The Franconian News Serving the Franconia Military Community in Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt
Vol. 10, Issue 30
www.ansbach.army.mil • www.bamberg.army.mil • www.schweinfurt.army.mil
Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Hennenbach youth volunteer firefighters tour, train at Urlas By Stephen Baack, USAG Ansbach Public Affairs ANSBACH, Germany – A group of youth volunteer firefighters from Hennenbach trained at and toured the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Fire Training Center at Urlas July 25 as part of the ongoing effort to maintain and strengthen the working relationship between American and German firefighters and first responders. Early during their tour of the facility, the team encountered a surprise as a fire erupted from the engine compartment of a car built and used for fire training. Trained to be ready at a moment’s notice, the team set up their water supply and, within minutes, extinguished the fire. According to one member of the Hennenbach group, David Mayer, this was a complete surprise: “We came here and they said, ‘Now we will burn this car. Extinguish it.’” Mayer, who has been with the fire department for between five and six years, said he first visited the training area about a year ago during a force-protection and masscasualty training scenario that incorporated an assortment of German fire departments from the area. Though he had seen the U.S. training facility previously, it was a “completely new experience” for the rest of the group and was a good experience for him again.
Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs
Local firefighters in training from Hennenbach, part of the city of Ansbach, took advantage of the state-of-the-art firefighting training facility at U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach when they visited July 25. In addition to extinguishing a fire on a burning car mockup, they toured the training facilities and learned more about how German and American first responders work together throughout the community.
“I find it really interesting because it’s a different experience from in our German fire department, like the car and other possibilities – and being here, of course, an American
Commentary: Schweinfurt Health Clinic provides continuity during transition
By Lt. Col. Chad Sekutera, USAG Schweinfurt Health Clinic
SCHWEINFURT, Germany – As much of the U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt population has moved out of the community, you may be worried about how you and your Family’s health concerns will be addressed. Hi, I’m Lt. Col. Chad Sekutera, the Schweinfurt Health Clinic chief nurse. My job is to ensure that the medical needs of the community are met as we approach closure. Rest assured, the health clinic will continue to provide a high level of care for the garrison’s Soldiers and their Family members. Many garrison employees
(non-appropriated funds, contract, general schedule) have started to plan for life after Schweinfurt closes, searching for new employment before closure in 2014. But how will this affect the clinic? Our team of active-duty and civilian health-care providers will remain through June 2014, and no significant delays in appointments are anticipated. As for appointment availability, we do not foresee it becoming a problem, and you should continue to schedule an annual physical or appointment in advance. Contact our appointment line at 09721-967901 or DSN 354-7901. An increase in available (CLINIC, on Page 2)
base,” Mayer said. “Everything is bigger.” “It’s quite impressive,” said Sylvia Kraus, a regular volunteer firefighter who trains with (FIRE, on Page 4)
173rd ABCT prepares for move to Vicenza, Grafenwoehr
Simon Hupfer / USAG Bamberg Public Affairs
Soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team recently began clearing out their motor pools and sending equipment to their new duty stations at U.S. Army garrisons Vicenza and Grafenwoehr. The Soldiers will follow this summer, resulting in a 50 percent Soldier population drop at Bamberg’s garrison. Here the 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, perform loading operations. To see more photographs, visit Page 5.
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Ready and resilient: Value-driven fight against alcohol abuse Hello USAREUR Team, Over the last few months I have had the opportunity to visit several units within U.S. Army Europe and speak with commanders and leaders, both military and civilian, at every level. I am continually impressed by the world-class Soldiers and civilians that we have in our workforce, accomplishing a complex, strategic mission here in Europe every day. That’s why it’s especially difficult for me every morning when I review the Military Police blotter reports from across USAREUR, and whether it is an assault, sexual or otherwise, a DUI or other types of misconduct, many incidents involve alcohol. The correlation is not coincidental. Heavy drinking and overindulgence in alcohol is a challenge that we must address directly and personally as leaders. I want all leaders at every level to talk to your teams about responsible use of alcohol, set conditions that encourage subordinate leader and peer support, and,
personally engage your Soldiers. I am certain that if we reduce overindulgence in alcohol, we will reduce acts of indiscipline which run counter to our Army values and save lives. Abuse of alcohol is all too often an indicator of underlying issues that require vigilance and intervention from leaders at every level in the chain of command. Our most precious asset – our people – deserve nothing but the best care and support. At the first and earliest indicators, take action and get our teammates the resources they need to get back on track. This is a winnable fight; continue to talk to your Soldiers, civilians and Families about the hazards of overindulgence in alcohol and the consequences of that behavior. Establish barracks security protocols and conduct nonotice walk-throughs of common areas at random times. Care about your Soldiers, civilians and Family members at all times, on or off duty, in the barracks or off-post. Together we can combat these problems that degrade our profession and destroy lives.
(CLINIC, from Page 1) same-day appointments in 2012 eliminated the need for a nurse’s station. As a more effective way to accommodate patients with acute care needs, we recommend calling for a same-day appointment, which can be made by contacting our appointment line at 09721-96-7901 or DSN 354-7901. Another great option is to communicate with your patient care manager, or PCM. The PCM team is using our new Relay Health secure email function. This provides the flexibility to communicate with your provider and nurse team anytime that is convenient and a response will occur within 72 hours. If you do not have a Relay Health account, please see your PCM team on your next visit for an application. Should supplemental services depart from the clinic as we prepare for closure, rest assured that a suitable alternative will be made available in the community
and out Tricare team will assist you with arrangements. TRICARE online is another resource for scheduling appointments and other health information. To learn more, visit www. tricareonline.com. In regard to family members with Exceptional Family Member Program concerns, the closure will not affect their ability to access the care tailored to their specific case, and we will have an EFMP representative to assist with permanent changes of station. As more detailed information becomes available concerning how the clinic will function as we near closure, please make sure to check back to the Closure Blog and the Closure 2014 Page. We are here to meet your needs and will continue to serve our community’s medical needs until the last Soldier leaves Schweinfurt.
