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5 March 2014

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

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

Community Highlights

Special programs, updates, community campaigns, classes and more

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

tips and updates on protests and demonstrations in our area. Here’s that link again: https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria?ref=hl.

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

Bavarian News online

Head to BavarianNews.com to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Here are the latest Bavarian News stories for this week: The end of hibernation. As the weather heats up, the Wild B.O.A.R complex is offering the community more reasons to explore the great outdoors. For monks, it’s what’s for dinner. Around Bavaria, fests celebrate bockbier season. Bringing the past to life. Middle schooler Mia Chon gets creative during the Black History Month commemoration on Tower Barracks. Promoting health. After years of hard work, the Grafenwoehr Army Health Clinic has been recognized as an Army Patient Centered Medical Home.

Please expect a mail delay The Postal Service Centers are have been informed of an expected mail delay in 1st Class and Priority Express Mail that is going to or coming from New York due to inclement weather conditions. The PSCs will continue to keep you informed via the Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks PSC Facebook pages.

Important Vehicle Registration information In accordance with AER 190-1, individuals have a responsibility to go to their local vehicle field registration site (Bldg. 301, Tower Barracks) and update their registration any time there is a change to administrative data -- unit of assignment and/or mailing address. Administrative changes are FREE. If you have recently moved here from another garrison in Europe, or changed units within USAG Bavaria, you are still responsible for updating the administrative information on your vehicle registration, even if your existing plates have not yet expired.

Delay in Passport Processing Due to severe weather conditions on the East Coast, all Passport customers should expect a delay of the processing, shipment and arrival of their respective passports to the USAG Bavaria Passport Office. Also, all customers should plan accordingly and be aware of the extended processing times in applying for new tourist and official travel passports, renewals and other services offered by the USAG Bavaria Passport Office. We thank you for your understanding.

It’s tax time! Tax Centers are the easiest way to file your taxes for free. Last tax season, tax centers in Bavaria processed 10,220 tax returns, saving more than $1.5 million in commercial preparation and filing fees, and generating over $19 million in refunds. The filing deadline for the tax year is 15 April, but the overseas filing deadline is 16 June. Click here for contact info and tax filing document requirements. Tower Barrack Tax Center: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-noon, 1-5 p.m. Bldg. 216, First Floor: Tax Center DSN 475-9258, CIV 09641-83-9258. Rose Barracks Tax Center: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Bldg. 245, First Floor: Tax Center DSN 476-2714, CIV 09662-83-2714.

The German-American Volksfest is back 1-3 Aug: Great news! We've just learned that the 56th annual German-American Volksfest will be held Aug. 1-3 at U.S.

Army Garrison Bavaria. So make your plans to attend.

Army Emergency Relief begins again Now-15 May: The Army Emergency Relief (AER) program in underway. All units within USAG Bavaria geographic

footprint are requested to provide an AER Representatives. For questions please contact Mrs. Christine Nunez-Stolz, DSN: 475-6133 or email.

Stay vigilant and report suspicious activities

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

Suicide and Sexual Assault Hotlines

Call the suicide prevention hotline number at DSN 118, CIV 09641-83-118. Visit our website for more on suicide prevention. Suicide prevention, sexual assault or just a friendly ear… you’re never alone. Professionals are available to counsel you in confidence. Getting help is a sign of strength. 24 Hour Community Hotlines: Chaplain Hotline 0162-296-0838, Military Police Hotline 09662-83-114, Sexual Assault Hotline DSN 475-4567, CIV 09641-83-4567 or DSN 476-3218, CIV 09662-83-3218 and Emergency Services DSN 117, CIV 09641-83-117.

ICE QR code Now it’s even easier to submit ICE - Interactive Customer Evaluation comments. Take a snapshot of the code with your phone, and the code automatically directs you to ICE.

Community Health Promotion Council Survey Please take 10 minutes out of your day to take this survey on the level of health in our community. Our Community Health Promotion Council will be provided with the results of this survey in order to identify the most pressing problems that can be addressed through community action. Thanks! Survey is here: http://go.usa.gov/Z7D9

Equal Employment Opportunity The garrison Equal Employment Opportunity webpage lists all of the information needed for you to address potential EEO concerns. If you need such help, please visit http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/sites/support/eeo.asp

St. Paddy’s Day Party 15 March: 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. at the Tower Barracks Warrior Zone, Bldg. 153. As the saying goes, “Everyone’s Irish on St.

Patrick’s Day!” The Tower Barracks Warrior Zone is hosting its annual St. Paddy’s Day Party. With BOSS providing snack food/beverage resale and a live DJ, you’re likely to find gold at the end of rainbow. You’re also highly encouraged to wear Green.

Kids in the Kitchen 19 March, 16 April & 14 May: The Grafenwoehr WIC office is offering 3 upcoming classes to help your picky eaters

and mealtime pleasers the chance to put on the chef hat and help create healthy, yet delicious, masterpieces. One class will be offered in each March, April, and May and will feature 1-2 new recipes. Children (and adults) will be encouraged to try a food with secret ingredients, and then create their own version of the mysteriously yummy food. While they’re getting lost in their creativity, a WIC dietitian will be discussing the importance of enjoying healthy foods and how to make scrumptious meals with them. Recipe books, samples, and fun will be provided. Classes are free and registration is not needed, but please call ahead to ensure adequate supplies. Classes will be held on Wednesdays, March 19 @ 10 a.m., April 16 @ 12:45 p.m., and May 14 @ 2:00 p.m. You do not have to be a WIC participant to attend, but if you are interested in our program or want more information regarding this workshop please call DSN 475-6821, CIV 09641-83-6821.

Women’s History Month Celebration 21 March: Come join in the celebration of Woman’s History Month with the Bavaria Military Community. 1-2 p.m, 21

March at the Tower Theater. This is a free event hosted by the 7th Army NCO Academy aimed at recognizing the contributions and sacrifices made by Woman to our society. Guest speaker: Ms. Judith Brown. This year's theme: Women of Character, Courage and Commitment.

Women’s Empowerment Day 28 March: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria is hosting an “Empowering Young Women to Lead” program from 10 -11 a.m. at

the Physical Fitness Center on Tower Barracks. Guest speaker is Emilia Mueller, Bavarian State Minister for Labor, Social Affairs, Family and Integration. Also included is a panel session of invited guests to discuss professional development in the workforce and planning your career path. Everyone – Soldiers, civilian employees and family members – is invited to attend. Please save the date!

