Bavarian Times Magazine - Edition 4 - November/December 2021

Edition #04| November 2021

Yeah, it's for free

Bavariantimes News & Magazine for Grafenwoehr | Vilseck | Hohenfels

Christmas Markets 2021

USAG Bavaria unveils 15 new homes

//Page 34–41

//Page 8

Skiing and snowboarding in the Upper Palatinate and Franconia //Page 46

mon-sat open from 9.30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Christmas_shopping: festive, glamorous, gifts.

index & imprint Page 4

US Secretary of the Army: "The Army stays"

Page 6

African generals visit US training areas

Page 11

PCS moves now through Military OneSource

Page 12

Everyday ways to be energy smart

Page 14 GES and GES PTA recognized nation- ally as a School of Excellence

Page 15 USAG Bavaria recognizes over

1,100 years of combined civilian service

Page 16 Col. Charles Reed and the

"Operation Cowboy"

PAge 22 Everything you need to know about winter tires in Germany Page 30 Weisswurstfrühstück: Everything

to know about Bavaria’s traditional

white sausage Page 32

Bucket List for Europe & Germany: Christmas Edition

IMPRINT | Edition #04|11/2021, 4th Volume A Publication of: Oberpfalz Medien – Der neue Tag, Oberpfälzischer Kurier Druck- und Verlagshaus GmbH, Weigelstraße 16, 92637 Weiden Internet: www.onetz.de | www.bavarian-times.com E-Mail: editor@bavarian-times.com

Go online and read more stories

www.bavarian-times.com

Advertising: Ads: Alexander Süß (responsible) Sales: Stefan Neulinger | Phone: 0961/85-592 E-Mail: stefan.neulinger@bavarian-times.com Klaus Sporr | Phone: 0961/85-291 E-Mail: klaus.sporr@ bavarian-times.com Sattlergasse 4 92655 Grafenwöhr

Circulation + Production Circulation area: Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels Print: Oberpfalz Medien – Der neue Tag Project management: Produktmanagement Oberpfalz Medien

Telephone: 09641-3839

Editorial Editor: Matthias Plankl (responsible) Design & Layout: Laura Wiesgickl-Urban, Isabell-Katrin Diehl Cover picture: pressmaster – stock.adobe.com Pictures: Adobe Stock Copyright for the content, unless indicated otherwise, lies with Oberpfalz Medien – Der neue Tag, Weiden. Full and partial reproduction require prior written permission. The publisher is not liable for unsolicited manuscripts and photos.

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

09641-8595

Info@carrington.de

web

www.carrington.de

Mo.–Fr.: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. and by appointment

Contact the Editor editor@bavarian-times.com

3 | Bavarian Times

LL.M. | Rechtsanwältin | German Lawyer

tower barracks

US Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth signed the city's golden book. Gen. Christopher Cavoli (from left), County Commissioner Andreas Meier, Mayors Edgar Knobloch (Grafenwoehr) and Hans-Martin Schertl (Vilseck) as well as Brig. Gen. Joseph Hilbert were pleased about the visit of the high-ranking government representative.

US Secretary of the Army: "The Army stays" Grafenwoehr, Germany - It was a first for Grafenwoehr.

For the first time, a high-ranking member of the American government, US Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth, visited the town hall. Her message: “The US Army is not going anywhere, it is staying,“ sounded more than positive after Trump's withdrawal plans from last summer.

Three statements by American generals: "Grafenwoehr Training Area and Vilseck are the crown jewel of the US Army," "Grafenwoehr is the core of German-American friendship" and "the training area is fundamental to NATO" were quoted by Mayor Edgar Knobloch during the reception.

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

Together with County Commissioner Andreas Meier and Vilseck's Mayor Hans-Martin Schertl, they presented the region and the garrison towns to the guest from Washington.

The Upper Palatinate should be “a home away from home” for American soldiers and their families. Knobloch also made it clear that the people around the training area are ready to accept the burden of the training as long as the economic input into the region is right.

An announced troop withdrawal would not only have resulted in financial losses for the Northern Upper Palatinate, it would have also destroyed partnerships and genuine friendships that have developed over decades. Knobloch had praise for Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli, Commanding General, US Army in Europe and Africa. As a former commander of the 7th Army Training Command, he is an expert and friend of Grafenwoehr.

Cavoli had lifted the previous worldwide exit restriction for Soldiers in uniform, and the uniformed soldiers have now returned to the center of the city. The mayor also described the

Army's corona measures and the consistent quarantine rules as exemplary. Wormuth thanked the German officials for their support of the soldiers and assured them that the Army would stay due to new challenges for which the US armed forces are preparing.

The Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels Training Areas therefore play an important role in the defense of the alliance. "Grafenwoehr is essential for our operational readiness," emphasized Cavoli.

In addition to Cavoli, Wormuth was accompanied by the Commander General, 7th Army Training Command, Brig. Gen. Joseph E. Hilbert, and Garrison Commander Col. Christopher R. Danbeck. The visit ended with the entry into the city's Golden Book.

The secretary and her delegation were welcomed to the Culture and Military Museum with the sound of the alphorn. It is also the home of the grand piano that the most famous GI, Elvis Presley, once played in Grafenwoehr. White sausages and meat loaf were served at the Bavarian buffet in the Zoiglstube.

Wormuth also visited the US troops in the training area. The Secretary of the Army's visit began on Monday in Munich.

There, Minister President Markus Söder awarded the Bavarian Minister President's streamer to the US Army Europe and Africa - one of the highest military awards in the Free State of Bavaria. Wormuth accepted the award together with Cavoli.

| by Gerald Morgenstern Bavarian Times | 4

5 | Bavarian Times

GES kindergarteners trick-or-treat Grafenwoehr Mayor

African generals visit US training areas Grafenwoehr, Germany - 30 representatives from various African nations and NATO allies visited US training areas in the Upper Palatinate for four days. The so-called "African Land Forces Colloquium" was organized by the Southern European Task Force - Africa (SETAF-AF) of the U.S. Army, stationed in Vicenza, Italy.

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — In the spirit of Halloween, Grafenwoehr Elementary School kindergarteners donned costumes and visited the Grafenwoehr Rathaus and Mayor Edgar Knobloch on Thursday, Oct. 21. Per American tradition, the host nation mayor distributed trick-or-treat candy to the children, and in return, the children surprised him with sweets of their own.

According to Erica Finlay, a kindergarten teacher with GES, the school has a long-standing tradition of arranging class field trips to the city hall. However, the field trip was not held last year due to COVID-19.

Photo Credit: Andreas Kreuzer

“This is the first off-campus field trip of the year,” said Finlay.

“Also, this is our first field trip since COVID-19 impacted the world.” All three kindergarten classes of GES attended this educational outing. Together, they surprised the mayor by reciting a poem — in German — about autumn.

The meeting was the first visit by African generals and other high-ranking military officers since the incorporation of the Southern European Task Force - Africa into the US Army Europe and Africa. Its commander, Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli, also attended the colloquium one day. Cavoli was the commander of 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) in Grafenwoehr from 2014 to 2016.

7ATC also introduced the African guests to the excellent exercise opportunities at Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels Training Areas. In addition to insights into current training exercises, target construction equipment and electronic devices for recording hits on targets were presented on range 118. The intent was to provide the African partners with suggestions and examples for their own military training and the establishment of an infrastructure on their training grounds. | by Gerald Morgenstern

Before heading back to GES, the kindergarteners were given an opportunity to spend a few euros at the city center’s autumn festival, or Herbstfest. This farmers’ market celebrates the season’s harvest and the community as a whole.

“It helps the children learn more about the community around them, and it helps them learn about the person who runs the town,” Finlay said. “Plus, it’s nice for them to be out in the world and get out of the classroom.”

To view additional photos of the field trip, scan Code.

| by Sidney Sullivan

Major Gen. Andrew Rohling (third from left) and the 7th Army Training Command presented the training opportunities and infrastructure of the Upper Palatinate training areas to African generals and NATO allies at the African Land Forces Colloquium.

Bavarian Times | 6

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern

Grafenwoehr Elementary School kindergarteners exchange Halloween candy with Grafenwoehr Mayor Edgar Knobloch, Oct. 21, 2021. All three kindergarten classes of GES attended this educational field trip.

Major Gen. Andrew Rohling, the commanding general of the South European Reaction Force Africa of the US Army describes the African countries as important partners when it comes to global security. The colloquium is also intended to promote the dialogue between the African countries to clarify questions of military training independently and among each other.

HOHENFELS, Germany — October is Energy Action Month, and if you need any motivation to take action, look at the high cost of energy consumption.

Photo Credit: eurostat

This October has seen higher than normal energy prices, which has an impact on the U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria bill as well as your household bill.

Hohenfels

High costs should stimulate USAG Bavaria energy consumers to action

Revised European energy labels have been launched for some products such as fridges, freezers, dishwashers, washing machines, television sets, light bulbs and lamps.

More product categories will follow in the coming years.

Knowing that most of a household’s energy consumption goes into heating, the first thing you can check is whether your thermostat follows your weekly routine. Make sure your temperature is lowered during the night and when the house is empty.

The new labels show a simpler scale (from A to G), replacing the previous ones where more and more products were achieving ratings as A++ or A+++. This new scale is stricter so don’t be surprised to see more products in the B, C or D categories as it leaves space for even more technology improvement in the future. Scan the QR code on the label to get even more information on the model you are looking at.

Are your lights and appliances energy efficient? Look for energy-efficient products that will help you save money in the long term. To help you choose the best product, the EU has developed energy labels, with the same goal as the US ENERGY STAR label.

| by Paul Hlawatsch, USAG Bavaria Energy Manager

Original Thai Health Massage SAENSUK • • • • • •

Traditional body Massage Foot Massage Steam-heated herb pouch Massage Face Massage Hot stone Massage Wellness for body and soul 7 | Bavarian Times

Opening Hours: Mon.–Fri.: 9.30 a.m.–7 p.m.

Sat.: 9.30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Give the gift of health with a coupon to family and friends.

Experienced personnel with a long professional history is looking forward to your coming!

Our new staff is looking forward to seeing you.

Untere Vorstadt 9 · 91275 Auerbach Telephone: 09643-20 62 662

Rose barracks

USAG Bavaria unveils 15 new homes

Col. Patrick Dagon (right), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Europe District commander, presents U. S. Army Garrison Bavaria Garrison Command Col. Christopher Danbeck with a symbolic key to the neighborhood during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Rose Barracks on Oct. 6, 2021.

VILSECK, Germany — On Wednesday, Oct. 6, a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of 15 new family homes in the Kittenberg Housing Area of Rose Barracks. This achievement successfully concludes phase two of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria’s ongoing project to provide new homes to service members in Vilseck.

USAG Bavaria, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Europe District and Staatliches Bauamt Amberg-Sulzbach (also known as the State Construction Office of Amberg-Sulzbach) partnered together to construct and reveal the new housing units.

According to Roman Beer, director of Staatliches Bauamt Amberg-Sulzbach, the second phase started in September 2017. By 2020, 14 homes were completed and made available for Soldiers and their families to move in. The homes revealed at this ceremony bring the total number to 29 for this phase.

Photo Credit: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

“In constructive collaboration with our planners, our clients, the Corps of Engineers and our contractors, we again completed a great construction project,” said Beer. “Today, we are celebrating the inauguration of 15 new residential buildings.”

These new three and four-bedroom homes are reserved for junior non-commissioned officers and their families. According to the USACE Europe District Commander, Col. Pat Dagon, these new homes will improve the quality of life for those that move in.

“This project is special to us because we know that service members and their families will be moving in.” Dagon said. “Hopefully these homes will make them a little more comfortable.”

The Tower and Rose Barracks Post Office hours are extending for the holiday season!

The extended hours will start on Monday, Nov. 1, and end Friday, Jan. 7.

The new homes come equipped with new amenities and have the latest cooling and heating technology — meeting both U.S. and German standards for housing. Furthermore, skylights, solar panels, STAR-rated appliances, fire suppression systems and remote garage door openings come standard in these quarters.

Bavarian Times | 8

Rose Barracks Members of USAG Bavaria, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and contractors that worked on phase two of the Rose Barracks housing project tour the newly constructed homes after a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Rose Barracks, Oct. 6, 2021.

Additionally, one of the houses is constructed to be compliant with American Disability Act standards.

During the ceremony, Dagon presented USAG Bavaria Garrison Commander Col. Christopher Danbeck with a symbolic key to the neighborhood.

“It’s a huge team effort. I’m really proud of our partnership with USAG Bavaria,” Dagon said. “We take great pride in being able to coordinate and lead the project delivery team to construct one of these houses, in this case, 29 of them.”

“I’m grateful to have such strong partners like Col. Dagon and his team at USACE and my hard-working team here at USAG Bavaria, especially the Directorate of Public Works,” said Danbeck.

“I also want to thank Mr. Schertl for his continued support and the support of Vilseck.”

Photo Credit: Julian Temblador (3)

Mr. Hans-Martin Schertl, the Vilseck Mayor, was also in attendance.

“It’s great to be here today revealing new homes,” Schertl said.

“New homes in Vilseck means a great future for Vilseck. It’s great to see that the Army is investing in this installation.”

From left to right, Mr. Roman Beer, Col. Christopher Danbeck, Command Sgt. Maj. Sebastian Camacho, Col. Patrick Dagon, and Vilseck Mayor Hans-Martin Schertl cut a ribbon to signify the completion of 15 newly constructed homes at Rose Barracks, Oct. 6, 2021.

Sun Tanning Studio Grafenwoehr SUN VITAMIN D RELAXATION A LITTLE BREAK FOR YOU

The new homes will be available for occupants to move in soon.

The third and final phase of the housing project will bring 36 more homes to Vilseck. This phase is projected to start in March 2022 and be completed in April 2024. | by Julian Temblador

9 | Bavarian Times

Alte Amberger Str. 35 (200 m to Gate I)

OPENING HOURS: Mo – Fr

7 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sat, Sun- and public holidays

9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Photo Credit: vectorfusionart – stock.adobe.com

USAG Bavaria implements health and civilian fitness program GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria implemented the fitness and health program for civilians to ensure maximum health and disease prevention for the workforce. Garrison Commander Col. Christopher Danbeck signed the Department of the Army Civilian Fitness and Health Promotion Program policy into effect on Sept. 13.

works for the garrison S6 Shop. “I joined the Fitness Program, and I feel good after completing my Nordic Walking sessions.”

