COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS
Special programs, updates, community campaigns, classes and more.
Webpage for stateside driver's license renewal
U.S. Army Europe has developed a webpage with a state-by-state description regarding expiration/renewal/exemption policies for driver's license. The direct link to the webpage is http://www.eur.army.mil/rmv/Stateside_DMV/default.htm
Mail delays expected for mail going to or from East Coast
The USPS has announced that we can expect mail delays form mail destined to or from the East Coast due to severe winter storms. All commercial flights to and from JFK and other parts of the East Coast have been or were cancelled. Duration of the cancellations are not fully known at this point. Please continue to check status on our postal service Facebook pages at:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rose-Barracks-Vilseck-Postal-Service-Center/132316756830289
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Grafenwoehr-Postal-Service-Center/137535339636599
Army Emergency Relief unit POC training
18 Feb: The Army Emergency Relief (AER) program will begin on 1 March and last until 15 May. All Units within USAG Bavaria geographic footprint are requested to provide an AER Representatives. The USAG Bavaria POC will be hosting a special training session for all AER unit representatives on 18 Feb at 9 a.m. in Tower Barracks, Bldg.244, Rm. 126.1. Training will last approximately 1 hour. All AER representatives should attend this training. For questions please contact Mrs. Christine Nunez, DSN: 475-6133 or email: christine.nunez4.ln@eur.army.mil
Force Protection measures
We are currently under Force Protection Condition Bravo with some additional force protection measures implemented across our installations. We appreciate your patience and understanding as these measures may cause delays to installation access and services. For tips on how to keep yourself and your family safe, go to http://www.army.mil/article/141483/.
Rose Barracks speed limit increases
The speed limit for the main road on Rose Barracks is now 50 kilometers per hour. Drive carefully and watch out for pedestrians, especially children crossing the street.
Latest information regarding expired U.S. driver's licenses
Host nation authorities have recently made a unilateral change to policy concerning driver's licenses of U.S. Forces and dependents. According to this new policy, only a driver with a valid (not expired) U.S. driver's license may operate a POV, even if they have a valid USAREUR license. U.S. authorities are working on finding a solution to this matter. U.S. Forces personnel who have been charged for driving without a license should contact the local legal office for assistance. If your U.S. license is expired, you may get an extension or renew it. To see your U.S. state's military extension policy, go to http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/StateDLRenewalPolicies.pdf. For more information, go to http://www.army.mil/article/141182/
Active duty military must change Roth TSP account or risk losing funds
31 Jan: Active duty members of the Army, Air Force or Navy making dollar-amount Roth contributions to a Thrift Savings Plan account should know that these deductions will stop on Jan. 31, unless action is taken. To learn about how to make the right changes to your account, go to http://www.army.mil/article/138509/.
Tech Expo
6 Feb: Over 30 exhibitors will demonstrate the latest in signal management, security, data protection, computer hardware and software, cloud computing, touch panels and more. The event is free. Tower View Conference Center, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Refreshments and giveaways.
Weekend shuttle bus on post
Starting 14 Feb: A weekend shuttle bus going between Rose and Tower Barracks will be operational on 14 Feb. See the flyer at the top of the Newsletter for the shuttle schedule.
Black History Month event
18 Feb: The 18th Military Police Brigade will host a Black History Month event at the Tower Barracks DFAC on 18 Feb, noon-1 p.m. The event is open to the public and lunch can be purchased and consumed during the event. Guest speaker is CW2 Sheree Johnson.
AER scholarships for spouses and high school students
Deadline 1 May: Two different scholarships are available for spouses and for children of Soldiers planning on obtaining a 4-year undergraduate degree in the 2015-2016 academic year. Both scholarships are need-based. For the Spouse Education Assistance Program (SEAP), the spouse must reside with his/her Soldier in an overseas location; must be pursuing the first undergraduate degree; and must be enrolled in a part or full time program. The MG James Ursano Scholarship is for high school students who are enrolled in DEERS; a dependent of a Soldier; attending a four-year accredited school; and maintaining a 2.0-4.0 GPA. For more, head to www.aerhq.org or contact Marianne Hoffman at Army Emergency Relief at DSN 476-2650, CIV 09662-83-2650.
2CR Soldiers MUST use Rose Barracks ID card office
Attention 2CR Customers! If you are a 2CR Soldier stationed in Rose Barracks and require any of the following: PIN resets/CAC unlocks, DEERS enrollments/updates, In/Out Processing, new CAC cards; you MUST go to Bldg. 306, 2nd Floor, Rose Barracks. The Tower Barracks ID Card Office will no longer process the above actions for those stationed in Rose Barracks. They will continue to process new dependent ID card requests for family members of 2CR Soldiers. Thank you for your understanding.
Change in DFAC meal prices
Effective immediately: Office of the Under Secretary of Defense has mandated a change to the meal rates for all DFACs, which includes the Warrior Sports Café. The new rates are as follows:
Standard Rate
Breakfast: $3.45
Lunch: $5.55
Dinner: $4.85
Brunch: $6.25
Supper: $7.65
Holiday: $9.05
Discount Rate
Breakfast: $2.60
Lunch: $4.20
Dinner: $3.65
Brunch: $4.70
Supper: $5.75
Holiday: $6.80
Restrictions for off-post uniform wear
PLEASE NOTE: Major changes have been made and additional restrictions added to standards for off-post uniform wear. Please make note of each change and restriction.
• Wearing military uniforms off post is authorized only when traveling from home to the installation, or from traveling between installations within a garrison (i.e. from Tower Barracks to Hohenfels.)
• This uniformed travel is authorized ONLY when traveling in an enclosed private, government or rental vehicle.
• Traveling in uniform by motorcycle/scooter, bicycle or foot is prohibited. Traveling via public transportation, even taxis, is also prohibited.
• It is prohibited to wear a uniform while escorting children to/from or waiting at an off-post DoDDS bus stop.