Reduced Staff at Passport Office 7-9 April: The USAG Bavaria Tower Barracks Passport Office will be operating at reduce staff 7-9 April due to staff

mandatory passport certification training. Passport customer may occur longer wait periods for services during this time period. The Tower Barracks Passport Office will reopen 10 April for full services.

Bulk Trash Pick-Up The County Neustadt/WN will pickup bulk trash over the next few months. Bulk trash must be curbside, in front of your home no later than 6 a.m. on the scheduled pick-up day. Pick-up is provided by contractors of the County Neustadt. Please note that pick-ups will occur in 3 stages based on types of items.

11 March: City Grafenwoehr 18 March: Netzaberg & City Eschenbach (North of B 470 & South of B 470) 14 April: Altenstadt 29 April: Parkstein 26 May: Mantel and Steinfels 7 July: Luhe-Wildenau What will be picked up? Everything, that is too big or too heavy to go into the normal refuse container, such as: Furniture, mattresses, carpets, washing machines, dryers, radios, TVs, ovens, stoves, bicycles, strollers, and other items which cannot be dismantled, torn or broken down to a size that would fit in the regular refuse container. Each single item should be no larger than 80x40x32 inches and should not be heavier than 110 lb. Bulk trash consisting of metal (i.e. bicycles, washers, dryers, stoves, etc.) and electronic equipment (such as large appliances, small appliances, cooling devices, information & telecommunications including entertainment equipment) should be put out separately next to the normal bulk trash. What will not be picked up?

- Normal refuse, recyclable material, Yard waste like cut grass, branches, etc... - Hazardous waste - Tires, car parts, batteries, wrecked cars, motorcycles - Doors and windows (with or without glass), laminated floor, rouleaus - Construction debris - Night storage heaters

Pick-ups will be performed in three steps: 1. Combustible material: like upholstered furniture, mattresses, rugs, etc... 2. Electronic equipment: i.e. TV, PC, printer, scanner, radio, VCR, DVD player, monitor, vacuum cleaner, refrigerators and freezers (no permission sticker required anymore), etc… together with Household Metal items: i.e. bicycles, ironing boards, washer, dryer, dishwasher, stoves (oil stoves and oil barrels must be totally emptied) etc… 3. Salvageable wooden furniture: (i.e. bed frame, wardrobe, chair, table, etc….) *Smaller electronic appliances (i.e. hairdryer, toothbrush, telephones, drilling machine etc.) should be brought to the drop off point “Company Bergler” in Weiherhammer, Etzenrichter Str. 2, Mon.-Fri. from 8-4 p.m., CIV 09605-92090. Any material not picked up must be removed by residents. For more, call your SORT Office at DSN 475-6664.

Bulk Trash Pickup – City of Weiden For City of Weiden to include the communities Rothenstadt, Ullersricht and Neunkirchen - Pickup has to be requested at the City of Weiden twice a year. Fee per Pickup is 10 €. To schedule a pickup call 0961-3901913. For more information contact your SORT Office at DSN 475-6664.

Bulk Trash Pickup – County Tirschenreuth For Erbendorf, Kastl, Kemnath, Kulmain & Thumsenreuth - Pickup is performed by the County Tirschenreuth upon written request by the resident (“Sperrmuellabfuhr auf Abruf”). For a blank form contact your SORT Office at DSN 475-6664.

Bulk Trash Pickup – County Bayreuth For Speichersdorf - Pickup is performed by the County Bayreuth upon individual written request by the resident per special application card (“Sperrmuellabfuhr auf Abruf”). To obtain a blank form of this special application card contact your SORT Office at DSN 475-6664.

Army Community Service (ACS)

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

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

Newcomers! Every Tuesday: Newcomer Meet & Greet, 1:30– 2:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244, Lobby

Army Volunteer Corps 10 March & 15 April: Volunteer Management, Organizational Point of Contact (OPOC) Training, 9 – 11 a.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221, Rm 206 11 March: AFTB Level 3, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221, Rm 206 2 – 4 April: AFTB Level 2, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221, Rm 206 16, 17 April: AFTB Level 1, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 221, Rm 206

Employment Readiness For anyone needing assistance with resume building, or one-on-one assistance, please call DSN 476-2650, 475-8371, CIV 09662-83-2650, 09641-83-8371. 11 March, 1 & 15 April: USA Jobs, 10 – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 18 Mar: Ready for Work, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 25 March: Interview Prep 101, 10 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 8 April: Employment Out-Processing Brief, 10 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Have questions? Email EFMP directly. 12 March: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bowling Center 20 March: Special Education Workshop, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bldg 244 6 Feb: FRSA & FRG Key Personnel Brief, 3 – 4:30 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 26 March: EFMP Support Group, 3 – 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 244, Rm 219 17 April: Bowling with EFMP, 4 – 6 p.m., Tower Barracks, Bowling Center

Family Advocacy Program Hotlines to help: Domestic Violence 09662-83-3218 or 09641-83-5130. Please contact us for a complete listing of programs and services offered. 4 – 6 March: It Takes Two, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221, Rm. 206 Tuesdays, 4 March – 1 April: Love & Logic, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex

Financial Readiness Services are also available by appointment. For more information on saving your money, you may contact your ACS Financial Readiness at 09662-83-2650 or 09641-83-8371. 5 March: Checking & Debit Account Management, 12 – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 11 March: Coupon Class, 12 – 1:30 p.m. Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 12 March: Thrift Savings Plan (Basics), 12 – 1 p.m. Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 18 March: Investing 102, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 19 March: Coupon Class, 12 – 1:30 p.m. Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244 2 April: IRAs and Mutual Funds, 12 – 1 p.m., Tower Barracks, ACS, Bldg 244

Mobilization & Deployment Readiness 7 March: Resilience Training, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 17 April: FRG Treasurer & Funding Class, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 221 (limit 20 people)

New Parent Support Program 21 March & 18 April: Great Expectations, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg. 322. (6 Sessions that meet on Friday mornings) Tuesdays, 4, 18 March & 15, 29 April: Infant Massage, noon – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg 322 5, 19 March & 2, 16, 30 April: Little Hearts Apart Club, 10 – 11:15 a.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 Clinics and Informational Classes Every Tuesday: Breast Feeding Clinic, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Play Groups Every Tuesday: Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Every Wednesday: Rose Barracks, Chapel Annex, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Every Thursday: Netzaberg, Teen Center, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Newborn Network for parents with babies ages 0 through Walking Every Tuesday: Rose Barracks ACS, Bldg. 322, 1 - 3 p.m. Hospital Tours Every 1

st Wednesday (except for holidays): Visit Weiden Meet at 5:45 p.m. in the Weiden hospital lobby.

