e b m e c e 23 D

Opening hours: Sun to Wed, noon to 10 p.m.

Thur to Sat, noon to 11 p.m.

Contact: Phone: +49-(0)941-280-2180 www.vs-regensburg.de

www.romantischer-weihnachtsmarkt-thurnundtaxis.de when you bring this ad you will receive a 0.50 € discount on the admission. One ad per person on one entry only!

| Christmas

Christmas market – Regensburg - Neupfarrplatz The vote of an independent jury placed Regensburg’s Christmas market among the ten most beautiful Christmas markets in the German-speaking region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).

Documented for the first time in 1796, Regensburg’s Christmas market has a centuries-old tradition, being held on the Neupfarrplatz. Many artisans such as glass makers, potters, wood carvers, candle makers and many more offer their goods to the customers and sometimes even produce them on location.

Culinary delicacies, especially regional specialties such as blueberry Glühwein from the Bavarian Forest, or apple Glühwein from the Upper Palatinate fruit orchards are just as popular as the original Regensburg bratwurst, or the grilled Regensburg sausages which are eaten in a crispy sandwich with sweet mustard, horseradish and pickles. Needless to

Regensburger Christmas Market

from November 28 to December 23, 2013 on the Neupfarrplatz – daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thurs./Fri./Sat. until 9 p.m.

Oldest Christmas market in Regensburg

Documented for the first time in 1796, Regensburg’s Christmas market has a centuries-old tradition, being held on the Neupfarrplatz. Artisans‘ wares and culinary delicacies are displayed and offered in the Christmassy decorated booths.

The vote of an independent jury placed Regensburg’s Christmas market among the ten most beautiful Christmas markets in the German-speaking region. It’s a great experience for the entire family.

pening Largoeveomber 29, 2013

N Friday,

www.christkindl-regensmarkt.de

say, gingerbread, roasted almonds, roasted chestnuts and other sweet delicacies will be offered as well.

The festively decorated booths and the Christmassy decorated rides for kids are also very popular.

Almost every day there will be performances by the worldfamous “Regensburger Domspatzen” boys‘ choir, music schools, choirs, brass bands and groups from abroad on the stage. Every Wednesday, St. Nicholas stops by for a visit and presents sweets to the kids.

The Christmas market takes place from November 28 to December 25 and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, it is open until 9 p.m.

| by Editorial Department

ParAsdvbenet wregekend first

r 29 , Novembe from FridayDecember 1 to Sunday,

www.burgenweihnachten.de

ristmas Castle Ch – Live music – Children’s program – Hand-crafted goods – Christmas treats – and much more!

– Arts and Crafts

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ecember 7 Saturday, D , December 8 and Sunday

Organizer: City of Parsberg/market town of Lupburg together with the Tourism Association Parsberg/Lupburg and the Castle Christmas team

| Christmas

Eventcalender Amberg 28 Nov.–23 Dec: in 92224 Amberg on Marktplatz. Highlights are daily live performances on the stage, a horse-drawn carriage and a live nativity scene, as well as a special program for children. Opening hours: Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sun. 1 - 8 p.m.

Ansbach 29 Nov.–23 Dec: in 91522 Ansbach on Martin-Luther-Platz (between the two churches in the historic city center). Opening hours: Mon. thru Thu. 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Fri. 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. | Sat. 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. | Sun. 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Bad Kissingen 29 Nov.–24 Dec: in 97688 Bad Kissingen, on Rathausplatz and all around the city center. Open Mon. through Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sun. 1 - 8 p.m. Christmas Eve 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. The grand opening on 29 Nov. starts with a festive torchlight parade with “angels” and Nikolaus, leading from the Kurpark to the Market Place. Bad Kissingen is ca. 27 km / 17 miles NW of Schweinfurt.

Bamberg 28 Nov.–23 Dec: 96047 Bamberg on Maximiliansplatz.The origins of Bamberg‘s Christmas Market date back to the beginning of the 19th century. Nowadays, around 50 vendors sell a variety of Christmas articles along with typical delicacies from the region, such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies) and Früchtebrot (German fruitcake). 14 & 15 Dec: Historical artisan market in Bamberg at Schloss Geyerswörth (mansion), Geyerswörthstraße1.