• Even when not in uniform, DoD personnel are restricted from carrying backpacks or other items that convey DoD affiliation while traveling on motorcycle/scooter, bicycle or foot.
• While in off-post hotels, uniforms may be worn while departing or arriving in an enclosed vehicle. Uniforms cannot be worn in common areas of the hotels, i.e. breakfast/dining rooms, bars and gyms.
• Physical fitness uniforms cannot be worn off post.
Bulk Trash Pickup -- County of Neustadt
18 Feb: Weiherhammer
23 Feb: Neustadt am Kulm
24 Feb: Pressath
25 Feb: Schwarzenbach
2 March: Neustadt/WN
2 March: Trabitz
16 March: Altenstadt
17 March: City Grafenwoehr
23 March: Netzaberg & City Eschenbach (North of B 470)
24 March: City Eschenbach (South of B 470)
30 March: Speinshart
1 April: Mantel and Steinfels
14 April: Etzenricht
15 April: Parkstein
20 April: Kirchenthumbach
12 May: Kohlberg
10 June: Luhe-Wildenau
Curbside, in front of your home. Bulk Trash has to be out on curbside NLT 6 a.m. Pick-up is provided by contractors of the County Neustadt.
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 a.m. -- 4 p.m. hour, CIV 09605-92020.
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.
More recycling, trash pick-up schedules and bulk trash pick-up
For information on recycling, bulk trash pick-up and regular trash pick-up, head the garrison recycling page at http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/usag_dpw/o&m/util_sort.asp.
German home loan deemed illegal
Due to a decision by the German Supreme Court, a fee that banks often imposed on people requesting a home loan has been deemed illegal. While this does not apply to all bank fees for loans, it will apply in many cases. Anyone who applied for such a loan is encouraged to bring their contract to the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate office for review and advice as quickly as possible.
Bldg. 244 bus stop relocation
The bus stop in front of Bldg. 244 (Soldier for Life building) has relocated 100 meters to the west side of the building. This change is necessary to prevent pedestrian-related accidents.
Dial 112 for the nearest Polizei station
If you ever need to quickly reach emergency services, dial 112 from any phone and you will connected to the nearest Polizei station. This works anywhere in Germany.
Industrial paper shredder has been fixed
The industrial paper shredder located at the Centralized Recycling Center across Range 118 in Tower Barracks has been fixed and is ready for use.
New hours of operation at Rose and Tower Barracks Postal Service Centers
The Rose and Tower Barracks post offices have changed their regular operating hours to allow 6 additional open hours per week. The new hours are:
Mon - Wed and Fri: Postal Finance (sending mail): 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Parcel Pick Up (receiving parcels): 10 a.m.- 5:45 p.m.
Thurs: Postal Finance (sending mail): 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Parcel Pick Up (receiving parcels): 11:30 a.m.- 5:45 p.m.
The post offices are open on Training Holidays.
Traveling outside of Germany
Planning on traveling outside of Germany for the holidays? Don't forget to check with your unit security office/S2 prior to leaving. And bring your passport.
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, Tower Barracks CIV 09641-83-117, Rose Barracks CIV 09662-83-117. For the latest information and videos, please check out http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/media2.asp.
Soldier for Life
Separating from the service? Did you know that the Soldier for Life: Transition Assistance Program, formerly known as Army Career and Alumni Program, is still a key resource in place to help with the transition to civilian life? Transition, higher education and accredited financial counselors are standing by ready to assist Soldiers, as early as 18 months before exiting the military.
VOLUNTEERS AND OTHER HELP NEEDED
Freecycle Center needs volunteers
The USAG Bavaria Freecycle Center is always in need of volunteers to help operate the facility. The center is where community members can drop off and pick up used household items, clothes, books, toys and furniture for free. It's completely managed by volunteers. If you are interested in donating your time, please call commercial 09641835228 or DSN 475-5228 during business hours. Or you can stop by Bldg. 4341 on Tower Barracks to learn more. The Freecycle Center is open every Tuesday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The donation box is at the same location and is open 24/7.
USO volunteers needed for Dinner for Soldiers
Can you whip up delicious meals? Or maybe you're a dolt behind the stove and whiz with the dishes. Come give a couple hours to cooks and serve meals for Soldiers at the Tower Barracks USO. They serve Dinner for Soldiers every Tue, Wed and Thu starting at 5:30 p.m. Volunteers are needed from 4-6 p.m. on those nights. Contact the USO at DSN 475-9584, CIV 09641-605-2940 for more.
Are you interested in becoming an American Red Cross volunteer?
We are currently looking for dedicated individuals with a desire to volunteer. Current Volunteer positions include: office assistants, special events and briefing volunteers. Call CIV 09641-83-1760 for Tower Barracks, CIV 09662-83-1760 in Rose Barracks. Duty hours for all Red Cross locations: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Reconnection Workshops
The American Red Cross is offering Reconnection Workshops to support and ease transitions associated with Army life along with training and deployments. These are confidential small-group modules, led by licensed mental health professionals. The workshops focus on building skills that enhance the likelihood of positive reconnections among family members, as well as the successful reengagement of the service member in civilian life, by increasing interactions and developing additional sources of support. Please contact the American Red Cross Station Chief at DSN 475-1760, CIV 09641-83-1760 for dates and times.
SPORTS, FITNESS, RECREATION AND WELLNESS
Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation FMWR hosts a variety of ongoing weekly events, trips, recreational activities and events. To see FMWR's upcoming activities, check out their website, Facebook page or Bi-Weekly Newsletter.
FMWR Website: http://www.grafenwoehr.armymwr.com/europe/grafenwoehr/
FMWR Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria?ref=hl#!/BavariaMWR?fref=ts
FMWR Bi-Weekly Newsletter: http://grafenwoehr.armymwr.com/europe/grafenwoehr/grafenwoehr-events/family-and-mwr-newsletter/?eID=59875
Sign up for the Disney Paris trip
There's still room left on the Disney Paris trip over spring break. See the famous Disney characters and the city of Paris, from April 6-9. This is a popular trip, so be sure to sign up before Feb. 6. The price includes: 2 night's hotel accommodation; 3 x Buffet Breakfasts; 1 Disney Park hopper ticket; Paris city tour. To sign up, contact Wild BOAR Leisure Travel at DSN 475-8529, CIV 09641-83-8529.