Every 4th

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

Relocation Readiness 13 March & 10 April: Successful PCS Moves 101, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 March & 16 April: Military Sponsorship: Train-The-Trainer, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 21 March: Level 2 Newcomers’ Orientation, Discover Amberg “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 19 March: Immigration Workshop, 11 a.m. – noon, Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 31 March: Level 1 Newcomers Orientation “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 28 March: Level 2 Newcomers’ Orientation, Discover Weiden “Welcome To Bavaria” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 16 April: Spouse Sponsorship, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, ACS Bldg 322 Every Tuesday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Tower Barracks, Chapel Annex Every Thursday: English as a Second Language, 10 a.m. – noon, Rose Barracks, ACS, Bldg. 322.

Soldier & Family Assistance Center 20 March: Education Fair, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 165

Military and Family Life Consultants are here for you Military Life Consultants provide solution-oriented consultations to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They are designed to provide anonymous, confidential support to Soldiers and their family members, especially those returning from deployments. To contact a military life consultant, call Rose Barracks 0152-0294-0761 / 017-4147-6846 or Tower Barracks 0152-0293-4290 / 0152-0241-5226, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. 6 March: From Combat to Home, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 11 & 13 March: Helping Your Service Member Reconnect with Their Child, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322 25 March: Coping With Transition, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Rose Barracks, Bldg 322

Exchange News

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

Exchange Sweepstakes Hatches Up $20,000 worth of Prizes The Exchange is excited to partner with Just Born to give away 20 Exchange gift cards worth $1,000 to service members and their families. Enter now through April 20, shoppers worldwide can enter to win the Peeps Just Born sweepstakes by filling out and dropping off an entry form at the Tower Barracks Exchange main store. Shoppers must be 18 years or older to enter and have a valid driver’s license. The drawing will take place on or about June 2nd.

Starbucks Now Open Starbucks is now open at the Tower Barracks Exchange Mall. Starbucks operating hours will be Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Free military-only comic book: Thor Thor: the Asgardian Thunder God is starring in a new, military-exclusive, FREE comic book from Marvel Custom Solutions and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service. The 32-page comic features Thor defending New York City from the fearsome Frost Giant. Pick up a free copy at your local Exchange Main Store and Retail Store.

Exchange You Made the Grade program Military students can turn good grades into rewards with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s You Made the Grade program. From first-graders to high school seniors, pupils who maintain a B average or higher are eligible for the program that recognizes academic excellence. The You Made the Grade program rewards military students with a coupon booklet filled with free offers and discounts, including a free regular 6-inch Subway sandwich and a Burger King Tender grill chicken sandwich. Those who make the grade will also score Snack Avenue coupons for a free 16-ounce drink, a complimentary hot dog and more. Other offers include $5 off a $25 iTunes gift card as well as discounts on clothing and shoes, among others. Students with a B average or better can also enter the You Made the Grade semiannual sweepstakes to receive gift cards worth $2,000, $1,500 or $500. Entries for the gift card sweepstakes drawing can be submitted twice a year, with drawings typically held in June and December. Students and guardians can visit the Beale Exchange for more information about the You Made the Grade program.

Volunteers and other help needed

Red Cross looking for CPR instructors We are looking for CPR course instructors. If you are interesting in becoming a Red Cross certified CPR/First Aid/AED course instructor, you must already have a valid CPR/FA/AED certification card and must be able to teach 3 classes over the next 12 months. Dates for this training are Feb 1st and 2nd at the Rose Barracks Red Cross office. For more information or to sign up, please email Alex Williams or call 09662-83-1760.

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

Health and Safety Instructors: Volunteers teach lifesaving skills in the community. Classes such as Babysitting, CPR, First Aid, AED and other safety presentations. Armed Forces Caseworkers: Volunteers work with local members of the military and their families ensuring the delivery of emergency communications. Health Fair Volunteers: Volunteers staff a table at events in the community and engage those attending in conversations about preparedness and safety.

Office of Volunteers: Volunteers assist with writing volunteer job descriptions, setting up volunteer orientation courses, conduct volunteer screening interviews, help with volunteer placement, record keeping, and recognition. For more, Rose Barracks Red Cross CIV 09662-83-1760 DSN 476-1760, Tower Barracks Red Cross CIV 09641-83-1760 DSN 475-1760.

Sports, Fitness, Hobbies & Recreation

AAFES Movie Listing Tower Barracks listings, click here. Rose Barracks listings, here.

Family Fitness Room Open You asked….we delivered! The Tower Barracks Family Fitness Center in the Tower Barracks Field House, Bldg. 547 opened on 3 March and will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It offers a variety of fitness equipment for your workout and a children’s play area located in the same room. You have no more excuses! Read more about the Family Fitness Room here.

2014 Grafenwoehr Rugged Terrain Obstacle Run deadline extended

19 March: The 2nd Annual Grafenwoehr Rugged Terrain Obstacle Runs deadline has been extended! Emphasis is

placed on community member participation. The cross-country obstacle run is a test of strength and camaraderie that includes various stages such as a mud crawl, rock climb and balance beam track. Remember there is NO onsite registration (Really need to stress this!). This is your last chance to be a part of this challenging event in 2014! http://grafenwoehr.armymwr.com/europe/grafenwoehr/grafenwoehr-events/are-you-tough-enough/#.UtOXZvuMlQ0

Bavaria Community and Spouses' Club events 13-16 March: Italy Trip - Nove, Vicenza, Verona. The bus leaves at 10 p.m. Thursday, 13 March and returns Sunday

16 March. Cost includes round trip transportation, 2 nights Hotel, 2 breakfasts, winery tour, tasting and food pairing! € 245 for members, additional $20 for non members. **Per person based on double occupancy. There will be porcelain shopping at the factories that create pieces for Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, Tiffany's and Lenox! A flea market and sightseeing in Verona, and a visit to the Nicolay purse factory. RSVP Deadline is February 26th. All Yes's at this time will be responsible for full payment of the trip. There is a payment plan available for this trip. Please inquire with your RSVP at www.bavariacsc.com. Head to the BCSC Facebook page for more info on upcoming events and club news.