Bayreuth 29 Nov.–23 Dec: In 95448 Bayreuth along Maximilianstraße and on Marktplatz (market place). Over 60 stalls are in this “Budenstadt”, offering everything from decorations to food. The grand opening is Fri 30 Nov. at 5 p.m. Regular opening hours: Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Berchtesgaden 28 Nov.–1 Dec./5–8 Dec./12–15 Dec./17–24 Dec./26–31 Dec: in 83471 Berchtesgaden on Schlossplatz, 155 km / 97 miles SE of Munich. Open daily midday - 8 p.m. Christmas Eve only 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. After Christmas, the market is open midday - 6 p.m., on 31 Dec. only from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. This lovely Christmas market (only GE) in attracts many visitors each year with a large number of traditional arts and crafts stalls, rides in horse-drawn carriages, a Christmas tree labyrinth, petting zoo, live nativity plays, guided tours of the historical city center; and a tower brass band playing on top of the bell tower of the Stiftskirche church. A very unique event is the visit of the “Buttnmandl” and “Kramperl” on 05 and 06 December, as well as the “Böllerschießen” (gun salutes) in the week before Christmas Eve, daily at 3 p.m.

Dietenhofen 14 & 15 Dec: in 90599 Dietenhofen, at the “Heimatmuseum im Schloss” (museum in the mansion), Schloss-Straße 5, 18 km / 11 miles NE of Ansbach. Saturday: 3-8 p.m. Sunday: 1-7 p.m.

59 | Bavarian Times

Dietfurt 17 Nov: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., 35 km / 22 miles SW of Hohenfels. Arts and crafts market at the Schloss (mansion) at Wildenstein 12. This market offers a diverse program to its visitors. 24 Nov: midday: “Christmas in a Barn” and arts and crafts market at the historic “Gasthof Stirzer,” Hauptstraße 45. 12 - 15 Dec: in 92345 Dietfurt on the Marktplatz and held around the famous Chinesenbrunnen, the fountain in the town center. Varying daily entertainment with Alphorn blowers, children‘s theater, Nikolaus and Christkind.

Dresden 27 Nov. - 24 Dec: Striezelmarkt in 01067 Dresden, Schlossplatz / Chiaverigasse.

Erlangen 27 Nov.–23 Dec: in 91052 Erlangen around the Neustädter Kirchenplatz and Schlossplatz, 25 km / 15 miles north of Nürnberg.

This Christmas market has a distinct medieval touch, with jugglers, musicians and buffoons. In addition, a fire show attracts all visitors every Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Freihung 30 Nov: 4 p.m. in 92271 Freihung, 10 km / 6 miles east of Vilseck, at the fest site am Harranger.

Fürth 28 Nov.–23 Dec: in 90762 Fürth, 10 km / 6 miles west of Nürnberg, at the Fürther Freiheit. There are nearly 50 vendors and a live manger for the young and young at heart. 6 - 15 Dec: The “Altstadt-Weihnacht” in Fürth on Waagplatz is highly popular because of its authentic character and its exquisite arts and crafts goods. And the Christmassy magic continues with brass bands, choirs, illusionists and the night watchmen.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen 30 Nov–24 Dec: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.: in 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen on Richard-Strauss-Platz. The market is open on Christmas Eve 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Gößweinstein 14 & 15 Dec: 2 p.m. in 91327 Gößweinstein, in the courtyard behind the stunning basilica on Balthasar-Neumann-Straße 2, 10 km / 6 miles west of Pottenstein, in the beautiful Fränkische Schweiz. Don’t miss the nativity scenes on display along all the major roads. Recommended parking: public car park behind Pezoldstraße 24; cemetery car park behind the basilica, at Viktorvon-Scheffel-Straße 5

| Christmas

Hirschau 30 Nov & 1 Dec: in 92249 Hirschau, at the Marktplatz.

Hirschau is ca. 14 km / 9 miles SE of Vilseck. Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday: 2-7 p.m.

Iphofen 7 & 8 Dec: in 97346 Iphofen, (ca. 11 km / 7 miles SE of Kitzingen) inner city. Opening hours: Sat. 3 – 9 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Traditional Christmas market around the Rathaus (town hall) and the Kirchplatz (church square).