Subject to governing law, regulation and policy, full-time United States civilian and local national employees may be granted up to three hours of administrative leave per week. It is limited to one hour per day and three hours per week — not to exceed a maximum of 80 hours per calendar year. This includes participation in command-sponsored fitness and health promotion programs, such as physical fitness activities, preventive health events, education on health promotion topics (like nutrition and exercise principles), and any other activities covered by the program.

Employees participating in the program will use garrison fitness facilities to the maximum extent possible. Employees in telework status may join the program. In this case, the supervisors may approve the use of an offsite fitness facility.

To enroll in to the program, employees need to assess their fitness program participation with their supervisor. The next step is to sign a written program participation agreement at least annually, or more frequently if deemed appropriate by the supervisor.

The fitness times — coordinated with the supervisor — are also part of the agreement. The employee also needs to provide a self-certify that they are not aware of any medical conditions or limitations that would put them at risk of injury or illness while participating in the program. Once complete, both employee and supervisor should retain a copy of the agreement for their records. Lastly, the employee needs to ensure proper timekeeping, because the fitness time is considered administrative leave.

All USAG Bavaria civilian employees, which includes GS employees, local nationals and NAF employees, are eligible to join the program. Employees should ask their supervisor if the mission allows them to join the program.

“This is a good opportunity to keep your body in better shape and increase your personal fitness,” said Hans-Peter Brunner, who

The administrative fitness time can be taken in conjunction with the employee’s regular lunch break. The time for showering and commuting to the gym is included in the hour.

Recreational sports — golf, bowling, baseball, softball or basketball — are not authorized within the fitness program. Additionally, it is mandatory that the participating employee report to their workstation before and after each authorized fitness period. The maximum fitness allotment of three individual one hour periods cannot be transferred to the next week, if unused.

Employees serving on a Performance Improvement Plan, who are subject to leave restrictions, or who have been disciplined within the previous year, are ineligible to participate in the program.

A supervisor can also deny participation based on workload or mission requirements.

For more information, view the policy and forms here. Scan QRCode.

| by Andreas Kreuzer Bavarian Times | 10

tower barracks

PCS moves now through Military OneSource

SCAN ME

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — The official DoD customer moving portal that service members, DoD civilians and family members use during a permanent change of station is migrating from move. mil to militaryonesource.mil. Customers will still be able to sign in and use move.mil until Nov. 1. Afterward, Military OneSource will be the only website customers can utilize for official PCS moves.

Military OneSource is a DoD-funded program that offers service members online resources and support, including planning and packing tips, financial counseling and more.

Photo Credit: Rido – stock.adobe.com; Military OneSource

The transition to Military OneSource provides customers with additional resources and a more comprehensive moving experience. While customers will still have access to features that were available on move.mil — like signing into the Defense Personal Property System, scheduling pick-up and drop-off appointments, and filing claims — customers will also have access to additional moving tools, such as: Planning Tools The Military OneSource planning tool, Plan My Move, lets customers create customized PCS checklists that track tasks and offer information on how to complete them.

• •

Additional PCS moving assistance tailored for each service branch COVID-19 moving guidance update

Moving Guides • Preparing to move • Moving entitlements • Moving days • Moving tips • Claims • Customer satisfaction survey • Moving articles Support Military OneSource lets customers connect with relocation experts via phone, online chat through the website or scheduled meetings with online Military OneSource consultants.

For more information on planning PCS moves with Military OneSource, scan QR-Code. | by Julian Temblador, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria

Customer service contacts for military PCS • Local transport office • Technical help desk • Privately owned vehicle shipping and storage • Service branch help desks and claims offices Moving resources • Moving guides to help get you organized • Moving videos with news updates, tips and advice from the Defense Personal Property Program (DPS) • FAQs about moving your personal property • Brochures and fact sheets about claims, policies, entitlements, etc.

11 | Bavarian Times

R E A L R E A L R E A L

E S TAT E E S TAT E E S TAT E

Max-Reger-Str. 16 Max-Reger-Str. 16C City Center Turm Max-Reger-Str. 16C City Center Turm 92637 Weiden City Center Turm C 92637 Weiden Phone (09 61) 612 20 92637 Weiden Phone (09 61) 612 20 www.immobilien-sparrer.com Phone (09 61) 612 20 www.immobilien-sparrer.com info@immobilien-sparrer.com www.immobilien-sparrer.com info@immobilien-sparrer.com info@immobilien-sparrer.com

Everyday ways to be energy smart

today. Pick a few to practice this month. Then once they become second nature, add in more to expand energy conservation in your home and become an energy-saving professional. The earth and your wallet will thank you.

Adjusting your daily behaviors with simple, small changes can lead to huge savings, such as:

We should all work to assess our energy use and address areas where we are wasteful, because there are finite amounts of energy resources available to us. As populations grow and energy consumption rises, the need for energy conservation — the practice of using less energy — becomes more critical. Less energy consumption can help you reduce your environmental impacts and even help lower your energy costs.

• Be mindful of your thermostat. Heater and air condit ioning costs account for nearly half of an average utility bill, so make adjustments for daily periods when you are out of the house.

Reductions in intensity and frequency of use offer the greatest opportunity for savings.

• Turn off lights when you leave a room.

• Turn off appliances when they are not in use. Appliances waste small amounts of energy while in standby mode. To avoid waste, completely turn off or even unplug appliances like your blender, coffee maker, toaster and blow dryer when they are not in use.

An overhaul to your energy consumption does not have to mean extensive changes to your home or life. Instead, simple behavior adjustments can have significant impacts when incorporated into your day-to-day routine. Change can be overwhelming, but the lists below outlines simple actions you can begin implementing

• April, 2022

Yeah, it's for free

BAVARIANTIMES News & Magazine for Grafenwoehr

| Vilseck | Hohenfels

Ein Produkt der

MES BAVARIANTI

Edition #03|

July/August

free

2019

News & Magazine

ehr | Vilseck

for Grafenwo

Edition #02| May

| Hohenfels

2019

BAVARIANTIMES Ein Produkt der

Yeah, it's for free

Save your Ad in the future

Advertisement needed in Print or Web?

Ein Produkt der Edition #01| March 2019

Yeah, it's for

Photo Credit: xreflex - stock.adobe.com

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — October is National Energy Awareness Month; moreover, a time to challenge yourself to become more energy smart. U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria community members can implement small changes to the everyday routine and see significant differences in energy consumption and utility bills.

41st Field Artillery Brigade reactivated in Grafenwoehr 3 reasons to attend the USAG Bavaria Career Summit //Page 36

-American 61st German fenwoehr Volksfest Gra Norrie is new Brig. Gen. at 7ATC commander //Page 6

News & Magazine

for Grafenwoehr

| Vilseck | Hohenfels

Mr. Stefan Neulinger stefan.neulinger@bavarian-times.com Phone: 0961 / 85-592

//Page 14

Diary of an American kid at a German school //Page 37

//Page 4

safety tips issues heat Red Cross s climb as temperature //Page 16

Army G-4 offers tips to prepare for the peak movi ng season Interview with a Dirndl designer

//Page 10

Barcelona’s sights //Page 34

Contact our Sales Department

//Page 45

Mr. Klaus Sporr klaus.sporr@bavarian-times.com Phone: 0961 / 85-291 Bavarian Times | 12

Tower Barracks

• Perform household tasks manually. Hand washing dishes requires less energy than a dishwasher; furthermore, air-drying laundry is more energy-efficient than using the dryer. Clothes dryers consume as much energy as a refrigerator, dishwater and washing machine combined. If you must use the dryer, be sure to clean the lint filter and use the moisture sensor setting.

• Wait until you have full loads. Only run appliance washers — dish or laundry — when you have enough items for a full load and use appropriate water settings.

• Use new energy-saving technologies. Although energy-saving technologies may have higher upfront costs than older counterparts, the energy efficiency saved overall will lower your energy costs significantly and save you money in the long run.Replace old light bulbs. Upgrade to halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), or light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs). These bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.

• Where you can, purchase energy-efficient appliances. Appliances with the ENERGY STAR label have a federal guarantee that they will consume less energy than standard models.

• Use smart power strips. Significant amounts of energy are consumed when electronics are off. This unintentional energy use is called “phantom loads,” and it is a substantial source of energy waste and utility costs. Smart power strips, or advanced power strips, eliminate phantom loads by shutting off power to electronics when they are not in use.

• Do not use more energy than you need. Thoughtful actions will ensure that you are not unintentionally consuming energy.

• Be mindful of hot water use. Heating water uses a significant amount of energy. Try to use less hot water or turn the thermostat on your water heater down a few degrees.

Consider shorter and cooler showers and wash most clothing on cold cycles.

• Weatherize your home. Drafts mean lost energy. Insulate your home with heavy drapes and carpets. Use draft stoppers — both for doors and windows — where necessary.

• Use reusable items. Single-use plastics and disposable items use a lot of energy to manufacture and do not offer great returns. Instead, purchase reusable items and repair items you already have to cut down your energy footprint.

• Try to charge less. When possible, put your phone or laptop on energy-saving mode. This will help save your battery and require less energy to charge.

| by Megan McKnight USAG Bavaria Environmental Division

To learn more, contact the USAG Bavaria Environmental Division at: https://home.army.mil/bavaria/ index.php/environmental

Ready to sell youR House?

We Will sell youR Home Fast!

Our services will cover ALL aspects of selling your home in Germany including: developing a professional exposé with high quality pictures & drone shots, listing & handling viewings, setting up the notary, communication w/ German authorities, and translation of contract.

Contact us today to get started.

We speak English!

Phone / WhatsApp: 0172- 477 3366 13 | Bavarian Times Email: info@lbi-gmbh.com

Ludwig Behrendt Sebastian Hilbert

40+ years of combined experience in real estate including military families in Kaiserslautern & greater Grafenwöhr area.

Tower Barracks

GES and GES PTA recognized nationally as a School of Excellence

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — National PTA has recognized Grafenwoehr Elementary School and Grafenwoehr Elementary School PTA as a 2020-2022 School of Excellence for their accomplishments in building a strong, effective family-school partnership that is enriching the educational experience and overall well-being for all students.

Photo Credit: Charissa Olson / Grafenwoehr Elementary School PAO

“We are thrilled to honor the accomplishments of Grafenwoehr Elementary School and Grafenwoehr Elementary School PTA,” said Anna King, president of National PTA. “Their efforts have made a positive impact for all students, families and their school, which has been and continues to be more important than ever, especially given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

National PTA’s School of Excellence program is a year-long comGES and GES PTA was recognized by the National PTA as a School of Excellence for 2020 – 2022. The banner of mitment to improving family-school the achievement proudly hangs outside the school, Sept. 21, 2021. partnerships. Throughout the year, PTAs and schools collect feedback from their school communities to create and implement plans of action to make a difference ting classrooms ready with COVID mitigation in place. The 589th for every child. Through the School of Excellence program, PTAs Brigade Support Battalion also provided GES support getting and families become key partners in decision-making and school classrooms set up for the new school year, and they welcomed improvement efforts. The program opens the lines of communithe teachers and staff back to school with a luncheon. In additication and critical thinking within school communities to make on, the PTA focused on family engagement by hosting quarterly data-drive decisions that yield positive, long-term results. virtual Bingo nights and two virtual STEM nights to create stronger family-school partnerships.

“It has been especially critical to have open lines of commu“Encouraging parent-student engagement is one of the best nication, strong family-school partnerships and families as ways we have helped to create a positive learning environment key partners in decision-making process during the COVID-19 at GES. Solid family relationships not only enhance academic pandemic. We must continue to keep these practices going in performance, but also have a positive influence on student atthe new school year to address learning gaps experienced dutitude and behavior. The programs and activities the GES PTA ring the pandemic and support students’ social and emotional provide help parents achieve the satisfaction of contributing to needs,” said Nathan R. Monell, CAE, National PTA executive ditheir children’s education and future,” said Andi Schwartz, Prerector. “National PTA’s School of Excellence program can help strengthen or rebuild family-school partnerships while we consident of GES PTA. tinue to recover from the effects of COVID-19 and ensure stuTo celebrate their achievements, National PTA presented GES dents, families and schools have what they need to thrive.” and GES PTA with a certificate and a National PTA School of Excellence banner to hang in their school. For more information GES and GES PTA are one of only 351 PTAs and schools nationabout the National PTA School of Excellence program, visit PTA. wide to be designated a 2020-2022 School of Excellence. GES org/Excellence. focused on building their community partnership with the 589th Brigade Support Battalion over the past year with everything | by Charissa Olson, from holiday goodies provided by the student council to getGrafenwoehr Elementary School PAO Bavarian Times | 14

USAG Bavaria recognizes over 1,100 years of combined civilian service

USAG Bavaria Garrison Commander Col. Christopher Danbeck speaks to awardees during the Length of Service award ceremony on Oct. 15, 2021.

During the ceremony, Col. Danbeck, USAG Bavaria Command Sgt. Maj. Sebastian Camacho and the Local Works Council Chairman, Wolfgang Dagner, presented awards to civilian employees for 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of service.

“Today, we have come together to honor some of our most dedicated employees,” Danbeck said. “We are fortunate to have you here in Bavaria as you continue to demonstrate a deep interest in the welfare of this community.”

One awardee, Directorate of Morale, Welfare and Recreation employee, Melvin Gonzales, was awarded during the ceremony for 45 years of service to the U.S. Army.

Present at the ceremony were the Bürgermeisters, or mayors, of the awardees who were recognized during the ceremony.

Each Bürgermeister congratulated and took photos alongside the awardees.

Below is a list of the Length of Service awardees: 45 Years of Service Award Recipients: • Melvin Gonzales 40 Years of Service Award Recipients: • Fritz Arnold • Maria Haeusler • Gerhard Hartung • Claudia Maria Hohlruether • Franz Kugler • Waltraud Moessbauer • Leonhard Proelss • Karoline Prunhuber • Joseph Reid • Gerhard Reil • Peter Rossberger • Guenther Schipke • Ulrike Schwarzmeier • Kurt Seidler • Helmut Wittich

35 Years of Service Award Recipients: • Iris Denninger • Christine Dobmann • William Fox • William Hall • Josef Lang • Sabine Poerschke • Donald Wrenn 30 Years of Service Award Recipients: • Wolfgang Fischer • Deborah Gonzales • Caecilia Kastl-Meier 20 Years of Service Award Recipients: • Matthias Fahrnbauer • Michael Kneidl • Guenter Messer • Karl Rohrer • Michael Werner Schoger • Inge Spoeth • Sonja Wessely • Alex Yackeyonny There are 1,140 years of combined service between the German and American garrison employees recognized during the ceremony.