21 March: Little Black Dress Luncheon -- Join the BCSC for our March Luncheon! We will be performing the famous

Little Black Dress Skit and enjoying a fabulous lunch with friends! DK's Steakhouse, AM Waldbad 4, 92655 Grafenwoehr. 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., cost is €10.

Bayern Rangers hockey team

The Bayern Rangers ice hockey team is gearing up for military and club tournaments. All interested players and fans are encouraged to join in the fun:

5-6 April: Puckbusters Cup in Weiden

8-11 May: Rainman All-Star Tourney in Pilzen, Czech.

For more info please see the team page at www.facebook.com/bayernrangers.

Weekly activities at the Warrior Zone All activities are from 6-10 p.m. at the Tower Barracks Warrior Zone, Bldg. 153. Call DSN 475-4309, CIV 09641-83-4309 for more. Tuesdays: Movie Nights. Grab some popcorn and put up your feet every Tuesday. Feel free to suggest films you want to see! Wednesdays: Texas Hold ‘Em. Think you’re good at cards? Prove it every Wednesday. Fridays: Pool Tournaments. Compete to be crowned the weekly billiards champ. Pool tables are also available upon request. Fridays: Magic: The Gathering Tournaments. Format varies from social play to tournaments. All skill levels are welcome.

Sundays are Family Bowling days Sundays: Every Sunday from 2-8 p.m. at the Tower Barracks Bowling Center, kids bowl for $1 and adults bowl for

$2.25. At the Rose Barracks Bowling Center, we offer “All you can Bowl” for one low price. Call the Bowling Centers for more details.

Weekly activities for kids Tuesdays/Wednesday: Pre-School Story Time. Tuesdays at the Rose Barracks Library, 10 a.m. Wednesdays at

the Tower Barracks Library, 10 a.m.

Wednesday: Lap Sit Story Time. There are stories for the pre-schoolers and activities for under-2s. Tower Barracks

Library. 2-2:30 p.m.

Intramural Soccer League Registration 1-31 March: Register now for the upcoming Intramural Level Soccer League, both company and battalion level. Stop

by your local fitness center for more information and to sign up today. DSN 475-8207, CIV 09641-83-8207.

Ladies Night at the Lanes 5 & 19 March: Come on out ladies, this night is just for you! All ladies bowl for absolutely free. This is your chance to

unwind and have a little fun at the Rose Barracks Bowling Center. 6-10 p.m. DSN 476-2576, CIV 09662-83-2576.

Ladies Only Climbing Night 6 & 20 March: All ladies are invited to come out and get your climb on. Contact the Wild B.O.A.R. to sign up and for

more information, DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529. Offered the first and third Thursday of each month. 6-8 p.m.

Bingo! 6 March: Try your luck with America’s number one game, BINGO! This is your chance to win big while also enjoying a

delicious dinner. Only ID Card Holders 18 and older, please. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Motorcycle Mentorship Meeting 6 March: USAG Bavaria Safety office is hosting their annual Motorcycle Mentorship Meeting for all current and future

mentors to prepare for the 2014 riding season. The meeting will be held at the Tower Barracks Safety Office in Bldg. 539 on Tower Barracks at 1:30 p.m.

Penny a Pin Bowling 12 March: Break open your piggy banks and head down to the Bowling Center! You pay a penny for every pin you

knock over. Any game over 200 will receive a discount and only be charged $2. For more information, stop by the Rose Barracks Bowling Center. Call DSN 476-2576, CIV 09662-83-2576 for more information.

Survey Your World – Military History Group Meeting 12 March: Survey your world through a series of Military History discussions. March’s Topic is Technology & War. We’ll

be showing short presentations and having great historical discussions. Come share your knowledge and enthusiasm. Volunteer presenters are also need. 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at the Tower Barracks Library. Call DSN 475-1740, CIV 09641-83-1740 for details.

3rd

Annual Shamrock Shuffle/Warrior Luck Be a Lady 5K 15 March: Dig out your green and join the fun for a great cause. March is Women in the Military Month and the

community focus for the event is the Wounded Warriors. Participants are encouraged to bring a $ donation for the service project. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Kids (under 6) 400 m. Shamrock Sprint starts at 9:15 a.m. The 1 mile Shamrock Shuffle and 5K begin at 9:30 a.m.

Family Fun Night 17 March: 4:30-6 p.m. – Rose Barracks Library

18 March: 4:30-6 p.m. – Tower Barracks Library

March is Family Fun Month and your libraries are inviting you to get out and play. We’ll have a variety of family friendly games to enjoy and the opportunity to build your own game together as a family. Join us for a fun family night out on! Pre-registration by March 14 is required. DSN 475-1740, CIV 09641-83-1740.

Bavarian Ski Club trip to Austria 21-23 March: Join the Bavarian Ski Club for an incredible weekend to the resort / ski town of Bad Gastein, Austria,

March 21-23. The resort boasts 201 km of ski runs with 44 lifts. Cost is €270 and includes 2 nights accommodation, breakfast and dinner each day, a 2-day lift ticket and transportation to/from the Graf commissary with sandwiches and beverages on the bus. To sign up, contact Steve Derr at DSN 476-3418, Civ. 0162-296-0979, or email steven_derr@hotmail.com. All snowboard & ski levels welcome! Like us on Facebook for trip updates and additional information about upcoming club meetings.

24-Hour Challenge Run 27-28 March: The community is invited to support the 3rd Annual 24-Hour Challenge, which honors the fallen brothers

of the Tactical Air Control Party community, March 27-28, at the Tower Barracks Physical Fitness Center. The event will start at 6 p.m., March 27. The funds raised during this event will help the TACP Association continue to support the

community. To participate, donate or learn more, visit https://fundly.com/team-usafe#_, or contact Staff Sgt. Kevin Pollock at Kevin.j.pollock3.mil@mail.mil.

Soccer Coach’s & Officials Clinic 31 March - 3 April: 6-9 p.m. at Tower Barracks, Bldg. 539. If you love the game of Soccer, but the game is starting to

pass you by, it might be time to hang up those cleats and start officiating. There is a shortage of qualified officials for all sports and it would be great if you came out and gave officiating Soccer a try while making some extra money on the side. Stop by your local fitness center for more information and to sign up today.

