Bavarian Times Magazine - Edition 05 - December 2015

Edition #05| November 2015

| www.bavarian-times.com

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

r fo fr ee

We wish You A MERRY Christmas and a Happy New Year

Germany’s most popular and most famous Christmas markets //Page 59 Redesign of the Culture- and Military Museum Grafenwoehr //Page 4

Breaking bread with Bavarians

//Page 10

| Index

Page 6

Town hall notes: Refugee situation and USAG Bavaria housing

Page 12 Former Soldiers return to Hohenfels after four decades Page 21 German – American shooting competition targets friendship

Page 37 Shorter braking distances are the main advantage of winter tires Page 38

The All-New 2016 BMW M2

Page 50 Christmas Markets in the Oberpfalz and Franconia

Page 24 High-heels help highlight Domestic Violence

Page 58 Santa Claus, St. Nicholas and

Gospels, Christmas Market Grafenwoehr

Page 31 Vilseck Army Health Clinic cuts ribbon on clinic addition

Page 59 Germany’s most popular and most famous Christmas markets

Page 32 Save a life through early

detection of breast cancer

Page 66

Gingerbread Cupcakes

| Imprint IMPRINT | Edition #05| 11/2015, 5th Volume Publisher: Medienhaus DER NEUE TAG, DER NEUE TAG Oberpfälzischer Kurier Druck- und Verlagshaus GmbH, Weigelstraße 16, 92637 Weiden Internet: www.oberpfalznetz.de | www.bavarian-times.com E-Mail: editor@bavarian-times.com

Go online and read more storys

www.bavarian-times.com

Project management: Produktmanagement DER NEUE TAG Ads: Alexander Hellwig (responsible) Contact for Ads: Mathias Ott E-Mail: mathias.ott@bavarian-times.com | Phone: 09431/72721 Sattlergasse 4 92655 Grafenwöhr

Editor: Matthias Plankl Cover picture: Fotolia.com, Andrey Kiselev

Telephone: 09641/3839 or 3866 0700-CARRINGTON

Print: Medienhaus DER NEUE TAG Circulation: 9.000 copies Circulation area: Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels, Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

09641/8595

Copyright for the content, unless indicated otherwise, lies with Medienhaus DER NEUE TAG, Weiden. Full and partial reproduction require prior written permission. The publisher is not liable for unsolicited manuscripts and photos.

The Bavarian Times is an unofficial publication that provides coverage of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria. All content is used by permission. Visit www.bavariannews.army.mil for news and events in USAG Bavaria.

lnfo@carrington.de

web

www.carrington.de

Mo.–Thu.: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Fr.: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Issuu:/BavarianTimes | Twitter:/BavarianTimes Facebook:/BavarianTimesMagazine

Contact the Editor editor@bavarian-times.com 3 | Bavarian Times

LL.M.| |Rechtsanwältin Rechtsanwältin| |German GermanLawyer Lawyer LL.M.

District council Toni Dutz (from left), Col. William C. Lindner, Chief of Staff, Joint

Elvis, the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” at the original grand piano in the reconstructed

Multinational Training Command, County Commissioner Andreas Meier, Mayor

Micky Bar.

Edgar Knobloch, State Parliamentarian Tobias Reiß and Lt. Col. William E. Rieper, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria took a tour through the exhibition in a Willy Jeep.

Redesign of the Culture- and Military Museum Grafenwoehr From Elvis to silver bullet “Dora“ Grafenwoehr, Germany -- The redesign took longer than expected but it was worth the while. The Culture- and Military Museum Grafenwoehr was turned into a real treasure chest.

The new exhibition was ceremoniously opened with German and American guests in attendance. It features a lot of new, interesting details about the city, the military and, of course, the training area.

Even an original piece of the muzzle of Hitler’s silver bullet “Dora” is on display in the military section. The first floor of the military section focuses on the fascination and fate of the life of a soldier. It documents the uniform development from the socalled “colored jacket” to the camouflage battle dress uniform.

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern (2)

From 2013 to 2015, the members of the historic society volunteered many hours to modernize and renew the exhibition with the help of professional museum designers. In the former military section, photos, display panels, exhibits and movies cover the disbandment of the former villages on the training area, construction of the training area, World War I and II, the prisoners of war and, naturally, the bombardment and the arrival of the Americans.

The new exhibition features a movie about the arrival of he American at the end of World War II and the war preparations of the Nazi regime which led to the expansion of the training area from 1936 to 1938. In 1945, training area and city were heavily bombarded and widely destroyed. In April 1945, German soldiers blew up Hitler’s silver bullet “Dora“ at the border of the training area. The exhibition now includes a model of the huge railroad cannon, an original piece of the muzzle and moving pictures of it.

After the end of World War II, the Americans came to the training area and into town. Elvis Presley, the famous U.S. soldier, even had a gig in the legendary “Micky Bar.“ A major focus of the museum are German-American relations which are present everywhere in the city. That was a major concern of all involved.

Therefore, all information is presented to visitors bilingually in German and English, including a lot of facts, new even to local history buffs. Not many people know that the desk of Desert Fox Rommel is located in Grafenwoehr and that it was used by U.S. General George Patton.

The exhibition is unique in Germany. The museum is located directly next to the city pond in a new exhibition hall, the historic granary – a storage building built in 1532 - and the gate house. The museum is open on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 p.m.

Guided tours for groups are possible anytime. Once a month, the historic society offers tours through the training area that surprise many participants because large packs of red deer roam the 23.000 hectare area and white-tailed eagles circle in the sky.

| by Gerald Morgenstern

For more information, go to

www.museum-grafenwoehr.de

Bavarian Times | 4

| Grafenwoehr

"Grafenwoehr Training Area, Yesterday - Today"

The new edition of the revised and amended bilingual book has been released Grafenwoehr, Germany -- Two-hundred-eighty-eight pages in German and English with history, stories, reports, data and facts from the past and present and a large amount of previously unreleased photos of military and nature from the past and present. That is a short summary of the new edition of "Grafenwoehr, Yesterday - Today" by Gerald Morgenstern. In 2010, the year of the 100th anniversary of the training area, the Grafenwoehr native and reserve sergeant major published the first edition of his bilingual training area book. The new edition was completely revised and 32 pages were added.

The American units stationed in Grafenwoehr and Vilseck during the past years are now covered in the book. The new chapters include the MEDEVAC unit on the airfield, the so-called "Dustoffs," the engineers, the military police brigade and the airborne units and their missions. The history of military health care and the medical units in Grafenwoehr und Vilseck and the construction of Netzaberg Chapel are also covered. The book’s cover shows the Water Tower and the Bird Tower, Vilseck’s landmark, indicating that the history of Vilseck and Rose Barracks are also covered in the book.

The chapters in the "Military and Nature" section about environmental protection, forest, deer haven and the large eagle population on the training area. A total of 860 photos illustrate the history, stories, data and facts. The U.S. Army, forest and nature protection, the Photo Friends Club and the archive of the author provided the photos for the book, some of them stunningly beautiful.

The title page of the new "training area book" with the reference to Vilseck and the addendum military and nature.

"Grafenwoehr, Yesterday - Today" is available for 29.90 Euro in various stores in the training area, in Grafenwoehr and Vilseck and in book store everywhere. It can also be ordered online at www.grafenwoehr.trainingareabook.com.

| by Gerald Morgenstern More information is available on the webpage:

www.grafenwoehr-trainingareabook.com

5 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

It was important to Morgenstern that the new edition of the book was once again regionally produced. The team of Hutzler Print Shop in Grafenwoehr did a great job graphically designing and producing the book. Susanne Bartsch translated the texts into English and assisted with the fine adjustment of the book.

"Grafenwoehr, Yesterday - Today" provides a view into the impact area and is meant to be a mental bridge between the past and the present. Another intent of the book is to provide an opportunity establish new relations and to promote understanding between the soldiers and their military mission and the civilian neighbors of the training area. The book also gives American soldiers and their families the chance to get to know their temporary “Bavarian home” and treasure it.

| Grafenwoehr

Col. Mark Colbrook, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, hosted a community town hall Oct. 20 to discuss the housing of refugees in nearby cities.

Town hall notes: Refugee situation and USAG Bavaria housing gees. But those numbers can be confusing, or even debated, based on certain definitions, explained Colbrook.

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Europe is experiencing the largest migration of refugees and internally displaced persons since World War II, leaving many here with questions and concerns: As a Soldier or family member, will I be affected? Why is this happening and how can I help?

“There are differences between people coming out of countries enduring civil wars and violence as opposed to those who are not,” Colbrook said.

Photo Credit: Fotolia.com, Jérôme Rommé

Col. Mark Colbrook, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, hosted a community town hall Oct. 20 to discuss the housing of refugees in nearby cities.

The European Union defines asylum seekers—also referred to as a refugees—as those who have left their home country of citizenship and are seeking safety in a host nation due to the belief that their home country is unable to protect them due to fear of persecution on grounds of race, nationality, or membership of social group or political opinion. Migrants out of the turmoil in Syria, for example, fit this category.

“We’re here to talk about the current refugee situation in Germany and what the potential impact is on U.S. forces,” Colbrook said in opening remarks. “I know there are some concerns in the community and I want to address those.”

What’s happening?

Colbrook opened the town hall describing the migration of refugees, who they are, where they are coming from and where they are heading.

While there is a large number of migrants moving into Europe, not all are asylum-seekers. There are certain entry rules for migrants wishing to move to Germany. But there are other privileges and rights granted asylum-seekers. Those requesting asylum are screened, and, if granted asylum status, receive a temporary residence permit and are given the same status as Germans within the social insurance system. If not

More than 470,000 migrants have arrived in Europe this year, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refu-

highspeed internet now also in small areas

· Telekom Exklusive · Telekom Exklusive · Telekom Exklusive ·

upgrade now & activate your internet turbo at home

For the best deals in town:

magenta zuhause hybrid combines landline and mobile telephony for superfast surfing at home surf Up to 16 MBit/s over fixed-line network + additionally Up to 16 MBit/s over fixed-line network

phone in HD Voice quality

mobile telephony · landline · internet

MagentaZuhause S Hybrid

29,95 €/month* for the first 24 months, then 34,95 €/month

The new

id, colors

ort Hybr

Speedp

oses.

sing purp

r adverti

anged fo

es ch itting diod

Alte Amberger Strasse 45 92655 Grafenwöhr Phone # 09641.9316200

Shop hours Monday thru Friday 930 – 1830 Saturday 930 – 1600

Vorstadt 8 92249 Vilseck Phone # 09641.9316200

Shop hours Monday thru Friday 930 – 1800 Saturday 930 – 1200

m

of light-e

| Grafenwoehr

granted, asylum-seekers can be deported, according to German policy.

private rental quarters that had been served notices to terminate the lease to convert those facilities to support refugees.”

According to numbers released by the German Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, while Bavaria takes in about 15 percent of asylum-seekers, the largest number in Germany are westbound to the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most populous state.

This, Colbrook explained, is up to the landlord and the German government to determine how to take in asylum-seekers.

Military personnel forced to move not on their own free will would be authorized to have a paid move, he said.

“But that’s a little deceiving,” said Colbrook, “because the other thing Bavaria has is the largest migration route of refugees. When you think about how you get to Germany, the vast majority must come through Bavaria.”

The largest number of those coming into Europe are from war-town Syria, followed by Kosovo, Afghanistan and Albania.

Germany tops the list of countries, however, for taking in the largest number of asylum applications, according to numbers released by the Pew Research Center.

How does this impact USAG Bavaria?

Colbrook and his team pulled numbers from local officials and the German ministry of migration to analyze the refugee situation within the USAG Bavaria housing footprint.

“We looked at areas where USAG Bavaria has housing, so that’s Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch,” Colbrook said, adding that “we were are able to determine that there are about 1,200 refugees that are currently living—maybe temporarily, maybe permanently based on their asylum process—in the same towns that we have housing areas.”

Colbrook also voiced potential concerns about the refugee situation resulting in a housing crunch. But according to housing officials, the refugee factor has not yet played a major role in the off-post private rental market. While it is a very competitive market for Service members and DOD personnel, the movement of refugees into Europe has not prevented the USAG Bavaria housing office from finding homes for DOD personnel.

Will USAG Bavaria host refugees?

U.S. military installations in Europe do not take in refugees.

“If that were to take place,” Colbrook said, “that would be a state-to-state interaction between the German government and the U.S. government on whether we would assist in relocating refugees. Right now, this is a German government internal issue.”

Continued on page 8

Colbrook noted that the distribution is uneven. In Garmisch, for example, there is a higher density of asylum-seekers than in smaller cities around Grafenwoehr, Vilseck or Hohenfels.

The total percentage of the population within the USAG Bavaria housing footprint who are refugees is about 0.3 percent, Colbrook said, and there have been no confirmed refugee-onAmerican crimes in the USAG Bavaria footprint.

Is the refugee situation affecting housing for DOD personnel?

One question posed was whether USAG Bavaria is turning over government-leased housing to the German government to support the refugee crisis.

No one is being asked to leave from either on-post housing or government-leased housing, Colbrook said. In fact, contractual obligations and support agreements are in place with all government-leased quarters. The agreements last three, five or even 10 years. These agreements are conducted between host nation officials and U.S. Army officials.

But private-leased housing poses other issues.

“Under German rental contract law, a rental contract is separable by either party (lender or renter) with 90-days’ notice.

We have had a very limited number of U.S. Soldiers who live in 7 | Bavarian Times

Distribution of asylum-seekers in Germany. Roughly 15 percent of the asylumseekers in Germany are in Bavaria, second to North Rhine Westpalia’s 21 percent. Source: Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).

Photo Credit: USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

In Germany, DOD personnel and their families are eligible to live in one of three locations: On-post housing, governmentleased housing or private rental housing.

| Grafenwoehr

How do I know where I can safely travel?

Colbrook directed the community to use the U.S. State Department website prior to traveling and contact the garrison’s Force Protection office if people have questions or concerns.

U.S. Army Europe policy dictates that “Members of the U.S. forces community in Europe who are non-EU citizens need a valid passport when traveling to European countries not specified on their official DoD assignment orders.”

Visit the State Department site at www.state.gov/travel for details on travel alerts and warnings, country specific information and traveler’s checklists. State Department travel alerts and warnings, said Colbrook, apply to all DOD personnel including Service members, civilians and family members.

What can I do to protect myself?

If you see something out of the ordinary, report it.

Colbrook said: “We don’t have enough people to have eyes everywhere, so we do really rely on the people that live in our local community to report something out of the ordinary.”

The State Department strongly recommends that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Germany enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the State Department to contact you in an emergency.

The two easiest ways to report suspicious activity: • Use the Army’s iSalute suspicious activity report. Submit a report online at https://www.inscom.army.mil/isalute.

• Call the USAG Bavaria Military Police. From Tower Barracks in Grafenwoehr, dial DSN 114, CIV 09641-83-114. From Rose Barracks in Vilseck, dial DSN 114, CIV 09662-83-114.

From Hohenfels, dial DSN 114, CIV 09472-83 2812 and from Garmisch dial DSN 114, CIV 08821-750-114.

The State Department has warned of disruptions, and BBC reported traffic jams at the borders nearly 12 miles long. And in the passport-free Schengen Area of 26 European countries, members can temporarily reinstate border controls with other member states, reported The Local.

I want to donate items to the refugees. How? The U.S. Army is not donating any items, but “we want to support those private organizations and people that do,” Colbrook said. “We want to ensure procedures are in place so that you do so safely and legally, and that those items get to German organizations who see to it that they land in the hands of refugees in need.” | by Nathan Van Schaik

The total percentage of the population within the USAG Bavaria housing footprint who are refugees is about 0.3 percent, Colbrook said, and there have been no confirmed refugee-on-American crimes in the USAG Bavaria footprint.

Numbers provided by Pew Research Center.

Bavarian Times | 8

Photo Credit: USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

“I would be very concerned right now about traffic when traveling through some of the areas like across the Austrian border because of the recently implemented border patrols,” Colbrook said.

| hohenfels

Soldier Info Expo showcases Hohenfels activities HOHENFELS, Germany -- More than 40 organizations from around U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels and the surrounding communities gathered to showcase their services at the Soldier Info Expo, here, Oct. 6.

From garrison organizations such as the Training Support Center and the SHARP team (Sexual Harrasment /Assualt Response and Prevention) to Family, Morale Welfare and Recreation units like the Library and Outdoor Recreation, booths presented an overview of their services as well as an invitation to get involved.

"The Soldier Info Expo is aimed at providing alternative activities for our Soldiers and community members, so ACS (Army Community Service) is here offering information about volunteer opportunities," said Lara Claggett, Mobilization and Deployment program manager. "Volunteering is not only a way to get out and get involved, but it allows you to give back to the community."

The Army Wellness Center from Rose Barracks performed quick body fat percentage tests on customers while offering information of healthy eating choices and exercise. The center performs body composition analysis, weight management and metabolic testing, as well as many other health services, all of which are free to Soldiers and spouses.

Janie Lewandowski, Bavaria Medical Department Activity health technician, tests the body fat percentage of Sgt. First Class Anthony Romero during the Soldier Info Expo at Hohenfels, Oct. 6.

"This is the perfect opportunity for the military member to take advantage of the many programs available to help fund their further education," said Kala Jewett, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University assistant campus director. "We can start anywhere, at any level, and we're here and ready to help community members with their education."

Private organizations like the Hohenfels Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club, Kontakt Club and the Gamers Group sought new members to join in their various activities. The Hohenfels Community and Spouses Club promoted not only their monthly social gatherings and "sub-clubs" such as knitting, photography, and adventure-seekers, but also their welfare grants and scholarship programs.

"Through our fund-raisers, thrift store and bazaar's we raise money to donate wherever there is a need, like to the boy scouts, or helping with the Hispanic Heritage celebration," said Sara Nantz, HCSC first vice-president. "The club is a great way to have fun, get to know people, and give back to the community."

"We don't want to put people on a diet, we trying to get them to change their behaviors," said Janie Lewandowski, Bavaria Medical Department Activity health technician.

A new group, Soldiers in Arms, is seeking members to join together to educate, mentor and empower each other. The group currently meets monthly and discusses such topics as effective communication, overcoming adversity, and a variety of other issues.

Cities including Lupburg, Parsberg, Regensburg and Neumarkt presented a mixture of tourist and educational opportunities in their respective communities, from hiking trails along the Danube to the many classes available at the Volkschochschule in Neumarkt.

With the wide range of organizations, clubs, social groups and activities presented, the Soldier Info Expo demonstrated that whether community members are interested in sports, travel, cultural experiences or anything else, there is a group on Hohenfels ready to share that passion.

For even more education opportunities, the Hohenfels Education Center was on hand representing four schools with programs ranging from Associates to Masters and beyond.

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels

9 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels

"The purpose of this expo is to provide an effective and enticing display of healthy, constructive and fun activities which promote responsible drinking, readiness and resiliency by offering a myriad of alternative activities available by elements of the U.S. Army, the Hohenfels Military Community and the surrounding communities," said Mike Haney, recently departed USAG Bavaria-Hohenfels manager.

| Grafenwoehr

Breaking bread with Bavarians GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- It is customary for many landlords and nearby residents to invite their new tenants and neighbors into their home for dinner. But if you're new to the area, anticipate some slight differences.