Youth Sports and Fitness spring sports sign up
Starting 1 Feb: Sign up for all spring youth sports for all ages begins on Feb. 1 and lasts through the entire month. Sign your kids up early to guarantee them a place on a team. See the flyer at the top of the Newsletter for more info. Call Parent Central Services to register: DSN 476-2760, CIV 09662-83-2760.
Blind Date with a Book
February: Sometimes, love is blind. Head to your local library in February to pick up an unknown book. The book will be covered by paper, so you don't know what you're taking home to read. The result could surprise you.
Attention all Functional Fitness (aka CrossFit) enthusiasts!
Memorial Fitness Center in Rose Barracks has opened the Functional Fitness room. Read all about the room here: http://www.army.mil/article/141019/. Before using "The Box" for open gym sessions, community members must attend a safety and orientation course. The next course is 7 Feb, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For more details on the course, check out the flyer at the top of the Newsletter.
Dinner for Soldiers
Every Tue, Wed & Thu: Soldiers can stop by the Tower Barracks USO, Bldg. 150, for a home cooked meal at 5:30 p.m. Volunteers from the community cook and serve delicious meals to over 300 Soldiers per week. Haitian, Vietnamese, Italian and Thai dishes are served. To check out the weekly menus, head to the USO Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria?ref=hl#!/USOGrafenwoehr. The USO also needs volunteers for this ongoing event. Head to the Volunteer section of the Newsletter for more.
Super Bowl Tailgate party at USO
1 Feb: Head to the USO for a typical tailgate party and dinner at 7:30 p.m. Stick around and watch the game on two flat screen TVs. The game starts at 12:30 a.m. The USO is still looking for volunteers to cook and clean for the event. Contact the USO at DSN 475-9584, CIV 09641-605-2940 for more.
Weight Loss Challenge
2 Feb-30 March: MWR is trying to motivate you to lose weight and get healthy. Compete in a 6 week challenge to help reach your health and fitness goals. Mandatory weekly weigh-ins, Body Fat % measurements and a food journal check will be conducted every Friday at 10 a.m. and at 1 p.m. Register by 23 Jan. Prizes will be awarded for weight loss, fitness and wellness improvements. All participants have a chance to win the grand prize, a BMW bike, by attending all weigh-ins and nutrition classes. Cost is $50 and includes two free fitness classes per week; food journal; body assessment; and nutritional classes. Register at your local fitness center.
German language class for beginners
Every Wed in Feb: No sign-up is required for the class. The USO just asks to join the event on Facebook if you know you will attend and please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of class. Please bring pencil and paper. Starts 4 Feb, 6-7 p.m. at the Tower Barracks USO, Bldg. 150. Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria?ref=hl#!/USOGrafenwoehr.
Advanced German language class
Every Thu in Feb: No sign-up is required for the class. The USO just asks to join the event on Facebook if you know you will attend and please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of class. Please bring pencil and paper. Starts 5 Feb, 6-7 p.m. at the Tower Barracks USO, Bldg. 150. Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria?ref=hl#!/USOGrafenwoehr.
Army Wellness Center
Want to get fit or lose weight? Have you hit a roadblock or just getting started? There are a multitude of resources available at the Army Wellness Center. They offer metabolic testing by appointment to determine caloric intake; basic nutrition classes; and on-going assistance to achieve weight management. You can also attend classes on basic nutrition, sleep hygiene, weight management or make an appointment for a fitness assessment. This is open to all ID Card Holders; call DSN 476-4795, CIV 09662-83-4795 for an appointment. http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/wellnesscenter.asp.
Wellness Apps
To check out the apps flyer, go to http://issuu.com/bavariamilitarycommunity/docs/app_flyer/0
Note: Publicizing these resiliency apps does not constitute endorsement by USAG Bavaria or the US Army and should not be interpreted as such.
Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop
The Thrifty Tower Thrift Shop is located in Bldg. 508 (corner of Saratoga Ave & Merrel St, next to the Behavioral Health Clinic) in Tower Barracks. Consignments accepted during opening hours: Tue & Wed, 10 a.m-3 p.m. Thu, 11a.m.-5p.m. and the 1st Friday of the month, 10 a.m-3p.m. Find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thriftytower or call CIV 09641-92-60377. Volunteers and donations are always welcome. Donations go back to help our community.
Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop
Hidden Treasures Thrift Shop: Bring your gently used items to Bldg 221 on Rose Barracks. Find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/vilseckthriftshop.
FACILITY AND ROAD OPENINGS/CONSTRUCTION/CLOSURES
BASOPS (POV inspection station) return to normal hours
1 Feb: Starting in Feb., BASOPS, POV inspection station, will return to regular working hours. Regular hours are Mon-Fri, 7:15-11:45 a.m., 12:45-3:45 p.m. Point of Contact for this action is Stephanie Kramer, Acting Chief Maintenance Division, DSN 475-7688.
BASOPS (vehicle inspection) half-day closure
12 Feb: The POV inspection station, BASOPS MD, and CST in Tower and Rose Barracks will close at noon on 12 Feb. POC for this action is Chief BASOPS Maintenance Division, 0152-01595345.
New PX hours in Netzaberg and Rose Barracks
The Netzaberg Express and Rose Barracks Exchange facilities will have new hours in 2015 as of the dates listed below:
Now: Rose Barracks Barber Shop new hours, Mon-Fri: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun: Closed
Now: Rose Barracks Stylique Beauty Shop new hours, Mon-Fri: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun: Closed
Now: Netzaberg Express new extended hours, Mon-Thu: 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri: 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sun: Closed
2 Feb: Rose Barracks Furniture Store new hours, Mon-Sat: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Sun: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
2 Feb: Rose Barracks PXtra new hours, Mon-Sat: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sun: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.