“I would like to personally express our appreciation to each honoree for your sincere and devoted efforts,” Danbeck said.

“You are the essence of our community’s success: People who do what needs to be done day after day, year after year or even decade after decade. All of this without losing your enthusiasm and commitment to providing quality services.”

At the end of the ceremony, Col. Danbeck and Mr. Gonzales, the awardee being recognized for 45 years of service, cut the cake in the traditional celebration of those individuals awarded for their commitment to the United States Army.

For more photos from the ceremony, please scan the QRCode. | by Julian Temblador

15 | Bavarian Times

Photo Credit: Julian Temblador

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Thirty-four German and American civilian employees were recognized by Col. Christopher Danbeck, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, at a Length of Service ceremony on Oct. 15, 2021, at the USAG Bavaria Tower View Conference Center in Tower Barracks.

history & nature

The photograph of Col. Charles Reed (second from left) inspecting a Lipizzaner horse hangs in the headquarters of the 2d Cavalry Regiment in Vilseck. Hostau stud manager Lt. Col. Hubert Rudofsky is shown in Wehrmacht uniform.

Vilseck, Germany - "Operation Cowboy" saved the world-famous Lipizzaner horses at the Bohemian Hostau stud farm from the Russian troops in April 1945. The focus of the operation on Czech territory was "Horseman and Gentleman Officer" Col. Charles Hancock Reed. Reed was the 31st commander of the 2d Cavalry Regiment. The "Dragoons," the oldest cavalry regiment of the US Army still on active duty, are now stationed in Vilseck.

Its story is told in the Reed Museum, which is located in a stable from the Wehrmacht era.

Reed Museum in Vilseck The original uniform of Reed, his medals and decorations, his binoculars and some mementos are presented in the first showcase. Museum director James Zadra can tell that the former "Trophy Room" of the Dragoons was renamed in 1980 in honor of the deserved commander of the regiment.

In April 1945, Reed was made aware of the stud by a German secret service officer. Germany had lost the war and the future borders had already been laid down in the Victory Conference in Yalta. The legendary Gen. George S. Patton gave permission for the planned operation, which clearly disregarded the Yalta Agreement.

Photo Credit: Gerald Morgenstern (3)

Staff veterinarian Dr. Rudolf Lessing and the Hostau stud manager, Lt. Col. Hubert Rudofsky initiated the operation on the German side. A small task force of the 42d Squadron advanced into Czech territory, where the Americans encountered little resistance. The removal of around 370 horses was prepared with volunteer German soldiers, Belarusian Cossacks and US soldiers with riding experience. The Lipizzaner horses were herded in small herds, foals and pregnant mares were loaded onto converted trucks.

The US soldiers reached German territory near Kötzting. "Operation Cowboy" required a great deal of tactical action and logistical organization. Not only keeping and moving horses but also transporting and caring for prisoners of war and refugees, including women and children, was more than just a hussar. It was a stroke of genius that went down in military history and was also made into a film.

In the meantime, the director of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, Col. Alois Podhajsky, contacted Gen. Patton in St. Martin im Innkreis, Austria, and asked for the rescue of the "White Horses." On May 18 and 25, the horses came to St. Martin. A total of 215 animals were returned to Austrian control. The remaining horses were later transferred to German horse breeding facilities and a selection finally shipped to the USA. | by Gerald Morgenstern

Tribute to Patton and US cavalrymen Vilseck, Germany The soldiers of the 2d Cavalry Regiment were the focus of a celebration in St. Martin im Innkreis, Austria. In the last | by Gerald Morgenstern days of the war in 1945, its 31st commander, Col. Charles Reed, saved the world-famous Lipizzaner horses from the Russian troops in a military hussar piece. The horses were brought from the Czech town of Hostau via Kötzting in Bavaria to St. Martin, where a plaque now commemorates Operation Cowboy.

"Vienna without the Riding School would be like New York without the Statue of Liberty," said retired Col. Elmar Rosenauer, the regional chairman of the "Comradeship Field Marshal Radetzky Upper Austria," a traditional association and partner of the Austrian Armed Forces. Tradition was also a top priority at the celebration.

The city band Vöklabruck in their dashing K. and K. uniforms knew how to present military music from the Radetzky March to Stars and Stripes and Washington Post March. The regiment from Vilseck brought their honor guard, dressed in their Army Service Uniforms and wearing their cavalry Stetsons. The traditional Landwehr-Uhlan club in its historical military skirts formed a counterpoint. The representative of the US ambassador in Vienna, Mario Mesquita, praised the celebration as a special moment that further strengthened the friendship between the Republic of Austria and the USA. The 81st commander of the traditional 2d Cavalry Regiment, Col. Joseph Ewers, emphasized in his speech how important it was for the horse enthusiast Reed to save the white horses with the operation of the regiment’s 42d Squadron.

"The horses made friends from former opponents," said Ewers.

The commander especially thanked Rosenauer with the presentation of the regimental coat of arms and an original cavalry StetBavarian Times | 16

Col. Charles Reed and the "Operation Cowboy" US soldiers secured the World Heritage of the White Horses over 75 years ago

History of the Training Area son, accepting him into the ranks of the US cavalrymen.

In his historical review, Rosenauer described the events of the spring of 1945. “I feel obliged to say a big thank you to the US Army even after more than 75 years. The soldiers did a great job rescuing the world cultural heritage of the White Horses, ” he said. The celebration should also be understood as a homage to the legendary Gen. George Patton.

“Grafenwoehr Training Area, Yesterday - Today” is the title of the bi-lingual book written by Reserve Sgt. Major Gerald Morgenstern. A new edition was released in December 2018. On 288 pages with more than 800 photos, it does not only tell the history of the training area since 1910 but also covers the development of the training area in recent years. The book also includes greetings by US Army commanders and the development of Hohenfels Training Area. In a detailed chapter, the history of the 2d Cavalry Regiment is portrayed. “Grafenwoehr Training Area, Yesterday - Today” is available in bookstores and at various sales locations on and off post.

Patton, who was equally enthusiastic about horses, placed the riding school under the special protection of the 3rd US Army on May 7, 1945 in St. Martin. Through Operation Cowboy, the valuable Lipizzaner horses were returned to the newly formed Austria, it reads on the marble plaque. The plaque was unveiled by the dressage rider and gold medalist at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow, Sissy Max-Theurer.

,M

ast

erc

ard

| by Gerald Morgenstern

When presenting this voucher at the counter, you will get a

Closer to you, more for you!

10%

Vilseck | Industriestraße 7 | Phone 09662-9820 Mail: werkmarkt@einhaeupl.de

on an article of your choice.

isa ,V EC m,

• • • • • •

for

•

Paint and paint mixing service Tools and machine tools Hardware, electric installation supplies and lamps Gardening tools, fences, garden furniture Plants for deck, balcony and garden CHRISTMAS TREES STARTING ON 27 NOV 2020 Indoor and outdoor decorations, bavarian souvenirs and gifts Household goods, electrical appliances, dishes Toys Lock and key service Delivery and fitting service Gas supplier HERMES drop off and pick-up point

Tax

• • • • •

For more information, visit us on Facebook at “Grafenwoehr Training-Area Book,” or by sending an e-mail to morgenstern. gerald@t-online.de. The book may also be ordered online.

discount

health

More than a stomach ache

Photo Credit: djd / Sanofi / Buscopan / Shutterstock / goffkein.pro

How irritable bowel syndrome can be treated holistically

(djd). The symptoms are varied: a feeling of pressure and painful cramps in the abdomen, flatulence and sometimes nausea and diarrhea. Clearly, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is more than just a little stomach ache. And those affected not only struggle with physical complaints, but also with psychological and social consequences. Since the organic causes have not yet been adequately researched and there are many triggers, including stress, genetic predisposition or an unbalanced diet, treatment is often complex and lengthy.

Start with a two-week program A holistic approach is therefore useful to bring peace to the stomach. For some sufferers, an irritable bowel-friendly diet helps.

"FODMAP" (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols) is therefore an important keyword for the two-week program.

These types of sugar and sugar substitutes can be found in foods such as milk and dairy products, bread made from flour dough, sweet fruit and of course in sweets. They are metabolized in the intestine and can then trigger the symptoms. You should therefore avoid these things and focus on other delicious dishes - for example crunchy muesli with oat milk for breakfast, scrambled eggs with tofu for lunch and salmon with jacket po-

Your health is our priority Sanitätshaus

tatoes for dinner. Recipes can be found at www.digestio.de.

Another pillar of treatment is support from the pharmacy. Medicines containing peppermint oil, such as Buscomint for irritable bowel syndrome, can help relieve gas and abdominal pain. In order Cramps, gas, diarrhea and more: irritable bowel to be able to observe and assess syndrome has a huge imthe effect on abdominal problems, pact on everyday life. it should be taken regularly for 14 days, always 30 minutes before each meal. There is often noticeable relief from irritable bowel symptoms. Scientific meta-analyzes also show that peppermint oil often has positive effects in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.

Listen to your stomach Last but not least, every person affected should carefully listen to themselves or to their stomach for a while. What is good for me?

What is stressing me? It is also important to find specific sources of rest - be it a walk, a morning meditation or relaxation techniques such as yoga or progressive muscle relaxation. It is also important to have enough breaks in the often demanding work day. A recent survey has shown that we do not necessarily live healthier in the home office: More than every second respondent between 18 and 29 years and 40 percent of 30 to 39 year-olds said they did less exercise and therefore had more problems with their stomach.

Lange

Orthopädietechnik

Opening Hours:

Monday:

GmbH

Dr. med. Rudolf Scharl · Dr. med. Dietrich Schreyer Dr. med. Michael Rogenhofer · Dr. med. Walter Vogl Urology, Andrology and Pediatric Urology

Your specialist for foot orthotics, compression hosiery, breast protheses and bras TRICARE Europe

Marienstraße 6 • 92224 Amberg Phone 09621/15269 • www.sanitaetshaus-lange.de

Treatments & Services: Prostate Cancer Prevention Vasectomy Aging Male Erectile Dysfunction Sexual Dysfunction Sexually Transmitted Diseases Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Tuesday: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Wednesday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Thursday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Contact:

Phone: Fax: Mail: Web:

Address:

0 96 21 / 1 27 51 0 96 21 / 2 10 71 info@uro-team.de www.uro-team.de

Marienstraße 9 Bavarian Times | 18 92224 Amberg Germany

health

Pay attention to the intestines

Photo Credit: djd / Sanofi / Dulcolax / iStock / ThitareeSarmkasat

Myth check: what helps and what doesn't help with constipation

(djd). Standstill in the restroom? Around 15 percent of Germans suffer from it at least once a year. Nevertheless, there are still some myths and half-truths about a sluggish bowel. It starts with determining when one can actually speak of "constipation." Many people assume that this is the case with bowel movements less than three times a week. In fact, it is not just the frequency of bowel movements that is decisive. Prof. Peter Layer, medical director at the Israelite Hospital Hamburg, explains: "In order to assess whether constipation is present, one should definitely take into account the subjective feelings of those affected. Even a difficult, hard bowel movement or the need to press hard are clear signs of constipation."

Not only the elderly are affected Nor is the popular myth true that the problem only affects the elderly. Young people can also suffer from a sluggish bowel, as confirmed by the latest results of the 2021 Gut Trend survey on behalf of Sanofi. It is mainly the 18 to 39 year olds who have noticed a deterioration in their digestion in the last 12 months - and thus compared to prior to the pandemic. And there are still the myths about the treatment of the discomfort. A high-fiber diet is often advised here. Indeed, this can help prevent constipation.

But if constipation has already occurred, more effective active ingredients such as bisacodyl, sodium picosulfate and macrogol are in demand. According to scientific studies, this has been shown to increase the quality of life of those affected. In addition, all three active ingredients are well tolerated.

The effects of the pandemic In any case, it is noteworthy that the Corona pandemic apparently has an impact on the intestines, which is probably due to the changed lifestyle: more sitting, less exercise and more stress, for example from home office and childcare at home. In the Gut Trend survey, 46 percent of 30 to 39 year olds confirmed that they move less and therefore more often have the feeling of being constipated. That is why those affected should take targeted action here. A daily walk, relaxation techniques and enough conscious rest breaks, for example, can have a preventive effect.

Digestio GesundheitsCollege January 2021, focus on “health center intestines.” Gut Trend survey 2021 on behalf of Sanofi (Dulcolax). The survey covered 1,078 women and men from the German population aged 18 and over who had suffered from digestive problems (such as hard, irregular stool or constipation) in the last 12 months. Bilendi; February 2021 (previously unpublished dates, available by mail from mail@petersenpartner.de) Muller-Lissner S et al. Bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate improve. Bowel function and quality of life patients with chronic constipation-analysis of pooled data from two randomized controlled trials. Above Journal of Gastroenterology 2017; 7: 32-34

This is what we do

This is what we stand for Humanity, quality and being close to the patient Reliability, competence and professionalism Innovation and transparency of costs

• • • • • • •

Prophylaxis and dental hygiene Dental dam technique Composite fillings Bleaching Implantology Veneers Root canal therapy with surgical microscope • Periodontal treatment • Functional therapy • Pediatric dentistry

Feel free to call us for a prompt appointment. For more detailed information visit our homepage.

Dr. Julius Sparrer Praxis für Zahnheilkunde TOPD – Tricare Oconus Preferred Dentist

19 | Bavarian Times

Bahnhofstraße 21 92690 Pressath Tel.: 09644 - 8150 | Fax.: 09644 - 8190 info@zahnarzt-sparrer.de | www.zahnarzt-sparrer.de

Practice Opening Hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

health

Relaxed through an intense time

"

"If gestational diabetes is detected early and treated successfully, pregnancy and delivery can usually proceed normally," explains Dr. Thomas Segiet, head of a diabetological practice in Speyer.

(djd). For mothers-to-be, pregnancy is an intense time in which anticipation and desires can alternate with certain uncertainties. During this time, the hormonal balance of the body changes.

About seven percent of pregnant women, around 51,000 women per year in Germany, develop gestational diabetes. Blood sugar levels are permanently increased, must be checked regularly and normalized again by suitable measures. "If such diabetes is recognized early and successfully treated, pregnancy and delivery can usually proceed normally," says Dr. Thomas Segiet, head of a diabetological practice in Speyer.