Brian Adkins U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt, Manager
Col. Christopher M. Benson U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach, Commander
Lt. Col. Michelle L. Bienias U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg, Commander Renate Bohlen USAG Bamberg, Public Affairs Officer
The Franconian News is an unofficial publication of the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt, IMCOM-Europe and the U.S. Army authorized under the provisions of AR-360-1. Contents of The Franconian News are not necessarily the official views of, or Nathan Van Schaik endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Department of the Army. USAG Schweinfurt, Public Private organizations noted in this publication are not part of the Dept. Affairs Officer of Defense and those wishing to make an announcement must be registered. Fundraising events must be pre-approved through the MWR Financial Management Division, located in Bldg. 7107. The appearance Ansbach Staff Stephen Baack (Editor), Bryan of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of Gatchell (Editor), Bianca the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army. All content in Sowders this publication is prepared, edited and approved by the Public Affairs Office. The PAO reserves the right to edit submissions for style, clarity Bamberg Staff or fit. Time sensitive announcements are run for a minimum of two Simon Hupfer, Bana Miller weeks. Information is accurate at the time of publishing. If specifics change, the change will be noted in the following publication. The Schweinfurt Staff deadline for all Franconian News submissions is two weeks prior to Jessica Jacobs, Sgt. Leslie the desired publication date. The Public Affairs Office is not responsible Wilson for late submissions. This publication is produced and distributed every Thursday in an electronic format and can be viewed on the U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg website at www.bamberg.army.mil or the U.S. Army
LTG Campbell I hold leaders responsible for instilling the essence of our Army Values and Warrior Ethos into their Soldiers so they are not words on a card, but rather a way of life. We must be disciplined and adhere to our standards if we are to retain our public trust and represent our country honorably as Ambassadors to our host nations here in Europe. Strong Soldiers! Strong Teams! – Lt. Gen. Donald M. Campbell, Jr.
Jessica Jacobs / USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs
Lt. Col. Chad Sekutera, chief nurse at USAG Schweinfurt Health Clinic, describes in a commentary how the health clinic will continue to serve community members and their families during closure of USAG Schweinfurt. Garrison Ansbach website at www.ansbach.army.mil. All Family and MWR programs provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with special needs. For assistance please contact the facility manager prior to your visit. Contact Information: Office Location: Bldg. 5256, Barton Barracks U.S. Army Address: Unit 28614, APO AE 09177 Telephone: DSN:468-1600 German Address: Meinhardswindener Str. 5256, 91522 Ansbach Telephone: 09811-83-1600
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Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Lewis-McChord Soldier to be awarded Medal of Honor By Staff Sgt. David Chapman, Army News Service JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – The room hummed with the steady clicks of camera shutters as Staff Sgt. Ty Michael Carter and his wife, Shannon, were the center of attention during a press conference at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., July 29. Carter will receive the Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama during a ceremony at the White House Aug. 26 for his courageous actions while deployed to the Nuristan Province, Afghanistan, in October 2009. He was a cavalry scout assigned to 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, out of Fort Carson, Colo., during his first of two deployments to Afghanistan. On Oct. 3, 2009, more than 400 antiAfghan forces attempted to take over Combat Outpost Keating. Carter, who was a specialist at the time, and his fellow Soldiers defended the small combat outpost against rocketpropelled grenades and heavy weapons fire coming from the surrounding hills. Of the 54 members who defended the position, eight Soldiers were killed and more than 25 were injured. During the more than six-hour battle, Carter found himself resupplying Soldiers with ammunition, providing first aid, killing enemy combatants and risking his own life to save that of his fellow Soldier, Spc. Stephan L. Mace, who was wounded and pinned down under enemy fire, according to Carter’s award narrative. “A long time ago I told myself that if I was ever placed in a combat situation, that I wouldn’t let fear make my choices for me,” said Carter, during the press conference. “Inside, all I thought about was supporting the men in that position. When Mace was down it was hard to think about anything else but doing what I could to get to him.” While being recommended for the Medal of Honor was a surprise, Carter shared that receiving this medal was the last thing on his mind after he redeployed. “I was going through some difficulties then and I was so concerned about the men we lost
Staff Sgt. John Zumer / 10th AAMDC Public Affairs
Staff Sgt. Ty Michael Carter, currently serving as a staff non-commissioned officer in Headquarters Support Company, 7th Infantry Division, addresses the public for the first time regarding his recent nomination for the Medal of Honor, July 29, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord,Wash. Carter and his wife, Shannon, engaged nearly 20 media sources at the one-hour event. Carter will receive the Medal of Honor next month for his conspicuous gallantry in Afghanistan while serving with Troop B, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment. On Oct. 3, 2009, many Soldiers distinguished themselves when more than 400 anti-Afghan forces attempted to overrun Combat Outpost Keating, Afghanistan. Of the 54 members who defended the position, eight Soldiers were killed, and more than 25 were injured. Without regard to his own safety, Then Spc. Carter proved himself time and time again, risking his life while engaging in combat against the enemies of the United States.
and friends that it didn’t even faze me,” said Carter, a native of Antioch, Calif. “I don’t want to put down the Medal of Honor and what it means, but when you have lost family, it’s not what you are thinking about. I just felt loss.” Carter hopes that while being in the spotlight as a Medal of Honor recipient, he will also focus on post-traumatic stress, and bring more awareness to those who struggle with it daily. “I want to try and get rid of the stigma of post-traumatic stress, because there are a lot of Soldiers out there who have it and are
ashamed to talk about it or get help,” said Carter. “With my experience with it, I can take a Soldier and just talk one-on-one and explain to him that it is not going to be easy, and it will take a while. But you will improve and you will do a lot better. You just need to go get the help you need.” Carter, who is currently assigned to the Secretary to the General Staff, 7th Infantry Division, concluded the conference saying that he was very nervous to go to the White House but meeting the commander in chief will truly be an honor.
G-1 to Congress: Army studying how to integrate women into combat
MRE production for 2014 does away with lasagna, refried beans, fajitas
WASHINGTON – Integrating women into combat roles may require adjustments in recruiting efforts, the assignment process and other policies, said the Army’s deputy chief of staff for personnel. Lt. Gen. Howard B. Bromberg, Army G-1, spoke July 24, before the House Armed Services Committee, subcommittee on military personnel. Members of the subcommittee ... To read more, click here.
WASHINGTON – Barbecue shredded beef, vegetarian taco pasta, and seasoned black beans will replace chicken fajitas, vegetable lasagna, refried beans and potato cheddar soup in the 2014 production of Meals, Ready-to-Eat. Each year, the Combat Feeding Directorate goes into the field to test new food items with the warfighters and get input on existing food items, said Jeanette Kennedy, a senior food technologist at Natick Labs, Mass. ... To read more, click here.