Read ahead to enter this cultural experience well prepared and remember, glasses will be raised and lifelong experiences will be made when you break bread with Bavarians.

Invitation only: Germans don't do "fashionably late," so if you are lucky enough to be invited into someone's home for dinner, be on time and bring a small gift. Wine or flowers generally does the trick.

If you do bring flowers, be sensitive to colors. Avoid carnations as they symbolize mourning, as well as yellow and white chrysanthemums and calla lilies, as they are traditionally brought to funerals.

Red is for romance, so only bring them if the situation warrants.

(Wink!) Yellow roses are perfect as a small token of appreciation, but choose an odd number. Not only is this a European custom, but many Germans also believe they are easier to arrange.

If you happen to be delayed, it is polite to call your host with an explanation of your tardiness before the designated time. Showing up late is considered rude.

Photo Credit: Fotolia.com, FomaA

Upon arriving to a German home, do not expect a tour and do not ask for one. Your host is also not likely to invite you into the kitchen. While German hospitality is warm and friendly, there are formal borders between family and acquaintances.

Guten Appetit: As the meal begins, the host will offer a toast. Raise your glass high, looking into the eyes of everyone at the table as you "prost." The host follows the toast by saying "guten appetit," meaning "enjoy your meal" indicating it is time to eat.

Unlike Americans, Germans do not cut their food entirely before taking a bite. Instead, the knife is continuously held in the right hand, fork in left, and pieces are cut one by one.

A fork and knife is used for nearly everything -- including pizza and sandwiches. Don't cut potatoes or dumplings with a knife,

Dining with your Bavarian neighbors offers a unique cultural experience.

however, as it suggests food is not tender, and do not use a knife to cut salad in the salad bowl as it is not customary.

And like your mother always told you, remember to keep those elbows off the table.

It is also polite to try any food offered, but only take what you can eat as leaving food on your plate is considered impolite.

Most Germans are honorable members of the "clean plate club," so be prepared for concerned questions about if there was a problem with the meal if you do not finish it all. If you have a food allergy of any kind, politely explain this to your host so he or she knows in advance.

After dinner: German food is generally hearty, but save some room for dessert. The pastries are rich and sweet and will be offered with coffee or an after-dinner spirit. This is also the appropriate time for a cigarette break if you smoke. Politely ask permission before leaving the table.

Dinner tends to run a few hours and Germans rarely linger after the festivities. The honored guests are expected to make the first move to leave -- so you mustn't wait to be kicked out or you'll end up staying the night.

Bavarian Times | 10

When in doubt about German dining etiquette, ask your host what is considered appropriate. Germans love to share their experiences and will be more than happy to answer any questions about customs.

After a hearty traditional German dinner with new friends, you will likely feel full of both food and a rich cultural experience.

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

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

11 | Bavarian Times

Brian Seleno and his two sons, Jason and David, stand outside the Hohenfels Health clinic where Seleno had worked 42 years ago.

Former Soldiers return to Hohenfels after four decades HOHENFELS, Germany -- They say old Soldiers just fade away, but sometimes it seems they occasionally pop up again. Such was the case at Hohenfels last month, when two former Soldiers returned with their families after more than 40 years.

Capt. Joyce "Skip" Mixson was stationed at Hohenfels from Oct. 1969 through June 1970. As part of the Medical Service Corp, he served as administrative officer for the three dispensaries of Hohenfels, Amberg and Munich. Spc. Brian Seleno served as an X-ray technician from Jan. 1971 -- Aug. 1973. Both men returned separately this September for a nostalgic look at their old stomping grounds.

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo

"We wanted to come back to Germany because we had such a special first two years of marriage there and had so many friends in the permanent party there and in the town of Hohenfels," Mixson said.

Mixson and his wife Betsy had only been married two weeks when Mixson shipped out for Hohenfels. Betsy joined him later and began working at the Hohenfels Service Club doing arts and crafts work with the troops. Later she became the Army Education Counselor in Building 1.

Seleno returned to Germany with his two sons to attend Oktoberfest and stopped off to show them where he'd spent most

of his Army career. Seleno said touring the dispensary brought tears to his eyes.

"There were six permanent party guys who worked, ate and lived there 24/7," Seleno said. "One of us pulled CQ (Change of Quarters) every night and we were cross trained to do all the functions of the dispensary."

The Mixsons agreed that touring the health clinic and the headquarters building was the highlight of their trip.

"They were both much the same and the memories flooded back," Mixson said. "We had strong memories and photos of the potluck picnics at the dispensary at the end of a week, and such an event was going on during our visit. Just like old times!"

Both men noted changes in the number of troops stationed here as well as the wealth of new buildings. Other changes included the disappearance of the clinic's helipad as well as the missile batteries that once protected the post.

"The biggest change was in the mission of the post, now used for multinational training," said Mixson, who added that he was impressed with both the mission and the Joint Multinational Readiness Center Commander, Col. Thomas Mackey.

Bavarian Times | 12

| HOHENFELS

"My last trip from Hohenfels to Parsberg was in one of our "Cracker Box" ambulan-

Betsy Mixon heads to work at the Hohenfels Special Service Club in this photo

ces," said Brian Seleno referring to one of these ambulances in this photo circa 1971.

from 1969.

"We were glad to hear of the use of lasers (in the training,) because in our time at the dispensary there were a number of accidental deaths from live ammunition," Mixson said.

dation and pave the way of Army medicine in Europe and in Hohenfels," said Perkins.

"Not to mention it was an honor to be in the company of the Jaegermeister of Hohenfels," Mixson added.

The Mixsons also visited some of their old friends while in the area, and stopped off to see their former home at 27 Parsbergerstrasse which they had rented from Horst Emhoff. "(Emhoff) was an engineer who served in the German Army during World War II and was a Russian POW (prisoner of war,)" said Betsy. "He returned to Hohenfels to do much rebuilding in town and on post. He was a fine landlord and a good friend during our stay, teaching us much about Germany and helping me learn the German language."

Perkins said she and the Health Clinic staff were fascinated

by Seleno's stories of his time at Hohenfels, including learning that the current conference room had once served as Seleno's quarters.

"Overall, it was an incredible experience that had a lasting impact on our staff -- to meet a member of our history and to share with him how we carry the honor and traditions of the past through the transformation of Army medicine today," Perkins said.

Seleno said after returning home and viewing his old photographs, he was astonished at how much things had both changed and yet remained the same.

"So many feelings just flooded through me when I entered the dispensary," he said, reminiscing about fellow Soldiers that he served with who were all such a large part of each others' lives.

"This day will remain with me for the rest of my life," he added.

Major Kaitlyn Perkins, Hohenfels Health Clinic chief nurse, conducted Seleno on his tour of the dispensary and said the event was just as much a thrill for her and the staff as it was for Seleno.

"It was an honor for Hohenfels Health Clinic to host Mr. Seleno, a member of our medical history who helped build the foun-

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria - Hohenfels

Photo Credit: Courtesy Photo (2)

All the visitors were treated to a tour around post with Norbert Wittl, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels public affairs officer, who brought them up to date on post history as well as the lives of many of their German national friends.

www.weidner-moebel.com

Troopers from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment football team celebrated their 35-0 victory alongside their on-field rivals, the Prague Black Panthers, after their football game in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic, Sept. 26, 2015. The team participated in an American football game with the local Czech Republic semi-professional football team as the unit helped to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Cesky Krumlov's liberation during World War II while also demonstrating the U.S. commitment to their NATO and Czech allies. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner/released)

2CR Troopers show there is more to victory than just winning a football game CESKY KRUMLOV, Czech Republic -- American football isn't only for Americans as demonstrated by the players that participated in this past weekend's celebration of the 70th anniversary of a football game in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic.

Photo Credit: Sgt. William A.Tanner, 2CR Print Journalist (2)

Troopers from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment's (Dragoons) football team took on players from the Prague Black Panthers semiprofessional American football team, on September 26, 2015, in front of hundreds of spectators who came out to watch and support their local sports heroes.

"I knew that this was a big deal for our regiment but I didn't expect it to be an even bigger deal to the people there," said Pfc. Zechariah Parks, a running back with the 2CR football team. "I think the entire team was blown away by that and I hadn't ever experienced anything like it."

The game was a large part of an even bigger celebration for the people of Cesky Krumlov, who were also commemorating the town's liberation 70 years ago during World War II. "Coming into this game, I didn't know the significance or how important the war was," said Sgt. Henry Ofori, a running back for the Dragoons. "After the game and listening to a guy that had actually been there, I realized that this was more than just

another regular football game for us and that it meant more."

The "guy" Ofori spoke of was Jans Pils, a local resident who was 10 years old when the first football game was played in September of 1945. Before the event, Pils spoke with the team about his experiences with the Soldiers that helped free his country during the war and what it was like to watch the original game.

Having the ability to interact with the spectators and speak with Pils before the game seemed to encourage the Dragoons to play harder for the crowd.

"My favorite part about it was the kids," said Parks. "Through the generations and the past 70 years, what we did for the people and the liberation just trickled down and left a great image of the American people. So the kids just loved us and that made me feel a whole lot better."

Ofori agreed and shared an experience of his own.

"I honestly felt like a VIP," said Ofori. "I remember being saluted by a lady and that made me feel like 'wow', along with taking pictures with the kids and stretching with them, I felt overwhelmed."

Bavarian Times | 14

As the game began, both teams came onto the field for the ceremonial portion of the event, showing respect to one another and to each other's countries during the playing of the national anthems, by holding their hands over their hearts.

With 2CR winning the coin toss and electing to start the game with the ball, the team captains shook each other's hands and headed to their respective sidelines to begin the game.

But the game didn't go according to plan, at first, for the 2CR team.

"To be honest, when we first got onto the field, the first play of the game was a fumble." Parks said laughingly. "It didn't look too good at first but then the defense got a stop, we got it back and we just took off."

The game lived up to the hype as players battled up and down the field trying to place themselves into scoring position. However, as it went on, the Dragoons gained the upper hand, going into halftime with a 14-0 lead and never let go, winning the game with a score of 35-0.

"It was a good exhibition game," said Ofori. "It was a tough one but we all kept our momentum and brought our 'A' game."

As the events came to a close, the Dragoon players reflected on their history making experience along with the stories they will have that they can pass along to their kids in years to come.

"Personally, it's great that the people of the Czech Republic still thank us to this day and took the time to learn our sport," said Parks. "It turns out that they are great at it and the relationships are just as strong as they were back then."

Sgt. Henry Ofori (right,) alongside his teammates, from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment Football Team, teach kids from the local area some of the team's pre-game warm

Ofori shared parks sentiment while also sharing, that for him, this possible once in a lifetime experience hit home.

up stretches prior to their game against the Prague Black Panthers in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic, Sept. 26, 2015. The team participated in an American football game with the local Czech Republic semi-professional football team as the unit

"I can say that I was part of an historical moment," said Ofori "And I can cherish that." | by Sgt. William A. Tanner 15 | Bavarian Times

helped to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Cesky Krumlov's liberation during World War II while also demonstrating the U.S. commitment to their NATO and Czech allies. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. William A. Tanner/released)

| hohenfels

(L-R) Bernhard Weber, DPW deputy director, Mike Haney, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels manager, and Amanda Macias, SAF regional program specialist, officially break ground at Hohenfels' new dog park, Sept. 22.

Hohenfels hounds get new place to play HOHENFELS , Germany -- Furry, four-legged Fidos across Hohenfels gave a collective "woof" of relief as the Directorate of Public Works broke ground on the long-awaited dog park here, Sept. 22.

The 1.5 acre enclosure will feature double gates, waste bags and benches. The dog park is located behind the Linderberg / Keltenwall housing area next to the playground.

"This way we can have our two-legged family members playing on one side, and four-legged family members on the other," joked Bernhard Weber, DPW deputy director.

Photo Credit: Norbert Wittl, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Hohenfels

Dog owners who utilize the park will be responsible for its upkeep, including mowing, trash and waste removal. DPW anticipates an opening date near the end of October.

"There has been no place on post where it was legal to let your dog off the leash to run and socialize with other dogs," said Amanda Macias, SAF (Service to the Armed Forces) regional program specialist. "So, this new dog park is a welcome benefit to dog owners who live on post."

Macias echoes the concerns of Hohenfels Community Members who have addressed the need for a dog park at Army Family Action Place (AFAP) conferences since 2009.

"During the FY14 AFAP conference, delegates again recommended that the garrison designate an area for a dog park.

In early 2014, we received guidance to identify an area where a dog park could be established and determine the cost for fencing and signage," said Lara Clagett, Hohenfels Army Community Service mobilization and deployment program manager.

AFAP is the Army's grassroots process for identifying quality of life issues impacting Soldiers, families and DOD civilians, and bringing them to senior leaders for action. The conference brings community representatives together as delegates, facilitators, recorders and experts to prioritize, discuss and offer recommendations on issues both at an installation level and an Armywide level. Issues that are beyond the scope of the garrison may be submitted to the IMCOM-Europe AFAP conference, and can even reach the Department of the Army conference.

"We are extremely excited that we were able to finally resource the materials and find a suitable location to erect a dog park for our owners and their four legged family members," said Mike Haney, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels manager.

"Soon the entire community will have a safe location to allow their pets to roam free and stretch their legs. The needs of our Soldiers, Civilians and their families are our number one priority and we are very pleased that we were able to make this project a reality."

The AFAP process remains a powerful tool in terms of getting ideas out from the community getting them toward the people who can make decisions and influence over change within the Army. Hohenfels is currently accepting issues for FY16 AFAP. Boxes are located throughout Hohenfels to include Army Community Service, the Community Mail Room, Commissary, Child Development Center, and the Exchange or online at https:// www.myarmyonesource.com For additional information, individuals can stop by ACS, building 10 or call 09472-83-4860. | by Marc Iacampo U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels Bavarian Times | 16

| hohenfels

Paul Hlawatsch, energy manager with the Directorate of Public Works at U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels, receives the Secretary of the Army Energy and Water Management Individual Award for Energy Efficiency / Energy Management from the Honorable Katherine Hammack, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment, at a ceremony in Phoenix, Arizona.

Hlawatsch earns energy management award; saves Army $426,000

Photo Credit: Courtesy photo

HOHENFELS, Germany -- Paul Hlawatsch works for U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels. He's the energy manager for the Directorate of Public Works and was recently awarded with the Secretary of the Army Energy and Water Management Individual Award for Energy Efficiency/ Energy Management.

throughout the year with banners, flyers and training for building energy monitors.

"The better we are doing with energy conservation, the more funds are available for the troops and the mission," Hlawatsch said.

The annual awards -- which were presented at a ceremony last month in Phoenix, Arizona -- are designed to recognize the energy and water conservation achievements and programs of individuals, small groups, and garrisons.

But it's not just about money. Hlawatsch sees energy conservation as vital to the environment and to the legacy that we leave our children and our future.

The award is aimed at providing incentive to further reduce energy and water consumption.

"Energy conservation is really about a mindset," Hlawatsch said.

"It's a change of small behaviors that can really add up."

"Paul Hlawatsch's achievement highlights the ongoing commitment of USAG Bavaria to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and funnel those costs savings into programs that support our Soldiers," said Col. Mark Colbrook, USAG Bavaria commander.

While Hlawatsch appreciated the recognition, he said the projects implemented last year are just part of the larger program currently underway at Hohenfels.

Hlawatsch helped develop and implement seven effective low and no cost energy conservation measures in fiscal year 2014, with a combined annual savings of $426,000.

These ranged from simple measures such as stocking energy saving lamps at the warehouse shop and self-help facility, to scheduling heater shutdowns on German-American holidays and the installation of high efficiency heat pumps in 50 buildings.

Hohenfels also sought to raise energy conservation awareness

His pet project is a generator which operates on natural gas. The generator will not only provide heat, but simultaneously produce up to 30 percent of Hohenfels's on post energy requirements.

The new generator is projected to come online December 2015.

Even then, Hlawatsch won't be satisfied.

"I won't leave this installation before there is wind power installed," he vowed. | by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria – Hohenfels Bavarian Times | 18

| GRAFENWOEHR

German soldiers take the stage as the first place squad during the European Best Squad Competition at 7th Army Joint Multinational Command.

Germany claims European Best Squad title GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- The German squad claimed the title of European Best Squad after finishing the three-day long European Best Squad Competition hosted here by the 7th Army's Joint Multinational Training Command, or JMTC.

"At the obstacle with the artillery rounds, it made me want to quit," Kling said. "I have to do it. For my nation, for my company, for my squad members, that's the only reason I keep moving forward."

Latvia's squad placed second and the 173rd Airborne Brigade won third place.

The competitors completed more than 20 events and 30 tasks, including medical evacuations, NATO knowledge tests and weapons qualifications.

Squads were tested through solving problems and working together to complete tasks, including transporting casualties while carrying personal equipment over rough terrain and long distances.

"It was tougher than I expected," said Pfc. Andreas Kling, 26th Airborne Regiment, German army. "At some stations, all I thought was, why are they doing this to me?"

The squad is the smallest unit in most militaries, so the close bonds formed by shared experiences and challenges can give the Soldiers the drive to keep moving.

19 | Bavarian Times

At the closing ceremony, Brig. Gen. John Hort, G3 deputy chief of staff - operations, U.S. Army Europe, emphasized that the successful competition of the first European Best Squad Competition helps to build and improve the relationships and capabilities of NATO partners.

"I am really proud to win the first European Best Squad competition in my homeland," Kling said. "My heart is beating so fast and my hands are sweating. Its really great."

| by 1st Lt. Megan Burmeister, 110th Public Affairs Detachment, Rhode Island Army National Guard

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Photo

The European Best Squad Competition is a multinational event hosted by U.S. Army Europe that focuses on the essential element of every military - the squad.

| hohenfels

A Leopard II A5 German Tank departs the Parsberg Train station en route to Hohenfels

German Leopard II tanks of Alpha platoon, German Army Combat Training Centre

Training Area, to join COmbined Resolve V, Oct 20. 2015.

prepare to install Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System MILES at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center during Exercise Combined Resolve V.

Bundeswehr Soldiers Join Hohenfels' OPFOR

While the task of offloading vehicles, personnel and equipment at the train station happens quite regularly at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center, this arrival signaled a change that is coming to multinational and allied training in JMRC. These five tanks make up Alpha Platoon from the German Army Combat Training Center in Letzlingen, Germany. The Combat Training Center is the German Army's equivalent of JMRC. This platoon is part of the permanently stationed opposition forces at the training center, and constitute a good portion of their heavy armored forces.

Photo Credit: Spc. Justin De Hoyos

By agreeing to move these five tanks out of their home base, in exchange for a platoon of American Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, the U.S. and German Armies are further cementing a relationship that is still growing and improving even after 70 years.

During this exercise, combining 14 countries and 4,500 soldiers, the German tank platoon will exercise their acumen as enemy role players by integrating directly with JMRC's opposition forces, 1st Bn. 4th Inf. Regt. According to 1st Lt. Benjamin Kemp, an operations planner for the battalion, "they are being brought in to the planning process now" with the battalion, and "will operate hand-in-hand with two different companies. This platoon will be fully integrated on a tactical and personal basis" during the exercise.

For the first week of the traininng, the platoon will orient themselves to the training area, and will participate in Situational

Tactical Exercises to help test the skills of the rotational training units in the exercise. This will also be the time for the German soldiers to fully learn the tactics and the standard operating procedures of their American comrades. Then, during the force-on-force phase of the operation, the fun begins.