Check and normalize values The goal of the therapy is to keep blood sugar levels within a certain target range. The patients check this themselves by regularly measuring and documenting their blood sugar. "Modern blood glucose meters enable uncomplicated and precise measurement," says Dr. Segiet. "And a digital diary such as the mySugr app is ideal for documentation. The values automatically migrate to the app via Bluetooth, where additional information such as insulin doses, nutritional values and even meal photos can be added." The app shows the course of the values graphically, so that connections between lifestyle and blood sugar values can be seen at a glance.

Women with gestational diabetes should choose a clinic with an attached children's clinic for childbirth; this is even mandatory for pregnant women who need insulin. An important tip for the time after the birth: Breastfeeding is not only healthy for the baby, but studies have shown that it can also reduce the mother's risk of later developing type 2 diabetes.

A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of pregnant women developing gestational diabetes.

Obesity and age as risk factors Gestational diabetes can occur in any pregnancy. Between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, the corresponding probability can be determined by a blood test. "This test is part of the statutory health insurance benefits. If there are risk factors, it should be carried out before the 24th week of pregnancy," advises Dr. Segiet. It is important that gestational diabetes is detected and treated at an early stage. If it is left untreated, the expectant mother can develop high blood pressure, birth complications or permanent type 2 diabetes, among other things. If the child is not treated, the consequences for the unborn child can include excessive growth in the womb, malformations and jaundice after delivery.

Photo Credit: djd / Accu-Chek / Diabetologikum Speyer, djd / Accu-Chek / annette mueck fotografie, djd / Accu-Chek

Detect gestational diabetes at an early stage and treat it correctly

Modern measuring devices enable an uncomplicated and precise measurement of blood sugar values. A digital diary in an app is ideal for documenting the values.

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 Bavarian Times | 20 mail@dr-riedl.com Phone 09621/ 23915

health its original shape and beauty.

Bonding is done to restore or improve your smile.

Established his dental Practice in Weiden in 2006. His goal is to help his clients maintain their beautiful smile and help preserve their quality of life well into their senior years. He and his multilingual team of highly trained professionals adhere to the most modern standards and dental procedures. English is spoken. His office is conveniently located in the center of Weiden, Woerthstrasse 8 (in the pedestrian zone near the town hall).

Fillings: Fillings are one of the most common restorative dentistry treatments we provide. Used primarily to repair minimal tooth fractures, damaged tooth surfaces or to replace the enamel lost due to tooth decay.

A note from Dr. Radeck: It is extremely important to start practicing healthy dental habits at a young age, as good dental habits can save you valuable time, money and energy in the future. If you are currently suffering from tooth pain or are just in need of a semi-annual dental check-up and cleaning, we are here to help. Remember: A dental checkup every six months can detect potential problems before they become a larger issue.

Crowns: If crowns, commonly referred to as “caps,” are needed, we can help preserve damaged teeth that may be cracked or help restore teeth with excessive decay. If you need a crown replacement, we are here and can help.

Here are some of the procedures we offer: Dental Check-Up and Cleaning: After we conduct a dental check-up, a cleaning is performed to remove excess plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth and pockets in the gums. This procedure is normally painless. It will help you and us to determine your short- and long-range dental needs.

Bonding: Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure we use to repair a decayed, chipped or broken tooth to restore the tooth to

Bridges: If you had teeth removed or lost through injury, a bridge may be what is needed to fill the gap. Bridges not only fill the gap, but also help prevent the teeth on either side from migrating toward the gap, thus improving your ability to chew solid foods.

Extraction: Tooth extraction is by far one of the least favorite things anyone wants to endure. There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be removed such as severe tooth decay or damage, a tooth is non-functioning and does not have any opposing teeth to bite against causing discomfort, or if there are extra teeth that need to be removed to allow for incoming new ones.

We can help and will make every effort to insure the procedure is as painless as possible.

YOUR DENTIST IN WEIDEN Dr. med. dent. Christoph Radeck Dental Aesthetics Cosmetic corrections

Prophylaxis

Healthy and beautiful teeth for a lifetime

General Dentistry

Skilled Gentle Dentistry for a Beautiful Smile

0961/ 401 92 10

Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8.00 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 18.00 Wednesday and Friday 8.00 - 12.00

TRICARE OCONUS PREFERRED DENTIST 21 | Bavarian Times

DR. MED. DENT. CHRISTOPH RADECK, Woerthstrasse 8, 92637 Weiden, Phone: 0961/ 401 92 10, mail@dr-radeck.de

www.dr–radeck.de

Photo Credit: Praxis Dr. Radeck

Dr. Christoph Radeck – Your Dentist in Weiden.

cars & Traffic

Tires marked only with M+S, which stands for mud and snow traction, may serve as your winter tire through Sept. 30, 2024.

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Warm weather is giving way to cold, which means you should prepare your vehicle now for winter. One important thing to know before you hit the road in winter is that Germany has different tire requirements than the United States.

European winter tires have two kinds of markings: a snowflake for snow tires or M+S for tires designed to work in mud and snow, or “matsch und schnee” in German. All-season or all-weather tires may also have the markings and are acceptable for winter driving, but tires designed specifically for snow function better than allweather tires.

Because you reside in Germany, you may be asking: What kind of winter tires does the German law require? First, it is very important to look for certain signs placed on the tire.

In November 2010, the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament, passed a federal law that is much more specific about winter tires. This German federal law was amended in 2015 to require the use of winter tires when conditions are icy. As of January 2018, new winter tires must be marked with the Alpine-Symbol (a 3-peak mountain with a snowflake in the center).

If you own all-season tires or winter tires marked with M+S and produced prior to 2018, they are still approved until Sept. 30, 2024.

The law also apply to motorbikes, trucks and buses, regardless of whether the driver is the owner or is renting the vehicle. All of these vehicles must be equipped with winter tires if you drive in snow or icy conditions.

Bavarian Times | 22

Photo Credit: samopauser | Andreas Morgenstern | rootstocks - stock.adobe.com

Everything you need to know about winter tires in Germany

cars & Traffic The German law mandated by the Bundestag requiring winter tires during icy conditions does not specify specific dates, according to ADAC, the German auto club that provides roadside assistance and air rescue. Many German drivers, however, abide by the general rule of “von O bis O” (from O to O), which means snow tires should be put on in October and remain on until Ostern (Easter).

According to the USAG Bavaria Safety office and ADAC, to drive in Germany — no matter the road conditions — ensure you have a tire tread depth of at least 1.6 millimeters. The best is to have 4 millimeters, according to ADAC. A one euro coin can be used for a quick “tread check.” When placed in the tire’s tread, you should not be able to see the golden edge of the coin. If you can, the tire needs to be replaced.

Community members can change tires, by themselves, at the onpost Auto Skills Center.

In some parts of Germany, particularly in the southern mountainous region, snow chains may be required if directed by road signs or police. USAG Bavaria Safety office and ADAC recommend carrying snow chains and checking your route prior to heading out. Know how to put snow chains on before you need them, and make sure you don’t exceed 50 kph when driving with them.

BAVARIA Towing

Be smart and drive safe Bavaria!

If you’re unsure if other countries have similar tire laws, check the European Road Safety website. And for more on winter driving, check out the Army Europe Drivers Handbook and Examination.

Remember, if you don’t follow these requirements, you can receive a ticket of 80 euro or higher. If you have questions, contact USAG Bavaria Safety office at DSN 526-2303, CIV 09641-70-526-2303.

Our Services: Towing Services (cars and trucks to 40 tons) Breakdown & Accident Service Rental Car Flat Tire Services Vehicle Opening Transport Repair Service & Body Shop for all Brands Service & Maintenance Vehicle Purchase Used Spare Parts with Warranty Car Disposal & Customs Clearance Battery tests, Boosts and Replacements

Junk Service, Car Disposal & Customs Clearance FOR FREE! 23 | Bavarian Times

| by USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Towing, recovery + breakdown service

Our team is dedicated to providing our services 24/7, 365 days a year

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Winter tires must be marked with the 3-peak mountain and snowflake by Sept. 30, 2024.

! 24h: +49 (0) 96 21 67 680 !

A failing battery is the most common cause of breakdowns in cars. With a few tips, drivers can take preventive action.

How to properly care for your car battery:

Photo Credit: djd / Robert Bosch / Getty Images / zoff-photo

(djd). Failing car batteries have been the undisputed frontrunner in the breakdown statistics of the automobile clubs for years. The battery is responsible for almost every second breakdown on Germany's roads. This is just as annoying as it is unnecessary. Because with simple tips and tricks, drivers can take preventive action and avoid many breakdowns in the first place.

1. Maintain the car battery with the right driving style How long a car battery can reliably provide energy is largely up to drivers - or to be more precise, up to their feet. If you always use the clutch when starting the engine, you conserve energy and noticeably extend the life of the car battery. Unnecessary loads such as the air conditioning or the sound system are also best left off when the engine is started because they consume too much energy. Battery energy can also be saved while driving by reducing the additional loads from a large number of external consumers as much as possible.

2. Avoid deep discharges of the battery In the morning you turn the ignition key - and nothing happens.

In this case, a so-called deep discharge has often occurred overnight. Forgotten lights, faults in the electronics or a short

OUR SERVICES

KFZ-Rupprecht

 Routine maintenance  Repairs of all auto brands (no warranty loss) ➤  Tire service  Air conditioning ➤ system service ➤ ➤  Vehicle inspection/ ➤ emissions testing ➤  Parts sales ➤ ➤  Smart Repair  Hail damage  ... and much more!

IhrallRundum-Service Your around service Grafenwöhr ininGrafenwoehr PAINT SHOP

We paint everything

(incl. designs & special paint jobs)

ACCIDENT? No problem – we help!

Interested? Then stop by

Beim Flugplatz 14 | 92655 Grafenwoehr Phone: 09641/9290909 | facebook.com/KfzRupprecht

5 tips for breakdownfree driving circuit have all used up energy reserves. Then only a patient recharge or a complete replacement of the battery will help.

Therefore, before locking the car, always check whether the lights, radio and the like are actually switched off.

3. Maintain batteries properly and check them regularly A regular car wash is a good opportunity to take a look under the hood. Is the battery stuck or has it loosened? Are the contacts clean or corroded? Is the battery itself dirty and needs to be cleaned? You can also check whether the clamps are still tight. Don't forget: grease the metal parts regularly, especially in the cold season. With a few minutes of care, many annoying and time-consuming battery defects can be prevented.

4. Once or twice a year go for a check-up in the workshop In addition to your own maintenance work, a battery check in a specialist workshop is recommended once or twice a year. The professionals can check the voltage and identify faults in old batteries before they break down.

5. Carefully store removed batteries The convertible is parked during the winter months? Proper care of the car battery then includes removing it and storing it in a suitable place for the winter. The storage area should be protected from the weather, dark and cool. Tip: Before installing it again for the new season, first supply the battery with fresh energy. This is easy and uncomplicated with mobile chargers.

Bavarian Times | 24

cars & Traffic Combining technology, craftsmanship, and performance with purposeful innovations, the 2022 Audi e-tron S and e-tron S Sportback are making their way to the U.S. this fall, adding to Audi’s portfolio of all-electric performance vehicles.

Audi e-tron S models carry two electric motors on the rear axle and one on the front and are able to generate a nearly instantaneous 496 horsepower and 718 lb-ft of torque in boost mode for eight seconds at a time. Because the two rear motors are independent of one another, they can operate with the utmost precision and can help the driver power out of corners with the confidence of torque vectoring. In normal driving, the front motor remains off until it is needed.

When called upon, the front motor provides power, aids traction, and benefits the driver with brake-based torque vectoring that can activate within milliseconds of the e-tron S sensing wheel slip. This provides the confidence in both performance driving and driving in inclement conditions.

In Dynamic mode, electric quattro® can prioritize how power is distributed to the rear wheels, providing the driver the ability to execute controlled drifts. Safely. On a closed course. Our legal team requires us to add this part.

Torque – and more torque In normal driving mode, the e-tron S generates a nearly instant 429 horsepower and 596 lb-ft of torque, courtesy of its single front and dual rear asynchronous motors. In boost mode, those numbers jump to 496 horsepower and a bountiful 718 lb-ft of torque, allowing for estimated 0-60 mph acceleration in just 4.3 seconds.

The three motors are powered by a 95 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, placed low in the chassis for optimal handling. Charging is made easy through dual charging ports, adding convenience for the driver to charge up to 150 kW – which can provide about 5-80% charge in under 30 minutes – at a Level 3 DC public fast charger. The e-tron S comes standard with a 9.6 kW AC Level 2 charger, and white-glove concierge home installation services for a home charger installation are available through Qmerit.

2022 Audi e-tron S and e-tron S Sportback models coming to US this fall

WE SELL & REPAIR NEW & USED CARS

Skoda, VW, Seat, Audi, Kia

Performance is aided by a standard adaptive air suspension. Upgraded six-piston front brake calipers, painted Dynamic Orange, clamp down on 15.7” front brake calipers. With the towing package, e-tron S models have a rated capacity of 3,300 lb.

Photo Credit: Audi of America

EPA-estimated driving range with the standard wheel/tire package is 208 miles for e-tron S and 212 miles for the e-tron Sportback S. The Audi e-tron S and e-tron S Sportback are manufactured in a certified carbon-neutral plant in Brussels, Belgium, and first entered production mid-2020 for European markets. They join the e-tron and e-tron Sportback models, which recently posted their best sales in the U.S. the first half of 2021, and are complemented by the all-new e-tron GT and upcoming Q4 e-tron model lines.

By the end of 2021, Audi aims to have the largest offering of fully electric models of any automaker in the U.S. Including plug-in hybrid vehicles, Audi plans to electrify approximately 30% of its U.S. model lineup by 2025 and become net CO2-neutral globally by 2050.

(Audi of America)

YOU FIND US ON: 25 | Bavarian Times

- Inspection - Oil Service - HU / AU Service - Warranty work - Accident repair - Vehicle preparation - Accessories, tuning and tire service

Photo Credit: Volvo Car USA

Volvo XC40 Recharge P8 AWD The Volvo XC40 Recharge P8 is Volvo’s first ever fully electric car. It is based on the best-selling XC40 small premium SUV, the first Volvo model to win the prestigious European Car of the Year award.

rating system. The new infotainment system offers customers unprecedented personalisation, improved levels of intuitiveness and new embedded Google technology and services, such as the Google Assistant, Google Maps and the Google Play Store.

Like the XC40, the XC40 Recharge P8 is based on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), an advanced vehicle platform codeveloped within the Geely Group. CMA provides Volvo with the necessary economies of scale for this segment.