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

Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop The Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop is located in Bldg. 508 on Tower Barracks. Consignments are accepted during hours of store operation. Hours are Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Thursday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and the 1st Friday of each month, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. All color tickets ½ off (items over $3 and white consignment tickets not included). TSP Purses $2, CDs $1.50, and 10 books are $1, and TSP Jackets 75% off. We also have boys, girls, ladies, and men jeans only for $2.50 for the month of March. We are not accepting clothes for consignments for this month. Volunteers and Donations are always welcome (Remember your donations help our community) CIV 09641-9260377 or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thriftytower

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

School, Netzaberg Elementary School, Vilseck Falcons and Grafenwoehr Community Schools.

Facility & Road/Openings/Construction/Closures

Rose Barracks road closures & detours Partial and total road closures are to be expected during the following dates for road construction for District Heating for several buildings. Detour signs will be posted when necessary.

70th Artillery Street Now-14 March: One lane open for traffic

Religious

Clubs & Gatherings Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC)

9 a.m. Thursdays, Tower Barracks Chapel Annex, Free Child Care

9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Rose Barracks, Fellowship Hall, Free Child Care

Catholic Women of the Chapel

9 a.m. Thursdays, Rose Barracks, Free Child Care

Religious Education

10:30-11:30 a.m. Sundays, Tower Barracks Chapel Annex. To include all sacramental classes i.e., Confirmation and First

Communion

12:30-1:30 p.m. Sundays, Rose Barracks, Bldg. 205. To include all sacramental classes i.e., Confirmation and First

Communion

Knights of Columbus

9 a.m. 1st Saturday of each month, Rose Barracks, Bldg. 205.

PWOC – Bible Studies

5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Tower Barracks Chapel Annex

6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Rose Barracks, Fellowship Hall

2:42 (Bible Study for singles and young couples in a coffee shop atmosphere)

6:45 p.m. Wednesdays,Tower Barracks Chapel Annex

Gospel Christian Fellowship

6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Tower Barracks Chapel Annex

Graf Hospitality House (Men’s Bible Study)

7 p.m. Mondays, Eschenbach, POC: Brian Kleager 0151 54678686

USAG Bavaria Ash Wednesday / Lent Services

Please check here for a complete list of Ash Wednesday and Lent Services: http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/lentservices.pdf

RSO trip for all single women - Prague 15-16 March: Cost is 40 Euros, includes lodging, breakfast, concert, and transportation. Passport required. Experience

the unique architecture and amazing scenery by day and night, and enjoy a classical concert in a beautiful church. To sign up contact Laurel Givry at 0151-14991395 or laurel.givry@cadence.org

Chaplain Crisis Line After duty hours, please call: MP STATION CIV 09662-83-2490 or 09662-83-3397 / DSN 476-2490 or 476-3397. USAG-Grafenwoehr IOC CIV 09641-83-7226 / DSN 475-7226. CHAPLAIN CRISIS LINE CIV 0162-296-0838. During business hours: Tower Barracks Chapel: DSN 475-1570, CIV 09641-83-1570. Rose Barracks Chapel: DSN 476-1570, CIV 09662-83-1570.

Adult Education / Training

Register now at UMUC for Spring Session II The University of Maryland University College Europe’s Spring Session II schedule of courses is now available for face-to-face or online courses. Visit the Education Center to see your UMUC Europe Field Representative, or go online at www.europe.umuc.edu. We are ready to help you with financial aid, Tuition Assistance, using your G.I. Bill, evaluating your military training for college credits and more. You can also “Like” us on Facebook.

National Test Center (NTC) testing hours

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

New class at University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma in Vilseck offers degree programs to military service members and civilians in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult. The university offers both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations, a Master of Human Relations and a Masters of Education. We are currently enrolling new students. Call Carla Miller at DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069 or email her. Further information can be found at www.goou.ou.edu. The following courses are offered in Vilseck for Spring 2014: 24 March-18 April: Social Change, Culture, & Development in Africa (online).

Embry-Riddle Graduation Ceremony

26 April: You are cordially invited to participate in Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Europe’s 2014 Graduation on

Saturday, April 26, at 2 p.m., at the Lufthansa Training & Conference Center, Seeheim-Jugenheim, Germany. Celebrate your academic achievement by walking with your fellow graduates. If you have completed your degree with Embry-Riddle in the last year, or if you are an undergraduate student within 12 credit hours of degree completion, you are eligible to walk. For more information, contact the Hohenfels Office at DSN 466-4139, CIV 09472-83-4139, or email Hohenfels@erau.edu. Or stop by during office hours, Monday – Thursday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

University of Oklahoma summer courses The University of Oklahoma in Vilseck offers degree programs to military service members and civilians in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult. The university offers both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations, a Master of Human Relations and a Masters of Education. We are currently enrolling new students. Call Carla Miller at DSN 476-2069, CIV 09662-83-2069 or email apvilseck@ou.edu. Further information can be found at www.goou.ou.edu. The following courses are offered face to face in Vilseck for Summer 2014: 13 -18 May: Topics in Legal Studies: The Legal and Ethical Environment of Business 22 -27 July: Seminar in Intercultural Communication

Central Texas College CTC provides soldiers and their families with associate degree programs in many Vo-Tech career fields with both face-to-face classes and distance learning (online) classes. In the Vilseck-Grafenwoehr community, there are currently 3 face-to-face programs running continuously year-round. Below is the current line-up for CTC classes on Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks for Term 4 in March-May 2014. ROSE BARRACKS (VILSECK) CLASSES:

Automotive Mechanic/Technician class: AUMT 2425 – Automotive Automatic Transmission & Transaxle. Meeting days & times: Tu/We/Th 6-10 p.m.. Start/End dates: 18 Mar/15 May. Instructor: Donald Bretch. 4 credit hours.

Child Development class, CDEC 1313 – Curriculum Resources for Early Childhood. Meeting days and times: Tu/Th 6-9 p.m. Start/End dates: 18 Mar/15 May. Instructor: Birgit Keiser. 3 credit hours.

GRAFENWOEHR TOWER BARRACKS CLASSES:

Criminal Justice class: CJSA 1312 – Crime in America. Meeting days & times: Tu/Th 6:00-9:00 p.m. Start/End dates: 18 Mar/15 May. Instructor: Raymond Spain. 3 credit hours.