"These tanks will replicate a T-80 tank, which is a higher-end Soviet Main Battle Tank. We plan to implement the most current tactics we have learned from current global events, and have the OPFOR replicate those during this fight" Kemp stated. "The German platoon will play a big role in this."

The challenges and opportunities are plentiful for Alpha platoon here in Hohenfels. "Our area is only flatland and we want to learn to operate in this kind of terrain" said Oberleutnant Tino Hamann, the platoon leader for the crew of 26 soldiers.

"Our mission is to figure out how to combine our doctrine and the U.S. doctrine so that it will work. We are very excited to conduct good training while we are here."

Both the Alpha platoon and 1st Bn. 4th Inf. Regt. have a lot of work to do over the coming weeks. But this training allows a level of integration for these Allies at a level not usually practiced. Kemp continued "this is a perfect match for us, and they are going to be a phenomenal asset to this battalion. The only downside is, they are not bringing enough of them."

As training rotations continue to queue up at JMRC, it is clear that this type of exchange between the Allies is becoming more common, and with the right planning and execution, will simply become the way NATO Allies do business.

| by Capt. Christopher B Bradley, USAREUR Bavarian Times | 20

Photo Credit: Sgt. Gemma Iglesias

HOHENFELS, Germany -- On the night of October 20, five German Leopard IIA5 tanks not so quietly rolled out of the Parsberg train station and made their way to the Hohenfels Training Center to take part in exercise Combined Resolve V.

| HOHENFELS

Members of the Joint Multinational Readiness Center and the Federal Forest Office Hohenfels put their long-range hunting skills to the test in the first "German / American Friendship Shoot," on Hohenfels, Oct. 23.

German – American shooting competition targets friendship

The two organizations work closely together, with the Federal Forest Office responsible for maintaining the training area for sustainable use by JMRC. "This competition gives us a chance to connect outside our duty activities and talk about sports, personal things or whatever," said Dr. Markus Perpeet, Federal Forest chief.

Fielding a total of 17 competitors, the teams shot in 3 rounds with only the highest scorers advancing. Targets were set at 300 meters with a final target at 400 meters in case of a tie.

Only hunting rifles with a maximum barrel length of 65 centimeters were allowed and hunting caliber ammunition was used.

"Everybody here is a hunter, so using the rigs that we will actually use this fall in the drive hunts was important," said Col. John Pirog, JMRC deputy commander of operations group.

"Here in Germany, finding a range that goes beyond 100 meters is very challenging," he said.

With Perpeet's help, a safe long-distance range was identified in the training area, and the two groups began practicing together. Soon after, a friendly competition was proposed.

"There's a lot of quality shooters here," Pirog said. "Nerves will play a big part in this."

Seven prizes were awarded to the top shooters and ranged from meat plates to free hunts, with the top prize being a beautiful plate trophy featuring a German stag.

Of the seven prizes, four were claimed by JMRC, with first place going to Jens Breuer of the Federal Forest Office, and Craig Willey and Col. Pirog of JMRC rounding out the top three.

"The main purpose was to have fun and build camaraderie," said Pirog and as the competitors gathered for a grilled lunch and awards presentation, that goal was clearly accomplished.

Pirog said the Forest Office has been very supportive of American hunters over the years, but that practicing for hunts has always been difficult.

Like us. ConneCt us.

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria – Hohenfels

Photo Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison BavariaHohenfels

HOHENFELS, Germany -- Members of the Joint Multinational Readiness Center and the Federal Forest Office Hohenfels put their long-range hunting skills to the test in the first "German / American Friendship Shoot," here, Oct. 23.

www.bavarian-times.com

Facebook: /BavariantimesMagazine Issuu: /Bavariantimes Twitter: /Bavariantimes

| Grafenwoehr

The 405th Army Field Support Battalion is preparing Soldiers assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division out of Fort Stewart, Georgia, to draw from the U.S. Army's European Activity Set-Grafenwoehr, in support of exercise Combined Resolve V, scheduled to run Sept. 22, to Nov. 21, 2015 at the Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels Training Areas

European Activity Set maintains big role in Combined Resolve V GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- Once again, the 405th Army Field Support Battalion is preparing Soldiers assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division out of Fort Stewart, Georgia, to draw the U.S. Army's European Activity Set-Grafenwoehr, in support of exercise Combined Resolve V, schedule to run Sept. 22, to Nov. 21, 2015 at the Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels Training Area.

Photo Credit: Sgt. Kenneth D. Reed

Combined Resolve V is a Joint Multinational Training Command, Army Europe-directed exercise that will include about 4,600 participants from 13 nations. Albania, Bulgaria, France, Georgia, Germany, Lithuania, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and the United States will all have training units participating in the exercise.

A lot goes into preparing these vehicles for the U.S. Army's Regionally Aligned Force. A team of 131 personnel, which includes local national mechanics, logistic support technicians and DA civilians, assigned to AFSB, work 12-hour days to ensure the soldiers are set up for success.

For example, more than 240 hours of work goes into servicing and prepping a Bradley, this includes changing fluids and filters, replacing parts and installing communication systems.

The EAS includes vehicle systems and equipment that would outfit a U.S. Army combined-arms brigade, such as M1A2

Abrams Main Battle Tanks and M2A3 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, as well as standard array of tracked and wheeled support systems.

"We are committed," said David L. Williams, the program manager of the European Activity Set- Grafenwoehr. "We are committed to ensuring Soldiers get the best product available.

None of this is I, it's we, and we are all a team. Maintenance, logistics support and the civilians."

This set of equipment is drawn to test its capabilities in a combat-like environment. It also helps test the limits of the supply system.

"When this equipment is not in use it is our job to do the scheduled services, order parts and equipment and ensure this brigade-sized element is ready for its next mission," said Williams.

As this draw comes to an end, the crew is already preparing for its return November.

"If you don't keep up with the planning efforts you will always be reactive and not proactive," said Williams.

| by Sgt. Kenneth D. Reed Bavarian Times | 22

| GRAFENWOEHR

What to do when bad weather hits Bavaria GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — You wake up at the crack of dawn and Mother Nature has left a gift at your front door: a foot of snow and bone-chilling temperatures. Now what?

• To locate a traffic jam — known as a “stau” in German — go to bayerninfo.de. Click on English (top right), “Traffic Condition,” and look for the stau signs along your route.

Whether you’re a Soldier, parent, student or civilian, there are some valuable sources to aid you in your next decision.

Driving and Road Conditions When you get updates from garrison Facebook, AFN radio or the Weather & Roads hotline, you will encounter two terms: driving conditions and road conditions.

Inclement weather brought on by the autumn and winter months can deliver a blow to Bavaria and the surrounding area, affecting your decision to travel.

Garrison officials and street cleaning crews will do everything they can to keep services running. Snow and ice, however, may result in changes in road conditions, school closures, work delays or a temporary shutdown in some garrison services.

What to do Be in the know. Here’s how:

• Non-hazardous: Conditions allow for normal vehicle operation • Hazardous: Drivers are likely to encounter snow, slush and patches of black ice. Caution is advised during vehicle operation.

• Dangerous: Drivers are likely to encounter snow, drifting snow, black ice and limited visibility. Extreme caution is advised during vehicle operation.

• Extremely dangerous: Drivers are likely to encounter snow, heavy drifting snow, extreme sheet ice, limited visibility and potential “white out” conditions. Only emergency travel should be conducted.

Road conditions are set at green, amber, red and black. These levels only pertain to conditions for dispatching military tactical and non-tactical vehicles. All DOD sedans, station wagons, carryalls, vans, buses and public works vehicles are considered “non-tactical.”

Contrary to popular belief, the driving and road conditions do not dictate whether you as a Soldier, civilian or student should come to work or school, though they are indicators that you should practice caution commensurate with the current condition.

Continued on page 24

Photo Credit: USAG Bavaria

• Stay connected to bavaria.army.mil. In the right hand column there is a “Road Conditions” button. Click it to find out about school closures, road conditions and weather conditions.

• Log onto USAG Bavaria Facebook at facebook.com/USAG Bavaria for information pertaining to weather updates, delays, closures and driving conditions.

• If you are without Internet access, call the “Weather & Roads” hotline, at any time of the day. For current driving conditions in Grafenwoehr and Vilseck, call DSN 475-ROAD (7623), CIV 09641-83-7623. In Hohenfels, call DSN 466-4001, CIV 09742-83-4001. And in Garmisch, dial DSN 440-3300, CIV 08821-750-3300.

• Tune into AFN Bavaria radio at 98.5 FM in Grafenwoehr, 107.6 FM in Vilseck, 89.4 FM in Ansbach or 90.3 FM in Garmisch. Or, listen online at AFN 360. Radio DJs provide updates on conditions in Bavaria.

• If you are a Soldier and are still unsure, call your staff duty officer for further guidance.

The driving condition is an advisory to drivers of privately owned vehicles—in other words, an advisory to you as a Soldier, civilian or parent who is deciding about driving to work or school. Driving conditions levels are set as follows:

23 | Bavarian Times

| hohenfels

If you have concerns but no installation-wide delay or closure has been announced, contact your staff duty officer or supervisor. Commanders and supervisors are empowered to decide whether individuals can delay reporting.

Delays & Closures The garrison commander determines school closures and work delays. This information will instantaneously be routed to www. bavaria.army.mil and AFN and made available to the public. So stay connected, tune in, turn on and before leaving your house, use good judgment and err on the side of safety.

When conditions warrant, the garrison commander may direct delayed reporting, early release or garrison closure. This decision is based on a combination of driving and weather conditions.

The garrison commander’s decision applies to all personnel, mission partners, directorates, agencies and DoDDS schools.

The announcement of delayed reporting or garrison closure will be made as early as 4 a.m. The garrison’s Installation Operations Center — which is staffed 24/7 — updates the weather website and weather hotline, and notifies AFN broadcasters, who then broadcast updates as early at 4:30 a.m.

The garrison commander will make every effort based on available data to announce an early release two hours prior to the forecasted degradation of road conditions. This allows for DoDDS school officials to stage school buses and prepare students and parents. The IOC will also contact mission partners in addition to updating the website, phone recordings and AFN. Two-Hour Delays The garrison’s Department of Public Works needs this time to clear the roads and parking lots. Personnel will report two hours later than their normally scheduled reporting time, but no later than 9 a.m. School busses will pick up children from their bus stops two hours after their normal pickup time.

Only those personnel who are part of key and essential functions may drive on-post. Functions include snow removal crews, guard forces, and limited dining facility and emergency services.

When inclement weather results in work delays or early closures, Child Development Centers and School-Age Centers are open to mission-essential personnel only. If an early closure is announced, non-mission essential personnel must pick up their children immediately. All other CYSS facilities and programs will be closed in accordance with the garrison closure plan.

| by Nathan Van Schaik

High-heels help highlight Domestic Violence HOHENFELS, Germany -- Passing cars slowed to a crawl as drivers on Hohenfels paused to ogle the many figures trooping down the road in high-heeled crimson pumps, Oct. 16. But this was not a parade of fashion models, but rather the second annual "Walk a Mile in Their Shoes" event held as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

With most male participants in high-heeled shoes and most women in combat boots, participants trudged down the main street of Hohenfels carrying banners and earning shouts and honks from passing cars.

"We're putting on this event not only as a fun activity, but also to draw attention to an important matter which is not always comfortable to speak about," said Michelle Stone, Hohenfels Family Advocacy Program victim advocate.

"We have a very close community, a very supportive community, and events like this are important for public awareness because everyone is going to stop and look at these guys," Stone said. "I'm really excited about the turnout, even in this bad weather. This speaks volumes for our community."

Col. John Pirog, Joint Multinational Readiness Center deputy commander of operations group, agreed.

"The tempo on this post is high, everyone is so busy, and for all of these people to take time out of their day to come and be a part of this really means a lot," he said.

Domestic Violence is a pattern of behavior used to establish power and control over another person through fear and intimidation, often including the threat or use of violence. One in four women will experience domestic violence during their lifetime; one in seven men and one in 15 children will also be victims.

Domestic violence takes many forms. Besides physical, there can be emotional, verbal, mental or sexual.

"What we see overseas a lot is financial abuse," said Angela Pate, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Family Advocacy Program manager. "One spouse will take the other's birth certificate, I.D. cards, even their passport and hide them. We say, 'why doesn't she leave?' She can't."

Bavarian Times | 24

| HOHENFELS

Soldiers from U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels walk a mile in high-heeled pumps to help raise awareness for Domestic Violence issues, Oct. 16.

"Without knowing the signs, you don't even know to report it," said Gemma Iglesias, JMRC public affairs. "That's why education and awareness is so important."

"We need to spread awareness; the statistics are too high," said Stone, adding that incidents among the U.S. Army are on the rise. "The Family Advocacy Program is here to support, educate, and offer assistance to anyone in need. If you see something that doesn't seem right, encourage them to call us."

Some Soldiers were able to jog along in their high-heels while others like Sgt. David Perez limped along supported by friends.

"Yeah, this hurts, but it's nothing compared to what some of the victims face, and I wanted to be out here supporting the cause," Perez said.

Conversely, Spc. Michael Bowdry tramped along swinging his hips and doing kicks that might impress a Vegas show girl.

"Twisting and twirling, girl," Bowdry laughed. "Hey, you've got to make the best out of everything; you've got to make it fun no matter what you do. If you don't, all you're going to be thinking about is the pain."

25 | Bavarian Times

The march seemed to succeed in its goal to raise awareness.

Observer Nickayla Meyers-Garner felt the event served as an effective metaphor to the old saying that you can't understand another person's perspective until you've walked a mile in their shoes.

"I think sometimes people don't realize the challenges others face when there are domestic violence issues," said MyersGarner. "These gentlemen trying to walk in these heels are going to have physical challenges which are a reflection of the emotional and physical challenges faced by victims of domestic violence."

The Army provides multiple programs designed to promote awareness, encourage reporting and provide safety for victims.

ACS offers support groups for young parents, anger management classes, marriage counseling and more.

If you need help or simply want to talk with someone about domestic violence, contact the ACS victim advocate. Twenty-four hour help is available at 0162-296-1075.

| by Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria – Hohenfels

Photos Credit: Mark Iacampo, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria-Hohenfels

One of the reasons awareness is so important is to simply learn to identify the signs of domestic abuse.

Enjoy the ORIGINAL Every Thursday at 7.30 p.m. we show one of the week’s new releases in the English original version!

Thursday 7:30 pm

For the Soldiers, by the Soldiers: 15th Eng. Bn. completes initial construction of "Overwatch" Park GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- Army engineers here completed initial construction of what is soon to be Overwatch Park: a combination of memorials and historical vehicles and equipment positioned adjacent Memorial Park in Grafenwoehr.

First Platoon of the 902nd Engineer Company -- who fall under 15th Engineer Battalion -- constructed 10 concrete slabs where nine Army vehicles and one central cannon will soon be displayed, adding to the existing 172nd Infantry Memorial, and thus beginning the building of what's being dubbed Overwatch Park.

Once finished, the vehicles will be positioned in a downward sloping spiral at the end of Memorial Park on Grafenwoehr's Tower Barracks near the current site of the 172nd Infantry Brigade Memorial, which was erected in honor of the Soldiers killed while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan between 2008 and 2012.

The garrison's Directorate of Public Works nominated this project for troop construction, which is not uncommon on the installation. Similar projects tasked to Soldiers in the recent past include the construction of a fitness pavilion in Rose Barracks, as well as substantial repairs on a nearby skeet range. By utilizing troops for garrison construction projects, Soldiers gain valuable experience between deployments, and the community is able to save funds.

www.cineplex.de

"It gives them the skills that they normally use in their jobs," said DPW's master planner, James Beatty. "And it provides a benefit to the community as well."

Bavarian Times | 26

Photos Credit: 2nd Lt Harrison E. Heath, 15th Engineer Battalion

Depending on the availability, movies will be shown in 3D or 2D. It is our goal to offer something for everybody’s taste, so it’ll be an action movie one week, and a romantic or horror movie the following week.

| grafenwoehr

Initial construction of Overwatch Park. Once finished, the vehicles will be positioned in a downward sloping spiral at the end of Memorial Park on Grafenwoehr's Tower Barracks. First Platoon of the 902nd Engineer Company — who fall under 15th Engineer Battalion — constructed ten concrete slabs where nine Army vehicles and one central cannon will soon be displayed.

The troops have a similar outlook.

"Not only will it save the government money, but it will give us something to train on," said 2nd Lt. Lieutenant Harrison Heath, platoon leader, First Platoon. The platoon has been responsible for all initial Overwatch Park construction.

First Platoon finished the construction of 10 reinforced concrete pads, as well as some significant landscaping, Sept. 10, less than 12 working days from their original start date. The platoon finished one days ahead of schedule--in time to have the area cleared for the Sept. 11 ceremony held on Memorial Field.

902nd Engineer Company returned in July from a 66-day deployment in Estonia, where First Platoon constructed four barracks huts that will be used as classrooms by the Estonian Defense Force and other NATO Allies in Tapa Training Area, Estonia.

Memorial Park, better known as the parade field, is used for change of command ceremonies, as well as various events and ceremonies hosted by the garrison and mission partners.

The tanks and vehicles currently placed around Memorial Park will remain in their places while other pieces that are currently scattered around the installation will be moved to Memorial Park to provide a more consolidated display of the installation's history. Additional memorials will continue to be erected in Overwatch Park, including one that will be added shortly from the 18th Military Police Brigade, Beatty said.

The finished product will incorporate historic vehicles and equipment that were originally used in this area. The cannon at the center of the display will be a replica very similar to the one that fired the first round in 1910.

Historical information about each vehicle and piece of equipment will soon be on display at Overwatch Park. There will be benches as well as an extensive pathway beginning by the community center, passing through Overwatch Park and 27 | Bavarian Times

15th Engineer Soldiers push and pull a wooden screed across recently-poured concrete to level the surface of a display pad -- one of 10 that is soon to be Overwatch Park. Overall completion is scheduled for the summer of 2016.

ending near the Tower Barracks theater. Overall completion is scheduled for the summer of 2016.

The goal is to provide one central historical area, where families and historians can gather to learn about the installation's engaging history, Beatty said.

"We are trying to consolidate, to bring the history to one location so people don't have to go all over the installation to find it," Beatty said. A historic tour of the Grafenwoehr installation is also in the makings.

| by 2nd Lt. Crutchfield, USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Photos Credit: 2nd Lt. Crutchfield, USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The military term "overwatch" refers to a position where one unit can provide cover and support, or overwatch, for another unit to reach its objective. In this way, the historical vehicles and equipment, and those Soldiers who came before and died in combat, are metaphorically over watching the events.

| washington

"Best Warrior" winners named at AUSA conference WASHINGTON (Army News Service) -- Staff Sgt. Andrew Fink, assigned to the U.S. Army Reserve Command, has been named the Army's noncommissioned officer, or NCO, of the year while Spc. Jared R. Tansley, assigned to U.S. Army Europe, has been named Soldier of the year.

ployed twice to Afghanistan while on active duty. Later, he joined the Reserve. He hails from Cook, Minnesota, and holds a bachelor's of science degree in kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. He said he plans to make the Army a career.

The announcement was made during the 2015 Best Warrior Competition Awards Ceremony at the annual meeting of the Association of the United States Army in Washington, D.C., Oct. 12.