München 25 Nov. - 23 Dec: 10:30 a.m. 9 p.m. daily. “Christkindlmarkt am Sendlinger Tor” in 80336 Munich at the SendlingerTor- Platz. The gate known as Sendlinger Tor is gently illuminated by the small but unique Christkindlmarkt, with over 40 stalls selling international goods: nativity scenes from Tyrol and Peru; elegant baubles with motifs of Austrian Empress Elisabeth (very popular in Germany) and Bavarian King Ludwig II; Indian crafts; and much more.

Neustadt an der Waldnaab 1 Dec: 2 - 6 p.m.: in 92660 Neustadt an der Waldnaab, on Stadtplatz. This Neustadt is just north of Weiden.

Nürnberg 29 Nov.–24 Dec: Christkindlesmarkt in 90403 Nürnberg. All details in English are available online. The Christmas Market hours on 29 Nov are 10 a.m.-10 p.m. At 5:30 p.m. is the official grand opening speech. Daily opening hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. On Christmas Eve, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Lantern Processions to the castle is 12 Dec. starting at Kaiserstraße at 5:45 p.m., going via the Main Market Square, past the City Hall and St. Sebaldus Church up to the Castle.

Pottenstein 1 Dec: 1 - 8 p.m. in 91278 Pottenstein. Many attractions await the visitors, but (arguably) the best will be rides in horse-drawn carriages through the pretty town. Pottenstein is in the beautiful Fränkische Schweiz.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber 29 Nov.–23 Dec: Reiterlesmarkt in 91541 Rothenburg on Marktplatz, on Grüner Markt and Kirchplatz. Grand Opening on 29 Nov., at 5 p.m. on Marktplatz; Opening hours: Sun. Thu. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fri. and Sat. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Every year Rothenburg transforms into a winter wonderland. Experience the enchanting atmosphere at the “Reiterlesmarkt” Christmas market. This Market dates back to the 15th century and is one of the oldest in Germany. Its name refers to an old Teutonic legend. Before Christianity, the Teutons believed in a rider who would take care of a deceased person’s soul. While the Teutons were afraid of this mystic figure, people in the middle ages changed their attitude towards this rider, eagerly expecting him to appear because they saw him as a friendly messenger who brought gifts to all men on earth. A painting of this famous rider can be seen on the facade of the city hall. When the market opens or when the children of the town go on their candlelight procession, he comes alive again. The Reiterlesmarkt (in English) is always held from last Friday in November to the day before Christmas Eve. Schwandorf Every Thurs.–Sun. in Dec: in 92421 Schwandorf on Unterer Marktplatz, or Lower Market Place. Schwandorf is ca. 45 km / 28 miles north of Regensburg. Opening hours: Thursday & Friday: midday - 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: midday-8 p.m. 14 & 15 Dec: “Oberpfälzer Weihnachts-Bauernmarkt” in 92421 Schwandorf at the “Tierzuchtzentrum”, HoherBogen-Str. 10. Local businesses, artisans and farmers have joined forces to organize this traditional, quaint Christmas market that offers unique and locally produced wares. Open 10 a.m.

- 5 p.m.

Schweinfurt 28 Nov.–23 Dec: in 97421 Schweinfurt, Marktplatz. More details should soon be online. There will be a new highlight every day: visit by the Nürnberger Christkind, Nikolaus (the German Santa Claus), a “Rock Christmas” evening, horse-drawn carriages, special Stollen, and much more! On the third advent weekend, an exquisite arts and crafts market is held in the exhibition room of the “Altes Rathaus” (old city hall). Opening hours: Monday - Saturday. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sulzbach-Rosenberg Every Thurs. - Sun. in Dec: in 92237 Sulzbach-Rosenberg on Luitpoldplatz. The market is open Thursday – Saturday: 3 - 8 p.m., Sunday: 2 - 8 p.m. Sulzbach-Rosenberg is ca. 20 km / 12.5 miles south of Vilseck.

For more events in your community, find us on the USAG Bavaria Facebook at www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria or visit USAG Bavaria‘s website at http://www.grafenwoehr. army.mil/ and click on the “Weekly Newsletter” tab.