It is also the first Volvo that receives larger software and operating system updates over the air, placing Volvo Cars at the forefront of automotive connected services. The XC40 Recharge P8 will keep evolving and improving over time, rather than being at its peak when it leaves the factory.

Inside, an innovative approach to all-round functionality provides drivers with plenty of storage space. The XC40 Recharge P8 offers several large and smartly designed storage compartments in the doors, under the seats and in the trunk. Not having an internal combustion engine means that the car provides drivers with even more storage space, via a so-called ‘frunk’ storage space under the front hood.

Powertrain technology The XC40 Recharge P8 comes with a state-of-the-art, fully electric all-wheel drive powertrain that offers a range of over 400 km on a single charge under the WLTP drive cycle and output of 408hp. The battery charges to 80 % of its capacity in 40 mins on a fast-charger system.

Connectivity and infotainment The XC40 Recharge P8 is the first Volvo model equipped with a brand new infotainment system powered by the Android ope-

Safety and driver assistance While building on the excellent safety standards of the original XC40, Volvo Cars safety engineers had to completely redesign

er v o th ... wi

ar e y 20

ce n e i r xp e e f o s

Full service Warranty work Diagnostic Brake service Body work Accident repair Tuning Tire shop and something much more

Feel free to call us!

Schneider’s Auto Service Conrad-Röntgen-Str. 30 92637 Weiden 0961/48 27 20 www.schneiders-auto-service.de info@schneiders-auto-service.de

We accept VAT-forms and credit cards and also work on all brands

cars & traffic and reinforce the frontal structure of the XC40 Recharge P8 to deal with the absence of an engine, meet Volvo Cars’ high safety requirements and help keep occupants as safe as in any other Volvo.

The battery is protected by a safety cage which consists of a frame of extruded aluminium and has been embedded in the middle of the car’s body structure, creating a built-in crumple zone around it. The battery’s placement in the floor of the car also has the benefit of lowering the centre of gravity of the car, for better protection against roll-overs.

At the rear, the electric powertrain has been integrated in the body structure to realise a better distribution of collision forces away from the cabin.

The XC40 Recharge P8 is also the first Volvo model equipped with a new, scalable Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) sensor platform with software developed by Zenuity, the joint venture firm owned by Volvo Cars and Veoneer.

(Volvo Car USA)

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.

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).

27 | Bavarian Times

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

cars & Traffic

The new EQE: the main points at a glance

The executive sedan EQE is the second model to be based on the premium-class electric architecture (EVA2), following the luxury EQS sedan. The EQE will celebrate its world premiere at the IAA show (September/Munich). The staggered global launch will begin mid-2022. Production will be in Bremen for the world market and in Beijing for the Chinese market.

Plenty of space for passengers The EQE is more compact than the EQS and has a wheelbase that is 3.5 inches shorter, at 122.9 inches overall. In terms of external dimensions, it is comparable to the CLS. Like the latter, it has no tailgate but a fixed rear window and a trunk lid. The interior dimensions clearly exceed those of today's E-Class (213 model series), i.e. the shoulder room in the front (+ 1 in) or the interior length (+ 3 in). The seating position is also higher (+ 2.5 in). The interior design and equipment are clearly based on the EQS, with the MBUX Hyperscreen, automatic comfort doors (front) and rear-axle steering, for example, available as optional extras. In terms of noise and vibration comfort (NVH), the EQE is among the best in class.

Photo Credit: Mercedes-Benz USA (2)

Range of up to 660 kilometers1 The battery has a usable energy content of 90 kWh, and the range of up to 660 km1 according to WLTP is absolutely suitable for longer drives. The model range will include two variants at market launch: the EQE 350 with 288 hp, as well as a second model that will be announced at a later date. Further versions will follow.

Green electricity as standard with Mercedes me Charge By means of high-quality certificates of origin, Mercedes-Benz guarantees that energy from renewable energy sources is fed into the grid for charging current sourced via Mercedes me Charge. With Mercedes me Charge, customers are able to charge at over 530,000 public charging stations around the world, including nearly 60,000 public places to charge in the USA. With the new Mercedes me Charge Plug & Charge function, the EQE can be charged even more conveniently at Plug & Charge-enabled

public charging points: inserting the charging cable automatically starts the charging process. No further authentication by the customer is required.

Emotive display concept The EQE follows the EQS visually and in terms of interior displays. The dominant blue color scheme with a highlight in orange is immediately recognizable as "electric world". The Understated mode provides an emotive experience with minimalistic central display. And the optional three display surfaces can be transformed into a common color world in combination with the ambient lighting, the content while in this mode is reduced.

1

Data on power consumption and range are provisional and were determined internally in accordance with the "WLTP test procedure" certification method. Confirmed TÜV figures, EC type approval and certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

(Mercedes-Benz USA) Bavarian Times | 28

Bavariantimes

Merry

and a happy new year The Bavarian Times-Team wishes you happy holidays, good luck and success in 2022.

Stay healthy as we stand together to meet the challenges of the Corona pandemic.

Photo Credit: Konstiantyn – stock.adobe.com

We thank our readers, customers and business partners for the good cooperation in the past year.

Catchy tune “Last Christmas”

The scent of spruce

peace and Hope for 2019

A cup of hot punch

The smell of cookies

Fresh snow

Time with the family

29 | Bavarian Times

Patience for the busy holidays

Quietness

Gift ideas

Take what you need

Service

ü r f t s r Weißwu

: k c ü t s h

Everything to know about Bavaria’s traditional white sausage

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — One of the most anticipated meals in southern Germany is the “Weißwurstfrühstück,” or white sausage breakfast. Eating Weisswurst, or white sausage, is one of the many traditions a person can partake in when coming to Bavaria. But why do Germans eat it, and what is the right way to eat it? Here are some helpful tips and tricks that will help you impress some of the locals.

How do you cook it?

Step 1: Weißwürste are supposed to be cooked in hot, but not boiling water, and warmed up for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 2: Once they are hot, they are ready to be eaten and removed from the water. When you order Weißwürste in a restaurant, they are usually served in a bowl of hot water to keep them warm longer. But don’t be mistaken, the liquid is not a soup.

Step 3: Remove Weißwürste from the water and enjoy while still warm.

Warning: White sausages are delicate. You should never boil the sausages, because they tend to burst open in boiling water.

Additionally, do not leave remaining Weißwürste submerged too long, because they will lose flavor and become watery.

When do you eat it?

The best time to eat Weißwürste is in the morning, and they should never be eaten after noon. An old saying goes, “No Weißwurst should ever hear the afternoon church bells.” This tradition stems from the lack of preservation options during the 19th century. The meat could not be kept cool, so consumption was necessary before turning bad. Even though preservation options have since developed, this tradition is still alive today.

Since the dish might be a little heavy early in the morning, the perfect time to eat Weisswürste is around 10 a.m.

How do you eat it?

There are many ways to eat a Weißwurst. Depending on where you are, there are different ways and rules for consumption. For

JOHANNA’S AGENCY Car Insurance

NOW WITH SPECIAL COVID-19 DISCOUNT

GET YOUR QUOTE OR POLICY APPLICATION ONLINE

at

www.gotojoingraf.com

or

of course you can call +49 (0) 9641-2325 • since 1978 family owned trusted local Insurance Agency • providing our US-forces with excellent service • face to face customer support is our tradition • our experience is your advantage • respect, trust & competence is our policy

HOURS

Mon – Thu 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m.– 2 p.m.

Sat – Sun CLOSED

CONTACT

ONLY by Gate #1 Alte Amberger Str. 52 Bavarian Times | 30 92655 Grafenwoehr johannasagency@web.de

Service

Weisswurstfrühstück :

example, the real connoisseur would never strip the sausage naked all at once, but would instead skin and cut it part by part — only revealing the piece of the sausage about to be eaten.

However, in Munich you do not use a knife at all. Instead, you “zuzel” the sausage link out of the skin by eating it with your hand and sucking the meat out of the sausage casing. As unmannered as this sounds, it is acceptable throughout Munich, but only Munich. And especially in the Munich area, the amount of sausages you eat is essential. Never eat an even number of white sausage links. While some say it brings bad luck, the real origin of this rule is unknown.

Photo Credit: Alexander Raths - stock.adobe.com

The most important rule is to never eat the skin of Weißwurst.

Contrary to other sausages, such as Bratwurst, the skin should not be eaten because it is chewy and ruins the taste.

What do you eat with it?

Traditionally, Weißwurst is eaten with pretzels and sweet mustard. As for refreshments, drinking beer with a white sausage breakfast is an unquestionable part of the tradition. Since Germany is a beer nation, there are plenty of alcohol-free options to choose from as well. Just remember, Weissbier, or white beer, goes best with Weisswurst.

Where do you eat it?

An interesting fact about this tradition is that it does not apply to all of Germany. This tradition is mainly held in southern Germany — especially in the area surrounding Munich. Since

eating white sausages is the No. 1 symbol linked to Bavarian food culture, a metaphoric white sausage equator was established over the years. It describes an imaginary cultural border between the parts of Bavaria that eat white sausages and the rest of Germany. Mostly, the northern parts of Germany neither produce, nor offer, white sausages. But no matter where you are, you can impress any Bavarian native with this Weißwurst eating knowledge.

Helpfu

l Key Terms:

• Weißwurstfrühstück: white sausage breakfast • Weißwurst: white sausage (singular form) • Weißwürste: white sausages (plural form) • Weißwurstsenf: white sausage mustard (a.k.a. sweet mustard) • Zuzeln: a Bavarian term that describes the act of sucking a sausage out of its casing

| by Natalie Simmel, USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Vintage car import possible at a reduced tax rate of 7% !

LEAVE IT TO US, TO BRING IT TO YOU

Global Logistics Trans Global Logistics Europe Europe GmbH GmbH Straße 111 111 Hochheimer Straße D-55246 Mainz --Kostheim Kostheim Tel Fax+49 +49(0)(0)6134-58444-00 6134-58444-44

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

+49 (0) 6134 - 58444-0

Services

0800 - 2277447

Worldwide transportation ... … of motor vehicles, aircraft, boats/yachts … of construction machinery and accessories ... of all kinds of project and container loads ... and moving service for household goods … complete transport with free delivery!

Placement ...

... of transport insurance ... delivery within the USA and Europe 31 | Bavarian ... Transport insuranceTimes ... Customs clearance

rgerhalb cha inne e ofrei Fretenf Kos . land ny. tschma DeuGer von within

Try us – entrust us with your transportation!

| by Birgit Plößner

We will make you a non-binding offer.

Christmas Edition

Bucket List

for Europe & Germany Living in Europe provides amazing opportunities for the best vacations. Figuring out where to go over the holiday season can be overwhelming with so much to see and do. If you’re looking to get away, Stay in an igloo in here are some bucket-list worthy items to consider:

1 Stay in an igloo in Iceland to see the Northern Lights.

2 Visit one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets in Nuremberg.

Stop by!

3 Collect all the glühwein mugs at Christmas markets during your travels.

4 Visit Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi, Finland.

5 Spend time in Zermatt and hike towards the famous Matterhorn.

6 Relax, unwind and stay warm in Budapest’s thermal baths.

Photo Credits: Presse- und Informationsamt Nürnberg / Uli Kowatsch, Visit Rovaniemi (Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd.), Felix Pergande, nerudol, Ekaterina Grivet, BRIAN_KINNEY, Pixasquare - stock.adobe.com

Bavarian Times | 32 www.tiergarten.nuernberg.de

Take a Photo of our Cheat Sheet and share it

Bavariantimes

Cheat Sheet

Exceeding the maximum speed out of town Violation

Fine

Points

… up to 10 km/h

20 €

… 11 - 15 km/h

40 €

… 16 - 20 km/h

60 €

… 21 - 25 km/h

100 €

1

… 26 - 30 km/h

150 €

1

Suspension of license

(1 month)*

… 31 - 40 km/h

200 €

1

(1 month)*

… 41 - 50 km/h

320 €

2

1 month

… 51 - 60 km/h

480 €

2

1 month

… 61 - 70 km/h

600 €

2

2 months

more than 70 km/h

700 €

2

3 months

* Usually, the driver's license is only suspended if there is a speed limit violation of 26 km/h or more twice within a year

facebook.com/BavarianTimesMagazine www.bavarian-times.com

Exceeding the maximum speed in town Points

Suspension of license

Violation

Fine

… up to 10 km/h

30 €

… 11 - 15 km/h

50 €

… 16 - 20 km/h

70 €

… 21 - 25 km/h

115 €

1

… 26 - 30 km/h

180 €

1

(1 month)*

… 31 - 40 km/h

260 €

1

(1 month)*

… 41 - 50 km/h

400 €

2

1 month

… 51 - 60 km/h

560 €

2

1 month

… 61 - 70 km/h

700 €

2

2 months

more than 70 km/h

800 €

2

3 months

* Usually, the driver's license is only suspended if there is a speed limit violation of 26 km/h or more twice within a year

Photo Credit: svetlana gorshkova - stock.adobe.com

33 | Bavarian Times

christmas 2021

ADVERTORIAL

Thanks to the easing of the Corona pandemic regulations, Advent events are allowed again. That is why an Advent market will take place in Grafenwoehr on Dec. 4 from 2 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. on the market square and around the town hall. The market will not be like it used to be but booths and Christmas music will create a Christmassy flair on the market square. The Christ Child will also be present at the German-American opening with the mayor and a representative of the US Army. Saint Nicholas has small gifts for children throughout the market.

Christmas items, hot Upper Palatinate delicacies and of course mulled wine are offered in the booths.

The city of Grafenwoehr invites all American guests to a few pre-Christmas hours at the Grafenwoehr Advent market. A Corona hygiene concept applies which is available three days before the event at www.grafenwoehr.de.

Extreme Christmas lights in Hütten Grafenwoehr / Hütten, Germany - This year there will be an Advent market in Hütten at Karl-Heinz Eismann’s house - if the Corona regulations allow it. In any case, thousands of lights will shine on Fasanenweg. Also this year - and for the 10th time - the "Extreme Christmas Lights" event will take place on Fasanenweg in Hütten. The sea of lights can be admired from the 1st Sunday in Advent, Nov. 28, to Dec. 31, when it gets dark. Over 70,000 lights on trees and moving animals will then shine on 3,000 square meters. If the Corona pandemic permits it, visitors can also enjoy a warming mulled wine and hot sausages. | by Renate Gradl

Corona rules for Christmas markets in Bavaria Wherever possible, a minimum distance of 1.5 meters should be kept. There is no mask requirement outdoors, indoors the usual regulations apply. (As of Oct. 30, 2021)

COVID-19 Hygiene Safety Concept!