The best part about winning the competition, Tansley said, "is that now I'm now an example within my unit and squadron for fellow Soldiers and someone my leaders can rely on."

"It's a great day to be a Soldier," Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey said. "Thank God we have Soldiers like the ones that are going to be recognized here today."

Dailey said he was referring to all 24 NCOs and Soldiers from 13 commands across the Army, who started competing a week ago on Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia, for the titles of best NCO and best Soldier.

Tansley serves with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry. He's been in the Army since April 2013 and said he plans to continue serving as long as he can.

Tansley hails from Sycamore, Illinois.

During the event, the Soldiers were always being watched and graded and the competition was stiff, Dailey said. Their final event was participation in the Army Ten-Miler at the Pentagon, Oct. 11. On average, the Soldiers ran about a 6:30 mile run, said Dailey, who joined them on the race.

TOUGH COMPETITION Following the awards ceremony, Fink and Tansley both said the entire competition was exhausting, they're glad it's over and they are pleased to have been selected as the top competitors.

Fink wears the Ranger Tab and Tansley is an infantryman, so they are no strangers to arduous training. Their backgrounds and previous training as Soldiers made their assessment of the competition that much more significant.

Both said the most difficult portion of the competition was the rucksack march. Fink noted that because he's shorter than most, he had to run to keep up with the pack and finish with a good time.

Fink said being an NCO is an awesome experience because he can be an inspiration to his troops. This competition will further help his being an inspiration to his troops, he said.

Fink is a special operations combat medic platoon sergeant with the 409th Area Support Medical Company. He has de-

PASS ON THE KNOWLEDGE Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Daniel B. Allyn, the keynote speaker during the ceremony, said future operations will be more complex than any in the past, and it's important for Best Warrior competitors and all Soldiers to keep in mind the lessons learned throughout the last 14 years of warfare and pass that knowledge on to the new generation of Soldiers coming in.

"Win in a Complex World" is the foundation of how the Army thinks about future combat operations, Allyn said. It's the thesis of the Army Operating Concept, designed to lead an intellectual change for the Army. "It acknowledges that our nation cannot predict who it will fight, where it will fight or with what coalition it will fight."

Future operations in complex environments require the Army to develop small-unit leaders capable of decentralized operations, he continued. These are leaders who thrive in uncertainty, adapt in their environment and take prudent risks based on the commander's intent.

This places high demands on every Soldier, down to the squad level, he said, meaning junior Soldiers and NCOs will be tasked with much greater responsibility than ever before.

Allyn then provided real-world examples of how young Soldiers are taking this on, such as providing valuable feedback of new systems at the Network Integration Evaluation on Fort Bliss, Texas; and, operating in remote areas of Africa thousands of miles from their headquarters.

Bavarian Times | 28

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey, far left, and Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Daniel B. Allyn, far right, present the Soldier of the Year award to Spc. Jared R. Tansley, assigned to U.S. Army Europe, and the Noncommissioned Officer of the Year award to Staff Sgt. Andrew Fink, assigned to U.S. Army Reserve Command, during the 2015 Best Warrior Competition Awards Ceremony at the annual meeting of the Association of the United States Army in Washington, D.C., Oct. 12, 2015.

OTHER AWARDEES - Runner-up NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Kevin M. Simpson, U.S. Army Military District of Washington - Third place NCO of the Year: Sgt. 1st Class Elijah Howlett, U.S. Army Europe - Runner-up Soldier of the Year: Spc. Cruser R. Barnes, U.S. Army National Guard - Third place Soldier of the Year: Spc. Emanuel L. Moore, U.S. Army Special Operations Command NEW AWARDS Master Sgt. Michelle Johnson, the sergeant major of the Army's public affairs advisor, said that during this year's Best Warrior competition, three new awards were created that highlight both physical fitness and weapons qualification.

TOP GUN AWARDS One Soldier and one NCO stood out above the rest in the weapons qualification event, Johnson said. Their task was to run to barricades and engage as many pop-up targets as possible in the shortest amount of time, using three types of weapons.

29 | Bavarian Times

The NCO "Top Gun" was Howlett. The Soldier Top Gun was Spc. Shane Sital, assigned to the U.S. Army Installation Management Command.

IRON AWARDS The Army Physical Fitness Test was modified to an extended point scale to gauge the toughest NCO and Soldier, Johnson said. With a score of 316, this year's "Iron NCO" was Sgt. Michael Hooks, assigned to the U.S. Army Pacific Command.

With a score of 321, the Iron Soldier was Tansley.

ROAD MARCH AWARDS Before beginning a 12-mile road march with a 35-pound pack for Soldiers and a 45-pound pack for NCOs, the troops were "shown several items," Johnson said. Their task was to be on the lookout for those items as they marched. "So, not only did they have to be fast, they had to be agile and alert."

With a time of 2 hours and 13 minutes, the "NCO Road March" champion was Sgt. Robert Cunningham, assigned to the Army National Guard. And, with a time of 2 hours and 11 minutes, the Soldier Road March champion was Moore.

| by David Vergun

Photo Credit: David Vergun

"Soldiers and NCOs make our Army the greatest land force in history." he said. "The competition recognizes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to our Army values, embody the Warrior Ethos and represent the force of our future."

| VILSECK

Bavaria Health Command activated in Vilseck VILSECK, Germany – The Bavaria Health Command was officially activated in a ceremony on Dragoon Field, Rose Barracks, Sept. 25.

BHC replaces the former United States Army Medical Department Activity Bavaria, better known as BMEDDAC. The activation is part of a larger MEDCOM reorganization to achieve a balanced, agile and integrated organization better aligned to enhance the Health Readiness for the Army Force 2025 and beyond.

Wuerzberg MEDDAC in 1975. In June 2007, the USAMEDDAC Wuerzberg was officially renamed USAMEDDAC Bavaria, and the mission command headquarters was moved to the present location on Rose Barracks, Vilseck, in 2008.

“A part of this organization’s history is still with us today as 24 Local National employees, who worked at the former Wuerzberg Hospital, relocated with USAMEDDAC Bavaria during the move in 2008 and are still actively working for us as we transition to the Bavaria Health Command,” Richardson said.

Col. David Richardson, commander of the BHC, spoke during the ceremony about the legacy and history of the unit. As far back as 1943, as the 33rd Field Hospital in California, the unit moved through Morocco, Algiers and Italy, before reactivating in France, and then finally reactivating again in Wuerzberg, Germany, in 1965, he said.

“Providing care for approximately 40,000 beneficiaries, the BMEDDAC name has represented the highest quality in patient care for the past seven years,” he said. “Although the locations of some of our clinics have changed, staff have come and gone, and buildings have changed, our everlasting commitment and dedication to serving our beneficiaries has not, and will not, ever change. I am proud to be the Commander of this outstanding organization, could not be more proud of the hard work our staff does each and every day, and look forward to continuing the legacy of the 33rd Field Hospital as the Bavaria Health Command.”

The Wuerzberg Hospital served medical units and patients across Germany in the 1960s and 70s, until it reflagged as the

| by Kristen Schabert, Bavaria Health Command

BHC has mission command responsibilities for six clinics and approximately 40,000 beneficiaries throughout six communities in Germany – five in Bavaria and one in Baden-Wuerttemberg.

| VILSECK

The Vilseck Army Health Clinic celebrated the official opening of its new clinic addition building with a ribbon cutting ceremony, Aug. 14 in front of the clinic.

Vilseck Army Health Clinic cuts ribbon on clinic addition

The ceremony was attended by military, civilians and local nationals with a tie to the health care being offered in the Vilseck military community. Following the formal ceremony, tours through the facility were provided by current Soldiers and staff members, who were eager to show off their new digs.

"The clinic addition consolidated services that were divided into three separate buildings, moving us toward providing a new level of patient-centered care, geared toward our enrollees and the community we serve," said Lt. Col. Amal Chatila, Vilseck Army Health Clinic Commander. "We will continue to be pillars of readiness and poised to support our (2d Cavalry Regiment) partners -- one team. We are proud to be part of the MHS, truly a world class health care system."

The new 41,900-square foot outpatient health clinic addition quadruples the size of United States Army Health Clinic Vilseck, consolidating offices and scattered health care services from three outlying buildings. The three-phase project will continue to move all Soldier and civilian treatment services under the same roof to greatly increase the quality and efficiency of health care delivery.

The design and construction are based on an environmentally friendly idea, ensuring the facility provided respite areas for patients as well as flexible room configurations to better allow for future changes in work flow and room set up.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Europe district, the upgraded facility is sustainable as well.

31 | Bavarian Times

"The building's green roof acts as an ecological protection layer -- absorbing rainwater, providing insulation and creating a habitat for wildlife," said Walt Bogdanow, area engineer with the USACE-Europe district, who was one of the six speakers at the event. "The green roof requires little maintenance, saves energy, and increases the lifespan of the roof, thus saving taxpayer and Army dollars."

The clinic was also designed to make use of natural lighting, solar power generation of hot water, and photovoltaic generation of electrical power, according to Bogdanow.

The Defense Health Agency representative, Frank Varano, pointed out the importance of a quality medical facility in our everyday lives.

"I love medical facilities," he said. "I know that sounds funny, but think about it. There are no other buildings in any society that do more good, for more people, for more time, than our medical facilities. Every facet of human life- from birth to death and everything in between -- happens in them. And this clinic is the Army's latest commitment to providing an oasis of health that is welcoming, efficient, and conducive to the healing process both for the patient and staff. This is not just a place for healing, but also peace. As our healthcare providers know, healing and peace are inextricable from one another."

Vilseck Army Health Clinic provides outpatient health care to approximately 10,000 patients in the Rose Barracks community.

It falls under the command of the Bavaria Medical Department Activity, a part of the Regional Health Command Europe.

| by Kristen Schabert, Bavaria Health Command

Photo Credit: Ms. Kristen R Schabert (Army Medicine) (2)

VILSECK, Germany -- Under the Bavarian summer sun, the Vilseck Army Health Clinic celebrated the official opening of its brand-new clinic addition building with a ribbon cutting ceremony, Aug. 14 in front of the clinic.

| HEALTH

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends breast cancer screening tests for early detection. This means checking a woman's breasts for cancer before there are signs or symptoms of the disease.

Save a life through early detection of breast cancer In recent years, medical advances in both early detection and treatment have helped millions of women survive breast cancer. This year, 230,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and currently more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors are living in the United States. However, breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and the second leading cause of death among women in the United States.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease that causes normal cells in the breast to change and grow out of control. Abnormal cells group together, also known as malignant tumors, destroy body tissue that may spread throughout the body. According to the American Cancer Society about 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. A woman's risk increases with age; thus it is important to detect breast cancer early through screening.

Photo Credit: Army photo

Why is early detection important?

The chances of survival are much higher if the cancer is detected in the early stages. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, when breast cancer is found early before spreading through the body, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends breast cancer screening tests for early detection. This means checking a woman's breasts for cancer before there are signs or symptoms of the disease. Talk with your doctor about which tests are right for you, and when you should have them.

Mammograms To increase the chances of early detection, the CDC recommends that women 50-74 years of age get a screening mammogram every 2 years. Women 40-49 years should discuss with their medical providers as to when they should start getting mammograms. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms.

Clinical breast exam All women should receive a clinical breast exam during their annual physical. A clinical breast exam is an examination by a doc-

tor or nurse, who uses his or her hands to feel for lumps or other changes.

Breast self-exams Women can also aid in early detection by examining their own breasts. Breast self-exams involve looking at and feeling both breasts with your fingers to check for lumps. Adult women of all ages are encouraged to perform a breast self-exam at least once a month. It is important that women know what is normal for the shape, look, and feel of their breasts, so that they are able to recognize any changes in the appearance of the nipple or breast that are different from normal. If there are any signs or symptoms, a health care provider should check them out immediately.

Symptoms to look for include: • Lump in the breast • Thickening of the breast skin • Rash or redness of the breast • Breast swelling • New onset of breast pain • Dimpling around the nipple or on the breast skin • Nipple pain or the nipple turning inward • Nipple discharge • Lumps in the underarm area Changes in your breast do not always mean that you have breast cancer. In fact, 80 percent of breast lumps are found to be noncancerous. Only an experienced health care provider can tell you what other tests should be performed to determine if you have breast cancer.

Remember to be proactive about your health. Having healthy behaviors coupled with appropriate medical screening is a primary method of preventing breast cancer. To reduce your risk, keep a healthy weight, exercise regularly, get enough sleep and don't drink alcohol or limit alcoholic drinks to one a day. The Performance Triad, http://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/campaigns/perftriad/Pages/default.aspx provides tips about getting adequate sleep, proper nutrition and exercise. | by Richard J. Curley, Program Evaluation Consultant, Army Public Health Center Bavarian Times | 32

| HEALTH

How to prevent a sore throat (djd). Whether you are a teacher, a salesperson, or an employee of a call center -- work often outs stress on your vocal chords. This is especially true and quickly leads to unpleasant consequences in winter when colds are rampant, the air conditioning blows dry air into the rooms and modern windows can’t be opened. You constantly have to clear your throat, it gets sore and you might eventually experience hoarseness and a complete loss of your voice.

Do not whisper or clear your throat If your throat is sore, avoid constantly clearing it, even if that’s difficult to do. Clearing your throat cause even more friction and stress for the mucous membranes according to health experts. Instead, you should try to give your vocal chords some rest. Maybe you can move your business presentation to another day, replace a telephone call with by an e-mail, or simply attend a meeting without talking too much. And you should definitely not whisper. Whispering stresses the vocal chords more than speaking with a normal voice. Instead, lower your voice and keep quiet as often as possible.

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

Tricare Provider

A cold is often accompanied by a sore throat and a cough.

Sanitätshaus

Prostate Cancer Prevention Vasectomy Vasovasostomy Aging Male Erectile Dysfunction Sexual Dysfunction Sexually Transmitted Diseases

– Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia – Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

alth priority e h r u Yo is our TRICARE Europe

8 a.m.–4 p.m.

8 a.m.–2.30 p.m.

Söllnerstraße 16 · 92637 Weiden Phone: 0961-303-3302 · Fax: 0961-303-4405

GmbH

Marienstraße 6  92224 Amberg Phone 09621/15269 Fax 09621/33144 www.sanitaetshaus-lange.de Branch Sulzbach-Rosenberg Fröschau 34–38 Phone 09661/102404

Business Spectrum:

Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday Friday

Lange

Orthopädietechnik

Treatments/Services: – – – – – – –

Photo Credit: djd/tetesept

Moisten your mucous membranes When your throat is sore, your vocal chords are stressed and your voice is hoarse, the most important thing to do is to moist your mucous membranes. However, cold soda is not suitable, uncarbonated water and warm beverages, especially sage tea, are better choices when your throat is sore. Lozenges can also keep your throat from getting dry. However, the effect is usually gone with the lozenge. Therefore, it is recommended to use special lozenges that contain hyaluronic acid and active gelling agents. This special combination generates a hydrogel film that intensively moistens the membranes. As a result, the lozenges relieve sore throats and the need to clear your throat, protect against renewed irritation and taste like cherries.

Prostheses · insets · compression hosiery · breast dentures wheelchairs · corsages · girdles

To protect your children from the flu, the CDC recommends every child beginning at age 6 months receive an annual influenza vaccine.

Flu shots: Are your children prepared?

Photo Credit: Judy Schmidt, CDC

Parents, have your children received their annual influenza vaccines? Influenza, commonly known as "the flu," is defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a contagious disease that is seasonally spread throughout the United States. Everyone is susceptible to contracting the influenza virus. However, research shows risk is highest among children.

The influenza virus is more dangerous than a common cold for most children. Each year more than 20,000 children under the age of 5 are hospitalized due to influenza complications, and some of those illnesses have resulted in death. All children under the age of 5 are susceptible to influenza complications, but research indicates certain children may be more vulnerable.

The CDC reports severe influenza complications are most common among children under the age of 2. Furthermore, children with chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes and disorders of the brain or nervous system (such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy) have an increased risk of developing severe influenza complications.

The severe health complications caused by the seasonal influenza virus can be prevented. To protect your children from the flu, the CDC recommends every child beginning at age 6 months receive an annual influenza vaccine. Because infants under 6 months are unable to receive the influenza vaccine, parents and older children in the household are highly encouraged to receive the influenza vaccine. This prevention strategy

is the best safeguard to protect infants from contracting the influenza virus.

There are a variety of influenza vaccines available for children.

For instance, one type, called trivalent, protects against three strains of the influenza virus (usually, two types of influenza A viruses and one influenza B virus). Another, called quadrivalent, protects against four strains. Furthermore, some vaccines are given as an injection (shot), while others are given as a mist sprayed into the nose. The wide variety of influenza vaccine options can be confusing for most parents. To determine the influenza vaccine most appropriate for your children, consult your pediatrician or primary care provider.

The best way to protect your children from contracting the influenza virus is to ensure they--and you--receive an annual influenza vaccine. Once you and your family have received your influenza vaccines, it will take approximately two weeks for antibodies to develop to protect your family against the influenza virus.

Remember: everyone must receive the influenza vaccine to ensure children are protected before the influenza outbreak spreads throughout your local community. | by Jacqueline D. Watkins, Program Evaluator, U.S. Army Public Health Command

Dr. med. Tobias Riedl Obstetrics and Gynecology Prenatal Care / Prenatal Diagnosis

www.facebook.com/riedl.obgyn

Tricare Provider

Rossmarkt 13 92224 Amberg www.dr-riedl.com mail@dr-riedl.com Phone 09621/ 23915

| HEALTH

At the first signs of cold, a warm bath with essential oils can help to fend it off, or at least alleviate the symptoms.

How to fight off a cold

Bathing, sweating, resting how to quickly get rid of a cold and other ailments

Photo Credit: djd/tetesept

(djd/pt). Colds are annoying. Most of them begin with a sore throat, then the nose starts running, often accompanied by a pestering cough, a headache and joint pain. The cold and wet time of the year is the peak season for infections of the upper respiratory tract. Up to four colds per year are normal for an adult. Although they are usually harmless, they are annoying and should not be ignored to ensure they do not turn into a serious illness.

Warm water and essential oils It is extremely important to actively react as soon as the first signs of a cold appear. An effective measure is a warm bath, preferably with essential oils from medicinal plants such as eucalyptus, rosemary, thyme and camphor. Such baths help in many ways: The warmth stimulates the blood flow through the mucous membranes, allowing them to better fend off viruses.

Additionally, the essential oils have a direct impact on the nose and the bronchial tubes, dissolving the mucus, and clearing the upper respiratory tract. After the bath, it can be helpful to wrap a warm blanket around your body to induce sweating. Sweating activates the body’s natural defense mechanism, comparable to having a temperature.

Drinking a lot dissolves the mucus When suffering from a cold, the most important thing to do is to drink a lot to dissolve the persistent mucus. Best are herbal teas, natural water, hot lemon, or warm elderberry juice

35 | Bavarian Times

with honey. Additionally, you should rest a lot and eat a lot of vitamins such as fresh fruit and vegetables. A slow walk in the fresh air can also be helpful as long as you do not have a temperature and dress warmly. And last but not least, Grandma’s chicken soup is a miracle cure against infections of the upper respiratory tract. It contains the protein cysteine which has an anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect.

| cars & traffic

Many drivers do not know how to properly use fog lights.