Bavarian Times | 60

| Travel

Porzellanikon Selb

Due to demonstrations and multimedia presentations, the exhibition is versatile, diversified and descriptive. The department of technical ceramics is a specialty. An interesting and exciting presentation provides visitors with a fascinating insight into the capacity and versatility of a true high-tech material.

Technical ceramics have become an integral part of electronics, the automotive industry, or other industries. At the Rosenthal-Museum you can take a walk through the history of this world-famous company, and learn interesting facts about the founder and his son. Many artists and designers have left their artistic traces in the products of the past decades. They are a mirror of their time.

Address: Werner-Schürer-Platz 1 95100 Selb Phone: 09287-91800-0 Fax: 09287-91800-30 www.porzellanikon.org info@porzellanikon.org Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. – 15 p.m. and by appointment Tours by appointment

Kunst, Technik und ier Museen für museums Porzellan Art, technology andDesign design| V| Four porcelain

| by Porzellanikon

Photo Credit: Porzellanikon

The complex and labor-intensive production of the “white gold” from past to present is shown at the authentic location, the former porcelain factory which was founded in 1866. Apart from technoilogy, man plays a decisive role. Therefore, working and living conditions are also being shown.

Splendour of colours – brightness of cultures An exhibition of contemporary porcelain from Yingge in Taiwan

13 December 2013 to 16 March 2014

Porzellanikon funded by:

Exhibition is funded by: Ministry of Cultural Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan) New Taipei City Yingge Ceramics Museum Representation of Taipei in the Federal Republic of Germany, Office Munich

Opening hours:

Hohenberg

Schirndinger Straße 48 • 95691 Hohenberg a. d. Eger • Phone +49 (0) 92 33. 77 22-11 • dpm@porzellanikon.org www.porzellanikon.org • www.facebook.com/porzellanikon

Tuesday to Sunday 10 am - 5 pm and by appointment, Tours by appointment (available also in foreign languages)

| Travel

Danilo Hommel gives a detailed history of Kurt Vonnegut during his tour in Dresden.

Pilgrim‘s progress: Finding Vonnegut in Dresden

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

DRESDEN, Germany – If you‘ve never read Kurt Vonnegut‘s book “Slaughterhouse Five” let me sum it up for you in three words -- “So it goes.”

The story loosely reconstructs Vonnegut‘s time as a World War II prisoner of war -- with an emphasis on the word “loosely.”

The satirical novel blends Vonnegut‘s experiences with a science-fiction motif, starring a Soldier named Billy Pilgrim as the protagonist. Pilgrim sloppily travels through the nonlinear narrative, like a slow-moving bull in a series of China shops, haphazardly creating wakes of negative consequences through his endless and boring existence.

He is invincible throughout, however, rarely feeling the consequences of his own actions. Simply put, Pilgrim just won‘t die.

Oh, and he‘s abducted by aliens from the planet Tralfamadore.

Vonnegut and a handful of other POWs serendipitously survived, housed underground in a former meat locker and slaughterhouse. A placard on the building aptly describes the location as “Schlachthof 5.”

Obvious parallels exist between the lives of Pilgrim and Vonnegut. Both were thrown into the Battle of the Bulge soon after joining the Army; both were immediately taken prisoner behind German lines and then transferred to a work camp in Dresden.

Unlike Vonnegut, however, Pilgrim begins what the author refers to as “shifting.”

He jumps through time, living the entirety of his life in random order. Consequently, he knows when and how his life will end; he knows his fate and the fate of those in the war.

Pilgrim lives the aftermath of destruction before it happens, yet remains melancholy.

So it goes.

When Dresden was firebombed on Feb. 13, 1945, much of the city was destroyed and more than 60,000 citizens perished.

So it goes.

Snow and ice turn the region around Plößberg into a fairytale world. Regardless whether you like skiing, cross-country skiing or hiking, a vacation in Plößberg is a special experience in the winter time as well. We are the home of manger carving. During the Christmas holidays, you go “manger viewing.” This year, the 3rd Plößberg Manger Walk will be held. Mangers from Plößberg are displayed in beautifully decorated windows and can be viewed from thee outside. You run across tradition, old customs and excellent home-made cooking wherever you go. Tipp: You should definitely try a Zoigl beer, a beer which is only brewed in our region.