We enable your safe visit.

Please abide by the rules in force.

www.grafenwoehr.de

Should there be changes, the rules above no longer apply.

If necessary, check with the organizer about possible changes before your visit.

Bavarian Times | 34

Photo Credit: Renate Gradl; AgataCreate – stock.adobe.com

Photo Credit: Stadt Grafenwöhr

Small Advent market around the town hall

christmas 2021

ADVERTORIAL

Romantic Christmas market at Dagestein Castle in Vilseck

Photo Credit: Stadt Vilseck

“A Soulful Christmas” is this year's motto of the quiet Christmas market at Dagestein Castle. Our clubs get in the mood for Christmas with Christmas-scented hot drinks, sweet and hearty dishes! Crackling campfires in the courtyard provide cozy warmth. On both days, different music groups cast a spell over the audience with live music. Artisans offer their goods for sale in three barns. If you are still looking for a little something for the table of gifts, you will find it here. For bookworms, the parish library also presents a book flea market with interesting children's and adult literature. And in the stable, two alpacas are expected to be patiently waiting to be petted.

The peaceful market will be opened on Saturday at 5 p.m. by the first mayor, the night watchman and the Vilseck music association. Admission is already at 4 p.m. Afterwards St. Nicholas gives presents to the children. On Saturday from 6.30 p.m., the trio "Burst" heats up the guests with funk, jazz, gospel, rock and soul. The thoroughbred musicians Curtis Fink (vocals, percussion), Werner “Leif” Wismeth (piano, vocals) and Michael

“Dandy” Dandorfer (guitar, vocals) convince with a passionate stage presence even without drums.

On Sunday from 2 p.m. the Vilseck Music Association and from 4 p.m. the Schlicht tower blowers get in the mood for Christmas. Then the Christ Child distributes small gifts to the children. From 5:30 p.m. the brass band of the Music Association ensures a lively, musical experience. At 7 p.m. the Vilseck night watchman says goodbye to the visitors with his traditional New Year's saying.

As always, admission is free! The 3G rule is checked in front of the castle gate.

Further information can be found at www.vilseck.de Opening hours: Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021 Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021

5 – 9 p.m.; admission at 4 p.m.

2 – 7 p.m.

Vilseck Dagestein Castle | by Explus

Romantic Christmas Market Dagestein Castle, Vilseck December 4th and 5th, 2021 Saturday 5 - 9 p.m. | Admission 4 p.m.

Sunday 2 - 7 p.m.

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

ADVERTORIAL

Bright lights and enchanting booths

It smells of roasted almonds, gingerbread and grilled sausages. Thanks to the romantic Christmas lights, many lights invite you to forget the stress of everyday life and spend a few nice hours with family and friends over a cup of delicious mulled wine. The romantic Christmas market in the shadow of the St. Martin Basilica in the heart of Amberg's old town offers culinary delicacies and enchanting booths.

Pressath, Germany -- The Advent market will take place in Professor-Dietl-Park and on a smaller scale than usual. The opening with tree lighting will take place on the first Advent Sunday (Nov. 28) at 3 p.m.

The “Advent park” will then be open until 9 p.m. On the following three Advent weekends the “Advent park” will be open on Saturdays from 4 to 10 p.m. and on Sundays from 2 to 8 p.m.

Highlights Every Saturday at 5.30 p.m. the town hall brass players play on the balcony of the town hall. Let yourself be pampered by the offers of the various exhibitors at the Amberg Christmas market.

A horse-drawn carriage is regularly on the move from Thursday to Sunday.

Seasonal arts and crafts and other wares will be offered at the Advent market and Pressath’s clubs and associations will provide food and beverages. In a “Christmas village” children will be told the story of a lost Christmas tree. | by Editor

| by City of Amberg

HOW MUCH ARE YOU DRINKING? KNOW WHAT A STANDARD DRINK IS. Each drink below is a "standard drink." Beer, wine and liquor all have different amounts of alcohol in them, which is why standard drinks come in various sizes.

35th christmas market at the marketplace in Amberg

5 oz of wine,

12% ALCOHOL

1.5 oz or a “shot” of 80-proof spirits or liquor,

40% ALCOHOL

12 oz of beer,

5% ALCOHOL

8 oz of malt liquor,

7% ALCOHOL

From November 25th to December 23 rd Opening times Monday to Wednesday: 10.00 am to 8.00 pm Thursday to Saturday: 10.00 am to 9.00 pm Sunday: 1.00 pm to 8.00 pm

•

A standard 16 oz plastic drinking cup can help you measure a “standard drink.” The lines on the cup show you how much to pour of beer, wine or liquor without overdoing it.

PLASTIC CUP

Bottle of beer

•

Be aware that one drink you order at the bar or make at home could be equal to two or three “standard drinks.”

It depends on the type and amount of alcohol in the drink.

Glass of wine

•

Get more information on standard drink sizes with the Rethinking Drinking Drink Size Calculator.

"Shot" of liquor

Know how much you’re drinking so that you can identify your limit and drink responsibly.

Learn more at www.ownyourlimits.org/responsible-drinking/

300 Christmas trees decorate the city center.

www.ownyourlimits.org

Bavarian Times | 36

Photo Credit: Pixasquare – stock.adobe.com

© Diehl/PWG

“Advent in the Park” in Pressath

ADVERTORIAL

Historic-romantic market life at the 16th Guteneck Christmas market

Immerse yourself in the seasonal, mysterious market idyll, now also on Advent Thursdays. One more day of the week when the many stalls and huts invite you to stroll. A wide variety of specialties, mulled wines and delicacies tempt you to try and enjoy, e.g. in the Schloss Hofladen store, where you can choose again from very special Christmas gifts.

Marvel at the historical craftsmanship of the blacksmith, glassblower, tin caster or nativity scene carver. Let yourself be enchanted with pure castle romance, on additional paths, because the entire market area is being designed more generously this year: A new street of huts with plenty of space awaits visitors.

In addition to the camels, horses and our falconer, a petting zoo will be integrated for the first time and a fairy tale trail behind the castle that will remain open all year round.

37 | Bavarian Times

The panorama tour to the newly renovated castle café invites you to indulge and be amazed with its fantastic view. As a room decorated for Christmas, the castle café will give every visitor an idea of the events with which it will shine in the future.

The most impressive novelty of the well-known Christmas market is the spectacular light staging of the castle and its surroundings by the Coburg University of Applied Sciences. Experience a completely new atmosphere and let yourself be enchanted. | by Schloss Guteneck Photo Credit: Schloss Guteneck (2)

Guteneck, Germany -- Christmas market time again! There are 16 market days at Guteneck Castle which are entirely dedicated to the traditional, Christmas senses.

ADVERTORIAL

“Parsberg Castle Christmas” Parsberg, Germany - "We are in the starting blocks for the Parsberg Castle Christmas," says the couple Christina and Manuel Ploss while they are already busy with construction work on their property in Seibertshofen. Recently, the program was discussed with the city of Parsberg, represented by Mayor Josef Bauer and managing director Stefan Schmidmeier. It is in compliance with the current framework concept for Christmas markets as directed by the Bavarian State Ministry.

"We are sticking to the tradition of organizing a Parsberg Castle Christmas on the castle grounds," says Ploss. At the same time, they want to make changes, which are, of course, dependent on the regulations set by the Corona pandemic.

In August, the organizers checked with booth operators and associations, 13 artisans and 16 food booths registered to participate, adds Christina Ploss.

Since the Ploss couple received the assurance from the city that the market can be opened on Nov. 20, the program can now be made available to the public, subject to the regulations of the Corona pandemic. The first booths in front of the castle hall and in the castle garden will present their goods and food and beverages on Nov. 20 from 4 p.m., as well as on Sunday, Nov. 21 from 1 p.m. and on Nov. 25 from 5.30 p.m.

The official opening with Mayor Josef Bauer and the Christ Child will then take place on the first weekend of Advent on Nov. 26 at 5.30 p.m. with the Lupburg brass band. After the opening, the inner courtyard will also be opened with additional booths, adds Christina Ploss.

With regard to the Corona pandemic, it was determined that as much as possible should take place outdoors. Therefore, an outdoor stage will be set up on the forecourt. In order to meet the hygiene requirements, 1,000 new cups were purchased and added to the stock of 1,500, which are the same for all participants. The advantage, according to Manuel Ploss, is that you don't have to return the cups to the booth where you paid the deposit, but, for example, to the last booth when you leave the market. "The cups are washed in the central kitchen in the castle hall," adds Christina Ploss.

Of course, a program change is possible at any time, but it is already certain that entry into all enclosed rooms can only be granted to vaccinated, recovered and tested guests with the appropriate proof. The 2G rule applies in the castle cellar and in the castle cafe. The restrooms in the castle hall are freely accessible.

| by Christina Ploss

as spirit Get into the Christm

p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 20 from 4 . p.m 1 from 21 Sunday, Nov.

www.parsberger-burgweihnacht.de More program info on the homepage

- Free adMission -

• Seasonal arts and crafts • Home-made goods • Seasonal delicacies • Children’s program • Live music program • and much more!

If you want to stay overnight, contact the Parsberg-Lupburg Tourist Association at tourismus@parsberg.de Organizer: City of Parsberg | The 3G-rule applies indoors only

Photo Credit: Bernhard Schmid (2)

Castle Christmas in Parsberg

vent First Ad d n e week

. 25 sday, Nov from Thur 8 2 . ov N to Sunday, After-work .

Thursday: arty from 5:30 p.m p Christmas ith the pening w Friday: O p.m.

0 :3 5 t a Christ child . from 4 p.m Saturday . .m p 1 om Sunday fr

Bavarian Times | 38

Experience one of the most beautiful Christmas markets of the world The "Romantic Christmas market with traditional handicrafts at Thurn and Taxis Palace in Regensburg" has long been one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. Protected by the imposing facade of St. Emmeram palace, the inner courtyard is illuminated by the soft, atmospheric light of thousands of candles, lanterns and torches. A magnificently decorated Christmas tree rises up in the middle of the lovingly spruced up village made up of wooden houses decorated for Christmas.

Open fireplaces provide warmth and comfort everywhere in the streets of booths. Numerous mulled wine specialties are prepared over their open fire. Gastronomic delicacies round off the culinary offers.

Photo Credit: Tino Lex

This year, the “Princely Palace Park” - a strictly protected natural monument of international standing - opens up to visitors once again and presents itself in a Christmassy glow. The park is open daily and offers visitors a reason to be amazed and linger.

Always expected with great anticipation by young and old: Every day at 5:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. the “Princely Christ Child” appears on the large balcony in the inner courtyard of the palace and recites a cheerful, contemplative poem. Before she disappears into the clouds again, she presents the excited visitors with auspicious stardust.

39 | Bavarian Times

christmas 2021

ADVERTORIAL

The accompanying cultural program plays an important role at the “Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn und Taxis Palace in Regensburg.”*) Every evening, excellent singers and musicians from Regensburg and the region spread a contemplative, cheerful pre-Christmas atmosphere with some centuries-old Christmas songs.

When a market day draws to a close, the live trumpet fanfare from the palace balcony ends the day.

For more information about the market and online ticket sales, go to www.wm-tut.de *) Please follow the applicable legal regulations regarding the fight against the pandemic on the day of your visit and the rules set by the organizer. For the most current information, go to www.wm-tut.de.

| by Veranstaltungsservice Regensburg

Christmas markets:

where they take place and which ones open in mid-November

The traditional look of the Nürnberg Christmas market serves as an example for many Christmas markets, such as the one in Chicago, for example.

Photo Credit: Presse- und Informationsamt Nürnberg / Uli Kowatsch, Mapics | vectortwins | Kara-Kotsya – stock.adobe.com

The time will soon come: after the corona pandemic made Christmas markets almost impossible last year, this year it will be “O you joyful” again. Preparations for the Christmas markets are in full swing. Christmas market fans can be joyful - in many places markets start earlier this year and will stay open longer. There are clear regional differences in the Corona requirements.

Fragrant mulled wine, candied apples and roasted almonds - to the delight of many, Christmas markets are allowed to reopen in 2021. Even earlier and longer, so that the organizers and exhibitors can generate a higher income after the long Corona break. In many places, the festively decorated booths invite you to linger as early as mid-November. In addition, some markets stay open longer in the evening so that many people can come during the week - outside of the peak hours on the weekend. Which Christmas markets open when, which ones have been canceled and which corona rules apply is shown in the following overview.

Munich Christmas markets can also take place in Bavaria. The popular Christmas market on Marienplatz will even be expanded this year. The queer Christmas market "Pink Christmas" even runs until Jan. 9 and is open on weekdays until 10 p.m.

The opening hours of the most popular Christmas markets in Munich: • Christmas market on Marienplatz: Nov. 22 - Dec. 24, 2021 • Munich Advent spectacle on Wittelsbacher Platz: Nov. 22 - Dec. 24, 2021 • "Pink Christmas" in the Glockenbachviertel: Nov. 22, 2021 - Jan. 9, 2022 Nuremberg The world-famous “Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt” will last as long as always this year. However, the city wants to disperse the Christmas market to several inner-city squares.

Even with the traditional opening by the Christ Child, there are cutbacks - instead of from the balcony of the Frauenkirche, it is only available on television this year.

The opening hours of the most popular Christmas markets in Nuremberg: • "Nuremberg Christmas Market": Nov. 26 - Dec. 24, 2021 • "Fischbacher Christmas Market": Nov. 27 - 28, 2021 • "Gründlacher Advent Market": Dec. 3 - 4, 2021 Dresden The Christmas markets will also open in Saxony. The state government allows exceptions for face masks, 3G and contact recording for Christmas markets, however, an approved hygiene concept is necessary for this.

The opening hours of the most popular Christmas markets in Dresden: • "Striezelmarkt": Nov. 22 - Dec. 24, 2021 • "Augustus Market": Nov. 24, 2021 - Jan. 9, 2022 • "Winter magic" at the Frauenkirche: Nov. 23, 2021 - Jan. 2, 2022 Berlin With the “Berlin Winter Magic,” the Christmas markets in the capital will start on Nov. 5, 2021. And the exhibitors will be “two to three weeks ahead of the other Christmas markets.”