How to correctly use fog lights

Photo Credit: dmd/thx

What is allowed and when, what is forbidden (dmd). Falling leaves, early darkness, wet conditions, ice - during fall and winter, drivers encounter more dangers than in summer. One of these typical dangers is fog. Additionally, many drivers to not know how to correctly use fog lights. Following are the most important rules:

ibility is already below 50 meters, you can check that by using the reflector posts along the roads. They are placed 50 meters apart. If you can’t see the next one, it is time to turn on the rear fog light. If you do not turn on the rear fog light or turn it on earlier, you risk a fine.

To see and to be seen is one of the most important criteria to be safe on the road year-round. During the dark seasons, this is even more important, especially when its foggy. If you don’t know what is allowed, required, forbidden and when, risks his own safety and fines.

In accordance with paragraph 17 of the German Traffic Law, fog lights may also be used if visibility is heavily impaired not only by fog but also by snowfall or rain. The following rule applies: If turning on the headlights impairs visibility more than it improves it, fog lights may be used instead. If your car has two fog lights and both are turned on, parking lights instead of low beams must be used. However, light alone does not provide more safety, you should also adjust your way of driving. If visibility is below 50 meters, you should not drive more than 50 km/h.

Strict rules apply to fog lights. In accordance with German traffic laws they may only be turned on within and outside of towns if visibility is below 50 meters. If you are unsure whether vis-

IndustriestraĂ&#x;e 1

92249 VILSECK

Telephone: 0 96 62/7 00 74 47 Telefax: 0 96 62/7 00 74 48 karosserie.koenig@t-online.de

| Cars & Traffic

Shorter braking distances are the main advantage of winter tires Breaking distance on a wet road at a speed of 80 km/h and a temperature of 2°C

Breaking distance

+ 1m

+ 2m

You should already change to winter in October and you should drive with them until Easter. However, 17 percent of those polled do not change their tires until the temperatures drop significantly. Three percent wait until the first snow falls, or

+ 3m

Residual speed 32 km/h

meanwhile, the vehicle equipped with winter tires has come to a stop

Nonetheless, 30 percent of all drivers in Germany either do not change tires at all, or too late in the season, according to a survey conducted by Goodyear.

with

with

+ 4m

winter tires 29 m

+ 5m

+ 6m

summer tires 35 m

when they simply can’t get to where they want to go with summer tires anymore. More than ten percent of Germans do not change their tires at all. Additionally, more than a third of German drivers believe that winter tires are only needed in regions where it snows a lot. A dangerous mistake because modern winter tires need a significantly shorter braking distance and feature a better steering and acceleration response during the cold season than summer tires.

Winter tires maintain their elasticity even during cold temperatures This winter tire, for example, features a so-called full-silica-contact surface that keeps the tire’s elasticity and ability to fully adapt to the road’s surface even in cold weather. The difference regarding the performance of winter and summer tires is based upon the difference in the material mix used for the contact surface and the tire patterns. Summer tires are made of a special mixture designed for warm temperatures which hardens when it gets cold. The full-silica-contact surface, on the other hand, improves the grip and increases the safety margin of winter tires in critical situations.

Photo Credit: djd/Goodyear (2)

More than ten percent do not change to winter tires Brake tests show that on wet roads and at temperatures barely above the freezing point a vehicle equipped with summer tires and driving at 80 km/h needs a braking distance that is six meters longer before it stops than a car equipped with winter tires.

That is much more than one complete vehicle length. When the car equipped with winter tires stops, the car equipped with summer tires is still traveling at a speed of 32 km/h.

When it get’s cold again

Source: Goodyear

(djd/pt). When the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it is time for winter tires. Winter tires are not only “snow tires.“ They also have their advantages during the typical fall weather with freezing rain or frost. They are generally superior to summer tires and provide a safety plus during the fall and winter seasons. Their main advantage is the significantly shorter braking distance when temperatures are low.

Junkyard Graf.

Beim Flugplatz 13 – 92655 Grafenwöhr

Have you already changed to winter tires? German law requires that cars are equipped with winter tires during certain weather conditions.

37 | Bavarian Times

– – – –

free disposal for junk cars free towing service we pay for good cars used car parts

CALL US – 09641 553

| cars & traffic

The All-New 2016 BMW M2 • More torque than past generation M3’s.

• M TwinPower Turbo Technology yielding impressive performance.

• Wider track featuring lightweight aluminum suspension.

• Manual gearbox with innovative rev-matching technology.

• Fully variable Active M Differential.

• Nürburgring tested M compound high performance brakes.

The BMW M2 will be available at authorized BMW centers with a limited range of options starting in spring of 2016. Price will be disclosed closer to market launch.

The all-new BMW M2’s newly developed 3.0 liter 6-cylinder engine represents a symbiosis of exceptional output and outstanding efficiency. The lightweight, thermodynamically optimized, all-

aluminum unit is extremely rigid due to its closed-deck design – which means that the cylinder water jacket is closed at the top. This enables higher cylinder pressures for improved power output and torque.

Perfectly composed high-revving M exhaust note.

One of the main contributors to the extraordinary dynamic experience on board the all-new BMW M2 is the optimized exhaust with special flap system. With its four tailpipes, the exhaust system immediately marks the BMW M2 out as a BMW M model and its minimal exhaust back-pressure ensures the engine exhales optimally. The electrically controlled flap delivers the distinctive BMW M engine exhaust note across the entire rev range. In addition, drivers can use the Driving Dynamic Control switch to select a driving mode and an exhaust note to go with it.

Manual gearbox with automatic rev-matching.

The all-new BMW M2 comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, which stands out with its compact design and low weight. The use of a new type of carbon-fiber friction lining enhances shift precision. An engagement speed control function, which blips the throttle on downshifts and lowers the engine’s revs on upshifts, makes gear changes even smoother and lends the car additional stability during hard driving on the track. Experienced drivers can still take pride in performing the task of perfectly orchestrated down-shifts on their own by deactivating the system in DSC OFF mode.

Optimal acceleration in all conditions.

The integrated Launch Control function ensures the best possible acceleration off the line in all conditions. This function determines the ideal getaway rpm and is automatically dialed in priming the clutches to deliver maximum forward momentum.

Once under way, upshifts are timed and performed at the optimal revs. This allows the BMW M2 with innovative M DCT to outperform the already outstanding acceleration achievable with the six-speed manual gearbox.

Motor sport inspired, Nürburgring tested – high performance brakes.

The high-performance brakes of the all-new BMW M2 are also a product of motor sport and can be quickly identified by their brake calipers – front axle: four-piston fixed calipers, rear axle: two-piston fixed calipers – which are painted in a blue metallic finish and display the M logo at the front axle. In these M compound brakes the perforated and inner-vented brake disc ring is made from grey-cast iron for a massive 15 inch diameter rotor at the front axle and equally impressive 14.5 inch diameter at the rear axle.

Bavarian Times | 38

| Cars & Traffic

M compound brakes guarantee powerful deceleration in all conditions and providing confidence inspiring fade resistance under hard track use. They are also significantly lighter than conventional braking systems, the brake disc hub is manufactured from aluminum as they reduce unsprung and rotating masses, which means they play a major role in further enhancing the dynamic ability of the all-new BMW M2.

Powerful predecessor.

The first M car based on the BMW 1 Series arrived in 2011 in the form of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. This exclusive M vehicle was powered by a 3.0 liter 6-cylinder inline engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and developed output of 335 hp at 5,900 rpm. The BMW 1 Series M Coupe made its peak torque of 332 lb-ft available between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. The 0 to 60 mph dash was all over in just 4.7 seconds and top speed was an electronically limited 155 mph.

Photo Credit: BMW USA

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe came as standard with lightweight M Sport suspension, a variable M mechanical differential lock, M compound brakes and 19-inch aluminum wheels with mixedsize tires. Track width was increased over the standard BMW 1 Series Coupe by 2.36 inches at the front and 1.57 inches at the rear.

Stylistic changes to the BMW 1 Series M Coupe included a new front apron with larger air intakes in response to the car’s increased cooling requirement, as well as wing extensions and a new rear apron. The interior was upgraded in f amiliar M style with leather-covered M sports seats, an M sports steering wheel, interior trim strips in Alcantara and BMW M logos. (BMW USA)

39 | Bavarian Times

| Cars & Traffic

Photo Credit: Mercedes-Benz USA (2)

The all-new MY2017 C300 and C300 4MATIC Coupe Athletic and sporty, the vivid, sensual design of the new C-Class Coupe cuts a fine figure on the road and embodies modern luxury. At the same time, its interior raises elegance and style to a sporty level. Lightweight construction to reduce weight, excellent aerodynamics, and a dynamically configured chassis, with optional air suspension, form the basis for a high level of suspension comfort, low road noise and tire vibration, agile handling, and driving pleasure. New assistance systems provide safety of the very highest caliber. With its high-class appeal and generous interior, the new C- Class Coupe sets new standards in its segment. It arrives at U.S. dealers in Spring of 2016.

frameless doors with free-standing exterior mirrors underscore the sporty character.

"Our new C-Class Coupe continues the philosophy of our exciting coupes. It combines thrilling design with agile sportiness and modern luxury. The C-Class Coupe therefore clearly pledges itself to stylish driving enjoyment," states Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

Efficient and lively engine The C300 Coupe comes equipped with a powerful and efficient 2.0L, four-cylinder gas engine delivering 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, providing sporty performance and enhanced driving pleasure.

As the sportiest variant of the C-Class, the Coupe displays its driving enjoyment-oriented character in an emotional and at the same time formally distinct design. A sportily striking front section featuring diamond radiator grille and long hood – the new Coupe is 2.4 inches (60mm) longer than its predecessor between the firewall and front axle alone gives way to a low greenhouse whose lines flow into a bold and powerful-looking rear end incorporating the Mercedes coupe genes. A high beltline and

Clean lines and sensually arranged surfaces structure the side sections into vivid light and shadow effects. One particular highlight is the long, drawn-out dropping line typical of a coupe. In contrast to the C-Class Sedan, the dropping line extends further past the rear wheel arch. To underscore the Coupe's sporty disposition, the suspension is .6 inches (15mm) lower than that of the Sedan, making it a very sporty proposition when combined with the standard 18-inch wheel.

Lighter, stiffer and stronger Intelligent lightweight construction with a higher proportion of aluminum helps make the Coupe lighter than its predecessor. Lightalloy components include the fenders, hood and trunk lid. At the same time, the body is now much stiffer and stronger thanks to the use of high-strength materials, which has a positive effect on not only driving dynamics and noise levels but also crash safety. The Coupe therefore follows a Mercedes-Benz tradition in adhering to the most stringent of internal Mercedes-Benz safety requirements based on what happens in real-life accidents.

Bavarian Times | 40

| Cars & Traffic

Safe semi-autonomous driving to reduce stress There are several safety and assistance systems based on the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive concept to choose from. ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, is included as standard. Further standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which features an acoustic warning for the driver at speeds above 4 mph and Adaptive Brake Assist to help avoid collisions by boosting the braking effect in line with the current situation. When danger of a collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124 mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles or, in the best-case scenario, even avoiding the collision altogether.

At speeds of up to 31 mph the system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles, and is thus able to help prevent rear-end collisions.

Airbags for safety In addition to 3-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. These include: Frontal protection systems: Adaptive front airbags for driver and front passenger, additionally with a kneebag on the driver's side

Photo Credit: Mercedes-Benz USA

Side protection systems: Thorax/pelvisbags for driver and front passenger plus front and rear windowbags, with rear sidebags available as an option

Climate control with satellite navigation The air conditioning system in the new C-Class Coupe operates efficiently and ensures high air quality. As in the Sedan, it uses satellite navigation to detect tunnels. It therefore closes the air recirculation flap automatically when entering a tunnel and opens it again after exiting a tunnel.

Vibrant infotainment A completely new multimedia generation offers intuitive operation in the new C-Class Coupe, featuring elaborate animations and visual effects which present all the functions in a clear and highly attractive manner. The new C-Class is also equipped with the unique Frontbass system. This avant-garde acoustic system uses the space within the cross-member and side member in the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers to conjure up a listening experience almost on a par with a concert hall.

A Burmester速 surround sound system is optionally available.

The navigation system presents its contents in interactive mode.

Its features include an animated compass, a "Drive Show" with information for passengers similar to the on- screen presentations on board airplanes and Google Maps displayed on the head unit.

In-car technology COMAND offers a larger display with a resolution of 960 x 540 pixels and a special bonded glass cover such as is familiar from consumer devices like the iPhone or iPad. The new C-Class will also include mbrace2 connected car technology, including the available option to have over twenty Mercedes-Benz Apps integrated into the COMAND system. (Mercedes-Benz USA)

2015 MODEL YEAR MILITARY SALES EVENT

One of the best opportunities of the year - availability is limited!

Speak to Your Military AutoSource Sales Representative for More Information.

militaryautosource.com/mb

Contact Your Local Sales Representatives: GRAFENWร HR | Im Gewerbepark 30 | D-92655 Grafenwรถhr Carl Hutchins | chutchin@militarycars.com Cell: +49 (0) 151 61537095 | Office: +49 (0) 96 41 92 96 015 Program and guarantees are subject to terms and conditions. Offered by Auto Exchange Military Car Sales Srl. (AX9328)

| Cars & Traffic

Model Overview: 2016 Volvo XC90

• We se ll and usenew d cars • We of fer repair s most carervice for models • We pe rf guaranteorm VW, Au e work for Skoda a di, Seat, nd Kia. • Acces sories, tu n and tire service ing • Car b ody wor k • Car In surance • TÜV/ AU Insp ection

Volvo boldly drives to the pinnacle of the luxury market with its all-new XC90 for 2016. This revolutionary next-generation luxury SUV artfully combines all of Volvo’s traditional attributes – safety, performance, refinement and technology – while accelerating each to new levels of world-class excellence.

Photo Credit: Volvo USA

Dramatic New Volvo Design With the rare opportunity to create a completely new vehicle on a new platform, Volvo’s designers gave the XC90 great proportions. One area seen as the real measurement of luxury vehicles is called the “dash-to-front axle.” The longer space between the A-pillar and front wheel arch helps to create the impression of a more luxurious vehicle.

Another important aspect of the design was to ensure a recognizable and memorable “face” for the XC90. The powerful front appearance sets the tone by distinguishing itself from competitors while proudly announcing that this is a Volvo. Designers focused on key elements including lighting and grille styling.

LED daytime running lights are evocative of “Thor’s Hammer” presenting a unique and memorable design element. The grille and Ironmark including the signature diagonal slash, have been proportioned for a larger grille. Lower fascia character lines add

Obere Bauscherstr. 16 92637 Weiden · Tel 0961 / 4040 www.rsz-stegmann.de

Dr.-Johann-Stark-Str. 8 92637 Weiden · Tel 0961 / 670 950 www.auto-raab.de

Continued on page 44 43 | Bavarian Times

Etzenrichter Str. 1 · 92637 Weiden Tel 0961 / 470 880 - 0 · www.ah-sued-weiden.de

Eng spe lish ak staf ing f

| Cars & Traffic

drama to the visual appeal and help form a confident personality.

While the new XC90 features a thoroughly modern and contemporary design, three signature elements are based on classic Volvo design cues: • Strong shoulders run from the nose along the sides of the vehicle to the tail.

• The Volvo Ironmark is updated with the arrow aligning with the diagonal grille slash.

• Taillights with the striking LED light guide emphasize the verti cal breadth of the body’s shoulder line creating a strong identity.

Adding to the XC90’s allure is the fact that each trim level presents an immediately recognizable yet unique identity.

Momentum, Inscription and R-Design feature distinctive grille treatments while color enhanced lower body moldings, lower front spoiler cues, roof rails design and lower rear “skidplates” contribute to individual model character.

XC90’s Visual Assistance Systems Different levels of parking aid systems are available as part of XC90’s extensive safety features. Rear Park Assist with an audible alert and rear park assist camera are both standard.

The camera, hidden under the tailgate handle, provides a view behind the driver on the center display screen. Guidelines on the screen show the path of the rear wheels according to the steering wheel angle.

In addition to convenience, the rear camera is a valuable safety feature. Volvo’s research shows that in the U.S. 50 or more children are hit by a vehicle every week when backing up. Fortyeight are treated in hospital emergency rooms and at least two children are fatally injured each week. The predominant age of victims is one year old. More than 60 percent of these incidents involve a larger size vehicle such as a truck, van or SUV. And in more than 70 percent of these incidents, a parent or close relative is behind the wheel.

Photo Credit: Volvo USA (2)

The Interior: A Scandinavian Sanctuary The XC90’s all-new interior is the most luxurious ever created for a Volvo. Developed according to the “Designed Around You” strategy, emphasis is placed on the driver and passenger’s needs. Since the new XC90 will be popular with families, attention was focused on passenger comfort, including those riding in the second and third rows, clever use of space, versatility and ease of use.

Long considered the best and most comfortable seats in the industry, Volvo has introduced an entirely new generation of seats for the XC90. To make the backrests as slim as possible and increase legroom in the second row, a completely new frame and seatback have been developed. The new seat design also contributes to protective safety (covered later in this overview under IntelliSafe).

Second-row seats are designed for comfort and maximum flexibility. Each seat is contoured on the seatback and cushion for added support. Backrests recline individually plus each seat can slide individually to provide either more legroom or luggage space. Seatbacks are configured 40/20/40 to accommodate long items via the folding center seat while retaining two full-sized outboard seating positions.

Advanced Sensus Connect Technology The XC90’s new Sensus user interface is the most modern incar control system on the market today. Volvo’s interior design goal was to create a safer environment by adding a more intuitive interface that was both simple to operate and aesthetically elegant.

Sensus provides comfortable access to a wide selection of cloud-based applications. The in-car possibilities include Internet radio, connected navigation, finding and paying for parking, seamless music streaming, the ability to mirror and use Apple and Android devices in the touchscreen display, a hotspot for using a tablet in the car and much more.

Sensus Audio and Navigation Systems Two levels of audio systems are designed to deliver the best possible sound quality with acoustics specifically optimized for the XC90’s interior. The standard Sensus High Performance Audio system includes a six-channel amplifier that delivers 330 watts to 10 speakers. This produces a top-quality sound experience for all passengers including those riding in the third row.

Available Premium Sound by Bowers & Wilkins is one of the best quality audio systems in the automotive market. Bowers & Wilkins is a premium company that’s so respected in audio circles it’s the preferred audio brand for the famed Abbey Road Studios.

In the XC90, this system delivers an astonishing 1,400 watts to 19 speakers strategically located throughout the cabin. “Room Transformation” technology developed with the Swedish software specialist Dirac Research makes it possible to recreate the acoustics of a specific room inside the cabin. Drivers can select three different room modes: “Studio,” “Individual Stage” and “Gothenburg Concert Hall.” (Volvo USA)

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price XC90 T6 AWD Momentum: XC90 T6 AWD Inscription: XC90 T6 AWD R-Design: Destination:

$48,900 $54,500 $52,900 $995

Bavarian Times | 44

About us

Trans Global Logistics Europe GmbH located in Mainz-Kostheim was founded in May 2005 to support customers of Trans Global Auto Logisitcs Inc. located in Grand Prairie, TX, and provide them with better and additional services.