For more info , go to

www.ploessb

Guest rooms, apartments, vacations on farms certified for babies and children.

erg.de

| Travel

“Slaughterhouse Five” (also called “The Children‘s Crusade: A DutyDance with Death”) is an easy read, but that doesn‘t make it simple. It‘s a disturbingly comedic endeavor about the inevitability of war and the effects that follow.

It‘s the kind of book where much of the plot lies between the lines, which, roaming through the streets of Dresden, is where you‘ll find tour guide Danilo Hommel.

The tour Hommel runs the only Kurt Vonnegut-themed tour in the city where much of the story takes place. For more than two hours, a small group of Vonnegut enthusiasts listen to a brief history of the author‘s life, followed by a detailed account of the Dresden bombing - why it happened and the aftermath that followed.

The city offers a suitable background for Hommel‘s liberal storytelling, and the tour takes participants to parts of the city that might otherwise remain undiscovered.

The tour peaks with a trip to the actual slaughterhouse. The slaughterhouse itself is merely a drab concrete building, but worth a view for the sake of paperback nostalgia. It is, after all, the location that inspired one of the most uniquely poignant war novels of its time, a tale Vonnegut penned more than 20 years after he was liberated.

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

Regardless of your devotion to snarky and historical literature, Dresden is worth a visit.

After the war, much of the city remained in a state of devastation. Now, it is a rebuilt version of its historic self. The baroque architecture blends seamlessly with new innovative structures, creating a unique mix of old and new.

The Elbe River separates the New and Old towns. The New Town is actually older, as it endured the least bit of destruction and was rebuilt first. However, it appears newer with its gridlocked rows of concrete, communist-era buildings, tagged with elaborate works of graffiti.

The Old Town was built with new materials masked by the rubble of its former self to give it that old town feel. The Frauenkirchen, a beautiful church in the center of the Old Town, was rebuilt meticulously using original pieces placed in the exact same spots they occupied before the church was leveled.

Reminders of its totalitarian past remain in murals and designs peppered throughout the city. This, combined with the aforementioned book, reminds tourists of the city‘s rich and not so distant past.

63 | Bavarian Times

Across the river from the Old Town, the New Town offers brightly colored buildings and hip art-filled galleries and shops.

Visit Dresden, but if you didn‘t read “Slaughterhouse Five,” skip the tour. Much like this article, you probably won‘t like it.

So it goes.

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

| Travel

Europe’s winter sports regions offer a lot of variety.

On skis into the new year

Winter sports: These destinations pay off in January

Photo Credit: djd/thx

(djd/pt). Along with their good intentions for the new year, many people wish for a winter vacation that offers an athletic compensation for the weight gained over the holidays. The web page www.reisemesse.de offers information about where you can best spend your winter vacation. Just click on “Reisestile.”

Snow can be guaranteeed in Switzerland and Austria. German skiing areas, especially those in Bavaria, are popular, especially with families, because they are close by. The Große Arber mountain in the Bavarian Forest, for example, was given the “Kinderland” (children’s World)-Award in 2012.

A lot of variety Cost and personal fitness play an important role when selecting a vacation destination. Some people are fine with the beginneers’ slope, other’s are looking for a downhill run that features a beautiful landscape. If the cost does not matter to you and you are looking for an athletic challenge, then choose one of reisemesse.de’s top three alpine ski areas: First, “Les trois

Sand skiing isn‘t our business -

Snow skiing is!

Vallées”, secondly Tignes and Val d‘Isère in the French part of the Alps, and thirdly Zermatt in the Swiss canton of Wallis, a highlight for winteer athletes. Criteria for the selection of these ski areas, among other things, were the number of ski lifts and slopes in each town.

Fun for little winteer athletes If you are not too concerned about the lengths and the levels of difficulty of the slopes but are looking to spend a nice family vacation, the Zillertal valley and the nature park region Reutte in Austria are perfect for you. Small and adult winter sports beginners receive first tips for their downhill run or cross-country skiing tour. Parents may also go skiing without their kids. If you contact the local tourist information early, they will book family-friendly accomodations for you that offer child care. Entertainment is also available at many locations for those days when you do not want to go skiing. One example is the Fügen Spa in Zillertal, Austria.

