Thursday, March 28, 2013 Vol. 10, Issue 13 www.ansbach.army.mil • www.bamberg.army.mil • www.schweinfurt.army.mil

The Franconian News Serving the Franconia Military Community in Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt

Sgt. Robert Szatkowski, right, describes the chemical components of food to Schweinfurt Elementary/Middle School students. From March 19 to 20, Soldiers with the 72nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion brought to life science, technology, engineering and mathematics. To read the story, visit Page 4.

Margaret Gotheridge / USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs

72nd ESB Soldiers teach kids STEM

[Editor’s Note: March is American Red Cross Month and the Franconian News is running a series of articles on various aspects of the Red Cross throughout the month. This is the final article in the series and looks at the Red Cross’ disaster preparedness programs.]

BAMBERG, Germany – Disaster can strike at any time and any place. The American Red Cross helps people prepare for disasters – both on a large and small scale – and provides aid to those affected by disaster.

Samantha Wudel, station manager for the American Red Cross in Bamberg, said the Red Cross has a long history of

responding to disasters. Clara Barton, founder of the

American Red Cross, spent much of her time organizing relief aid for victims of disasters, Wudel said. Barton collected clothing and money for victims of forest fires in Michigan in 1881, chartered steamers to take supplies down the Ohio and Mississippi to help families affected by floods in 1884 and provided aid in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, after its great flood in 1889.

Today, the Red Cross

Red Cross helps prepare for disasters, provides relief if need arisesBy Heidi Sanders, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs

(DISASTER, on Page 3)

ANSBACH, Germany – To recognize its volunteers for their contributions throughout 2012, the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach American Red Cross held an awards ceremony and dinner at the Orangerie Café here March 22.

This year the USAG Ansbach Red Cross racked up more than 3,800 hours, which, based on values from independent-sector research, amounts to nearly $80,000 in savings for the Army. The hours include volunteer work from more than 50 individuals including youths and adults, and a number of professional, licensed volunteers such as physicians.

The volunteer hours included health and safety classes, pre-deployment and in-processing briefings, work with the Warrior Transition Battalion, support for those deployed to Afghanistan and help for new parents. The Red Cross also provides disaster relief, renders services overseas and facilitates blood donations. In fact, the American Red Cross supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood supply.

Since President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1943 proclamation of March as Red Cross Month, every American president thereafter has affirmed the month’s designation to recognize one of the most well-known

humanitarian organizations, its people and those who contribute to its mission with their money, time and blood.

The Red Cross has worked closely with the military since the Spanish-American War, and

its volunteers comprise the majority of the organization.

“The Red Cross has 2.5 million volunteers and 300,000 employees, and so if it weren’t

Kevin L. Griess, U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach deputy garrison commander, speaks to guests at the USAG Ansbach Red Cross volunteer recognition ceremony and dinner March 22 at Orangerie Café in downtown Ansbach, Germany.

Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

By Stephen Baack, USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

USAG Ansbach Red Cross honors its volunteers for year of work

(AWARDS, on Page 5)

REMEMBER:Set your clocks forward one hour Sunday morning, March 31, for daylight saving time!

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 2

Col. Kelly J. LawlerU.S. Army Garrison

Ansbach, Commander

Lt. Col. Michelle L. BieniasU.S. Army Garrison

Bamberg, Commander

Renate BohlenUSAG Bamberg, Public Affairs

Officer

Lt. Col. Michael RuneyU.S. Army Garrison

Schweinfurt, Commander

Nathan Van SchaikUSAG Schweinfurt, Public

Affairs Officer

Ansbach Staff Stephen Baack (Editor), Bryan

Gatchell (Editor), Bianca Sowders

Bamberg Staff Simon Hupfer, Jessica Lipari,

Heidi Sanders

Schweinfurt StaffSpc. Latoya Dallas, Margaret

Gotheridge

The Franconian News is an unofficial publication of the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach, Bamberg and Schweinfurt, IMCOM-Europe and the U.S. Army authorized under the provisions of AR-360-1. Contents of The Franconian News are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Department of the Army. Private organizations noted in this publication are not part of the Dept. of Defense and those wishing to make an announcement must be registered. Fundraising events must be pre-approved through the MWR Financial Management Division, located in Bldg. 7107. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army. All content in this publication is prepared, edited and approved by the Public Affairs Office. The PAO reserves the right to edit submissions for style, clarity or fit. Time sensitive announcements are run for a minimum of two weeks. Information is accurate at the time of publishing. If specifics change, the change will be noted in the following publication. The deadline for all Franconian News submissions is two weeks prior to the desired publication date. The Public Affairs Office is not responsible for late submissions. This publication is produced and distributed every Thursday in an electronic format and can be viewed on the U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg website at www.bamberg.army.mil or the U.S. Army

Garrison Ansbach website at www.ansbach.army.mil.

All Family and MWR programs provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with special needs. For assistance please contact the facility manager prior to your visit.