The opening hours of the most popular Christmas markets in Berlin: • "Christmas Magic" at Gendarmenmarkt: Nov. 22 - Dec. 31, 2021 • “Lucia Christmas Market” in the Kulturbrauerei: Nov. 22 Dec. 22, 2021 • Christmas market at Breitscheidplatz: Nov. 22, 2021 - Jan. 2, 2022 • "Berlin Christmas Time" at the Rotes Rathaus: Nov. 22, 2021 - Jan. 2, 2022 Bavarian Times | 40

The historic Christmas market on the Rathausmarkt will open its doors from Nov. 22 - Dec. 23, 2021.

The Christmas market organized

by Roncalli takes place under the motto "Art instead of Commerce."

Sonna –

ADVERTORIAL

Gifts, Decoration & Household Goods In the middle of the old town of Weiden you will find one of the oldest, privately-owned and managed businesses in town.

Founded in 1694, our contemporary family business has been well-known for its distinguished selection of gifts, decoration, and household goods.

Sonna has thousands of different items for you in stock. In our decoration department you can find almost everything – from vases, dishes, candles, handmade glassware to clocks, art, Italian and Scandinavian design products, shopping bags and baskets to lights and lighters, and much more.

You like cooking and baking? From A-pple Divider to Z-ester you will always find the right equipment or tool in our kitchenware department. You can choose from more than 200 different kitchen knives made in Germany, Japan, or Switzerland, and also from a large variety of pans, pots, bowls, salt-and-pepper mills etc. The store also offers a wide variety of gifts and souvenirs, such as magnets, mugs, beer s Steins (hand-painted), key fobs and many more bits and pieces.

• • • •

"Winter World" at Potsdamer Platz: Oct. 28, 2021 - Jan. 2, 2022 Christmas market at Alexanderplatz: Nov. 26 - Dec. 26, 2021 Market in Friedrichshain: Nov. 18. - Dec. 22, 2021 Christmas market at Spandau Citadel: Nov. 22 - Dec. 23, 2021

Amazing Christmas Market In October, Sonna starts its annual in-store Christmas Market.

Apart from glass ornaments we also offer a pretty large variety of Christmas illuminations, dishes and decorations – and, of course, all kinds of lovely Christmas gifts.

Sonna accepts VAT-Forms.

Hamburg In Hamburg, too, the Senate decided that the organizers can decide for themselves whether to implement the 2G or 3G rule.

The opening hours of the most popular Christmas markets in Hamburg: • "Hafencity" Christmas market: Nov. 22 - Dec. 12, 2021 • “White Magic” on Jungfernstieg: Nov. 22 - Dec. 29, 2021 • Historic Christmas market on the Rathausmarkt: Nov. 22 - Dec. 23, 2021 • “Hanseatic Christmas” in Spitalerstraße: Nov. 18. - Dec. 12, 2021 • "Santa Pauli": Nov. 15 - Dec. 23, 2021 • Winter Pride St. Georg: Nov. 22 - Dec. 30, 2021 • "Wandsbeker Winterzauber": Nov. 5, 2021 - Dec. 2, 2021 • Christmas market at the Apostle Church: Nov. 18 - Dec. 22, 2021 Frankfurt The Christmas market in Frankfurt also takes place and opens its doors from Nov. 22 - Dec. 22, 2021. | by Editor COVID-19 Info Due to the ongoing corona pandemic, the individual federal states may have different regulations for visitors to Christmas markets. In order to ensure a pleasant stay, find out about the current regulations from the organizer of the Christmas market in advance (as of Nov. 3, 2021.)

If you like to cook or are looking for a special gift, we are your point of contact!

Wüsthof Classic IKON 2-pc. Asian Sharpening Set

RRP 150,90 €

OUR PRICE 108,40 € (with VAT-Form)

Visit our 2700 sq. ft. store in the heart of the old town of Weiden!

Oberer Markt 11 92637 Weiden Phone 0961 / 44 6 39 beratung@sonna-weiden.de Follow sonnaweiden on Facebook & Instagram!

41 | Bavarian Times

How a, earl invented the popular winter drink in Saxony

(djd). After the Christmas markets were canceled last year due to the pandemic, the anticipation is now even greater. In many German cities you will be able to stand together with family, friends and k colleagues again in Advent and winter and warm yourself with what is probably the most popular winter drink of Germans: mulled wine. Hardly any other drink in this country is so closely associated with the Christmas season. But where does the mulled wine come from? The search for the oldest known recipe in Germany leads to Saxony - and back more than 180 years.

Rau Earl of Wackerbarth and his enjoyable idea In December 1834, August Rau Earl of Wackerbarth stood in his baroque estate in wintry Radebeul. The art and pleasure lover was looking for a special drink to make him forget the cold and warm his heart. First, he added saffron, anise, pomegranate and other exotic spices to white wine. Shortly afterwards it occurred to him to warm the liquid. A brilliant idea. But the Rau earl's recipe was forgotten and was lost for a long time. It was only rediscovered a few years ago in his estate in the Saxon State Archives. After careful examination, it was clear that this was a recipe for what is called mulled wine today.

The oldest known mulled wine recipe in Germany by August Rau Earl of Wackerbarth dates back to 1834.

(djd). Wackerbarth Palace is located in the heart of the Saxon Wine Route, in the middle of the picturesque Radebeul vineyards. Every day, Europe's first adventure winery delights numerous guests with a unique ensemble of a baroque palace and garden complex, wine culture landscape and modern manufacture, as well as excellent "Cool Climate" wines, classic bottle-fermented sparkling wines and exquisite winter drinks. Daily guided tours, the estate's own inn and many enjoyable events bring visitors closer to Saxon enjoyment with all their senses.

Historical recipe in a modern fashion After the winemakers of Wackerbarth Palace had viewed the old Rau Earl document, they immediately began to revive this forgotten Saxon tradition. They selected the finest white wines from the Elbe Valley and carefully adapted the historical recipe to today's taste. Anyone who would like to try the delicately fruity winter drink “Wackerbarth‘s Weiß & Heiß (White & Hot),” can order it at www.schloss-wackerbarth.de and have it conveniently delivered to his home. And for all those who also rely on ambience: the delicious winter drink can also be tasted at selected Christmas markets in eastern Germany, as well as directly on site at "Wein & Licht (Wine & Light)" at Wackerbarth Palace.

In the cold season from November to February, Europe's first adventure winery transforms its baroque grounds and the adjacent vineyards into a fairytale world of lights with hundreds of lights every evening. With a cup of “Wackerbarth‘s White & Hot,” it is truly a pleasure for all the senses.

Bavarian Times | 44

Photo Credit: djd / Schloß Wackerbarth / So goes Saxon. - S. Arlt; djd / Schloss Wackerbarth / Norbert Millauer

The first mulled wine was drunk 180 years ago

ADVERTORIAL „MORE THAN BRICKS!

Tradition und Zukunft der Architekturkeramik“

MORE THAN BRICKS!

20. März – 3. Oktober 2022, Porzellanikon Selb

Tradition and future of

Photo Credit: Porzellanikon – Staatliches Museum für Porzellan/ Ludwig Lutz

So vielseitig wie das Material, so abwechslungsreich ceramics" ist aucharchitectural die Ausstellung More than Bricks! Begeben Sie sich auf einen Stadtbummel: Schlendern Sie vorbei an March 20 – und October 3, 2022, Porzellanikon Geschäften, Kirchen Schlössern, bestaunen Sie riesige Selb Fabrikbauten und erfahren Sie mehr über die Geschichte Selb, Germany -- The exhibition is as versatile and as vardes einzigartigen Baustoffes Keramik. Aber nicht nur Ihr ied as the material. More than Bricks! Go on a stroll through Wissensdurst wird gestillt, auch Ihre Kreativität ist gefragt. the city: stroll past shops, churches and castles, marvel at So können Sie selbst buildings Wände mauern, Fassaden huge factory and learn moreverzieren about the history of und sogar eine eigene Fliese gestalten, die Teil eines the unique building material ceramics.

But not only will your riesigenthirst Wandbildes in der Ausstellung haben will also be in for knowledge be satisfied,wird. yourSie creativity das Stadtbild in der Hand!

Ein besonderes Highlight der facades and demand. You can build walls yourself, decorate even stellt design own tile that erstmals becomeszum partEinsatz of a huge mural Ausstellung dieyour im Porzellanikon in theVirtual-Reality-Technik exhibition. You have the your hands! A spekommende dar:cityscape Setzen Sieindie cialaufhighlight of the is the virtual reality technology VR-Brille und wagen Sieexhibition sich auf eine Zeitreise. which used for the first time in the1900 Porzellanikon: Put Besuchen Sie isdiebeing Pariser Weltausstellung im Jahr on the Sie VRdurch glasses and venture on a journey und schreiten die Porte Monumentale.

Dabei through time.

Visit the Paris World Fair in 1900 and stroll through the Porte können Sie die zahlreich verbauten keramischen Elemente Monumentale. You can discover the numerous built-in ceramic entdecken, die dieses Eingangstor so einzigartig machten. elements that made this entrance gate so unique. Once you Wiederhave in derreturned Gegenwart angekommen, können Sie die to the present, you can now marvel at the cegerade ramics bewunderte Keramik nun auch in echt bestaunen. you have just admired in real life. The successful buildDas Erfolgsmaterial prägt bis heute das Leben ing material Baukeramik ceramics still shapes people's lives today and der Menschen und dank seiner nachhaltigen, dauerhaften thanks to its sustainable, lasting beauty it will stay that way for a long We promise you:soAfter visiting Schönheit wirdtime. das auch lange noch bleiben.

Wirour ver-exhibition, you willIhnen: see the architecture in your neighborhood sprechen Nach dem Besuch unserer Ausstellungwith completely eyes. werdendifferent Sie die Architektur in Ihrer Nachbarschaft mit | by Porzellanikon ganz anderen Augen sehen.

45 | Bavarian Times

Tradition and future of architectural ceramics

meet bavaria

Skiing and snowboarding in the Upper Palatinate and Franconia The Oberpfalz and Franconia have a lot to offer for winter sports fans. Discover the region on one of the cross-country ski tracks, enjoy the tranquility of snowshoeing, or race down a sled run into the valley.

Ski lift Wurmstein Type: Alpine Skiing, sledding; Length: 550 and 700 m; Number of slopes: 2; Difficulty: easy; Ticket cost: $ Address: Rumpelbachstraße, 92696 Flossenbürg, Phone: 09603/2772, E-Mail: info@skilift-wurmstein.de, Internet: www.skilift-wurmstein.de Winter sports area Steinwald - Ski lift Pfaben Type: Alpine Skiing, sledding, cross-country skiing; Length: 700 m; Number of slopes: 1; Difficulty: easy; flood-lighting; crosscountry ski tracks: 8; Ticket cost: $ Address: Pfaben, 92681 Erbendorf; Phone: 09682/2080, E-Mail: tourist-info@erbendorf.de, Internet: www.erbendorf.de/038winter.htm Winter sports area Skiing- and Snowboarding Center Fahrenberg Type: Alpine Skiing, sledding; Length: 800 m and 1100 m; Number of slopes: 2; Difficulty: easy and medium; Flood-lighting; Altitude difference: 140 m; Ticket cost: $ Address: Straße Oberbernrieth - Pleystein, 92727 Waldthurn, Phone: 09651/91222, E-Mail: tv-vohenstrauss@t-online.de, Internet: www.ski-fahrenberg.de

Winter sports area Immenreuth Type: Alpine Skiing; Length: 200 m and 500 m; Number of slopes: 2; Difficulty: easy; Flood-lighting; Ticket cost: $ Address: Katzenöd 5, 95505 Immenreuth, Phone: 09642/92160, Internet: www.skilift-tannenberg.de Klausenlift Mehlmeisel Type: Alpine Skiing; Length: 700 m; Number of slopes: 2; Difficulty: easy; Altitude difference: 165 m; Flood-lighting; Ticket cost: $$ Address: Liftstraße, 95694 Mehlmeisel, Phone: 09272/441, Internet: www.klausenlift.de Winter sports at Ochsenkopf mountain Type: Alpine Skiing, sledding, cross-country skiing; Length: 1900 m and 2300 m; Number of slopes: 2; Difficulty: easy and medium; Altitude difference: 350 m; Flood-lighting; Ticket cost: $$ Address: Talstation Ochsenkopf Nord, Fröbershammer 27, 95493 Bischofsgrün and Talstation Ochsenkopf Süd, Fleckl 40, 95485 Warmensteinach, Phone: 09276/604, Internet: www.ochsenkopf.info For more information about winter sports in our region, visit the webpages of the regional tourism offices at www.oberpfaelzerwald.de, www.fraenkische-schweiz.com, www.frankentourismus. de or www.bayerischer-wald.de.

Lift fees: $ = cheap, $$ = medium price, $$$ = high price

| by Editor

Pleasant nights and traditional dishes in a typical Bavarian atmosphere Hospitality works in the Upper Palatinate at Altstadt Hotel BräuWirt – with air-conditioning, comfort and first class service 25 stylishly furnished, spacious guest rooms turn your stay at this four-star hotel into a unique experience. All guest rooms are equipped with solid Italian wood furniture from South Tyrol which creates an unmistakable atmosphere. Additionally, the wellness area with sauna, solarium and fitness equipment is ideal for relaxation.

Traditional dishes and typical Bavarian specialties are served fresh from the kitchen. The brewery offers high-quality, home-made Zoigl beers, brewed following the Bavarian purity law.

Altstadt HOTEL Bräu Wirt Türlgasse 10–14 | 92637 Weiden | Tel. 0961 | 38 81 80-0 www.altstadthotel-braeuwirt.de

Bavarian Times | 46

ADVERTORIAL

"It really doesn't get any fresher," says BräuWirt boss Uwe Zehendner and laughs.

“Because our Zoigl is directly brewed where it is served.”

The BräuWirt in the middle of the old town of Weiden is not only the only house brewery in the whole city, but has also been recognized as the best pub brewery in Bavaria by the Munich organization “Event & Culture.”

Photo Credit: BräuWirt (4)

But that's not all. Now another award could be celebrated. At the Meininger’s International Craft Beer Award, the Zoigl Hell received silver in the cellar beer category. “We are constantly trying to develop ourselves further,” says Uwe Zehendner. “Our next goal is gold.” Until then, the BräuWirt will continue to brew freshly on a regular basis - and you can taste it. "The Zoigl is still a really handcrafted beer," explains master brewer Wolfgang Scheidler. “It is untreated and unfiltered, one of the most original beers there is. With us, it comes straight from the tank to the tap.” “ The same applies to beer: the fresher, the better,” says Uwe Zehender, who is a beer sommelier. “Every sip is really fun. In addition, our beer is not driven around or is left in the beverage or supermarket for a long period of time because light also has a negative effect on the taste of beer.”