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Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Franconia Military Community prepares for Bamberg, Schweinfurt closures By Renate Bohlen, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs SCHWEINFURT, Germany – Garrison leadership from Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt met at Conn Barracks in Schweinfurt July 24 to discuss the way ahead for the upcoming garrison closures in Schweinfurt and Bamberg. The garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt are slated to close no later than Sept. 30, 2014. Both garrisons transitioned from the planning phase to the execution phase on Apr. 1, 2013. This means, in addition to their daily jobs of providing garrison services to Soldiers and Families, employees in Schweinfurt and Bamberg must also turn in excess furniture and equipment in order to clear rooms and buildings, among other required tasks associated with closure “We want to make sure the bag is empty,” said Kevin Griess, deputy garrison commander in Ansbach, referring to the fact that all buildings, facilities and motorpools in Bamberg and Schweinfurt have to be cleared and empty before closure. After the garrisons are closed two teams of 20 employees each will remain in order to prepare the installations for turnover to the German government. These teams will report (FIRE, from Page 4) the youth because she is still considered new. “I don’t know where we can get anything like this to train with.” The training facility, which they toured after their trial by fire, also offers a multi-level burning building simulator, an aircraft fire simulator and a control room that is networked to each simulator on the site. Alexander Gernhard, Fire Emergency Services training officer, hosted the tour in German for the young volunteer firefighters, who he said benefit from seeing how full-time, active firefighters train to respond to fires and what kind of training facilities the garrison offers its own firefighters. Gernhard said this is particularly important for these youth firefighters because “they normally don’t go out to real fires, so this was a big thing for them.” This ongoing kind of exchange is also important for more experienced firefighters, he added, because the Americans and Germans often work side by side in real emergencies.
to USAG Ansbach. “Closure is a big mission. We need to stand shoulder to shoulder, helping each other and trusting that we will be there for each other,” said Col. Christopher Benson, U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Commander. “My agenda is to take care of Soldiers and Families and the workforce. The more we can do to prepare now, the better prepared we are for last minute challenges.” Benson emphasized the importance of planning and identifying requirements as early as possible. The planning process, as well as the garrisons’ workforce, will be crucial to successful closures. Keeping employees motivated was one of the main topics of the conference. Benson asked leaders to apply the Golden Rule and treat others the same way they would like to be treated. Being engaged with the workforce and knowing employees’ future plans after closure is the minimum expectation. The local national workforce will receive their termination papers in September – a year before the actual termination date. This will be a milestone on the path to closure and an emotional event for affected employees. Some local national employees have worked for the U.S. Army for more than 40 years. Mitchell
Although USAG Ansbach maintains its own firefighting unit as part of the Directorate of Emergency Services, Urlas and Shipton also fall under the purview of the Hennench Feuerwehr in case of a bigger fire or whenever USAG Ansbach needs the extra helping hand. “We have a fire department on post, but if we need assistance from a second or a third group or company, then we get assistance from the surrounding volunteer fire departments – from Ansbach, Hennenbach or from the county,” Gernhard said. Gernhard added that maintaining the GermanAmerican partnership is also critical because then “everybody knows each other’s operations, and we need to look outside at what operations they use and what equipment so we actually know each other in case we need to rely on them pretty well – and the same thing on the other side.” For the July 25 tour and training, Gernhardt said he received nothing but positive feedback from the German partners.
Jones, director of Task Force Closure, stressed that motivated employees are critical in the upcoming months. “We are about 14 months out to turning over installations,” Jones said. “Now is the time we have to keep our workforce motivated.” “As leaders, you will be faced with challenges keeping services open while taking care of your employees,” Griess said. He stated further that taking care of employees is not optional but is every leader’s duty. Eventually, all installations in the Franconia Military Community will be affected by Bamberg’s and Schweinfurt’s closure. Currently, Bamberg is below 60 percent and Schweinfurt below 75 percent of their staffing requirements. The situation will get more severe as employees leave the closing communities and accept jobs elsewhere. Griess said the gaps will eventually be filled by Ansbach personnel. This, in turn, will impact Ansbach and Illesheim. “Collaboration and sharing information is key to being able to provide support,” Griess said. He asked that the closing communities identify their shortfalls early to ensure Ansbach is able to provide assistance.
Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs
A local firefighter in training from Hennenbach, part of the city of Ansbach, connects a hose during firefighting training at a facility at Urlas, part of U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach, when they visited July 25.
“Everybody really loved it,” he said. “The first thing was being on a U.S. base at a U.S.
fire department and then actually training with a realistic fire. They really enjoyed that.”
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173rd ABCT prepares for move to Vicenza, Grafenwoehr Photos by Simon Hupfer, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs
ABOVE: Soldiers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team began clearing out their motor pools and sending equipment to their new duty stations at U.S. Army garrisons Vicenza and Grafenwoehr. The Soldiers will follow this summer, resulting in a 50 percent Soldier population drop at Bamberg’s garrison. Here the 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, perform loading operations. LEFT: Sgt. Cameron L. Gansert looks down from an intermodal container as 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, performs loading operations.
Schweinfurt, Bamberg SACs hold partnership day By Jessica Jacobs, USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs SCHWEINFURT, Germany – U.S. Army garrisons Schweinfurt and Bamberg’s Student Activity Centers were able to enjoy a day together here at Kessler field. Each summer, neighboring SACs participate in a day of fun as a way to get to know other kids throughout Bavaria. Schweinfurt and Bamberg came together for this year’s partnership day. “We thought it would be a great idea to partner with Bamberg this year because they are experiencing the same closure drawdown Schweinfurt is,” said Damon McGibboney, USAG Schweinfurt’s SAC director. Throughout the day the children were able to meet one another and interact by participating in crafts and games together. “The youth are all experiencing the loss of friends due to PCSing [permanently changing station] and closure, so this partnership might help some of them to meet someone that might be PCSing to
the same location and a familiar, friendly face when they arrive,” said McGibboney. Due to upcoming closure between both garrisons, this is will be the last partnership day for the student activity center. “This was so much fun because we got to see our friends that we haven’t seen in a long time,” said Arden Hanson, Schweinfurt SAC camper. “We got to do things that we don’t have in Bamberg, like batting cages and go-karts,” said Dermon Richard,” Bamberg SAC camper.
Damon McGibboney / USAG Schweinfurt SAC
Children from Schweinfurt and Bamberg’s student activity centers were able to spend the day together as a way to network with one another, due to both garrisons’ future closure.
To see more USAG Ansbach fliers and announcements, click here.
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Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
DeCA’s September worldwide case lot sale cancelled By Jessica Rouse, DeCA Public Affairs FORT LEE, Virginia – The Defense Commissary Agency is cancelling its September case lot sale because of budgetary reductions mandated under sequestration. This announcement follows DeCA’s decision in February to cancel the May case lot sale. The case lot cancellations are part of ongoing steps to reduce operating costs wherever possible. Those steps include a hiring freeze, restrictions for official travel, and postponement of all Guard and Reserve on-site sales after July 8 until further notice. “Sequestration has forced the commissary to look for cost-saving measures,” said Michelle Frost, DeCA’s chief of promotions and marketing. “Even though we have cancelled September case lots, we will offer our customers other sale events more frequently to maximize their savings.” Commissaries will continue to offer savings on sidewalk sales, truckload events and in-store promotions. Stores will also continue to offer items in the value-sized, economical, club pack, format found in offbase club warehouse stores, said Charlie Dowlen, DeCA’s promotions manager. “Customers will still have the chance to
USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs
Defense Commissary Agency will be canceling the semiannual case lot sale originally scheduled for September. Community members can check with the commissary for information about upcoming sales.
save money through the other sales,” said Dowlen. They can save up to 30 to 40 percent on items in the regular promotional packages and up to 30 percent on club packs. Customers should check with their
local commissary to get information about upcoming sales. Customers can visit commissaries.com. They can also click on the Shopping tab on the home page to access promotional prices.