For more information, contact CTC field representative Chuck Sligh at vilseck@europe.ctcd.edu / DSN 476-2362 / CIV 09662-83-2362, Bldg 223, Rose Barracks

School News

Grafenwoehr Elementary School Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office; CIV 09645-917-9254 DSN 472-9254. Box Tops: Please don’t forget to keep bringing in your Box Tops to our PTSA. PCSing soon?: Please contact our registrar for the last day notice paperwork. DSN 475-6132, CIV 09641-83-6132. Please remember if you wish to hand carry records to your child’s new school we will need 5 working days notice along with the last day notice. School Office Hours School Hours Phone Numbers

Mon.- Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.- Fri. 8:15 a.m.-2:35 p.m. DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-837133

Vilseck Elementary School

5 March: Family Library Night. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Parents are invited to read with their child. 6 March: Book Swap. Please bring in some books to exchange for others. 8:30-11 a.m. 10-14 March: TerraNova Testing 3rd-5th grades from 8:30-noon each day. Parents are asked to schedule medical/dental appointments after testing. 13 March: SAC Meeting 3 p.m. 20 March: Lion's Den-ADHD-What Do I Do Now? Annex 8:30-9:30 a.m. 20 March: Book Swap. Please bring in some books to exchange for others. 8:30-11 a.m. 28 March: The Emperor’s New Clothes Dinner Theater 6 p.m. More information coming soon. 30 March: German Daylight Savings Time MFLC consultants at Vilseck Elementary School Dear VES Community, As you know we have two Military Family Life Consultants (MFLC) at our school who are here to support our school by assisting with many aspects, one of which is assisting our community’s family needs. Starting on January 31st at 1:45 our MFLCs will be hosting interested parents and community members many topics/issues/concerns that may be happening in your home and with your children. We invite you to VES on any or all of these scheduled dates. The topics and dates for you are: • 7 March: Issues families face with the military deploys • 14 March: Helping children when moving

• 21 March: Teaching children how to get along • 28 March: Power Struggles Please take advantage of one or more sessions and visit with our MFLC. They are ready and willing to help you with concerns you may have that are not on this list and are available to you at any time. Please contact the main office if you have any questions. Child Find: What is child-find screening? Preschool Child Find is a developmental screening for children ages 3-5 identifying children with developmental delays or other special education needs. For children under age 3 please contact EDIS at 09662-83-3221. What is the process? A Child Find team made up of the preschool special needs service provider, speech and language pathologists and the occupational therapist screen the children for developmental delays. These free screenings take place monthly. How does it work? Parent submits the Child Find questionnaire (which they can pick up in the office or find on the school website); they are set up with an appointment for the screening. When they come in for the screening the child must first pass a vision and hearing screen by our school nurse. Then they are screened by the team. If the child is suspected of having any delays the team will refer them for further formal evaluation. Why is it important? When learning challenges are identified at a young age, early intervention can help the child with learning tasks. If parents are interested, what do they need to do? They can go to the school’s website and find the link for Child Find. Under that link is a questionnaire they need to fill out and email back to the email address provided on the form. Someone will be in contact with them within 48 hours. If they do not hear back please contact the school at 09662 832812 and let them know what happened. (Just in case the email was rejected as SPAM) Continuous School Progress Goals: Goal 1: By 2016 all students will improve competency with numbers and operations as measured by increased performance on assessments. Goal 2: By 2016 all students will demonstrate improved reading comprehension through written and oral communication as measured by increased performance on assessments. School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers

Mon.‑Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.‑Fri. 8:25 a.m.‑2:35 p.m. CIV 09662‑83-2812 / 2673, DSN 476‑2812/2673

Netzaberg Elementary School 18-20 March: Talent Show auditions. 7 May: Talent Show – MPR at 5 p.m. Talent Show: Permission slips for the talent show are going home on Monday, February 24. Please send in your signed permission slip as soon as you can. Auditions will be held March 18-20. The Talent Show will be on May 7 at 5:00 p.m. in the MPR. POC is Patti Daniel at 09645-917-9183. P.E.: Mr. Gray, our P.E. teacher, is asking for old sport shoe donations of all sizes. Many kids forget their sport shoes and this way Mr. Gray can loan them a pair for class. All sizes welcome. Library: Our school librarian, Dinah Tague, would love volunteers to help out in the library. She needs people willing to wash books, straighten shelves, label books, take pictures, and create bulletin boards. Attendance: If your student is going to be late or absent, please email us at our new email address: NetzabergES.attendan@eu.dodea.edu OR call 09645-917-9184/9183, DSN 472-9184/9183 by 0830. Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office; CIV 09645-917-9254 DSN 472-9254.

Child Find: Do you have questions about your child’s development (ages 3-5 years)? For further information on Child

Find developmental screenings at Netzaberg Elementary School, please call CIV 09645-917-9185 or DSN 472-9185.

Check us out on Facebook here. School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon.- Fri. 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Mon.- Fri. 8:00 a.m.-.2:35 p.m. CIV 09645-917-9185/4 DSN 472-9184

Netzaberg Middle School 10-14 March: TerraNova Testing Every Morning - Be On Time & Eat a Healthy Breakfast; Get a Good Night's Sleep 15 March: Spring 5K Run - Grafenwoehr Fitness Center 26 March: March into Spring Assembly – 1:30 p.m., Gym 28 March: CU4 Reality Career Workshop - Seminar 1-3 April: Registration for SY 2014-2015 3 April: Last Day of 3rd Quarter 4 April: No School for Students - Teacher Work Day Pens and pencils

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7-11 April: No School - Spring Break 14 April: First Day of 4th Quarter Are you PCSing soon? Please contact Mrs. Zenaida Ferdinand-Bessant so she can assist you with your transition. 09645-917-9229 (DSN 472 9229), Option 3. Student Absent? Please e-mail or call Mr. Chris Campbell at Willis.Campbell@eu.dodea.edu if your student is going to be absent from school. ** If a student is late, a parent/guardian must come to the office to sign them in. 09645-917-9229 DSN 472 9229, Option 1. Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Mr. Jimmy Avery or Mr. James Moss at the SBO office. 09645-917-9229 DSN 472 9229, Option 5. Find us on Facebook: Like our Facebook page and you will always have access to the most update information about your student’s school. We will also be able to upload photos from the various activities. School Office Hours Important Phone Numbers Mon - Fri 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. CIV 09645-917-9229 DSN 472-9229

Vilseck High School 8 March: JROTC Ball 12, 13, 18, 19, & 20 March: Terra Nova Testing 9

th grade only (See Below)