2 Feb: Rose Barracks Express new hours, Mon-Thu: 5 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri: 5 a.m.-1 a.m., Sat: 6 a.m.-1 a.m. Sun: 7 a.m.-10 p.m.
2 Feb: Rose Barracks Popeye's new hours, Mon-Fri: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Sat: 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sun: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
2 Feb: Rose Barracks Burger King new hours, Mon-Fri: 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Military Health Clinics closed on Training Holidays
Military health clinics will be closed for patient care on all training holidays. This includes clinics in Vilseck, Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels. If you are in need of medical advice or care on training holidays, federal holidays or weekends, you are encouraged to call the Nurse Advice Line at 00800-4759-2330. This toll-free line is available 24/7 to answer your health-related questions and direct you to the appropriate level of care. In case of emergency, please go to your nearest host nation hospital.
Drivers Training and Testing Station in Tower Barracks Bldg. 301
The Drivers Training and Testing Station has relocated from Tower Barracks Bldg. 244 to Bldg. 301, 3rd floor, Rm. 200B. This is the same building as the vehicle registration office is located. We appreciate your understanding as we seek to ensure better customer service to our customers. POC is Gerald Ross at DSN 475-6343, CIV 09641-83-6343.
RELIGIOUS
For a list of church services and classes, please head to the Religious Services Organization webpage at http://www.grafenwoehr.army.mil/sites/support/religious.asp.
Chaplain Crisis Line
Chaplain Crisis Line: CIV 0162-296-0838.
After duty hours call: MP station, CIV 09662-83-2490 or 09662-83-3397, DSN 476-2490 or 476-3397.
USAG Bavaria IOC, CIV 09641-83-7226, DSN 475-7226.
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 AND TRAINING
Contact Army Education Centers
Rose Barracks, DSN 476-2753, CIV 09662-83-2753. Tower Barracks, DSN 475-7239 CIV 09641-83-7239. Email for info at usarmy.bavaria.imcom-europe.mbx.aces@mail.mil.
CLEP-a-thon at Rose Barracks Education Center
26 Feb: A CLEP-A-thon will be held at UMUC's National Test Center in the Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, Rm 2.10, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. CLEP/DSST exams are a quick way to earn college credit for US military ID card holders and can help fulfill educational goals. CLEP/DSST exams are free for active duty service members and $100 for civilians. No appointments are necessary for the CLEP-A-thon and exams will be given on a first come first serve basis. Check out http://www.collegeboard.org and http://www.getcollegecredit.com for study materials or stop by your local education center for more study sites. Make sure to check with your school to see what scores are needed and what CLEP/DSST exams will help you with your degree. Test your way to a bright future and contact the University of Maryland University College for more information at: DSN 476-2462, CIV 09662-83-2462, or at ntcvilseck-europe@umuc.edu.
FAST Class
18 Feb-3 March: Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The registration period for these classes begins 28 Jan until the last working day before the class begins. Functional Academic Skills Training (FAST) provides Soldiers with instruction in reading, mathematics, and language skills and is an excellent tool to prepare Soldiers to raise their GT score. This class is a 60-hour long course and is limited to twenty students. For more information please contact the Rose Barracks Education Center at DSN 476-2653/2753.
College Field Reps are at Tower Barracks Every Wednesday
Do you need to speak with a college field representative (CTC, UMUC, OU, and ERAC) but do not have time to drive to Rose Barracks? Visit the Education Center every Wednesday at Tower Barracks in Bldg. 538, Room 3, from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Call DSN 475-7239, CIV 0964-83-7239 for more. An Education Counselor is available for general information from 7:30-8:30 a.m.
University of Maryland University College-Europe
UMUC Europe offers Associates, Bachelor's and Master's degrees in a convenient face-to-face, hybrid and online format. Take advantage of many financial aid opportunities including FAFSA, tuition assistance, MyCAA, and scholarships. The UMUC office is at the Rose Barracks Education Center, Bldg. 223.
University of Oklahoma - Vilseck
Please check the website for latest degree programs offered. Visit us on Facebook at University of Oklahoma in Vilseck www.facebook.com/ouvilseck. You can also visit the garrison universities website. The University of Oklahoma in Vilseck offers degree programs to military service members, civilians, and family members in an accelerated format that meets the demands of the working adult. They offer both Master of Arts with an emphasis in International Relations, a Master of Human Relations, and a Masters of Education. Contact Carla Miller at apvilseck@ou.edu, DSN 476-2069 or CIV 09662-83-2069.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
You can sign up for either online, virtual, or face-to-face weekend courses in Katterbach from 12 Jan-15 March. For more, call the Hohenfels office at CIV 09472-83-4139/DSN 466-4139 or email Hohenfels@erau.edu.
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. 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 Mon, Tue and Thu and at the Tower Barracks Multi Learning Facility, Bldg. 538 Wednesdays.
SCHOOL NEWS
Grafenwoehr Elementary School
PCSing soon? Please contact our registrar for the last day notice paperwork. DSN 475-6132, CIV 09641-83-6132. 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: Mon- Fri 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
School Hours: Mon- Fri 8:15 a.m.-2:35 p.m.
Phone Numbers: DSN 475-7133, CIV 09641-83-7133
Vilseck Elementary School
Now-1 March: Yearbooks are on sale for $28.Online yearbook ordering at: www.internationalmemories.us userid : 2015VESYB, Password: 2015VESYB. Click "yearbook order" on the left, then the "yearbook" icon. Click "yearbook" in the drop down menu on the right of the screen; it shows you the price of $ 28. Click "add to cart" and proceed to check-out. Make sure the Zip code is your APO code.
30 Jan: Fandom Friday. Dress as your favorite team sport! Sponsored by S. Council.
30 Jan: VES quilt show. See many different patterns created by the art class and Ms. Carter.
2-6 Feb: Clean the world SOAP drive. Sponsored by Student Council. Bring in soap bars.