Due to a global network of agencies andd partner companies, Trans Global Logisitcs Europe GmbH is able to provide you with comprehensive services regarding all your logistical needs.

World Wide Car Shipping

Domestic Delivery within US and Europe: Marine Insurance • Custom Clearance

Services World-wide transport of . . . . . . motor vehicles, aircraft, boats and yachts . . . construction vehicles and equipment . . . project- and container load of all kinds . . . household goods

Trans Global Logistics Europe GmbH Hochheimer Straße 111 • D-55246 Mainz – Kostheim

Leave it to us to bring it to you!

For a free offer please contact: Call 0800-CARSHIP or info@transglobal-logistics.de

If you are interested in VOLVO, we are your partner of choice. As one of the largest Volvo dealers in Bavaria and the metropolitan areas of Munich, Regensburg and Nürnberg, we have a lot of experience!

Our modern repair shops and our highly qualified personnel guarantee first-class, fast and reliable service and repairs.

www.transglobal-logistics.eu • info@transglobal-logistics.de

+49 (0) 6134 - 2592727 * 0800- 2277447

* free of charge within Germany

Sales: • New vehicle sales / VOLVO contractual partner • Pre-owned vehicles (half a year- and one year-old, e.g. business vehicles from Volvo Car Germany) • VOLVO Select Vehicles -- premium pre-owned vehicles with extended warranty • Inspected pre-owned vehicles with warranty • attractivee finance and leasing offers • Trade-in of pre-owned vehicles

Chassis and car paint: • • • •

Chassis repairs Car paint work based on modern water-based paint techniques Small repairs of car paint damages NEW: Volvo-certified glass repairs

Repairs and auto parts sales: • • • • • • •

Air conditioning service Car wash Car interior detailing Professional automotive detailing Electronic chassis frame measuring Tire seervice Car parts sales

Volvo Zentrum Amberg

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

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

| pets

Grooming in winter?

Important or not?

Many dogs like winter and love to play in the snow. With a few simple tricks, you can make the cold season even better for your dog. To ensure your dog does not get sore feet, you should rub his paws with a paw treatment before walking him. It keeps them moisturized, protects them from frost and prevents skin cracks.

Owners of long-haired dogs should keep the hair coat between their toes very short so that snow can’t accumulate there. Nothing is more aggravating for the dog than having to walk around with frozen snow balls on his paws.

Old animals or dogs with very short hair, e.g. greyhounds, or a short undercoat, e.g. Yorkshire terriers, need a coat, pullover, or jacket to prevent colds. Exercise is important as well to keep the dog and its owner warm. Running around, retrieving, searches in the snow or pulling a sleigh (always attach the leash to the harness, never to the collar) are just a few of the possibilities. The most important thing is that you and your dog are exercising and don’t stand around in the cold.

Photo Credit: Alexandra Walberer

Do not allow your dog to jump into water during the cold season. Most dog owners do not know that dogs can also catch a cold and that you should never depend on your dog‘s instincts when deciding what is good or bad for your dog. When it’s wet and cold outside, you should put a towel next to the door or in the car to wipe off dirt and dry your dog.

If sidewalks are icy, you should watch out for salt. If there was salt on them, you should wash it off your dog‘s paws with warm water at home. Salt can really hurt on his paws! By the way: Rumor has it that our pets burn more energy in winter. That is totally wrong!

Dogs have the same energy requirement in winter as they have year-round. So do not increase their amount of food. This will only lead to you having an overweight dog in spring!

Short-haired dogs loose a lot of hair because of their undercoat. A dog and its coat are “busy” in winter, especially if you keep in mind that nowadays dogs don’t live and sleep outside anymore but with us inside our house or apartment. Subsequently, the constant change between 22 degrees centigrade inside the house and maybe only 0 degrees centigrade outside, is a real challenge for the dog and its coat. Cold outside, warm inside -- that can really mess you up if you’re a dog/’s coat! As humans, we can choose what to put on or take off.

Unfortunately, that’s not an option for a dog. A dog/’s coat responds to the weather conditions. So if the outside temperature stays around 15 degrees centigrade for several days in winter, a dog’s coat receives the information that spring is on its way, get undressed. Subsequently, the dog is constantly loosing hair Bavarian Times | 46

| Pets

and undercoat to feel more comfortable in the warm weather!

So brush him and make an appointment at the dog groomer’s to have the undercoat cut.

on a second pullover. So if your dog is sick, or just recuperating from a bad infection, a cough or something similar, support his recovery with adequate dog clothing.

Is grooming in winter a must? Yes! Needless to say it also depends on the dog‘s breed because different types of coats have different needs. It is important, however, to keep the skin clean and free of felt. If your dog looses a lot of hair, his undercoat should be cut in winter as well. Especially in winter, when there is sludge, snow and ice, you should keep the coat and skin clean. I recommend grooming your dog all year. Taking a Labrador to the dog groomer once a year is insufficient.

The same applies to pregnant and nursing dogs, who should also receive special food during their pregnancy, and old dogs who get weaker with age just like humans as well as young dogs who can’t protect themselves because their bodies are not fully grown yet.

And yes, a dog can be cold in winter. It depends on his size, breed and type of coat. Dogs with a short, straight coat and little to no undercoat such as a Doberman or a Boxer, get cold quicker than a Golden Retriever or a terrier. Additionally, small dogs with short legs get cold more easily.

However, the fact that your dog gets cold does not mean that he does not need any grooming. A dog should be relieved of his loose hair and undercoat because there is a reason why the skin wants to get rid of the coat. And if your dog freezes, there is a lot of dog clothing available nowadays that is neither embarrassing nor funny or strange. On the contrary, some of it looks really great.

Whether a dog really needs clothing when it‘s cold depends on his lifestyle: Is he active, athletic, does he love to move around a lot, or is he more the passive type who likes to take slow walks and lie on the couch. Nowadays, dogs are pets and not wild wolves, living outdoors. Generally, all dogs with health issues should receive help when it’s cold and rainy.

To keep their bodies warm, they use a lot of energy -- just like humans do. If we did not wear warm clothes, we would get tired and feel exhausted faster. If we are suffering from a cold, we put

Which dogs need clothing and why?

• Naked dogs and dogs with short coats, especially small and medium-sized breeds (Chinese Crested Dogs, Peruvian Naked Dogs, Miniature Pinschers, short-haired Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, French Bulldogs, Whippets, Pug Dogs Italian Greyhounds) • Large dogs with short coats (Greyhound, Saluki, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Doberman, Pointer, Magyar Viszla, etc.)

• Dogs without undercoat (Maltese Dogs, Yorkshire Terriers, Long-haired Chihuahuas, Tibet Terriers, Shih Tzus etc.)

• Small to medium-sized curled breeds (Bolognese Dogs, Toy Poodles, Bichon Frises). Curled hair soaks up a lot of water. This can quickly lead to a cold or pneumonia when it‘s cold and windy.

• All dog breeds that are sheared and groomed to take part in exhibitions, or for other reasons, especially long-haired dog breeds wearing papillotes in their coat before going to exhibitions. They should be protected from the dirt and hu midity with an overall.

| by Alexandra Walberer

Animals are not a Christmas gift It is much better if you give away a coupon on Christmas and sit down with the entire family after the holidays to discuss getting an animal. Quietly and without stress, a decision can then be made whether an animal will fit into the family and if everybody agrees on having one.

Eve because there is no time to test whether you are allergic against dogs, cats, the respective small animal, or any type of animal.

Problems will occur if not everybody in the family agrees on getting an animal. When getting an animal, especially when getting a dog, all family members should support that wish.

The following questions should be asked: • How old is my animal?

• Do I have room and enough time for an animal?

• Do I know the needs of the animal and can I do them justice?

• Animals get sick. Can I afford a veterinarian?

• Where will the animal stay when I go on vacation?

If family members suffer from allergies, getting an animal can already turn into a catastrophe on Christmas

| by Alexandra Walberer

47 | Bavarian Times

| Advertisement

Renewed splendor: Bulmare reopens on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015 BURGLENGENFELD. Good news for all swimming and sauna fans: Bulmare Spa in Burglengenfeld will reopen on -Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015. Operations manager Reiner Beck announced that all renovations and refurbishments will be completed by then. “We are happy that waiting will soon be over and we can open in renewed splendor in time for our 10th anniversary,“ says Beck.

Currently, dozens of requests for information about when courses, sauna and bathing fun will start again come in at Bulmare Spa and the town hall in Burglengenfeld by phone, e-mail and via Facebook. ”This enormous interest makes us happy,” says business manager Renate Federholzner.

Bulmare fans can look forward to many improvements, reduced rates and special events on the occasion of the tenth anniver-

sary. There will be event days on Christmas including a ten percent discount on single tickets and swimwear in the Bulmare shop. Other planned events include special children and family days, free trial lessons, a sweepstake and, of course, the popular midnight sauna.

For more detailed information, go to www.bulmare.de or www. facebook.com/Bulmare.

There are many improvements: For kids, for sauna users and bathers. Bulmare based many of those detailed changes on the wishes of its guests, including head rests on the Jacuzzi beds in the adventure pool, additional seats in the sauna and pool restaurants, a larger children’s wading pool and a completely renovated market square in the sauna area. Now and in the future, Bulmare’s motto will be: Dive in, discover and enjoy!

Wir baden!

We bathe!

Das Wohlfühlbad

The Wellness Spa 10 Täglich

hr

bis 22 U

o 10 p.m Daily 10 a.m. t

Im Naabtalpark 44 · Burglengenfeld · Phone: 09471 60193-0 · www.bulmare.de

.

| Christmas 2015

Christmas Concert of the U.S. Army Europe Band and Choir in the Stadthalle Grafenwoehr, Germany -- Visitors an look forward to a Christmas concert of the special kind on Monday, Dec. 14, 2015 at 7 p.m. when the United States Army Europe Band and choir will perform in the Stadthalle, led by Major Dwayne S. Milburn.

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

Band and choir are stationed in Sembach. The band was established in 1940 and, together with the United States Army Europe Soldiers Chorus, is currently the U.S. Army’s third largest musical ensemble and the largest outside the continental United States. The band has more than 200 performances per year in more than 20 countries, including Europe and the Middle East, Russia and Iraq.

Most members are professional musicians who already performed before joining the military. The majority has a degree in music from the most renowned universities in the USA. Together with the choir, the band with its 60 musicians will for sure put a spell on the audience. Two years ago and last year, more than 700 visitors already enjoyed a premium concert by the USAREUR Band and Chorus. Aside from Christmas classics, the band played music that put a smile on people’s faces when making fun of Christmas shopping, or introducing “Crazy Dog,“ a well-known character out of the science fiction trilogy "Back to the Future.”

49 | Bavarian Times

Visitors can be curious about what the USAREUR Band and Chorus will have in store for them this year. The concert is jointly hosted by the U.S. Army and the city of Grafenwoehr.

Admission to the concert is free. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 1830 hrs. | by Renate Gradl

Upper Palatinate Advent Market Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015 f rom 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. on Grafenwoehr Market Square

GermanAmerican Opening with Christ Child

Fanfares Paforce horn blowers Choirs and more

Versatile children‘s program

Presents from St. Nicholas

Gospel choir ”Hope & Joy“

All citizens are cordially invited

City of Grafenwoehr

Big raffle

| Christmas 2015

Christmas Markets in the Oberpfalz and Franconia Christmas market at Guteneck Castle The historic and romantic Christmas market on Guteneck Castle enchants and takes visitors back to the Middle Ages on all four Advent weekends. You can look forward to a colorful, medieval market with artists and artisans, including Woodcarvers making Christmas mangers, torch makers, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, kknife sharpeners, or felt makers. Many booths invite you to look and shop. The historic parade takes place on the first market day at 3 p.m. The market also features a historic camp, a live manger and a seasonal entertainment program.

All kinds of Christmas delicacies and, of course, the traditional Glühwein will also be available.

Guteneck Castle, 92543 Guteneck Nov. 28 and 29; Dec. 5 and 6; Dec. 11 - 13; Dec. 18 - 20, 2015.

Opening hours: Friday, 4 - 9 p.m.; Saturday, 2 - 9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Admission: Friday, 4 Euro; Saturday and Sunday, 5 Euro.

Kuchlbauer Christmas market in Abensberg This year, you can look forward again to Kuchlbauer´s Christmas market in Abensberg, held around the Kuchlbauer Tower.

From Thursday or Wednesday through Sunday, many vendors will offer a large variety of goods, including the mandatory Glühwein and seasonal delicacies. An arts and crafts market will be put up in the festively decorated underground parking garage where filigrane glass art, wood carvings and much more will be offered. The Kuchlbauer Christmas Market in Abensberg will be complemented by the Niklas market in the Schloss Garden on the first two weekends of Advent.

Kuchlbaur Brewery, 93326 Abensberg Nov. 25 - 29, 2015; Dec. 2 - 6, 2015; Dec. 9 - 13, 2015; Dec. 16 - 20, 2015 Opening hours: Wednesday, 1.30 - 9 p.m.; Thursday, 1.30 - 9 p.m.; Friday, 1.30 - 10 p.m.; Saturday, noon - 10 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 9 p.m.

Christmas market on Hexenagger Castle “The busy castle ghosts“ open the gates of “Hexenagger Castle

Winter Magical Land“ on the four weekends before Christmas to provide guests from near and far with unforgettable hours in a very special atmosphere. The sweet smell of almonds and Glühwein, more than 30,000 lights, candles and torches, Christmas music and the ambience of the historic buildings attract visitors. More than 120 artisans will put up their small wooden booths to create a romantic street of booths in front of the festively decorated castle.

Hexenagger Castle, 93336 Hexenagger Nov. 27 - 29, Dec. 4 - 6, Dec. 11 - 13 and Dec. 18 - 20.

Opening hours: Fridays, 3 – 8 p.m.; Saturdays, noon - 8 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and additionally on the first three Thursdays from 7 - 9 p.m. www.schloss-hexenagger.de Christmas market in Amberg The romantic Christmas market in Amberg will be festively lit up again this year on the Market Square. Many vendors offer their seasonal goods in lovingly decorated booths. Culinary delicacies such as roasted almonds, gingerbread, Glühwein, punch and hearty snacks will also be available. Look forward to daily performances on the Christmas market stage. Additional highlights are the Christmas carriage and a live manger. Child care is available for small visitors. The Amberg Christmas market traditionally starts on Thursday before the first of Advent and ends on Dec. 23.

Market Square, 92224 Amberg Nov. 26 - Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. www.amberger-weihnachtsmarkt.de Christmas market in Bayreuth Many visitors are expected again this year at the Christmas market in Bayreuth. The festively decorated booths will be put up in front of the baroque Spital church and around the Neptune fountain on the market square. Vendors will offer their seasonal goods ranging from arts and crafts to glass, pottery, gifts and much more. The longest chain of lights in Franconia is worth seeing and adds a special flair to the Christmas market

Romantic Christmas Market Dagestein Castle, Vilseck December 5 and 6, 2015 Saturday 4.45 - 9 p.m.

Sunday 2-7 p.m.

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

| Christmas 2015

Market Square, 95444 Bayreuth Nov. 27 - Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 7.30 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. www.tourismus.bayreuth.de Bayreuth Winter Village Visitors can look forward to a very atmospherical village, located downtown, directly in front of the "Alte Schloss" (old palace) in Bayreuth and one of a kind in the region. The Bayreuth Winter village with its five rustic huts was designed with a lot of love for details. New equipment combined with wooden elements and lovingly selected decorations provide each house with its very own charm. Sixteen hot beverages and coffee specialties and many Winter Village delicacies will satisfy everybody’s taste. Naturally, beer bratwurst with hops and malt, Franconian and Nuremberg bratwurst, and crêpes will also be available.

Am Ehrenhof / Altes Schloss, Maximilianstr. 12-14, 95444 Bayreuth Oct. 22 - Dec. 31, 2015 Opening hours: Daily from 10.30 a.m. www.bayreuther-winterdorf.de Christmas market in Neumarkt i. d. OPf. The Christmas market in Neumarkt i. d. OPf. Will take place again on the Rathaus Square in Neumarkt’s old town. Seasonal goods, gifts and culinary delicacies will be sold in the lovingly decorated wooden booths. And starting at 4 p.m., Thursday thru Sunday, the large caldron with fire tongs punch will be heated up over open fire. Additionally, an arts and crafts market will be put up Thursday thru Sunday around the fountain of St. Johannes Church. Special highlights for kids are the affectionately designed manger with live goats and sheep, the children’s program on Tuesdays and donkey rides on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Other highlights of the Christmas market 51 | Bavarian Times

in Neumarkt include performances by choirs and brass bands on the Christmas market stage and the nativity play put on by Neumarkt’s kinder gardens every Saturday in Advent on the Residenzplatz square.

Rathaus Square in Neumarkt/’s old town, 92318 Neumarkt i. d. OPf. Nov. 26 - Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Monday - Wednesday, 2 - 8 p.m.; Thursday/ Friday, 2 - 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 8 p.m.

Romantic Christmas market at Thurn and Taxis Castle in Regensburg One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany is held at Thurn and Taxis Castle in the UNESCO-World Heritage city of Regensburg, located in the heart of Bavaria. The picturesque backdrop of the castle, thousands of lights, candles, lanterns and torches, the craftsmen’s shops and wooden booths provide the market with its unrivaled flair. A gorgeously decorated Christmas tree rises into the winter sky from the castle’s courtyard. Traditional craftsmen such as wood turners, blacksmiths, candle makers, manger builders, glassblowers, Lantern builders, or the famous "Hatter at the Cathedral" produce unique and extraordinary pieces. Time and again, Her Highness Gloria, Princess of Thurn and Taxis and her family casually mingle with the guests and taste the delicacies offered at the market. They include wild boar roasted on a spit, smoked salmon, Upper Palatinate Christmas onions, and many types of punch and Glühwein. Musical entertainment by choirs, orches-

ParAsdvbenet wregekend first

r 27 , Novembe from FridayNovember 29 to Sunday,

www.burgenweihnachten.de

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

– Arts and Crafts

rg ekend Lupd Abdu vent we secon

ecember 5 Saturday, D , December 6 y and Sunda

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

Photo Credit: Bayreuther Winterdorf / Heide Vogel

in Bayreuth. There will be many performances on the stage between the passage and Schulstraße. Highlights are the visit of St. Nicholas, crafts demonstrations, fairytale reading hours, readings, concerts and much more. Lots of culinary delicacies will be available as well.

| Christmas 2015

Be spoiled and experience the unique atmosphere in our lovingly furnished winter village.

tras and bands adds to the contemplative, yet happy holiday atmosphere. Children will enjoy the visit of the Christ Child and the performances by the Punch Theater.

Thurn und Taxis Castle, 93047 Regensburg Nov. 25 - Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Sunday - Wednesday, noon - 10 p.m.; Thursday - Saturday, noon - 11 p.m.

Admission fees: Monday - Friday 6.50 Euro, Saturday and Sunday 8.50 Euro; children, ages 6-16, 2 Euro.

Reiterles Market at Rothenburg ob der Tauber Every year, the medieval city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber turns into a winter wonderland. Since the 15th century, a market has been held in town during the holiday season, and not much has changed regarding the historic origin of this more than 500-year-old market. Glühwein, roasted almonds and old-style Franconian pastry are available to hungry visitors. The Reiterles Market also features a variety of cultural events. However, the performances of the "Rothenburg Reiterle" (horseman), who distributes presents to the kids, are the highlight of this Christmas market and give it its name.