18 March: “College Prep 101 for Parents” 6 p.m. at Vilseck HS (See below) 21-23, 28 - 30 March: 7 p.m. Vilseck High School Drama "Hairspray Jr." (See below) 3 April: End of 3

rd Quarter

4 April: No School for students (Teacher Work Day) 7 – 11 April: No School Spring Break 18 April: Parent/Teacher conferences No school for students 21 May: 8

th grade visit to Vilseck HS (Changed from 25 March)

Terra Nova Testing. The testing will only be administered to the 9

th grade class. The schedule is as follows: Mar 12

th

Science, Mar 13th Reading, Mar 18

th Language Arts, Mar 19

th Social Studies, Mar 20

th Math. Grades 10 – 12 will follow a

normal schedule on those days. College Prep 101 for Parents. If you are the parent of a VHS senior heading off to college this fall or the parent of a junior and you want to get a head start gathering information, USAG Bavaria experts in the areas of transportation, Tricare, legal and GI Bill will be at VHS on March 18th at 6:00PM to provide practical information for you and your student. This one hour workshop will provide you with information and a point of contact as you look at the logistics of getting your student ready to head off to college. Vilseck HS Drama Production “Hairspray Jr.” When you're done checking out Avenue Q, come see the Vilseck High School Drama production of "Hairspray, Jr." March 21st through the 23rd, and March 28th through the 30th!! Tickets are on sale beginning March 10th, in the VHS MPR, or at the door. Send an e-mail to robert.king@eu.dodea.edu with questions. SAC Committee. VHS SAC Committee meets every 2

nd Monday of each month while school is in session. Minutes of the

previous meetings can be found on our school website at http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu/SAC.html.

School Office Hours School Hours Important Phone Numbers

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 8:10 a.m.-3 p.m. CIV 09662-832864 / Fax 09662-832480 DSN 476-2864

Was ist Los?

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

Flea markets

Every Sat., 6 a.m. - 4 p.m., in 93059 Regensburg inside the building at Am Protzenweiher 27, ph 0941-82-933. The market will not take place on German holidays. Every second Sat. of the month: 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.: in 90443 Nuremburg, Großparkplatz (large car park) on Gugelstraße, corner Humboldtstraße. Every third Sat. of the month: 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. in 92224 Amberg, Kaufland-Parkplatz, An den

Franzosenaeckern Every third Sun. of the month: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Trödel- & Jahrmarkt in 93073 Neutraubling (next to Regensburg), at the "Globus" DITY store, Pommernstraße 4.

End of Fasching 5 March: Fischzug, 1 p.m., in 92287 Schmidmühlen (ca. 20 km / 12.5 miles NE of Hohenfels). A parade "mourning" the

end of Fasching will go through the town center, followed by a funny, satirical look-back on goings-on in the past year.

Swim and Fun for Children 7 March: 4 - 6 p.m., in 92318 Neumarkt, at the Hallenbad (indoor pool), Mühlstraße 42 (ca. 45 km / 28 miles west of

Hohenfels). A car park is on site. The lifeguards have organized a fun-filled party with music and games, specifically aimed at children and juveniles. To ensure a safe time, the pool will be blocked for adults - only children are allowed! Parents can watch their kids from the Caféteria. Entry is € 2 per child.

Bike & Fun Fair 8 & 9 March: In 90762 Fürth, in the Stadthalle, Rosenstraße 50, ph 0911-749-120 (ca. 10 km / 6 miles west of

Nürnberg). This annual fair offers everything that a biker's heart desires: motorcycles, accessories, custom bikes, quads, clothes - even a raffle and a flea market for used motorcycles and accessories! Click for photos from last year. Opening hours Saturday 1 - 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is € 5 pp, children under 14 are free. If you wish to visit on both days, ask for an "Auslass-Stempel" (stamp) on Saturday; it will grant you free access on Sunday!

Food Fair 8 & 9 March: Food Fair: Feinschmecker-Messe, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., in 97346 Iphofen, at the Karl-Knauf-Halle, the

Vinothek, and local restaurants (ca. 11 km / 7 miles SE of Kitzingen). This fair will give you a wonderful idea of what the local delicacies around Iphofen taste like. Admission to the Karl-Knauf-Halle is € 6 pp, of which € 2 serve as a coupon in case you buy something (food or wine) from the vendors.

Street Market and Open Stores 9 March: Josefi-Jahrmarkt, 10 a.m., in 91550 Dinkelsbühl, on and around the Marktplatz = Market Place (ca. 45 km / 28

miles SW of Ansbach). A typical street market in a wonderful city, where vendors will be selling decorations, jewellery, books, locally produced foods, flowers and much more.

9 March: 10 a.m., in 9131 Forchheim, in the city center and along Hauptstraße (ca. 25 km / 15.5 miles south of

Bamberg). Stores in the city will be open 1 - 6 p.m. It is recommended you park either in the parking blocks ("Parkhaus") in the city center, or on the "Sportinsel" at the Main-Donau canal, An der Regnitzbrücke (then it's just a short walk across the bridge to reach the Altstadt).

Karaoke in the Warrior Zone 12 March: Sing and let your voice be heard! Choose from our extensive selection of music and perform for others to

enjoy! 7 p.m. at the Rose Barracks Warrior Zone, Bldg. 162. Call DSN 476-2942, CIV 09662-83-2942 for more.

Guided Delicatessen Tour: Potatoes 14 March: 6 - 9 p.m., in 92637 Weiden. Click for a map of suggested car parks. This is a tour of a different kind: your

guide will take you to different four different historical restaurants where you will be served a delicious potato dish and told stories of the past. Price per person: € 36 (includes the four dishes and one drink). Naturally, you will need to speak German for this tour. Meeting point is the stairwell of the historic city hall in the pedestrian zone. Please register with the Weiden Tourist Information, ph 0961-814-131.

Jazz from the Côte d'Ivoire: Cécile Verny Quartet 14 March: 8 - 10:30 p.m., in 92637 Weiden, at the Bistrot Paris, Sebastianstraße 2, ph 0179-784-2510; organized by

the Jazz-Zirkel. After a long tour through South Africa, the exceptional musician Cécile Verny and her musicians (link in German, French and English, scroll down) are guesting in Weiden for a unique concert. Tickets cost € 19 pp and can be bought at the evening counter or in advance from the Bistrot, ph 0961-381-1349. Please be aware that the only parking spaces close to the Bistrot Paris are on the street, and it's usually pretty full. Click for a map of suggested car parks.