Stadt Bamberg has the blues … for seven days By Simon Hupfer, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs BAMBERG, Germany – Top-ranking international blues and jazz musicians will be performing at Bamberg’s 7th Tucher Blues and Jazz Festival Aug. 12 through 18. This year’s headliners are Hardin & York (United Kingdom), Grand Slam featuring Gary “Mudbone” Cooper (USA/Germany), Labana and Los Dos y Compañeros (both Cuba) and Sydney Ellis & her Midnight Preachers (USA), some of the most successful stars of the international jazz and blues scene. The annual weeklong festival usually draws about 100,000 visitors to the two main stages in Bamberg’s pedestrian zone (at Maxplatz and Gabelmann), and offers 60 different open-air concerts in seven days – and thanks to various sponsors, all of them are free of admission charge. Klaus Stieringer, city manager and head of Bamberg’s city marketing and Volker Wrede, as art director, turned the festival into a Franconian visitor magnet for all blues and jazz lovers from all over Germany. “The Tucher Blues and Jazz Festival is pure recreation and lust for life! Artists from all over the world and the Bamberg audience create that special attitude to life, which makes the festival so special. Come and enjoy this unique blues feeling and experience
Courtesy of Bamberg Stadtmarketing
Lance Lopez, a blues and rock guitarist from Texas, will play at Bamberg’s seventh Tucher Blues and Jazz Festival Aug. 12 through 18.
international top music, regional insider tips and surprising newcomers,” Stieringer said. Bamberg’s Maxplatz was packed during the main concerts last year. Even after the open air concerts, several bands will keep on jamming in various pubs and bars in Bamberg’s old town, at Austrasse, and at the
Live Club at Obere Sandstrasse. For musicians, the Get On Stage workshop will be available again for teens and adults featuring professional instrument and singing instructors. Sign-up deadline for the workshop is Aug. 4. More details on the workshop are available at www.getonstage.eu.
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USAG Bamberg welcomes home 16th Sustainment Brigade By Bana Miller, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs BAMBERG, Germany – The Bamberg community welcomed home more than 150 Soldiers of the 16th Sustainment Brigade during the late evening July 31, officially ending the troops’ ninemonth tour to Afghanistan. “You are a true testament to the best our nation offers,” said Col. Darren Werner, brigade commander. “As your commander I cannot be more proud of your commitment to duty and your desire to accomplish the mission.” Brigade headquarters personnel deployed in November 2012 to augment the Deputy Command of Support Operations, NATO Training MissionAfghanistan. The Soldiers of the Knight’s Brigade advised, trained and mentored the Afghan National Security Forces in order to help them build and sustain a
functional logistics system before the scheduled conclusion of the current mission in 2014. With their logistics knowledge and expertise, 16th Sustainment Brigade personnel set conditions for the successful transition of more than 10 separate Afghan National Security Forces logistics operations, three commodities and the transition of four separate Afghan National Army decrees during their time with DCOMSPO. The Brigade cased its colors during a Transfer of Authority ceremony July 25, symbolizing its official end of operations in Afghanistan. Mission operations were handed over to the 55th Sustainment Brigade. RIGHT, TOP RIGHT: Families embrace following the redeployment ceremony July 31 of 150 Soldiers of the 16th Sustainment Brigade.
Julie Swenson / USAG Bamberg Public Affairs
Julie Swenson / USAG Bamberg Public Affairs
Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs
A player assigned to D Company, 5th Battalion, 158th General Support Aviation Regiment, “Dragons,” tags out a player from Headquarters Support Company, 412th Aviation Support Battalion, sliding into home during the July 26 Intramural Softball Championship at Katterbach Softball Field. D Co. took home the first-place trophy, but both teams will be advancing to the unit-level IMCOM Europe Softball Championships in Vilseck, to be held Aug. 2 to 4.
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Franconia Military Community Announcements Information Technology Training Program The Army in Europe Information Technology Training Program and Knowlogy offer the training you need to fulfill your certification requirements! We are a proven solution for DOD 8570.1 compliance and have a proven track record of delivering training and certification services to the US Army, Air Force, Navy and other clients. Come to our fully equipped facilities across Europe for your training needs or we can come to you! For a full list of our upcoming courses go to https://itt.eur.army.mil/schedule. aspx or contact your local Site Coordinator at 476-2635. Savings fund application warning The Apple App Store is offering a free iPhone application called TSP Funds that is not sanctioned by the Thrift Savings Plan. The app asks TSP participants for their account login information. TSP recommends that participants not use the TSP Funds app to access their TSP accounts because using the app could result in a security risk to their accounts. Bicycle fines increase The German parliament has increased the fines for bicycle offenses. Failing to use a bike path or riding without a light now costs 20 euros instead of 15. The fine for biking through a pedestrian zone is now 15 euros instead of 10. Parking a car on a bike path costs 20 to 30 euros. DLA Disposition Services Sites Notice DLA Disposition Services Sites in Schweinfurt and Grafenwoehr have re-opened for property turn-in. Reutilization, Transfer, Donation and Hazardous Waste Disposal services has also resumed. For any urgent matters, the site team can be called at 09721-96-8277 in Schweinfurt or 09641-83-6384 in Grafenwoehr.
Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Care Experience Returning an Army Provider Satisfaction Survey can generate money for the local health clinic. Positive responses to the questions that generate money for the clinic are great, but honest responses about the customer experience is necessary to improve the clinic’s quality of service. Beneficiaries who do not receive a survey within six weeks of a visit to a local clinic should ensure their Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System is up to date.
browsers. The launch of a mobile device version will optimize Army OneSource the mobile experience for visitors. Visit www.myarmyonesource.com today.