Photo Credit: Schloss Guteneck Projekt GmbH

Alleys around town hall and market square, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber Nov. 27 - Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Friday/Sunday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Internet: www.rothenburg.de Weiden Christmas Market and Advent Calendar The Weiden Christmas Market will be held again this year along with the giant Advent calendar in front of the Old Town Hall. Starting Dec. 1, St. Nicholas and two school kids, dressed as angels, will open a door of the calendar. Apart from the Advent calendar, the Christmas market also features a children/‘s carousel, the fountain manger on the Upper Market, the Christmas Pyramid from the town of Annaberg-Buchholz and many more seasonal attractions. Weiden’s Christmas Market dates back to the year 1576 and, thus, is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Bavaria.

At the Old Town Hall, 92637 Weiden in der Oberpfalz Nov. 26 - Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Additional Christmas Markets in Northern Bavaria Christmas market in Sulzbach-Rosenberg Luitpoldplatz, 92237 Sulzbach-Rosenberg Nov. 6 - 29, Dec. 3 - 6, Dec. 10 - 13, Dec. 17 - 20, 2015

Thursday/Friday, 4 - 9 p.m.; Saturday, 3 - 9 p.m.; Sunday, 2 - 9 p.m.

Lucrezia Christmas market of the artisans in Regensburg Haidplatz und Kohlenmarkt, 93047 Regensburg Nov. 7 - Dec. 23, 2015. Daily from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Christmas Market in Regensburg Neupfarrplatz Square, 93047 Regensburg Nov. 23 - Dec. 23, 2015 Monday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Thursday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. www.christkindlmarkt-regensburg.de Advent Market in the Katharinen Hospital in Regensburg Katharinenspital in Stadtamhof, 93059 Regensburg Nov. 26 - Dec. 23, 2015 Montag - Friday, 4 - 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Rawetzer Advent Market 95615 Marktredwitz Nov. 26 - Dec. 24, 2015 Romantic Christmas below the Castle Ebermannsdorf Estate, Kirchberg 8, 92263 Ebermannsdorf Dec. 5 and 6, 2015 www.Christmas market-ebermannsdorf.de Advent Market in Bamberg Elisabethenplatz Square, 96049 Bamberg Nov. 27 - 29, 2015 Friday, 4 - 8.30 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. - 8.30 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Romantic Christmas Market at Wolfgangshof Estate in Zirndorf Wolfgangshof Estate, 90513 Zirndorf-Anwanden Nov. 27 - 29, Dec. 4 - 6, Dec. 11 - 13, Dec. 18 - 20, 2015 Opening hours: Friday, 3 - 8 p.m.; Saturday, noon - 8 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 8 p.m.

Admission fees: Adults and youths, ages 15 and up, 5 Euro; kids, ages 6 - 15, 1 Euro, www.gut-wolfgangshof.de (German only) Christmas Market in Pottenstein In and around the Bürgerhaus, 91278 Pottenstein Nov. 29, 2015 starting at 10 a.m.

Christmas Market in Pegnitz Main street in front of Bartholomäus Church, 91257 Pegnitz Dec. 5, 2015, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Bavarian Times | 52

| Christmas 2015

Christmas Market at Burgtreswitz Castle in Moosbach Schloss Burgtreswitz, 92709 Moosbach Dec. 5 and 6, 2015 Saturday, 3 - 9 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 7 p.m.

Admission fees: Adults, 1.50 Euro; free admission for kids up to the age of 12, www.schloss-burgtreswitz.de (German only)

Additional Christmas Markets in Southern Bavaria Christmas Market with Winter Fairytale Forest in Straubing Theresien- and Ludwigsplatz Squares, 94315 Straubing Nov. 26 - Dec. 23, 2015 Monday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Fridays and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 8 p.m.

Winter Magic at Traunsitz Castle in the Valley Burggasse 2, 92555 Trausnitz Dec. 5 and 6, 2015, Saturday, 1 - 9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Christmas Market in Garmisch-Partenkirchen Richard-Strauss-Platz Square, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen Nov. 29 - Dec. 23, 2015, daily from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Romantic Christmas Markt Burg Dagestein in Vilseck Schlossgasse 6, 92249 Vilseck Dec. 5 , 4.p.m. to 9 p.m. and 6, Dec. From 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. www.burg-dagestein.de (German only) Wildenreuther Castle Winter Fairytale Wildenreuth K3, 92681 Erbendorf Dec. 5 and 6, Dec. 12 and 13, 2015 from noon to 8 p.m.

Admission fees: Kids, ages 6 - 15, 2 €, adults, ages 16 and up, 4 € www.wildenreuther-wintermaerchen.de (German only) Advent Market at Kultur-Schloss Theuern in Kümmersbruck Kultur-Schloss Theuern, 92245 Kümmersbruck Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and 13, 2015 from 2 - 6 p.m. www.kultur-schloss-theuern.de (German only)

Seasonal Schloss Market in Tegernsee Schlossplatz Square, 83684 Tegernsee Dec. 5 and 6, Dec. 12 and 13, Dec. 19 and 20, 2015 from 2 - 9 p.m.

| by Editorial Department

Get more Christmas Markets in our region:

www.bavarian-times.com /christmas-markets

| Christmas 2015

Mine Christmas in Auerbach Auerbach, Germany -- Every year, thousands of visitors come to the old Maffei mine where more than 150 volunteers create a Christmas market with a special atmosphere. This mine Christmas below the illuminated shaft towers is no longer an insider’s tip. Instead, it attracts tour busses from all over northern Bavaria. Visitors also come by train from Nuremberg or by car from Schmidmühlen, Regensburg, Schwandorf or Amberg to marvel at this extraordinary backdrop. A woman from the Fichtelgebirge mountains is standing at the goulash booth and pays with her last Euro bill. “I have never before bought so much on a Christmas market,” she says and praises the unique atmosphere and the wonderful offers. The family from Thuringia read about this Christmas market on the web and is here for the first time. Many Americans have come, marvel at the sea of lights and the many handcrafted goods.

Photo Credit: Sabine Wiesent

“

What a beautiful market says the young woman from Vilseck.

“

The volunteers put a lot of effort in the decoration. Chains of lights, stars and tea lights in glasses sparkle everywhere. Last year, fresh Christmas trees were replaced by simple wooden pyramids which look very chic in the dark. Large Christmas trees, an artfully stacked pyramid of glasses with candles glasses are located below the shaft tower. Colored felt hats are tried on a few booth down the road at Theresia Eisend’s “Hoidlwahnsinn” (hat madness).“ This Nitzlbuch resident makes visitors happy. Metal objects, pottery, antique metal toys -- visitors are excited about the offers. And in many places you can hear people say: “We will come back here again. This is truly something extraordinary.“

What would a Christmas market be without its culinary delicacies. Strolling around makes you hungry. A hot beverage warms body and soul. At Maffei, visitors are spoiled with special delicacies. The hot “Miner’s Fire” is a legendary brew from juices, fresh fruit and liquor and a secret recipe. Only Birgit Heringklee and her team know the composition of the brew they produce in large silver pots on gas cookers. The ladies behind the inconspicuous metal door produce about 2000 liters. It’s bubbling in the pots and caldron by caldron is taken to the various fireplaces where the brew is served in cute cups.

450 liters of Apple-Glühwein and about the same amount of Blueberry- Glühwein will be sold out Sunday night, just like the “Miner’s Fire.”

The smell of aromatic sausages makes your mouth water. Lines of hungry visitors are looking forward to the hot sandwiches.

The “Pump House” next door is also extremely busy. Hot and cold beverages are sold. Adults and children get dessert from the booths selling sweets such as wafers or roasted almonds. .

For the first time, the “Schnitzelwirt” from Michelfeld is on Maffei. Günther Schenk and his team have sliced hundreds of tomatoes, are roasting their famous Schnitzel in three pans and serve gorgeous sandwiches. If that is not enough for you, then spoil yourself with some hot goulash a few booth away. Ladle by ladle, Wolfgang Wiesent and his helpers fill the hearty aurochs meat into bread-loaf halves. The lady from Schmidmühlen already visits the Mine Christmas for the fourth time and only comes to enjoy that specialty, she says. Maffei even sets new standards in this respect. | by Sabine Wiesent Get more Christmas Markets in our region:

www.bavarian-times.com /christmas-markets

Bavarian Times | 54

| Christmas 2015

Christ Child, angels and St. Nicholas 25th Anniversary Christmas Market in Pressath

It starts at 10 p.m. Many vendors‘ and hobby artists‘ booths are decorated for Christmas and offer regional products and goods. Food and beverages are available as well. Mayor Werner Walberer and city chaplain Edmund Prechtl will open the Christmas market at 1030 a.m. together with the music schools‘ brass band. At 2 p.m., the Christ Child will deliver the prologue, accompanied by angels and St. Nicholas.

Children are invited to paint their personal Christmas picture. It can be turned in all day long at the market. The prizes for this children’s event will be presented around 4.30 p.m. The anniversary raffle of the business association features great prizes, including shopping coupons in the value of 250 Euro, a trip to Verona,

a day ticket to the Sibyllenbad spa and much more. Musical entertainment will be provided as well to put everybody in the spirit of Christmas. | by Renate Gradl

Photo Credit: Christine Dierenbach

Pressath, Germany -- The Christ Child is very busy, and this year for the 25th time! The anniversary Christmas market will be held on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2015 on Schulstrasse at the Bgm.Hans-Ficker Club House in Pressath.

| Christmas 2015

Christ Child distributes presents

Photo Credit: Fritz Fürk

Christmas Market in Kirchenthumbach on Dec. 5 and 6 Kirchenthumbach, Germany -- Kirchenthumbach will host its traditional, regionally known Christmas market on the weekend of Dec. 5 and 6 on and around the market place. The market starts on Saturday at 5 p.m. with a church service in the local church, lit by candles. Afterwards, Christ Child Miriam Failner will deliver the prologue. She will be accompanied by four angels. Vendors invite visitors to visit their booths on the festively lit market place where they offer culinary delicacies. The Christ child will open the market at 7 p.m. The brass band will play Christmas music. Later in the evening, the night watchman will come accompanied by the tower trumpet players. The brass band will play Christmas music. Around 9 p.m., the night watchman will appear accompanied by the tower trumpet players. On Saturday, the market closes at 10 p.m.

On Sunday, stating at 2 p.m., the market place between church and Thumbach bridge will turn into town of booths with more than 30 vendors. At 2 p.m., the Christ Child will deliver the prologue.

Arts & Crafts Christmas Market Tirschenreuth in the historic Fischhof

Many local clubs, groups and regional artisans will present their goods and provide food and beverages to the guests. The intent of the of the Craftsmen and Business Association, which organizes the market, is to host an attractive with special, seasonal attractions.

At dusk, the Christ Child and the four angels will distribute presents on the square in front of the church. St. Nicholas will visit the cozy coffee shop in the parish center. On Turner Square, children can enjoy pony rides. The fee goes to charity. You can watch and be amazed when goods are baked in the 100-year-old wood oven on the Nußstein estate, including the well-known Nußstein rolls. Occasionally, you will hear music played by Martin Kohl on his street organ. Heberbräu brewery will be busy serving beverages and the small brewery museum will be open for visitors. On Sunday, the market closes around 7 p.m. | by Fritz Frück

Arts and crafts Christmas market in Tirschenreuth 2015 Experience one of the largest Christmas markets in the Oberpfalz: The Tirschenreuth Christmas market in and around the historic Fischhof. The Tirschenreuth Lions Club puts on this large arts and crafts holiday market on all four weekends of Advent: Saturday, Nov. 28 and Dec. 5 from 3-10 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 29 and DEC. 6 from 1-8 p.m.

Experience one of the largest and most atmospheric Christmas markets in the Oberpfalz. More than 120 vendors offer a large variety of goods with the historic Fischhof and Fischhof Park as their historic backdrop. Christmas tree ornaments, wood carvings, candles, pottery, metal art, jewelry, precious soaps, herbs, and other seasonal goods.

Sat., Dec. 5th, th and10 p.m.

8 2 . v o N 3 p.m. - th and . 29 .m. v o N , . n Su c. 6th, 1 p De 8 p.m.

Needless to say, Glühwein, roasted almonds and other specialties that warm body and soul will be offered along the culinary mile. A special highlight is the illumination with more than 350.000 LEDs which do not only illuminate the 28-meter-high Christmas tree in the courtyard of the Fischhof with snow flakes.

Admission is 3 € for adults, free admission for kids up to age 14. | by Franz Göhl Admission: 3 € Admissions are donated to welfare services in Tirschenreuth County Host: Lions Club Charity Tirschenreuth

Bavarian Times | 56

| Christmas 2015

Advertisement

The 11th Christmas market takes place on Dec. 13 Eschenbach, Germany -- A Christmas market will be held again below the town hall on Sunday, Dec. 13. It starts at 1 p.m. The Christ child, accompanied by five angels, will deliver the prologue at 3 p.m. Musical entertainment will be provided by the Netzaberg Middle School Choir. Visitors can stroll along many booths and vending tables and warm up with a Glühwein. Naturally, Bratwurst, steaks and sweets will be available as well. This year, the local business association will have its own vending table again, selling its own, home-brewed Zoigl beer for the first time. Arts and crafts can be admired in the building of the Sparkasse (bank).

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

The Christmas market also features a wide variety of musical entertainment. The Vierstädtedreieck Music School and Choir will play Christmas music and sing Christmas songs. St. Nicholas will also stop by with a bag full of sweets which he will distribute to the kids at 5 p.m.

There will be a petting zoo for kids and carriage rides with the Christ Child. At 6 p.m., the medieval fire show with Aki, the fire bird, will be a special highlight. The concert of the Vierstädtedreieck Music School starts at 7 p.m. in the Eschenbach church.

Donations are welcome.

Firework display with more effects this year Neumarkt, Germany -- “This year, fireworks for New Year’s Eve may be larger and more effectful than ever before,“ says pyro technician Dieter Koller of Koller Co. – Fireworks from Neumarkt. For many years, the company has put on firework displays for U.S. units in Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels, Ansbach-Katterbach, Bamberg and Würzburg for German-American Volksfests and on Independence Day. Additionally, Koller Co. has been the biggest seller of New Year’s Eve fireworks in the region.

As the regional reseller of the leading manufacturers and importers, A large selection of unusual items is guaranteed. You won’t find them in any supermarket. A so-called battery firework fires off up to 100 shots with one ignition. As of this year, under the Explosives Act, manufacturers may put several firework batteries on one board and connect them with fuses. As a result, you can enjoy a one-minute fireworks display with only one ignition. In accordance with the new law, these items may now contain up to 2000 grams of black powder.

Koller’s fireworks warehouse is open on Dec. 29 and 30 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Dec. 31, 2015 from 8 a.m. to noon.

| by Renate Gradl

| by Renate Gradl

Dec. 29 and 30 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Large New Year‘s Eve Fireworks Sale Dec. 31 8 a.m. - noon Koller Fireworks � Am Rödelberg 2 � 92318 Neumarkt Phone: 09181-460006 � Fax 09181-462778 E-Mail: info@koller-feuerwerk.de � www.koller-feuerwerk.de

Photo Credit: Koller Fireworks

Fire show, concert and St. Nicholas

| Christmas 2015

Christmas Market Kaltenbrunn Kaltenbrunn, Germany -- The association of clubs will hold its sixth Christmas market on Dec. 20, the fourth Sunday of Advent.

Preparations have already started to put up a small village with decorated houses and cozy corners. A lot of culinary delicacies will be available, along with seasonal pottery and decorations. Led

by Sepp Pritzl, a site plan has already been developed. The opening will take place at 4 p.m. on the market place. St. Nicholas will walk around with small presents for the children until 5 p.m. At 6 p.m., trombones will announce the Christmas play in front of the live manger. | by Siegfried Bock

Santa Claus, St. Nicholas and Gospels Invitation to the Upper Palatinate Advent Market on Saturday, Dec. 5 Grafenwoehr, Germany -- This year, the city of Grafenwoehr once again invites everybody to the Upper Palatinate Advent Market. On Saturday, Dec. 5. at 2 p.m., the brass players of the Grafenwoehr brass band will call all citizens from the top floor of the town hall to come to the market. First Mayor Edgar Knobloch and Col. Mark A. Colbrook will ceremoniously open the Advent Market together with the Christ Child.

At 4.30 p.m., St, Nicholas, his servant Ruprecht, Santa Claus and the Christ Child will visit the market and distribute sweets among the kids. Photos with the saints can also be taken. The musical highlight in the evening will be a special one this year: Hope and Joy, one of the most famous regional gospel choirs, will perform at 7 p.m. and fill the market with the spirit of Christmas. | by Renate Gradl

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl

Photo Credit: Siegfried Bock

Many vendors will offer a large assortment of Christmas goods.

Several Grafenwoehr clubs are offering food and beverages, including Glühwein, cookies and hearty food. A diversified entertainment program will be offered in the afternoon. Children can do arts and crafts in the museum or ride on the children’s carousel, or in a horse carriage. A raffle with valuable prizes will be held as well.

In the late afternoon, a “Nicholas Event” organized by the city and put on with the help of the citizens will add to the fun.

daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Haidplatz and Kohlenmarkt

Nov. 27 – Dec. 23.

Experience

Art & Culture during Advent

Bavarian Times | 58

| Christmas 2015

Germany’s most popular and most famous Christmas markets Every year, the smell of roasted almonds and gingerbread, hot Glühwein and choirs singing Christmas songs lure millions of visitors to Germany’s Christmas markets. During Advent, cities turn into charming Christmas worlds with their colorful booths, flavorsome delicacies and sparkling lights. We are introducing ten of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Germany.

Whether it is a cup of hot chocolate in Lübeck, a potato pancake in Cologne, a roasted Bratwurst in Nuremberg, or a slice of spiced “Hutzel bread” in Stuttgart, during Advent, visitors all over Germany stroll along decorated booths, drink Glühwein and enjoy the most beautiful time of the year.

1. Nuremberg Christmas Market The Christmas market in Nuremberg is Germany’s most famous Christmas market. It is traditionally opened on the Friday before the first Advent Sunday by the Christ Child with her golden curls, wearing a white and golden dress. Visitors from all over the world will fill the festively lit square in front of Frauenkirche church until Christmas Eve. 180 wooden booths with their red and white-striped cloth roofs give the Christmas market its name “little town of wood and cloth.” Attractions include the typical Nuremberg gingerbread, fruitcake and hearty roasted Bratwurst with their alluring smells. Christmas decorations, candles, mangers and other Christmas souvenirs are waiting to be discovered.

156 performances by children’s choirs, brass musicians and other Christmas concerts during the time of Advent in Dresden.

Art from the Erzgebirge mountains, glass art and pottery and much more is for sale at the 233 booths. Children can enjoy the kids’ ice skating rink, the kids’ train, the nostalgic carousel, or the dwarf theater. .

Date: Nov. 26 to Dec. 24, 2015 Opening hours: Daily from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Dec. 24, 10 a.m. 2 p.m.