4-5 Feb: Grade 5 Ski Trip to Ochsenkopf Sued (Fleckl) Bus departs at 8 a.m. and returns at 3 p.m. The students will learn how to ski or to improve their skiing by participating in a two day ski trip. Parents will be responsible for picking up their child after the bus arrives at VES. This trip is optional and available for all fifth graders.
12 Feb: Lockdown Drill 1:15 p.m.
13 Feb: NO SCHOOL, Parent Teacher Conference
16 Feb: NO SCHOOL, Presidents' Day
19 Feb: Award Ceremonies
26 Feb: The NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) test for all 4th graders will take place between 8:30-11:30 a.m. NAEP assesses student knowledge in math, science or reading.
26 Feb: Lions' Den. Terra Nova overview. What does this test look like and how important is it?
27 Feb: A Case of the Stripes Friday -- Dress in striped clothing. Sponsored by S. Council.
2 March: Read Across America and Dr. Seuss's Birthday. Guest readers and all day fun.
9-13 March: The Terra Nova testing for all 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders will take between 8:30-11:30 a.m. Terra Nova assesses student performance in math, science, social studies, reading and language arts. Please avoid scheduling any medical or dental appointments during these critical assessment opportunities.
11 March: Kindergarten Book Swap
19 March: Lions' Den. 8:30-9:30 a.m.The Terra Nova. Visit to learn more about this school-wide test.
19 March: Fire Drill (9:30 a.m.)
19 March: Bedtime Stories (5-6:30 p.m.)
20 March: Popcorn Friday. Students pay just .25 for a bag!
22-25 March: Readers' Theater (1-2 p.m. in the annex)
24 March: Spring Performance
25 March: Book Swap. In the school's lobby. Sponsored by PTSA.
25 March: RHR Final Assemblies (1:30-2:20 p.m. in the gym.)
VES families and interested community members are invited to attend seminars hosted by the school's Military Family Life Consultants (MFLC). The MFLCs are here to support the school with many aspects, one of which is assisting our community's family needs. Beginning 28 Jan, at 8:45am the MFLCs will offer interested parents and community members the below topics for discussion and understanding.
We hope these topics will be of good use 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:
11 Feb: Taking ownership in teaching your child how to resolve conflicts.
25 Feb: Taking ownership over the negative aspects of stress.
11 March: Ways parents can take ownership in addressing issues their child may have in their classrooms more effectively.
25 March: Ways parents can take ownership in developing healthier communication skills with their child.
15 April: Ways parents can take responsibilities with positive and negative effects of anger.
29 April: Taking responsibilities with normal and inevitable power struggles parents have with children.
13 May: Responsibilities and coping mechanisms for parents to create a smooth transition in home, school and community.
27 May: Responsibilities, challenges and suggestions on helping your child in changing schools.
School Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
School Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:25 a.m.- 2:35 p.m.
Phone Numbers: CIV 09662-83-2812/2673, DSN 476-2812/2973
Netzaberg Elementary School
12 Feb: Fasching Parade, 1 p.m.
13 Feb: NO SCHOOL. Parent/Teacher Conferences.
13 Feb: Dragon Den Breakfast for parents, 8 a.m. MPR.
16 Feb: NO SCHOOL. President's Day.
20 Feb: Booster Club Sweetheart Dance. 5:30-8 p.m. MPR.
20 Feb: Kindergarten 100th Day of School.
9-13 March: Terra Nova Testing.
26 March: Math Night. 5:30-7 p.m.
3-12 April: Spring Break. NO SCHOOL.
16 April: Comic Con. 5:30-7 p.m. MPR.
1 May: Family STEAM Challenge Night. 5:30-8 p.m.
7 May: Talent Show. 5-6 p.m. MPR
13 May: Dan Crow performance. During the school day and 5:30-7 p.m.
25 May: NO SCHOOL. Memorial Day.
29 May: Volksmarch/Earth Day Extravaganza. All day.
5 June: Field Day.
11 June: Last day of school for students.
12 June: Last day of school for teachers.
Dragon's Den Breakfast: The 2nd Friday of every month we will have a Dragon's Den Breakfast for parents in the MPR at 8 a.m. We will focus on a different topic each meeting, but the overall focus is on what parents can do at home to help bridge the gap between school/home and really work together in a partnership.
Sure Start: A preschool program for at risk military families, we provide education, health, nutrition, and social services. Children who are age four by Sept 1 are selected using specific criteria. Call the school office for details.
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 8:30 a.m.
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.
School Office Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
School Hours: Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 2:35 p.m.
Phone Numbers: CIV 09645-917-9185/4 DSN 472-9184
Netzaberg Middle School: Home of the Knights
10 Feb: 6th Grade Terra Nova Workshops, 1:15-1:45 p.m.
12 Feb: 6th Grade Terra Nova Workshops, 1:15-1:45 p.m.
12 Feb: NMS Band Performance in NES Fasching Parade, 1:15 p.m.
18 Feb: NAEP assessments
18 Feb: 8th Grade Awards, 1:30 p.m., Gym
24 Feb: 6th Grade Terra Nova Workshops, 11:15-1:45 p.m.
26 Feb: 6th Grade Terra Nova Workshops, 1:15-1:45 p.m.
27 Feb: NMS Winter Ball, MPR, 4-6 p.m.
15 May: VES 5th Grade Orientation, 9-11 a.m., MPR
15-17 May: Antique Furniture Sale, MPR, TBA
Student Absent? Please e-mail NetzabergMS.Attendan@eu.dodea.edu or call Ms. Lakisha Wilson, our Attendance Clerk, to notify us 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. CIV 09645-917-9229, DSN 472-9229, Option 1.
Registration or PCSing soon? Please contact Mrs. Zenaida Ferdinand-Bessant, Zenaida.ferdinand-be@eu.dodea.edu our Registrar, so she can assist you with your transition. 09645-917-9229 DSN 472- 9229, Option 3.