Pre-Separation Briefing Planning to move from Soldier to civilian? Take advantage of the transition services offered by the Army Career and Alumni Program, such as a Department of Labor two-anda-half-day job assistance workshop, resume preparation assistance and information about veterans benefits. Make an appointment to attend the mandatory ACAP PreCID Seeks Qualified Soldiers Separation Briefing offered weekly and about an hour The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command is long. Separating Soldiers can start the ACAP process one recruiting qualified Soldiers who are interested in pursuing year before separating. Soldiers who will be retiring can a career as a federal law enforcement officer. To learn start two years out from their projected retirement date. more, visit www.cid.army.mil/join_CID.html. Trial Defense Services Army Suggestion Program If you’re a Soldier and you are questioned by law The Army Suggestion Program encourages Soldiers, enforcement, Criminal Investigation Division or members civilians and other individuals to submit ideas on how the of your command about suspected acts of misconduct, Army can increase efficiency or cut costs. Suggestions you have the absolute right to remain silent. You have are assessed on how much they save the Army and can the right to refuse to answer any question, even from earn individuals thousands of dollars. To learn more or to your commander, and you have the right to talk to an submit an idea, Army Knowledge Online registered users attorney. If questioned, you should immediately demand can visit the ASP website at http://asp.hqda.pentagon. to speak to an attorney. As a Soldier, you are entitled to mil/public. Those unable to access AKO can submit a DA free consultation and representation by a military defense Form 1045 to their installation coordinator. counsel. All communications with a trial defense attorney are privileged and will not be released to your command. Get EFMP Registered Let a U.S. Army trial defense attorney help you. To learn If your Soldier is receiving orders to another location, it more, speak with a free trial defense attorney. is not too early to start your Exceptional Family Member Program paperwork. Family members can start the Teen Stress paperwork now. Your local Army Community Service The National Military Family Association has created EFMP manager can assist in determining what you need to a kit to give the people in military teens’ lives a way to do. Remember, if you have someone registered in EFMP, help them manage stress and affirm the positive aspects the registration has to be updated every three years or of military life. To obtain a copy of the tool kit and learn when the condition changes. more, visit www.militaryfamily.org/publications/ enewsletters/military-family-topics/operation-purpleOneSource Mobile healing.html. Army OneSource is now available for smartphone
coming to
To read more FMC announcements, click here.
Eco-Friendly Tips Water-saving Tips
Water plants during the early parts of the day; this helps to prevent the growth of fungus, and reduces water loss to evaporation. Watering early in the day is also the best defense against slugs and other garden pests. Avoid watering when it’s windy. Wind can blow sprinklers off target and speed evaporation.
Energy-saving Tips Regularly change (or clean if reusable) HVAC filters every month. Dirty filters cost more to use, overworking the equipment resulting in lower indoor air quality. Unplug battery chargers when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use.
Recycling Look for the recycled option in all the products you buy. It’s not just paper that is recycled. Purchase rewritable CDs and DVDs so that you can reuse them from project to project.
THEATERS The Wolverine Opening Aug. 2, 2013 | 126 Minutes The Wolverine finds Logan, the eternal warrior and outsider, in Japan. There, samurai steel will clash with adamantium claw as Logan confronts a mysterious figure from his past in an epic battle that will leave him forever changed. Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi action and violence, some sexuality and language
Visit www.aafes.com for more information.
IN THEATERS • Aug. 1 to 14 BAMBERG THEATER • 0951-297-3934 Aug. 2 - The Smurfs 2 (PG) 7 p.m. Aug. 3 - The Wolverine (PG-13) 7 p.m. Aug. 4 - The Wolverine (PG-13) 7 p.m. Aug. 9 - 2 Guns (R) 7 p.m. Aug. 10 - Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters (PG) 7 p.m. Aug. 11 - 2 Guns (R) 7 p.m. SCHWEINFURT THEATER • 09721-96-1790 Aug. 2 - R.I.P.D. (PG-13) 7 p.m. Aug. 3 - R.I.P.D. (PG-13) 4 p.m.; The Conjuring (R) 7 p.m. Aug. 4 - Red 2 (PG-13) 4 p.m.; The Conjuring (R) 7 p.m. Aug. 9 - The Wolverine (PG-13) 7 p.m. Aug. 10 - The Smurfs 2 (PG) 4 p.m. The Wolverine (PG-13) 7 p.m. Aug. 11 - The Smurfs 2 (PG) 4 p.m. The Wolverine (PG-13) 7 p.m.
Vol. 10, Issue 30
Page 9
Ansbach Community Announcements Send all announcements to Ansbach Public Affairs at usarmy.ansbach.imcom-europe.list. webmaster@mail.mil.
Community Soldiers Lake camping Outdoor Recreation hosts family camping at Soldiers Lake, south of the entrance to the Urlas Housing area, Aug. 2 beginning at 4 p.m. There is a $5 site fee. The activities include camping, a bonfire, storytelling, marshmallow roasting, sand volleyball and more. Campers can stick around the next morning for a youth fishing tournament hosted by the American Legion and VFW. To learn more, visit Outdoor Recreation at Katterbach Kaserne or call 09802-83-3225 or DSN 467-3225. Cooking classes The recreation center at Storck Barracks’ Community Activity Center holds cooking classes. Upcoming classes include instructions on new recipes for vegetarian dishes Aug. 23. Classes are held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To learn more, visit the recreation center on the third floor of the Storck Barracks CAC, Bldg. 6510, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays or call 09841-83-4714 or DSN 467-4714. DIY The recreation center at Storck Barracks’ Community Activity Center holds Do-ityourself classes on Pinterest projects Aug. 8 and 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. These projects are designed to make life easier and save cash. To learn more, visit the recreation center on the third floor of the Storck Barracks CAC, Bldg. 6510, from 11 held Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays or to 7:15 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. at the call 09841-83-4714 or DSN 467-4714. Katterbach Army Community Service. The class will help participants develop New barber shop A new barber shop has opened at Katterbach and improve verbal and written English Kaserne in Bldg. 5817 next to the post office language skills. To learn more, call 09802and the launderette. Its operating hours are 83-7627 or DSN 467-7627. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. It will be open U.S. holidays but Closures and changes closed on German holidays. B14 Resurfacing Resurfacing of the road that is currently in Storck Warrior Zone hours Please remember that effective now, the progress on B14 near the entrance to Urlas Warrior Zone at Storck Barracks will be Housing and Shipton Kaserne will continue in operation with new opening hours. The but will move toward the city of Ansbach. Warrior Zone will be closed Mondays Because of this, temporary modifications through Thursdays and be open from 5 to normal traffic patterns will take place. p.m. to midnight Fridays, from 4 p.m. to Detour signs will be easy to see. There is no midnight Saturdays and from 2 to 9 p.m. date yet as to when the resurfacing of the Sundays. To learn more, call 09841-83- road will be complete. 4584 or DSN 467-4584. Bowling schedule changes The U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Family Open dance night Storck Recreation Center, on the third and Morale, Welfare and Recreation floor of the Storck Community Activity program is making an immediate but Center, holds open dance night with live DJ temporary change to the Katterbach entertainment throughout the summer from Bowling Center’s operational hours with 7 to 9 p.m. There will be you-vote-for-the- the goal to expand services and be open 7 theme parties Aug. 1 and 15. To learn more, days a week by October. The new limited hours are Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to call 09841-83-4714 or DSN 467-4714. 9 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 2 to 8 p.m., ESL English as a second language classes are Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. and closed
Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013 $4 class price applies. To learn more, call 09802-83-2771 or DSN 467-2771. Summer bowling During the summer, buy a bowling punch card and get 50 games for $0.50 each. The cards are only on sale in June and are valid through the end of August. To learn more, call Katterbach Bowling Center at 0980283-2638 or DSN 467-2638 or Storck Bowling Center at 09841-83-4530 or DSN 467-4530. Women’s volleyball The USAG Ansbach women’s community volleyball team is looking for new players. Players must be 18 years or older. Practices are Mondays and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. The team will play scrimmage games against German teams, play open tournaments at other bases in Germany and play upcoming seasons in the IMCOM Europe tournament. To learn more, call Katterbach Physical Fitness Center at 09802-83-2771 or DSN 467-2771. Fun runs USAG Ansbach and Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s sports and fitness division holds several fun runs throughout the summer. Register at Katterbach and Storck physical fitness centers now or register up to one hour before each race begins. To learn more about each particular race, call Katterbach Physical Fitness Center at 09802-83-2771 or DSN 467-2771 or Storck Physical Fitness Center at 0984183-4582 or DSN 467-4582. Golf team The U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Community Golf Team has been newly formed. Team membership is open to both men and women ID card holders 18 years and older and out of high school. Prospective members should have a handicap of 24 or lower. To learn more, call 09802-83-2085 or DSN 467-2085.