4. Christmas Market at the Cologne Cathedral In Cologne, seven large Christmas markets are waiting to be discovered during Advent. The motto of the market on Rudolfplatz square is “A Fairytale Christmas;” The “Harbor Market” is located at the Chocolate Museum and he Haymarket square is the “Home of the Dwarfs.” The most popular market is the market at the cathedral where about 150 booths offer leather accessories, gingerbread, Glühwein, fruit cake, wooden jewelry and much more in a wintery setting. More than 100 stage performances such as the “Singing Christmas Market”, choirs

Date: Nov. 27 to Dec. 24, 2015 Opening hours: Monday thru Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Christmas Eve, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

2. Dortmund Christmas Market During Christmas time, about 300 booths invite visitors to a relaxed stroll through downtown Dortmund. If you have a sweet tooth, you can choose between roasted almonds, crêpes or candied fruit. If you prefer hearty food, you can enjoy Westphalian grilled ham or potato pancakes. The highlight of the Christmas market is the 45-meter-high fir tree, lit up by 48,000 lights in the dark. The seasonally decorated booths offer a large array of goods, including pottery, name-engraved rice grains, warm caps and scarves, and much more.

Date: Nov. 19 to Dec. 30, 2015; Closed on Nov. 22 and Dec. 25 (holidays) Opening hours: Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday und Saturday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday noon – 9 p.m.; Dec. 24, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (not all booths are open); Dec- 26, noon – 9 p.m.

3. Dresden: Striezel Market Every year before Christmas, the Striezel Market is held in Dresden’s baroque old town. At the opening, a 2011 millimeterlong stollen, the Dresden Striezel, will be cut and distributed to the visitors. The musical program on the history stage features

Snow guaranteed

Widest compact ski slope in Northern Bavaria

Free parking on large parking areas

always up to

date

Klausenlift - 95694 Mehlmeisel - Phone: 09272-909212

| Christmas 2015

The traditional look of the Nürnberg Christmas market serves as an example for

Every year before Christmas, the Striezel Market is held in Dresden’s baroque

many Christmas markets, such as the one in Chicago, for example.

old town.

and orchestras provide seasonal entertainment while visiting the market at the cathedral.

a donkey, lambs, sheep and goats. Regional choirs and orchestras provide musical entertainment at the Christmas market. A slice of the traditional Stuttgart Hutzel bread, a spicy fruit cake, puts the icing on the cake when visiting the city during Christmas time.

5. Rostock Christmas Market During Advent, the Rostock Christmas market with about 300 vendors is put up along the historic gabled houses of Rostock’s old town. Carousels provide fun for the kids, and all visitors can enjoy a beautiful view onto the colored lights from the 34-meter-high Ferris wheel. Santa Claus and the Fairy Tale Teller perform on the fairytale stage on the Neue Markt square.

Every day, Santa Claus offers a consultation-hour for kids with long wish lists. Adults enjoy Friday and Saturday evening when the “Glühwein Party” features live music, hot beverages and sweets such as “Muze”, fried pastries, chestnuts or almonds.

Photo Credit: Presse- und Informationsamt Nürnberg / Uli Kowatsch

Date: Nov. 23 - Dec. 22, 2015 Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

6. Frankfurt Christmas Market Frankfurt’s Christmas market is located on Römerberg and Paulsplatz. The half-timbered houses of the historic old town, combined with the festively decorated booths and the many lights on the fir trees put visitors in the Christmas mood. Advent concerts are held on the stage, children ride on the carousels and the 200 seasonally decorated booths offer gift ideas and sweets, including candied apples, roasted almonds, chestnuts and wafers. Visitors can warm up with a cup of fire-plier-bowl or a hot chocolate.

Date: Nov. 25 – Dec. 22, 2015 Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

7. Stuttgart Christmas Market A 24-meter-high fire tree decorates Stuttgart’s Schlossplatz square during Christmas time. Here, and on the Schiller-, Karlsand Market Squares, visitors stroll along 282 colored booths with Christmas decorations, arts and crafts, sweets such as cinnamon stars, sweet liquors and hearty snacks. A popular visitors’ attraction is the live manger at Sporenstraße featuring

Date: Nov. 25 – Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

8. Hamburg Christmas Market Hamburg features several Christmas markets during Advent, including the ones at the Binnenalster, St. Petri Church or on Mönckebergstraße. About 100 vendors present their goods on the Christmas market in front of the town hall. The specialty of this market is its architecture, designed by Bernhard Paul, director of Circus Roncalli. Offers include wood carvings, silver jewelry, baked apples, gingerbread and the specially created “town hall Glühwein.” Angels, dwarfs, reindeer and elves parade through downtown on the four Advent-Saturdays. Toys from around the world make kids’ eyes sparkle in Spielzeuggasse.

Date: Nov. 23 – Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Daily, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

9. Lübeck Christmas Market During winter, Lübeck becomes the “Christmas town of the North” because it features a total of nine Christmas markets.

Small visitors will enjoy the Christmas Wonderland with its dwarf forest along the Obertrave river, the kids’ ice rink, or the Christmas bakery. A maritime market, commemorating the Hansa tradition of the city, is put up on the Koberg offering fish, rum, wooden barrels and fisher nets. During Christmas time, the square in front of St. Mary’s Church turns into a fairytale world, decorated with twenty, lovingly decorated houses and figures such as Puss in Boots, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. In the evening, 275.000 lights immerse the city’s old town in a breath-taking light following the motto “Lübeck sparkles.”

Lübeck Christmas Market at the town hall: Date: Nov. 25 – Dec. 30, 2015 Opening hours: Daily, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Bavarian Times | 60

Photo Credit: Landeshauptstadt Dresden, Amt für Wirtschaftsförderung / Sylvio Dittrich

Date: Nov. 23 to Dec. 23, 2015 Opening hours: Sunday - Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Thursday/Friday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

| Christmas 2015

10. Berlin Christmas Market Visitors of the German capital can choose from many Christmas markets during Christmas time. In Spandau’s old town, 400 vendors put up their booths, at the Red Town Hall (Rotes Rathaus), visitors can enjoy the view onto the wintery Berlin from the 50-meter-high Ferris wheel or skate on the ice rink.

Many rides provide a special thrill between Jannowitz Bridge and Alexanderplatz, including the highest air swing in the world.

During Advent, Gendarmenmarkt square turns into a true winter wonderland. Artists such as chiselers, painters and tailors present their creations. In the well-heated food and beverage area, guests won’t freeze while enjoying their snacks and jugglers, acrobats and choirs provide entertainment.

Christmas Market on the Gendarmenmarkt Date: Nov. 23 – Dec. 31, 2015 Opening hours: Daily, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Admission: 1 Euro, free admission for children up to the age of 12 Free admission, Monday thru Friday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., except for Dec. 24, 25, 26 and 31.

Christmas Market in front of the “Red Town Hall” (Rotes Rathaus) Date: Nov. 23 – Dec. 29, 2015 Opening hours: Monday thru Friday, noon - 10 p.m.; Satur-

day/Sunday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; closed on Christmas Eve; Dec. 25/26, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Dec. 28/29, noon - 9 p.m.

Ice rink at the Neptune fountain: The ice rink can be used during normal opening hours. However, it is regularly closed for 30 minutes to maintain the ice.

Christmas Market in Spandau’s old town Date: Nov. 25 – Dec. 23, 2015Opening hours: Monday thru Thursday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday 11a.m. - 9 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Christmas Market on Alexanderplatz Date: Nov. 23 – Dec. 27, 2015 Opening hours: Monday thru Sunday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Dec. 24. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

| by Editorial Department

Get more Christmas Markets in our region:

www.bavarian-times.com /christmas-markets

| Christmas 2015

Excellent: In 2014, Zwickau’s Christmas market ranked fifth on the list of most beautiful Christmas markets, published by the newspaper Handelsblatt.

A Fairytale Advent in the “Leap in time-Region” Some of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets are located in and around Zwickau

Photo Credit: djd/Tourismusregion Zwickau e.V.

(djd). For most people, Advent and Christmas are the most beautiful time of the year. A visit to a Christmas market is mandatory.

"More and more people do not mind traveling quite a distance to enjoy a special atmosphere or extraordinary ambience," says Beate Fuchs, a travel expert with Ratgeberzentrale.de.

Christmas magic with a historic backdrop The historic old town of Zwickau with its lovingly restored Art Nouveau and Wilhelminian style buildings is worth a visit at any season and is the jewel of the “Leap in time-Region.” During Advent, the old gables are the framework for a Christmas market that is well-known beyond the borders of Saxony and in 2014 has ranked fifth on the list of most beautiful Christmas markets, published by the newspaper Handelsblatt, a German business daily. Starting on Nov. 24, more than one hundred vendors offer a colorful variety of holiday decorations, regional arts and crafts and culinary delicacies in lovingly decorated booths every day.

The highlight is the miners’ parade on Dec. 12 with bands and more than 400 participants, inviting visitors to experience a special kind of concert in the Domhof (cathedral courtyard).

Castle romance and traditional craftsmanship The castles located in “Leap in time-Region” provide a fairytale backdrop for romantic leaps in time. Their traditional Christmas markets enchant visitors with their special flair. The "Castle Christmas" on Waldenburg Castle, for example, features traditional craftsmen and live animals in the fairytale forest and attracts many visitors on the first Advent weekend.

You can also experience the spirit of Christmas at Osterstein Castle from the first through the fourth of Advent. The historic castle Christmas at the Forder- and Hinterglauchau Castles as well as the medieval Christmas market on Wolkenburg Castle feature an equally extraordinary ambience. "Other countries, other mangers" is the title of a traditional Christmas exhibition at Lichtenstein’s Daetz-Center.

For dates, go to www.zeitsprungland.de.

Get more Christmas Markets in our region:

www.bavarian-times.com /christmas-markets

Bavarian Times | 62

| Christmas 2015

The traditional Basel Christmas market is located in the midst of the beautiful

The Christmas pyramid on Basel‘s Barfüsserplatz Square is 13 meters high.

old town.

Advent in the Culture City Basel attracts visitors with an original, atmospheric Christmas Market

Dressed as “Santich lice“, about 50 Harley owners ride through downtown with their bikes before distributing St. Nicholas ("Santichlausesäggli") and "Grättimänner" pastry on the Market Place. Adults may buy Glühwein and "Grättimänner." All proceeds go to charity. If you’re still not tired of all the sparkling lights and booths, you can easily visit other Christmas cities located close to Basel. Colmar, Freiburg or Strasbourg, for example, are only a one-hour drive away.

For more information, go to

www.basel.com

Photo Credit: djd/Basel Tourismus/Andreas

(djd). Basel is worth a trip year-round. However, the city in the three-country triangle Germany-France-Switzerland is especially charming during Advent. Lovingly decorated houses, festively decorated shop windows and atmospheric street lights are the backdrop of the Christmas market in the historic old town, one of the oldest and largest of its kind in Switzerland. For the 38th time, visitors can look forward to arts and crafts, seasonal delicacies and much more. Many concerts, special exhibitions in the museums and exciting events provide for additional holiday flair and an event-filled stay in the city at the bend of the Rhine.

Amberg winterly beautiful!

Arts and crafts plus culinary delicacies The idyllic Christmas market stretches from Barfüsserplatz Square to Münsterplatz Square, and then all the way to Caraplatz Square. It starts on Nov. 26 and ends on Dec. 23, 2015.

Vendors and artisans offer a variety of goods. The culinary delicacies are tempting as well. Spiced wine, grilled sausages, delicious Swiss raclette, wafers and other sweet seasonal treats make staying worth your while. The gorgeous Christmas tree on Münsterplatz Square, decorated by Christmas specialist Johann Wanner, is a feast for the eyes. If you want to dig deeper into the world of Christmas decorations, you should pay a visit to the specialty store of this well-know Christmas tree outfitter.

Around the world, Wanner is considered a trendsetter regarding Christmas tree design and supplies the Pope as well as European royal houses.

"Santich louse" on a Harley The beginning of the Christmas season in Basel is ceremoniously celebrated on Nov. 26 at 6.30 p.m. with the so-called overture on Münsterplatz Square when, accompanied by music, all of downtown turns into a beautiful sea of lights. Another tradition is the "Niggi-Näggi Event" of the Harley Owners Group.

63 | Bavarian Times

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

t Christmas Marke uare on the market sq 2015 Nov. 26 – Dec. 23,

hlight City tours in torc

Air Art Location

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

| travel

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl (2)

Twisted world in the house that is upside down Maibrunn near St. Englmar, Germany -- Crawling along the ceiling like a fly or doing a handstand in bed poses no problem here. It is already crazy to see the house that is upside down from outside. Stroller, There, stroller, bicycle and BBQ grill do not stand in front of the door, they hang in the air. And when you enter the house, you experience a special kind of adventure.

most beautiful view. The 2.1 meter-wide path at a height of 30 meters has only a four percent grade and, therefore, is also suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The treetop path is part of a nature trail. Interactive info stations inform kids and adults about interesting facts and oddities of the local flora and fauna. Additionally, you can go on the path of optical phenomena and be taken in by a variety of illusions.

Everything is twisted in a house that is upside down. Additionally, the longitudinal inclination and slope really irritate our perception. Here, the ball on the ball path does not roll downhill but uphill. On two floors, bedroom, living room, dining room, bath and children’s rooms are fully furnished and pose a real challenge to visitors. However, this way of living is quite interesting -- at least for the moment. This twisted world is funny and makes for great keepsake photos. The house is located in Maibrunn near St. Englmar. In 2013, it won the tourism award for the most innovative outdoor attraction in the Bavarian Forest.

| by Renate Gradl

However, visitors can also walk above the treetops in the Bavarian Forest on a 350-meter-long treetop path. It is one of the longest of its kind in Germany and most likely the one with the

The house that is upside down is open year-round. Opening hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November though March, and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April through October.

A Christmas market is held on the four weekends of Advent on Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

For more information, go to

www.waldwipfelweg.de (German only)

Bavarian Times | 64

| food & drinkS

Grand Cru – Chocolate at its best

Based on these merits and awards, she could have gotten a job anywhere in the world. But the trained pastry chef deliberately returned to her home town. Here, she can live out her professional philosophy and realize her own creations. In 2009, she opened the chocolaterie and pastry shop Grand Cru with a small, elegant store in the rebuilt annex of the renovated halftimbered building. From here, she not only delights customers in Franconia but also customers beyond Germany’s borders..

The chocolaterie and pastry shop Grand Cru focuses on chocolate candy. Five times a year, for every season and on Christmas, a small, exquisite seasonal collection of especially created praline are offered. Regular customers excitedly look forward to the new assortment and are curious what made it into the assortment along with the well-known types of praline. You can purchase these treats in the store or book a subscription and have them mailed to your home or as a present to friends.

You can take part in the seminars offered if you want to gain experience as a pastry chef or get tips from a professional.

Most customers look forward to a small trip to Hochbach and shop directly in the store. If that’s not possible, chocolate treats can also be ordered via the Internet. | by Editorial Department

Chocolaterie & Patisserie Grand Cru Owner: Anna Kaerlein-Seip Hochbach 5 91593 Burgbernheim-Hochbach Phone: 09843-97935 info@chocolateriegrandcru.de Store opening hours: Wednesday - Friday, 2 - 6 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. - noon 1. Every first Saturday of the month is tart Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Online shop: To order chocolate and praline, visit

www.chocolateriegrandcru.de

Photo Credit: Anna Kaerlein-Seip (2)

Hochbach near Burgbernheim, Germany -- Anna Kaerlein-Seip operates the exquisite die exquisite chocolaterie and pastry shop Grand Cru in the small town of Hochbach, a unique decision not only because of the location. Anna Kaerlein-Seip has been all over the world and enjoyed an international career. After years of moving, including places like a five-star-hotel in St. Moritz (Switzerland), the summer fest of the German President, a chocolaterie in France, VIP catering in Basel and the patisserie gold medal at the Cooking Olympics where she displayed her pastry skills together with to colleagues on an international level.

Lovers of the French art of pastry rave of the seasonal assortments of tarts, small tarts and petits fours which are decorated with hand-made chocolate spirals and small, home-grown woodland strawberries with an intriguing, shiny fruit coulis.

Kaerlein-Seip remains true to her philosophy. All products are produced by hand and without machines. No convenience products, preservatives or flavor enhancers are used!

You can watch the production through the glass door. Customers especially enjoy watching the creation of festive tarts such as a three-story wedding cake with filigree decorations while simultaneously enjoying a cappuccino and French macarons at the small coffee bar.

65 | Bavarian Times

BräuWirt Restaurant and Brewery in Weiden’s Old Town!

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

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

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

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

| FOOD & DRINKs

Preparation time: about 50 minutes; for two people

Baking time: 60 minutes; 12 servings

Ingredients: • 2 sour apples (about 200 g each) • 1 tablespoon dried cranberries • 1 tablespoon dried cherries • 1 tablespoon sultanas • 6 tablespoons apple juice • 1 tablespoon minced almonds • 1/2 vanilla bean • 1 tablespoon cane sugar • 150 grams yogurt • 2 tablespoons eggnog

Ingredients (dough): • 85 g soft butter (room temperature) • 75 g sugar • 2 eggs • A dash of salt • 165 g flour • 2 table spoons cocoa • 2 teaspoons gingerbread spice • 1 package vanilla sugar • 1 package baking powder • Milk as needed • Jelly for the filling

Baked apples: 1. Put cranberries, dried cherries and sultanas in a small bowl and mix with the apple juice. Let it soak.

2. In the meantime, wash and core the apples.

Ingredients (topping): • 400 g mascarpone • 80 g powdered sugar • Cinnamon and jelly

3. Add the minced almonds to the mix of cranberries, cherries and sultanas and stir thoroughly

1. Mix the soft butter, sugar, vanilla sugar and salt in a bowl and blend it until creamy. Add the two eggs separately.

4. Use a teaspoon to fill the mix into the apples and put them into a casserole. Pour a little apple juice on them.

Bake for 30-35 minutes in the preheated oven at 390 degrees Fahrenheit (convection oven: 355 degrees Fahrenheit, gas oven: 3)

2. Separately mix flour, cocoa, baking powder and gingerbread spice, and slowly stir it into the butter mix until the dough is creamy. Add milk, if necessary.

Vanilla sauce: 1. Cut the vanilla bean lengthwise, scrape out the mark and mix it with the cane sugar.

Photo Credit: Fotolia.com, Printemps

Gingerbread Cupcakes

2. Stir the sugar mix and the eggnog into the yogurt until creamy.

3. Put paper molds into a muffin baking pan and fill it. Bake at 175 degrees C (350 degrees F) for approx. 25 minutes.

4. Let the cupcakes cool down and then put a small hole into the middle of them. Fill the holes with jelly.

5. Topping: Mix mascarpone with powdered sugar, blend it and decorate the cupcakes with it. Finally, sprinkle cinnamon on the cupcakes and put a dab of jelly on the topping.

Spread the vanilla sauce on two plates and put the baked apples on it.

Tip: A scoop of vanilla ice-cream also tastes well with baked apples. | by Editorial Department

| by Editorial Department Bavarian Times | 66

Photo Credit: diegluecklichmacherei.com

Baked apples with vanilla sauce

VAT-FREE SERVICES * only at TKS - save 19%

AMERICAN TV MOBILE INTERNET PHONE

best service for heroes TKS – for those who serve

For more information visit your local TKSShop. *VAT-form required

WORLDWIDE STRATEGIC PARTNER

www.tkscable.com

L�t � �l T KSS�ps

Cocktail Bar and Grill

Marktplatz 33 – 92655 Grafenwöhr Telephone: 09641/454857