Bus Office: If you have questions regarding bus transportation for your student, please contact Jimmy Avery at averyj@eu.dodea.edu or James Moss at james.moss@eu.dodea.edu at the Student Bus Office, CIV 09645-917-9229, DSN 472 9229, Option 5.
School Office Hours: Mon - Fri 7:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Phone Numbers: CIV 09645-917-9229 DSN 472-9229
Vilseck High School
31 Jan: Wrestling in Vilseck
16 Feb: No School (Presidents Day)
24-27 Feb: Culinary Faire
23-27 Feb: No Activity Buses
2 March: First day of spring sports
SY2014/15 Accelerated withdrawal due to PCS moves. The earliest date that a student may withdraw from school and still receive full credit for the current semester is 11 Dec for 1st Semester and May 14, for 2nd Semester. DoDEA policy states the school must be notified at least 20 days prior to the withdrawal date. For more information on the requirements please contact the Vilseck High School administrative office at 09662-83-2864.
For detailed sports schedules, go to http://www.vils-hs.eu.dodea.edu.
Would you like to meet with a teacher? Please email your student's Guidance Counselor or call the office at DSN 476-2864 or 09662-83-2864. Let them know which of the teachers you would like to meet with and they will schedule a conference. This is a list of our counselors and who you will contact. If your students last name begins with:
A-G: Ms. Leveque
H- Q: Mr. Landreth
R-Z: Mr. Conrad
After school tutoring and SAT prep is available on Tuesday and Thursday every week (except holidays). Please email Ms Watson (Carla.Watson@eu.dodea.edu) for more information.
School Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Phone Numbers: CIV 09662-83-2864, DSN 476-2864, Fax 09662-83-2480
WAS IST LOS? Get out and get involved in Germany
*** Does not indicate endorsement by the U.S. Government ***
What is Fasching?
Fasching is what the Bavarians and other German speakers call Carnival. It's a season of wild celebration and revelry before Ash Wednesday, the traditional beginning of Lent. While Fasching season officially starts on Nov. 11 at 11:11 a.m., parades and parties don't usually begin until January. Festivities really pick up on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday, which is Weiberfasching, or Women's Fasching (scroll down for more on Weiberfasching.) This is when the Crazy Days, six days of parades, parties and costume balls, begin. The largest and most famous Fasching parade and celebration is in Cologne.
More on Fasching: Germany`s fifth Season - Fasching
Carnival is one of the oldest traditions celebrated, not only in Germany, but in many countries throughout the world. The carneval period begins every year on the 11th day of November at 11 minutes after 11 and is celebrated continuously with parties, festive dinners, dancers and masquerade balls until Ash Wednesday, 18 February 2014.
It combines a number of old fertility rites and customs, which began even before Christianization like the driving out of the winter, fear of coldness and sickness.
Also humans always tended to use the last days before a period of fasting to enjoy life once more to the fullest.
In Catholic Bavaria people call it Fasching. The word "Fasching" is assumed to be a derivation of the Middle High German Fastschank, the last drink served before the Lent season.
Historically, during Fasching the lower classes were allowed to wear costumes and masks and to mimic aristocracy and heads of the church and state without fear of retribution for mockery.
The tidal waves of carnival revelry are particularly strong in the Rhineland, since that is where it had its beginning.
Big pageants with costumed marchers and masked dancers and floats are especially colorful in the cities of Cologne, Duesseldorf and Mainz, where it is almost a civic duty to join the fun on Shrove Tuesday. Throughout the centuries the carneval grew bigger and better, and by February 10, 1823, when Prince Carneval was crowned in the city square of Neumarkt in Cologne, it had developed into a massive celebration with great parades and city-wide revelry in many countries throughout the world.
In many cities a Prince Carneval, referred to as "His Crazy Highness" is elected to head with his princess a court of fools and lead the frolics. On Faschingsdienstag the crazy couple will move with their retinue into the "Rathaus" (City Hall) to govern until midnight when the merrymaking and foolishness comes to a sudden halt.
Due to the fact that it is a tradition that on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday the women symbolically take over the lead (etc. town halls) and therefore are allowed to cut the men`s ties, we suggest to take it good-humoredly and not to wear your most expensive tie.
Traditions vary, but two things are always present: Noise and masks.
Carnival is celebrated everywhere. Everybody is in a good mood, a lot of fun, paper streamers, garlands, confetti and of course a lot of delicious beer. Fasching is the time, when people don`t take everything serious and are having a lot of fun. In other words its party time!
www.oberpfalznetz.de/bildergalerien/2711634-157-Tgalerien,1,0.html
www.youtube.com/watch?v=N61lESscF58058ba0949028f41c09ca056c817087ccf9913aa8bb4c1f06b1f523691518f38f021d7d2023fcbd6b668084c330ca583172ff5faa2aa4778d618c9b4e9de1c237list=UUqFLGktArwHOA_I1d7MSKgg058ba0949028f41c09ca056c817087ccf9913aa8bb4c1f06b1f523691518f38f021d7d2023fcbd6b668084c330ca583172ff5faa2aa4778d618c9b4e9de1c237index=17
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9klk8PDXgLI058ba0949028f41c09ca056c817087ccf9913aa8bb4c1f06b1f523691518f38f021d7d2023fcbd6b668084c330ca583172ff5faa2aa4778d618c9b4e9de1c237list=FLqFLGktArwHOA_I1d7MSKgg058ba0949028f41c09ca056c817087ccf9913aa8bb4c1f06b1f523691518f38f021d7d2023fcbd6b668084c330ca583172ff5faa2aa4778d618c9b4e9de1c237index=5058ba0949028f41c09ca056c817087ccf9913aa8bb4c1f06b1f523691518f38f021d7d2023fcbd6b668084c330ca583172ff5faa2aa4778d618c9b4e9de1c237feature=plpp_video
Fasching Parades are:
Sunday, 1 Feb
2 p.m. - Sulzbach-Rosenberg (from Rosenberg Fire Department to Sulzbach Luitpoldplatz), followed by "After-Zug-Party" at Luitpoldplatz.