Mondays, Tuesdays and U.S. holidays. The Strike Zone kitchen closes at 7 p.m. every day except Sundays when it will be open from noon to 6 p.m. To learn more, call the FMWR Business Operations officer at 0981-183-7336 or DSN 468-7336, or the Katterbach Bowling Center at 09802-83- Youth and teens 2638 or DSN 467-2638. Scream-free Sports, health and fitness The Army Community Center hosts Scream-free parenting and marriage Krav Maga classes. Scream-free marriage classes are Krav Maga sessions with Kevin have held Thursdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at changed prices. One session is $10, 4 Katterbach ACS in August and at Storck sessions are $35, 8 sessions are $70, 12 YRR September. Scream-free parenting sessions are $85 and 20 sessions are $100. is held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. now To learn more, call Katterbach Physical through September Tuesdays at Katterbach Fitness Center at 09802-83-2771 or DSN Dining Facility and Wednesdays at Storck 467-2771 or call Storck Physical Fitness Community Activity Center. Registration is Center at 09841-83-4582 or DSN 467- required and a minimum of 5 participants 4582. is needed. To learn more or register, call 09802-83-2883 or DSN 467-2883. TRX/HIIT At Katterbach Physical Fitness Center, EFMP bowling Super Circuit with Kate Fridays at 9 a.m. The Exceptional Family Member Program is being replaced with TRX/HIIT with holds family bowling at Katterbach and Kate. The new class is geared toward Storck bowling centers Aug. 12 from 5 to intermediate fitness level participants with 7 p.m. The event is subject to cancellation some TRX experience. The class combines if minimum number of sign-ups is not met. TRX workouts with bursts of high-intensity To learn more, call 09802-83-2883 or 467cardio. Classes will be held at the TRX 2883. frame in front of the Katterbach PFC. Participants should dress according to the weather and the outdoors. The standard
For more information on Ansbach community announcements, click here or visit
https://www.facebook.com/U.S.Army.Garrison.Ansbach
Vol. 10, Issue 30
Page 10
Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Bamberg Community Announcements
can visit the optical shops at other garrisons. Youth and Teens
Please send all announcements to Bamberg Public Affairs at usarmy.bamberg.usareur.mbx. pao@mail.mil.
Fall sports registration The registration for the Child, Youth and School Services fall sports season happens now for soccer for ages 3 to 15 years old and flag football for ages 9 to 12 years old. Registration ends Aug. 16. If there are not enough children signed up for a particular age group by Aug. 16, then there will not be a team. The season starts the week of Aug. 26. Parents should make appointments for their children at the health clinic for a sports physical. CYSS also needs volunteer coaches. To learn more, call 0951-300-8660 or DSN 469-8660.
Field day American Red Cross presents and end-ofsummer field day Aug. 16 at Summerall Field from 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 16. Attractions include a bounce house, donuts on strings, tug-of-war, three-legged race, Red Cross rescue race, games for adults, games for children, children’s crafts and more. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/ arcbamberg or call 0951-300-1760 or DSN 469-1760. New shuttle schedule A new post shuttle schedule is effective at USAG Bamberg now and is now available at www.bamberg.army.mil/directorates/ dol/docs/postshuttle.pdf. The adjustment to the post shuttle service was necessary to comply with a Department of the Army directive to reduce cost with least impact on the established quality of life standards.
WIC The Women Infant and Children, or WIC, overseas program provides eligible participants with food supplements and nutrition education. If you are a pre- or postnatal woman or have a child of 0 to 5 years of age, call WIC to see if you qualify. WIC is located in the ACS building. To learn more, call 0951-300-7913/9493 or DSN 4697913/9493.
Shredder Those wishing to use the shredder at the Recycling Center for paper, CDs and DVDs can make an appointment at DSN 469-7598 or 469-9007. Survey Are you retiring from the Army in two years? Are you already retired from the Army? Are you married to or living with a Soldier? Take a brief survey to help the U.S. Army Public Health Command develop resources for the Army family. Visit https:// www.keysurvey.com/f/517684/30d6/ to take the survey. Postal Service Center Hours Effective now, the Postal Service Center opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the finance windows and 10 a.m. to 6 up bulk items for disposal the first Monday p.m. for mail and package pickup. Official of the month. The dates for 2013 are Aug. mail pickup is open from 10 a.m. to noon 5, Sept. 2, Oct. 7 and Nov. 4. and 2 to 4 p.m. Emergency Placement Care Program Community Flea Markets The Emergency Placement Care Program, Come and sell your unwanted items or which provides a safe and caring search for a great find at the Community environment to children in crisis, is looking Flea Markets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the for Emergency Placement Care Providers second Saturday of the month at Summerall who will open their homes to children in Field near the Community Activity Center. need. To learn more, call Army Community Dates for the flea markets are Aug. 10, Sept. Service at 0951-300-8397/7777. 14 and Oct. 12. Parenting Skill Builder Classes English as a Second Language Classes Bamberg Family Life Center New English as a Second Language classes will Parenting Skills Classes start the first take place each Monday and Tuesday in Tuesday of every month and meet from 9 the Family Advocacy Program classroom, to 11 a.m. for four sessions. Learning the Bldg. 7487 on Armor Drive behind the skills to parent with love and logic can flower shop. ESL Level 1 will meet from help make parenting fun and rewarding, 9 to 10:30 a.m., Level 2 from 10:30 am. to instead of stressful and chaotic. You will noon and Level 3 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. All learn practical tools and techniques to U.S. ID cardholders are eligible to attend. build respectful, healthy relationships with For more information, contact Jeffrey Card children and help prepare children for the at jeffrey.p.card.civ@mail.mil or 0951- real world. To learn more, to register or 300-7777. to sign up for child care, call 0951-3001570/8141 or email chrisopher.d.floro. Bulk Item Pickup mil@mail.mil. The Directorate of Public Works will pick
Closures and Changes Day spa operating days The day spa will shorten operating days Aug. 1. The spa will only be open Wednesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The spa will be closed Sundays through Tuesdays.