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Snow-Info: 09272/441

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| Food & Drink

Christmas Cookies Recipe tip: “Apricot-Nut-Mountains”

(rgz). The second volume of the cook book “Natürlich besser kochen” (“Healthy Cooking”) by Staatl. Fachingen, offers many recipes to sweeten your Christmas season. Gilthead “Royal” on a tomato-basil bed or a vegetarian goulash, for example, are easier to prepare than you think. Sweet desserts like almond milk rice with filets of oranges and cranberries cause excitement among amateur cooks and the entire family. The cook book is available for free in participating stores when purchasing a case of Fachinger mineral water.

Recipe tip for the Christmas season: Apricot-Nut-Mountains

Photo Credit: djd/Staatl. Fachingen

Ingredients for approx. 25 cookies: - 250 grams dried soft apricots, finely diced - 80 grams cashew nuts, finely chopped - 75 grams fine oatmeal - 6 to 7 tablespoons of orange juice - 25 oblates for baking, 4 centimeters in diameter - 50 grams white chocolate - 4 tablespoons pistachios, finely chopped

Preparation: 1. Mix the diced apricots and cashew nuts with the oatmeal and the orange juice 2. Press a walnut-size amount of dough on the oblates 3. Melt the chocolate in a water bath and apply it with a brush. Decorate it with pistachios.

Delicious winter recipes such as the “Apricot-Nut-Mountains” are featured in the second volume of the Staatl. Fachingen cook book “Natürlich besser kochen” (“Healthy Cooking”).

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

Opening hours, Tuesday through Sunday 9a.m. to 10 p.m.

Home-made cakes, tarts and cream puffs, also to go!

BräuWirt Restaurant and Brewery in Weiden’s Old Town!

Visit our patio with its beautiful view over the city.

Closed on Mondays.

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

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

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

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

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

| Food & Drink

Serving nougat mousse as your holiday dessert is a delicious alternative to the classic Mousse au Chocolat.

Festive dessert: Wintermousse “Almond Biscuit” by Komet, refined with cookie grumbles.

Delicious Ideas for your Holiday Menu Fast and easy recipes with a traditional touch

Photo Credit: djd/www.kometpoehle.de

(djd/pt). Good food belongs to Christmas like snow and a Christmas tree. But a holiday menu usually takes a lot of time.

But do you really want to spend the majority of Christmas Eve in the kitchen? Better not. If you follow these clever tips, it will be a relaxing meal for all, to include the cook.

Plan well and save time Your recipe selections determines how hectic it will get in the kitchen on Christmas. It is easier to prepare a soup as a starter than a salad. Serving a carrot-ginger soup, or a potato cream soup with truffle oil is very suitable for the holidays. A hot starter like that can be prepared the day before and warmed up on the day of the event. If you are serving meat or venison as your main course, you can prepare it at 80 degrees centigrade, letting it cook in the oven for several hours. That way, nothing gets burned, or dries out. That can also be done with the classic roast goose. If you want to serve fish for Christmas,

firm species such as salmon, sand pike, or haddock are best for cooking in the oven. Cooking the fish on a bed of filets of oranges best suits the season. Afterwards, the juice can be used to create a fine sauce. vegetables can be easily cooked in a steamer. Most models have two to three baskets that can be stacked. A positive side effect is that the vegetables can also be kept warm in a steamer.

Sweet desserts in the twinkling of an eye A holiday menu requires a fine dessert, such as a light mousse.

The “Winter mousse” by the brand Komet is new on the market.

This delicious dessert comes in three flavors: Apple-Cinnamon, Nougat and Almond Biscuit. Preparation is easy: Simply mix the powder with 250 milliliters of cold milk and beat until fluffy.

Special tip for the holidays: Stack two types of mousse in a glass after having filled the bottom of the glass with fruit such as raspberries or cherry sauce. Top with chocolate chips.

Fresh organic food –delivered free to your house Do you remember the taste of a fresh carrot, directly harvested from the field – exactly this is the taste you will enjoy when you get our organic food box – together with interesting recipes and a great customer service.

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