Unterer Markt 9 92637 Weiden Phone: 0961/481330 www.braeuwirt.de

Opening hours: Daily from 11 a.m.; Warm meals all day until 10 p.m.

In addition to light and dark Zoigl and Zoiglweißbier, seasonal specialty beers are also regularly brewed as the seasons change. “The guest can be surprised again and again with us,” say two beer experts.

“Just ask and try something new.” The dark Christmas bock beer is already maturing in the tanks. This is then served from the first Advent and fits perfectly with Christ-

AW A

SILVER 2021 N AL

RD

IN GE R‘ S

ER

IO

T

Silver at the International Craft Beer Award for the Zoigl from BräuWirt Weiden

M EIN

IN TER NA

Enjoy an excellent, decorated beer

C R AFT B

E

mas delicacies such as game, goose or duck. “With its distinct sweetness it even goes well with gingerbread,” says Uwe Zehendner. Of course, the dark bock beer - just like the Zoigl - is also available at the BräuWirt as a takeout.

But the Zoigl can not only be drunk at the BräuWirt in Weiden, it can also be experienced. During a beer tour, everyone can look over the shoulder of the master brewer at work. If you want more, you can also book a brewing course and be there yourself while brewing beer. This takes six to eight hours and also includes a morning pint and a snack. As a voucher, a brewery tour is a perfect Christmas gift. Vouchers are also available for the inn, in which not only the beer but also the food is always freshly prepared - or the adjoining old town hotel.

An overnight stay here is also a good idea if you don't want to go home after a party. Because not only does the Zoigl taste good at the BräuWirt, it is also a wonderful place to spend the holidays. And the cozy inn with a wide variety of rooms on a total of four levels is ideal for truly any Christmas party.

"Whether in a small, cozy group or a larger group, we have the right offer for every celebration," says Uwe Zehendner. And who doesn't like to toast with a fresh Zoigl?

To an enjoyable Advent and Christmas season.

Think about your Christmas party now and make a reservation at the BräuWirt. Whether in a small, cozy group or a larger group - everything is possible here.

meet bavaria

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany — As the site of the 1936 Winter Olympics, GarmischPartenkirchen has over 60 kilometers of ski slopes with varying levels of difficulty. Community members can find family-friendly slopes in the Garmisch Classic Area as well as World Cup racing conditions on the famous Kandahar slope on the Osterfelder mountain. The ski season usually starts right before Christmas and ends towards the end of March.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers skiing at three mountain locations: the Hausberg, the Alpspitze/ Osterfelder and the Kreuzeck (Garmisch Classic).

Although they basically merge into one big ski area, there are three different cable cars — one for each area. For the 2021/2022 season, prices start at 50 euros per day for adults. The ticket is valid for the entire Garmisch Classic Area, and you can easily get from the Hausberg to the Osterfelder area by crossing the Kreuzeck slopes. The gentle slopes around the Hausberg area are perfect for beginners and families. The Kinderland by Hausberg offers fun for the little ones on skies. Additionally, there are several ski schools that offer classes for everyone.

Several mountain huts, in close vicinity of the slopes, invite adventurers to take a break. When resting, you can enjoy traditional Bavarian food while either sitting near a cozy Kachelofen — a wood burning oven — or enjoying the sun out on the terrace overlooking breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

GARMISCH A skiers’ paradise in the Bavarian Alps

Photo Credit: Andrea Griesser / USAG Bavaria Public Affairs; Aggi Schmid – stock.adobe.com

Après-ski venues can be found at the bottom of the slopes as well as downtown in the pedestrian zone.

There, you can enjoy Gluehwein — mulled wine — or hot chocolate and maybe a bratwurst or crepes.

The high-altitude glacial ski area on top of Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze, opens midNovember; moreover, you can ski there until the beginning of May. The view from the top is absolutely spectacular and well worth a visit, even if you do not ski. A combination of cogwheel train and cable car takes you to bottom of the slopes and then up to the very peak at 2,962 meters or 8,925 feet.

Additionally, every year around the months of January and February, the Alpine Ski World Cup stops in Garmisch to host both men’s and women’s races.

For non-skiers, there is a great choice of winter hikes, as well as the options to try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing.

Edelweiss Lodge and Resort and Army Lodging on Artillery Kaserne are available for accommodation.

Plan your snow vacation according to your budget.

The pedestrian zone in downtown Garmisch on a typical winter day.

The impressive panorama from the Alpspitze (left) to the Zugspitze (far right).

Guidance and rules on COVID-19 measurements and news for the Zugspitze and Garmisch Classic can be found here.

Personnel assigned to the U.S. Army Garrison footprint should also consult the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal, here.

| by Andrea Griesser Bavarian Times | 48

food & drinks

How to make your own classic red mulled wine

Ingredients for a classic mulled wine: • 1 liter of red wine • 1 organic orange • 2 cinnamon sticks • 4 cloves • 3-4 tablespoons of sugar, honey or agave syrup • optional: vanilla pod

Preparation: To make the perfect, classic mulled wine yourself, you should follow the following steps: 1. In the first step, the red wine is heated in a saucepan. However, the wine must never boil, but rather be heated up to a boiling point of 78 degrees, otherwise the alcohol evaporates and the wine can quickly become bitter.

2. Now the sliced orange and the mulled wine spices are added and sweetened according to taste. Then the pot is removed from the stove and the spices are left to steep for about an hour.

3. Before serving, reheat the mulled wine and pour it into the cup through a sieve.

Which wines are suitable for making red mulled wine yourself?

Basically any wine can be used, but wines matured in barriques are rather avoided, as their wood note is perceived as distracting. For red mulled wine, wines with a strong taste and low acidity are preferred. Dornfelder, Merlot and Pinot Noir are mainly used here, but cuvées are also popular. Fresh red mulled wines can be recognized by their intense red color - if the wine is brown, this indicates that it has been heated too long.

To make a red mulled wine yourself, the following wines are suitable: • Dornfelder • Pinot Noir • Merlot

The alternative: White mulled wine White mulled wines are somewhat milder and lighter than red mulled wines. They usually have less tannins and more acidity, which creates a fruity and fresh taste. Delicate white wines with fruity to spicy notes are popular. Classic Riesling, Chardonnay or Müller-Thurgau are used. Sweet wines are rarely used for the production of mulled wine, as the sweetening is difficult to control.

Ingredients for a white mulled wine: • • • • • • • • 49 | Bavarian Times

1 liter of white wine 1 organic orange 1 organic lemon 2 cinnamon sticks 3 cloves 2 star anise 3-4 tablespoons of sugar, honey or agave syrup Our tip: add a shot of orange liqueur

Photo Credit: ricka_kinamoto | madiwaso – stock.adobe.com

REd mulled wine

food & Drinks

Christmas Recipe Ideas Recipe idea 1:

Butter cookies Bake at 175 degrees C for about ten minutes

Ingredients: For the dough: 500 grams of flour, 250 grams of butter 180 grams of sugar, 2 eggs, 1 pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder

Photo Credit: Natalia Greeske | Meike Netzbandt | madiwaso – stock.adobe.com

Decoration 250 grams couverture or icing made from 250 grams of powdered sugar, Sugar sprinkles as decoration

Preparation: Put the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Add the butter in pieces and knead into a short crust pastry.

Knead in the eggs shortly before the end. Shape the short crust dough into a large ball and let it rest in the refrigerator for half an hour.

Roll out the dough and cut out cookies with various Christmas cutters. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with baking paper and bake at 175 degrees C for about ten minutes until golden.

Use a small spoon to coat the cooled cookies with warmed couverture or icing and sprinkle with decorative sprinkles.

Now put the mold back in the freezer for about 6 hours. At the end of the freezing time, remove the parfait from the mold and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Sprinkle the parfait with the chopped pistachios and serve.

Recipe idea 2:

Vanilla crescents Bake at 175° C for about fifteen minutes until golden Vanilla crescents are among the most popular Christmas cookies and impress with their fine vanilla-nut taste. The crescents have been part of traditional Christmas biscuits for almost 150 years. If you want to give the cookies a particularly fine taste, mix some real vanilla into the dough.

Ingredients: 560g flour, 160g sugar, 400g butter or margarine, 200g ground hazelnuts, 100g sugar, 4 sachets of vanilla sugar

Preparation: Mix the flour, sugar, butter and the ground nuts into a smooth dough. Then let it rest in the refrigerator for about one hour.

Roll the cooled dough into a roll, cut off slices as wide as your thumb, shape the crescents into their popular half-moon shape and place them on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Let the crescents bake until golden at 175° C for about fifteen minutes.

CAFÉ-CENTER HERE, YOUR

CAKE DREAMS COME TRUE! WE CREATE CUSTOM-MADE CAKES!

Postgasse 1 | 92637 Weiden Phone: 0961 | 43 555 cafecenter@witron.de OPENING HOURS: Monday–Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

Finally, mix the sugar with the vanilla sugar in a deep plate and carefully roll the cooled cookies in the mixture.

Bavarian Times | 50

- ADVERTORIAL -

Dentistry with an all-round package State-of-the-art technology, individual treatment and dental technology „made in Germany“ - Patients get all of this at the Kemnath Dental Center. „We have a complete in-house laboratory, our dental technician is there for every step of the treatment,“ explains Dr. med. dent. Michael Bobos. Since the practice was established last year, he and his team have not only worked closely with the in-house dental technology, but have also made use of the most modern methods: “We no longer take classic impressions at all. Instead we have a scanner who does everything digitally.” For example, if patients need an implant, the prosthetic restoration of the implant is then made directly on site - sometimes within a few days.

“In contrast to some practices, we don‘t send our prosthetic orders to China, but manufacture everything directly here. This not only saves an enormous amount of time, but is also „made in Germany“ - a quality feature,“ explains Dr. med. dent. Michael Bobos. All specialties can be offered at the Kemnath Dental Center. On the one hand, thanks to the modern, digital technology of the aligner splints

(transparent splints), orthodontic treatment can be carried out, and on the other hand we cover the entire range of oral and surgical treatments such as wisdom tooth removal, apicectomy, dental implants with all common bone-improving measures by our experienced dentist for oral surgery. “We don‘t have to send a patient away because, thanks to a great team, we can carry out almost every kind of dentistry.”

A specialty of our practice is the placement of short implants. “If a patient loses a tooth, the bone is often not thick enough to insert an implant.

What follows is an elaborate bone augmentation. A short implant replaces a lengthy process of building up bone, thus shortening the treatment time and being more cost-effective.” This is another case where the dental technician is present at every step of the treatment and, thus, can directly see whether and where improvements need to be made. We look forward to welcoming you to the dental center soon.

Dr. med. dent.

Michael Bobos

Seeleite 4, 95478 Kemnath Phone: 09642-584 Emergency number: 0152-27867648 info@zahnaerztehaus-kemnath.org www. zahnaerztehaus-kemnath.org

Maximum service and optimal safety Lell car dealership offers dependable service for your BMW in the Oberpfalz region The Lell car dealership has been an authorized BMW dealer since 1982. At the time the youngest authorized BMW dealer, J.B. Lell founded his business as a small company, run by its proprietor.

Over the past 30 years, it quickly became an established point of contact in the northern Oberpfalz region. Today, there are Lell dealerships in six locations with more than 200 employees, four of them are BMW dealerships in the Oberpfalz and Upper Franconia re gions. BMW and Mini dealerships are located in Schwandorf, Wunsiedel, Kümmersbruck and Weiden.

Just recently, the company was recognized for its excellent BMW repair services. All service pro cesses were evaluated ranging from making an appointment, providing customer service to repair services. The Lell team achieved the amazing score of 99 percent.

Customer service and customer wishes are the number one priority at all Lell car dealerships. Lell‘s unique promise to the customer is to be fully committed to serving its customers while constantly optimizing its services.

Lell car dealerships stand out because of their excellent service, customer-

sion, until your car is ready, or, if it‘s just a short repair, you wait at the car dealership while enjoying a coffee and free Wi-Fi access.

oriented consulting, professionalism, dependability and customer trust. Our highly qualified employees always use the latest diagnostic and repair techniques for the maintenance and repair of your vehicle. Whether it is Smart Repair, rim repair or a complete make-over of your car to include tinting the windows: Lell‘s service team provides fair service combined with high expertise. lf your car has to be in the shop for a longer period of time, Lell offers you several solutions to keep you mobile. You can either use the service of getting a replacement vehicle, also available with an automatic transmis

Getting car service or buying parts without having to pay taxes is especially attractive for customers since Lell accepts VAT forms. Additionally, you may pay with your credit card for your services directly at the car dealership.

BMW M5 Mileage: 10.6l/100 km (combined) CO2-emissions: 242 g/km (combined)

THIS SERVICE KEEPS YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK.

Autohaus J. B. LELL

www.lell-bmw.de

The Ultimate Driving Machine®

In the Autohaus Lell car dealership our employees always provide you with reliable service and top level professionalism so that you can enjoy unlimited driving pleasure. Our qualified English-speaking service consultants Mr Scheibe and Mr Pyka are available to help you at our dealerships in both Weiden and Kümmersbruck.

WHAT THE LELL SERVICE PACKAGE INCLUDES FOR YOU. ▪ Good, fair service ▪ Competent consultants ▪ Service replacement vehicle with automatic transmission ▪ Vehicle preparation / full preparation ▪ Window tinting ▪ Smart Repair

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Rim repair Accident maintenance Top terms Purchase without tax through the “VAT form” ▪ BMW and MINI Service ▪ Payment by credit card ▪ W-LAN for our customers

YOUR BMW AND MINI SERVICE CONTACT FROM LELL.

LELL´S SERVICE. FAIR. RELIABLE. FAST.

Alexander Pyka BMW service consultant Kümmersbruck dealership +49 (0)9621/7710-11 alexander.pyka@lell-bmw.de

Autohaus J. B. Lell GmbH & Co. KG, Zur Centralwerkstätte 5, 92637 Weiden Autohaus J. B. Lell GmbH & Co. KG, Vilstalstr. 25-29, 92245 Kümmersbruck

Mathias Scheibe BMW service consultant Weiden dealership +49 (0)961/3003-70 mathias.scheibe@lell-bmw.de

www.lell-bmw.de