Military Youth of the Year The Military Youth of the Year is a Boys & Girls Club of America recognition program that partners with the Military Child and Youth Services. Local clubs recognize members ages 14 to 18 as Youth of the Month winners and select a Youth of the Year, who then participates in state competitions. State winners each receive a $1,000 scholarship and participate in regional competitions. Five regional winners each receive a $10,000 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives up to an additional $50,000 scholarship and is installed by the president of the United States. Visit the JFK Youth Center, Bldg. 7663, to pick up an application or call 0951-300-8871 and ask for Destiny Cilumba for more details. Sports, Health and Fitness Freedom Fitness Facility The Freedom Fitness Facility is currently offering personal training sessions. To learn more, call 0951-300-8890 or DSN 4698890.
Weekly Reminders Changes for Bamberg CDC Hourly care services at the Bamberg Child Development Center are temporarily CDC Parking Parking in front of the Child Development unavailable. Center is for patron drop-off and pickup only. Other parking opportunities nearby Subway New Hours Subway, located in the Shoppette, has include in front of the Basics Building, reduced its hours. The new hours are in front of Community Bank and the PX/ Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to Commissary parking lot. 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For the latest hours of all Military Council of Catholic Women Army and Air Force Exchange Service The Military Council of Catholic Women locations, visit www.shopmyexchange. meets Thursdays at the chapel. Mass begins c o m / E x c h a n g e L o c a t i o n s / at noon, followed by fellowship, lunch and study group from 12:30 to 2 p.m. To learn WarnerBarracksStore.htm. more, email andrea.lands@gmail.com. Optical Shop Closure The Optical Shop is now closed. Customers in need of optical services after the closure
For more information on Bamberg community announcements, click here or visit
https://www.facebook.com/usagbamberg.
Vol. 10, Issue 30
Page 11
Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Schweinfurt Community Announcements
at the Youth Center. For more information, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732. German Class Let’s talk German! Learn German one on one every Wednesday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Youth Center. This program is taught by our own education tech who was born and raised in Schweinfurt. This class can help your German grade go from a C to an A+ and it may even help you make friends in the German community. Test your skills by joining us on a field trip downtown. For more information, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732.
Please send all announcements to Schweinfurt Public Affairs at usarmy.schweinfurt.imcomeurope.mbx.pao@mail.mil.
Used car sale, flea market The USAG Schweinfurt community and surrounding area ID cardholders are invited to Lee Street at Askren Manor for a oneday selling extravaganza, a used car sale and flea market Aug. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free to participate in and attend. Participants intending to sell a car must complete a vehicle inspection prior to the event. Vehicle Registration will be open on the event day to assist with transactions. All sales will be negotiated and finalized between the buyer and seller. Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will rent benches and tables for $5 per set. All participants are asked to pre-register by calling 09721-96-6762 or DSN 354-6762.
SKIESUnlimited SKIES offers different classes every month for youths 18 and younger. The program is designed to complement, expand and support the academic life skills and athletic experiences youths have within Child, Youth and School Services and schools. For the latest class listings, click here. 4-H Club 4-H is a club designed for middle and high school students. As a club, students plan field trips, events and activities based. 4-H meets every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. in the Youth Center. To participate, students must be registered with CYSS. For more information or to get involved, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732.
Community clean sweep week The first week of each month is a “community clean sweep week.” USAG Schweinfurt community members can pitch in for this garrison-wide initiative to beautify the housing areas. To learn more, contact your residential leaders. Splash Bash 2013 Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation hosts Splash Bash 2013 at Lee Street at Askren Manor Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event will include large wading pools, bouncy rides, live music and more. This is a free event. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. To learn more, call 09721-96-6762 or DSN 354-6762. your guesses about where the pictures were taken and the person with the most correct Sizzling summer events answers wins a prize. This summer find something fantastic for all ages and interest. Everything from classes, Recycling Education Class international excursions, ceremonies, A recycling education course, for trash events, trips, camps and so much more. disposal offenders and anyone who Start making your summer plans now! Visit wants to learn about recycling, is offered www.schweinfurt.army.mil/infovault/ twice a month Wednesday from 6 to 8:30 sizzilingsummer.htm to learn more. A p.m. Family members 9 and older are detailed description of each activity is encouraged to attend with a parent. Bring a available in addition to a printable version friend if he or she lives in military housing for all of your must-attend Summer events. or military-leased housing. Class space is The weather is sizzling and so are the things limited, so call 09721-96-6955 to sign up. to do in and around Schweinfurt! Classes will be cancelled if no one signs up by 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday before class. Seeking Volunteer Drivers Operators Volunteer drivers and phone operators are Closures and Changes needed to staff a program aimed at slashing the number of DUIs in Schweinfurt by Closure 2014 providing a vehicle pickup service to those Stay up to date with the latest information Soldiers consuming alcohol on weekend regarding the Schweinfurt’s closure nights. To get involved, call 0173-794- in 2014. Visit the Closure 2014 page 2998 or 0160-987-98955, or visit the for reliable, honest information on the Schweinfurt AADD Facebook page at most recent service modifications and www.facebook.com/SchweinfurtAADD. reductions, closure news, Soldier, Family and employee resources and frequently Photo Scavenger Hunt: Basic Challenge asked questions. Visit www.schweinfurt. The Ledward Library has an ongoing photo army.mil/closure2014 to stay informed on scavenger hunt. How well do you know how closure may impact you. your military community in U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt? Check out the photo Closure Blog gallery in the library and guess where in The Closure Blog addresses real answers the community they came from. Submit and issues asked by community members
regarding how closure will affect them. Topics such as PCSing tips, how services will be modified, and employment resources are discussed. Have a concern about closure? Then submit a question and get real answers. Don’t fall victim to the rumor mill; be informed and prepared by visiting www.schweinfurt.army.mil/ closure2014/closure_blog.htm. Youth and Teens Give Me 20 The Youth Center offers a free fitness program Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for youths ages 13 through 18. Program facilitators show youths how to safely work out and stay fit. Dedicated participants will see positive results. Workouts include sports, spinning, weightlifting and more. Participants must be registered with CYSS and have a permission slip on file. To learn more, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732. Smart Girls Young ladies, the Smart Girls program is up and running again. Topics include life skills, healthy eating, fitness, health care systems, positive mentors, respecting yourself, fashion shows, dinner with parents, lock-ins and more. Age groups include 11 to 14 and 15 to 18. Smart Girls meets every Monday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
EDIS Are you concerned about how your child is developing? If so, call Educational and Developmental Intervention Services to schedule a free screening. Screenings are available to children ages birth to 3 years old. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 09721-96-6257. Wanted: Sports coaches and officials The Schweinfurt community is looking for coaches and officials for the youth sports program. No experience is necessary. By registering through Child, Youth and School Services, you will become a certified coach in the National Alliance for Youth Sports. This way you can volunteer and earn extra income by officiating. To learn more, call CYSS at 09721-96-6822 or email michael.l.griffin2.naf@mail.mil. Family Child Care Providers Needed Help the community and start a new career as a Family Child Care provider. FCC providers maintain a happy home-awayfrom-home atmosphere (in governmentcontrolled housing only) for children who can’t be with their own parents during the day. You can care for your own children in addition to outside customers. All training and education is free. Call 09721-96-6487 for details. Sports, Health and Fitness Paintball Field Open Relieve some stress or have some good oldfashioned fun every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rental equipment is available at the Paintball Field. For more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 09721-96-8080.