Sunday, 8 Feb
2 p.m. - Pressath (Kemnather Strasse - Hauptstrasse - Bahnhofstrasse - Reichweinstrasse - Ludwig-Bock-Strasse)
Thursday, 12 Feb
2 p.m. - Dietfurt (very unique parade called Chinese fasching)
Saturday, 14 Feb
2 p.m. - Koefering (next to Amberg)
Sunday, 15 Feb
2 p.m. - Vilseck (Leonhardstrasse, across from the Edeka Market towards the Vilseck Marktplatz), followed by "After Party" at the Marktplatz
2 p.m. - Hahnbach
2 p.m. - Rieden (downtown area)
2 p.m. -- Schnaittenbach
2 p.m. - Velburg
2 p.m. - Schwandorf (Lindenviertel towards TÜV-Gelände) followed by "After-Party at the TÜV-Gelände
Tuesday, 17 Feb
1 p.m. - Auerbach, followed by "After Party" at the Marktplatz
2 p.m. - Schmidmühlen
2.30 p.m. - Freudenberg
Weiberfasching: History of Weiberfasching or Weiberfastnacht (ladies carnival)
In 1824 in Bonn-Beuel, located next to Cologne, the laundry women stopped working on Thursday before the final Carnival weekend - today we would say:
They went on strike and gossipy complained their frustration over their poor living and working conditions. Following their example, more women joined them along the small towns and villages along the Rhine river not according to their normal duties. They met for coffee and gossip and celebrated their "Carnival". The women carnival (Weiberfastnacht) was born. The women founded the "Old Ladies' Committee" to allow them to participate in the official carnival events, which were for men only.
Nowadays, ladies take over the symbolic power on Weiberfasching, they get into the town halls and many times also symbolically take over the city treasury.
Throughout the Cologne area, Women's Carnival is recognized as an unofficial holiday, the majority of workplaces will no longer work at noon. The festivities usually begin at 11:11 clock. In contrast to Rosenmontag (Shrove Monday or Carnival Monday) and other days there are usually no parades at Weiberfastnacht, it mostly celebrated outdoors or in bars and restaurants.
On this day it is tradition that women cut men's tie as a symbol of male power. Of course, involved men will be reimbursed with a kiss. If the sponsor of the tie being cut has not agreed beforehand, there may be a violation of property. However, people should be aware that this custom is very common to Weiberfastnacht and should take it as fun only.
Weiberfasching at Sorghof
30 Jan: 9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Wolfgangsheim Sorghof (next to church)
Weiberfasching at Pressath
31 Jan: 7:30 p.m.
Pfarrsaal, Pressath
Fasching Party at Vilseck
31 Jan: starting 8:30 p.m.
Mehrzweckhalle, Am Schnellweiher 2, 92249 Vilseck
Sponsored by the local soccer club
Fasching Party at Pressath
14 Feb: 7 p.m.
Pfarrsaal, Pressath
Sponsored by the local fire department
Weiberfasching at Amberg
12 Feb: at Amberg Marktplatz and in most of the restaurants/clubs
www.stadtmarketing-amberg.de/eine-seite/amberger-hexennacht/
Weiberfasching (ladies carnival) is celebrated in almost every town in Germany - some celebrate more others less.
It is the fun day for women or others dressed like women.
Women are officially in charge on that day, unofficially every other day.
Itinerary of Weiberfasching at Amberg
Crazy Witches at Amberg - The motto of this year's Weiberfasching at Amberg are witches.
Several activities are going on with all kind of crazy witches. The day is for women only, men participating should be dressed in women costumes.
2 p.m.- Witches in the down town area
5-6 p.m.- Witches dances for children at the market square
6 p.m. - Witches night (big party with life band at the Amberg downtown area)
Photos:
www.stadtmarketing-amberg.de/eine-seite/amberger-hexennacht/
www.d-quertreiber.de/index.php?id=128
Early Announcement: AC/DC on tour in Germany, May-July
AC/DC will be in Dresden, 10 May; Munich, 19 & 21 May; Berlin, 25 June and Gelsenkirchen 12 July. Go here for tickets http://www.ticketonline.de/acdc-tickets.html?affiliate=01T2caecdea0c6c363d4f737f4433d283e5c81439e163e2c43d1b982128ee9522346f433c14d515ab05f2d5833a7ddbc6d36bbbf9bde7403ad365e47b51c24c32dedoc=artistPages/tickets2caecdea0c6c363d4f737f4433d283e5c81439e163e2c43d1b982128ee9522346f433c14d515ab05f2d5833a7ddbc6d36bbbf9bde7403ad365e47b51c24c32defun=artist2caecdea0c6c363d4f737f4433d283e5c81439e163e2c43d1b982128ee9522346f433c14d515ab05f2d5833a7ddbc6d36bbbf9bde7403ad365e47b51c24c32deaction=tickets2caecdea0c6c363d4f737f4433d283e5c81439e163e2c43d1b982128ee9522346f433c14d515ab05f2d5833a7ddbc6d36bbbf9bde7403ad365e47b51c24c32dekuid=102caecdea0c6c363d4f737f4433d283e5c81439e163e2c43d1b982128ee9522346f433c14d515ab05f2d5833a7ddbc6d36bbbf9bde7403ad365e47b51c24c32deincludeOnlybookable=true2caecdea0c6c363d4f737f4433d283e5c81439e163e2c43d1b982128ee9522346f433c14d515ab05f2d5833a7ddbc6d36bbbf9bde7403ad365e47b51c24c32dextor=SEC-3212-GOO-[AC/DC]-[63993714998]-S-[+ticket+ac/dc].
Bayreuth Street Market
30 Jan-2 Feb: This traditional street market in Bayreuth's pedestrian area will have around 50 vendors selling everything under the sun. Opening hours: Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. On and around Maximilianstraße.