Bicycle Fair: Rad 14 15 &16 March: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. both days, in 90762 Fürth, Stadthalle, Rosenstraße 50, ph 0911-749-120 (ca. 10 km /

6 miles west of Nürnberg). Admission is € 5 pp; children under 14 are free. Spring is upon us, and it's time to get fit again. One of the easiest ways to do so is riding a bike. This fair shows you all the latest trends, including the modern e-bikes (electric bikes, or "pedelecs" in German). There will also be information about travelling on bicycles ("Radreisen").

Artisan Easter Market 16 March: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., in 95463 Bindlach, in the Bärenhalle, Hofackerstraße (ca. 7 km / 4 miles north of Bayreuth).

This market poses a great chance for local artisans to display and sell their exquisite goods, made from a large variety of materials, as well as dolls, teddy bears, homemade jams and liqueurs. In addition, extremely delicious cakes and Torten are being sold, and many activities for children and adults will keep you entertained. Admission is € 2.50 pp.

Spring has Sprung 20 March: Today is Vernal Equinox, or the start of spring. Today, the number of hours in the daytime is the same as the

number of hours in the night-time. Look at this lovely animation to see how the Earth travels around the sun and how it is related to equinoxes and solstices.

Starkbierfest 22 March: in Pressath, Stadthalle at 8 p.m. Entrance at 7 p.m. Entrance fee will be €3. The Pressather Musikanten will

play Bavarian music and modern style music. For reservation please contact Gerlinde Reich@t-online.de.

IVV Volksmarch 22 & 23 March: 7 a.m. - midday both days, in 91330 Eggolsheim (ca. 21 km / 13 miles SE of Bamberg). Start and end

point is the Eggerbach-Halle on Josef-Kolb-Straße 10a. Finish time is 4 p.m. both days. Two distances are available, 5km and 10km, both of which are suitable for baby buggies. Fee is € 2 pp, with prize it's € 4 pp. The prize is a 20cm-high Easter bunny on an egg.

Easter Egg Market: Ostereier-Markt 22 & 23 March: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. both days, in 91054 Erlangen, at the Redoutensaal (next to the "Markgrafen-

Theater"), Theaterplatz. 1 (between Nürnberg and Bamberg).This is the second-oldest Ostereier-Markt in Germany! 40 artists from Germany and beyond will display and sell their beautifully hand-painted Easter eggs, as well as other Easter decoration. Have a look at the photos on their German website (no need to understand the text) - click on "Weiter mit dem Rundgang" at the bottom right to continue to the next pages.

Street Market: Mittefastenmarkt 23 March: 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., in 92637 Weiden, Altstadt (historic city center) / Fußgängerzone (pedestrian zone). Click

for a map of suggested car parks.

Street Market: Josefi-Markt 23 March: 10 a.m., in 91327 Gößweinstein, Viktor-von-Scheffel-Straße (about 10 km / 6 miles west of Pottenstein, in

the beautiful Fränkische Schweiz). It is recommended you park at the public car park behind Pezoldstraße 24. Alternatively, you can go to the cemetery car park behind the basilica, at Viktor-von-Scheffel-Straße 5. Customers of the Hotel zur Krone can also park behind the hotel, at Viktor-von-Scheffel-Straße 1.

Artisans Market 23 March: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., in 9131 Forchheim at the Jahn-Kulturhalle, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Straße 10 (ca. 25 km /

15.5 miles south of Bamberg). Over two floors stretches this market, where artisans present their Easterly and everyday goods. You can find toys made of wood and cloth, homemade soaps, accessories, dolls, teddies, jewellery, and objets d'art made of glass, wood, iron, steel or ceramic. And of course you will also find many intricately crafted Easter eggs. Admission is €2.50 pp, children under 12 are free. It is recommended you park either in the parking blocks ("Parkhaus") in the city center, or on the "Sportinsel" at the Main-Donau canal, An der Regnitzbrücke (then it's just a short walk across the bridge to reach the Altstadt).

Easter Market 23 March: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., in 92277 Hohenburg, at the Rathaus = town hall, Marktplatz 19.

Hohenburg borders onto the northern end of Hohenfels Training Area. It is ca. 30 km / 18 miles north of Hohenfels if you drive around the HTA, via Schmidmühlen.

Fresh Produce/ Farmers’ Markets Note: If any of the listed days is a German holiday, the markets are usually held the day prior. In 92224 Amberg: every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on the Marktplatz. In 91522 Ansbach: every Wednesday and Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m., on Martin-Luther-Platz. ***In addition to the regular fresh produce markets, local farmers offer their fresh goods every first and third Saturday of the month at the farmers market on Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Platz (same opening hours). Great opportunity to buy seasonal produce as fresh as it gets. In Bamberg: Monday thru Saturday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., on Maxplatz. Closed on Sundays and German holidays. In Neumarkt: every Thursday and Saturday, in Untere Marktstraße. Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. In Parsberg: every Wednesday and Friday on Stadtplatz. Wednesday 7 a.m.-midday, Friday 2-6 p.m. In Regensburg: every Saturday 7 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Donaumarkt (right next to the Eiserne Brücke / Iron Bridge). Closest car park is Unterer Wöhrd (and a short walk across Eiserne Brücke), or Dultplatz and Oberer Wöhrd (walk across the Steinerne Brücke / Stone Bridge and turn left). In 92637 Weiden: every Wednesday and Saturday 7 a.m. -12:30 p.m., Oberer and Unterer Markt / all around the Altes Rathaus (historic city hall, pedestrian zone). In 97070 Würzburg: Monday thru Saturday, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., on Rathausplatz. Closed on Sundays and German holidays.

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

Useful links in English for everyday life in Germany

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

German-American Kontakt Club The Vilseck Kontakt Club meets every Friday at 7 p.m. for Stammtisch at the Club House, Rose Barracks Bldg. 301. Those interested in the Vilseck Club please register with Daniel Koenig or sign up with the Vilseck Kontakt Club at the website by filling out the Mitgliedsantrag (Member registration form). The Grafenwoehr Kontakt Club meets every Monday for bowling at the Grafenwoehr Bowling Center and every Wednesday for Stammtisch at the Clubhouse. For more on the Graf Club, call CIV DSN 475-7878, 09641-83-7878 or email.