For more information on Schweinfurt community announcements, click here or visit
http://www.schweinfurt.army.mil/calendar/google.html
Vol. 10, Issue 30
Page 12
Thursday, Aug. 1, 2013
Was ist los in Franken?
By Bianca Sowders, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs Hiking the “Volksmarch” in Franken A Volksmarch in Germany is known as Wandertag (hiking day) and is a great way for the whole family to experience the countryside of different regions. Participants typically choose from 5-, 10- or 20-kilometer distances. Hikers don’t start all at once but within a certain time frame and cover the chosen distance at their own pace. Food and beverages are sold on location and registration is usually possible on site. It is recommended to contact the listed point of contact for exact starting times, updates and detailed location information. For more hiking events and locations within Germany, visit the website of the National Hiking Association at www.dvv-wandern.de. Volksmarches in and around Franconia: • Aug. 3 and 4 at Küps (5/10/20k); TSV Küps, 0151-15695040. Start: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 3 and 6 a.m. to noon Aug. 4 at Schulzentrum, Turmund Festhalle, Hirtengraben 7, 96328 Küps – http://dvv-wandern.de/ files/file/kps.pdf. • Aug. 3 and 4 at Oberdachstetten (6/10/20k); Wanderfreunde Oberdachstetten, 09845-987464, carsten.liebelt@arcor.de, www. wanderfreunde-oberdachstetten.beepworld.de. Start: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rezattalhalle at Schulstrasse 5 – http://dvv-wandern.de/files/file/ oberdachstetten.pdf. • Aug. 10 and 11 at Schwarzenbach (5/10/20k); Wanderfreunde Schwarzenbach, 09284-8750, baer.k.h@t-online.de, werner. schnabel@allianz.de. Start: 7 a.m. to noon Aug. 10 and 6 to 11 a.m. Aug. 11 at Grundschule Breslauer Strasse 9, 95126 Schwarzenbach/ Saale – http://dvv-wandern.de/files/file/schwarzenbach.pdf. • Aug. 11 at Schlüsselfeld (5/11/20k); TSV 1863 e. V. Schlüsselfeld, 09552-1602, peter5666@web.de. Start: 6 a.m. to noon at TSV Sportzentrum, Grabengrundstrasse 3, 96132 Schlüsselfeld – http:// dvv-wandern.de/files/file/schlsselfeld-1.pdf. Klassik Open Air in Nürnberg For many years the classic open air concerts at the Luitpoldhain in Nürnberg have been an event where family and friends get together to
Trips and Travel Opportunities Registration for trips begin the 15th of the month before the scheduled trip and must be made no later than the Monday before the scheduled leave date or they may be cancelled. No refund will be given for no-shows. Military duty restraint or illness will be refunded with documentation.
ANSBACH
August 30 Canoe/Kayak Trip Call for details Enjoy two of Middle-Franken’s scenic rivers seated in a canoe or kayak. We will paddle the Main river north of Bamberg and the beautiful Wiesent river in the Frankische Schweiz. To learn more, call Ansbach ODR at 09802833225.
BAMBERG
August 17 Prague with City Tour $65 Trip includes transportation & a city tour. Children ages 4-12 are $55, and children ages 3 and younger are $45. Departs from Chapel Parking Lot at 5 a.m. & returns at approx. 11 p.m. To learn more, call Bamberg ODR at 0951-300-9376.
SCHWEINFURT
August 10 Hike the Rhoen Mountains $12 Enjoy a leisure hike in the Rhoen Mountains and then end the day with food and drinks from the Kreuzberg Monastery! All participants will depart from Schweinfurt ODR at 9 a.m. and return approximately at 5 p.m. To learn more, call Schweinfurt ODR at 09721-96-8080.
sit and enjoy music and a picnic “al fresco” Aug. 3 at 8 p.m. The event is free and especially intended for people who might not normally listen to classical music. As there are about 100,000 people attending this event, it is definitely recommended to use public transportation. The Nürnberger Symphoniker will play in (almost) any weather. To learn more, visit www.klassikopenair.de. Würzburger Hafensommer The Würzburger Hafensommer now through Aug. 14 takes place in the old harbor on Veitshöchheimer Strasse; the cultural festival features concerts, cabaret, theater and open-air movie showings. To learn more, visit www.hafensommer.com. Weinfest in Gustavstrasse – Fürth Fürth’s Gustavstrasse will be the site of a wine fest now through Aug. 5 with from 6 to 11 p.m. To learn more, visit www.weinfest-fuerth.de. Weinfest - Frankenwinheim A wine fest takes place in Frankenwinheim Aug. 2 to 5. Local musicians provide the musical entertainment while visitors enjoy local wines and food; fireworks conclude the event on closing night at 10:30 p.m. To learn more, visit www.frankenwinheim.de. Bachwoche in Ansbach The International Bach Week in Ansbach, Aug. 2 through 11, hosts international musicians and well-known ensembles performing music by Johann Sebastian Bach. A detailed program and concert tickets are available at the Tourist Office inside the Stadthaus (Johann-SebastianBach-Platz 1, 0981-51-243, akut@ansbach.de) or through the website at www.bachwoche.de. To read more local events in Franconia, click here or visit www.army. mil/franconiannews.
AAFES Corner
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Defense Commissary Agency Corner Bring your own bag Go to http://www.commissaries.com. Click here for printable online coupons. Click here for recipes from Kay’s Kitchen.