Moto ski race in Garmisch
31 Jan: Quads and ATVs race across the ice and snow in this thrilling race. Anyone with a quad or ATV can race (even kids.) In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Partenkirchen subdivision, at the Olympia Ski Stadion on Karl-und-Martin-Neuner-Platz 3. Race starts at 10 a.m. and parking is on site. The night before (30 Jan) in the same area, you can watch skiers being pulled behind a motorcycle on the slopes in a high-speed race. Starts at 6 p.m.
Super Bowl Sunday
1 Feb: Today (tonight for us) is Super Bowl Sunday.
Fasching Parade in Sulzabach-Rosenberg
1 Feb: This is considered to be one of the largest and most fun in the area. 2 p.m. in the city center.
Horse Market aka Rossmarkt
4 Feb: In 92334 Berching, Altstadt (ca. 42 km / 26 miles west of Hohenfels) 8 a.m.
The Rossmarkt in Berching is a long-standing tradition and has become a winter Volksfest of sort. Every year on the Wednesday after Candlemas, over 150 horses are driven to the medieval town center in the early morning hours (i.e. at around 9 a.m.) with the intent to show and eventually sell them to potential buyers. Thousands of visitors come by to witness this spectacle and admire not only the beautiful horses and carriages, but also enjoy the market activities surrounding the event. The Rossmarkt dates back to the year 1722. In those days the horses weren't sold, though, but instead had to be checked by the veterinarian for contagious diseases.
Gospel Workshop
6-8 Feb: You can attend a gospel work shop with Ramona Fink from "Hope & Joy" gospel choir. Hourse are Friday, 7:30-10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-noon. Sign up no later than 30 Jan at Tel: 09632 9200-37. You can also just attend the choir concert at 11 a.m. on 8 Feb at Waldsassen Basikila in 95652 Waldsassen, Mittelschule Eichendorffstraße 12.
Fasching Ball in Sorghof
7 Feb: Dress up in a crazy costume or your finest Carnival mask and join the party. 8 p.m., in the Wolfgangsheim in Sorghof, next to the church (= the village just outside of the Rose Barracks main gate).
Weiberfasching or "Women's Fasching"
12 Feb: Today is a special day during the Fasching season called "Weiberfasching" (Women's Carnival Day). This is the day when from early in the morning on, the streets are alive with ladies in fancy dresses on their way to their place of work or to the shops, and from 10 a.m. a.m. they all usually head towards the town center or town hall to "take over the city." They will storm the mayor's office to symbolically take over the city's coffers. Any man foolish enough to wear a tie on this day runs the risk of having it cut off just below the knot. In the evening countless parties and masked balls are held and men are, of course welcome to join the celebrations provided they foot the bill for all the women's drinks or dress as women themselves.
Ukulele crash course
Learn how to play famous songs like "Somewhere Over The Rainbow", "Oh When The Saints", "Oh Susanna" und "Knockin' On Heaven's Door" with the Ukulele. Sign up no later than 11 March at Tel. 09632 9200-37. Course at 95652 Waldsassen, Mädchenrealschule, Basilikaplatz Mittelschule Eichendorffstraße 12.
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 Historic Germany: http://www.hhog.de/ Loads of information about Germany, language and customs: http://german.about.com/.
Things to do in Garmisch. http://issuu.com/bmcgarmisch
Was ist los in Franken? http://www.army.mil/article/113592/
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. The Hohenfels Kontakt Club meets on Fridays at the clubhouse on post, Bldg. 334. Bowling Night is 7 Jan; 4 Feb, 7-9 p.m. The Monthly Stammtisch is 21 Jan; 18 Feb at Josef's Tavern, 7 p.m. On 15 Feb, join them for the Fasching parade in Velburg at the Netto parking lot at 1:30 p.m.
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. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.: in 92637 Weiden, Volksfestplatz, Leuchtenberger Straße Every third Sun. of the month: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Trödel- & Jahrmarkt in 93073 Neutraubling (next to Regensburg), at the "Globus" DITY store, Pommernstraße 4.
Fresh Produce/ Farmers' Markets
Note: If any of the listed days is a German holiday, the markets are usually held the day prior.
In 92224 Amberg: every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on the Marktplatz.
In 91522 Ansbach: every Wednesday and Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m., on Martin-Luther-Platz. ***In addition to the regular fresh produce markets, local farmers offer their fresh goods every first and third Saturday of the month at the farmers market on Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Platz (same opening hours). Great opportunity to buy seasonal produce as fresh as it gets.
In Bamberg: Monday thru Saturday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., on Maxplatz. Closed on Sundays and German holidays.
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.
BAVARIAN NEWS ONLINE
Head to the Bavarian News website to get timely news and see what events are happening in the community. Here are the latest Bavarian News stories for this week:
Saving resources. DPW zooms into the future with clean and efficient electric utility vehicles. http://www.army.mil/article/141582/
NATO matters. Russian aggression and terrorist threats occupy international leaders during NATO conference in Brussels. http://www.army.mil/article/141583/
Force Protection Bravo. Increased security measures at military installations aim to protect service members, civilians and families. http://www.army.mil/article/141483/
Uncle Martin. Daughter of Civil Rights leader speaks in Hohenfels about growing up during the movement and having MLK as a close family friend. http://www.army.mil/article/141349/
Allied Spirit I. 2CR troops train in Hohenfels with NATO allies to improve their skills as medics and build international partnerships. http://www.army.mil/article/141343/2nd_Cavalry_Regiment_arrives_ready_for_Allied_Spirit_I/
Finding a solution. DeCA aims to fix product shortages in overseas commissaries. http://www.army.mil/article/141027/DeCA_works_to_fix_product_shortages_for_overseas_stores/
Things to do in Garmisch. http://issuu.com/bmcgarmisch/docs/community_newsletter20140918
Was ist los in Franken? http://www.army.mil/article/113592/
For these stories and more, visit http://www.army.mil/bavariannews.
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