Contact Information:

Office Location: Bldg. 5256, Barton BarracksU.S. Army Address: Unit 28614, APO AE 09177Telephone: DSN:468-1600

German Address:Meinhardswindener Str. 5256, 91522 AnsbachTelephone: 09811-83-1600

BAMBERG, Germany – On April 3, communities throughout U.S. Army Europe will host events to mark Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

U.S. Army Europe Commander Lt. Gen. Donald M. Campbell Jr. has deemed the day “USAREUR Ready and Resilient Training Day with SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention) focus.”

Communities across the Franconian Military Community will be hosting events during the day. All health clinics at installations in Bavaria will be closed April 3 to support and participate in the activities. Emergency behavioral health and family advocacy services will be available during the day.

At U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg, the day will kick off with a 5-kilometer run at 7 a.m. at the Freedom Fitness Facility. There will be welcoming comments, an invocation and opening remarks from USAG Bamberg Garrison Commander Lt. Col. Michelle L. Bienias before the run.

Mark Bradley, USAG Bamberg’s Family Advocacy Program manager, said the community is encouraged to take part in the run.

“It is an event to show in force that as a community we are taking a stand,” he said. “We are all doing this together.”

That sentiment reflects this year’s Sexual Assault Awareness month theme of, “We own it. We will solve it together.”

“SHARP is really a truly

coordinated effort between the civilian side of the house and the uniform side of the house,” Bradley said. “Sexual assault is a problem that needs all of our attention to be fixed.”

The Academy Award-nominated film, The Invisible War, will be shown several times throughout the month in Bamberg, including twice April 3. The film will be shown at 10 a.m. and then at 1:30 p.m. on April 3 at the post movie theater.

The target audience for the first showing is the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team and tenant units. The 16th Sustainment Brigade and the 54th Engineer Battalion will be the focus for the second showing.

The film will be shown again at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on April 18 and 9 a.m. on April 19. Bradley said anyone in the community is invited to attend any showing of the movie.

The film is a documentary that examines the problem of sexual assault in the military.

“It’s not an Army training film,” Bradley said.

Bradley said the film already has led to some changes in the way sexual assault is handled in the military, in particular with the way victims are treated.

“The paramount thing is that all sexual assault victims be treated with dignity and respect and are fully aware of options available to them,” he said.

Following each viewing of the film, USAG Bamberg will host a panel discussion with experts on the topic of sexual assault, including Bradley, the Criminal Investigation Division, Military

Police, chaplains, health care professionals and representatives from the legal office.

USAG Ansbach will show The Invisible War at Katterbach Theater at Bismarck Kaserne at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. along with a panel discussion.

“The way the training is broken up, there will be some stuff going on in the morning, some stuff going on in the afternoon, so not everyone has to be in one place at one time,” said John O’Brien, who helped coordinate the training day at USAG Ansbach.

USAG Schweinfurt will show the film seven times: 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 1 at Ledward Theater, 9 a.m. at Conn Club, 9 a.m. at Finney Gym, 11:30 a.m. at Ledward Theater, 1 p.m. at Signal University (Bldg. 68), and 1 p.m. at Ledward Chapel. USAG Schweinfurt will also hold a launch and commitment pledge at their PX and an information drive at various locations throughout the post.

“It is a requirement,” said O’Brien of the training. “We should have 100 percent participation. This is a USAREUR-wide stand-down, so there shouldn’t be other mission things going on, but [Directorate of Emergency Services] can’t shut down their operations, medical can’t entirely shut down their operations, so there will be some still that aren’t able to attend this training.”

Bradley said he hopes the events April 3 will raise awareness about the effects of sexual assault.

“Sexual assault does a few things,” he said. “First, it is a

crime. Every report is fully and vigorously investigated and, where warranted, prosecuted. Number 2, it undermines the very fabric of one of essential cornerstones as professionals: Trust. Sexual assault robs that sense of trust.”

Bradley said education is key to preventing sexual assault.

“There is also, however, the issue of people intervening and keeping others from making stupid mistakes,” Bradley said. “It takes that intervention. If you see someone who looks at risk for victimization, intervene. If you see your buddy look like they could put themselves in a position where they could be accused, intervene.”

In addition to the community-wide events planned on April 3, Sexual Assault Response Coordinators are planning their own trainings and events for their units.

There will also be information booths around post throughout the month, and SARCs are organizing a clothesline project, where individuals can hang various colored T-shirts to represent that they have been victims of sexual assault or support sexual assault prevention, said Staff Sgt. Eva Sanchez, 16th SB SARC and lead SARC in Bamberg.

She said the SARCs also will be teaching students at the high school about sexual harassment.

Sanchez said there is a Bavaria SHARP hotline, which victims of sexual assault can call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for help and to be referred to their local SHARP. The number is 0964-183-4567.

April 3 events to focus on sexual assault prevention, awareness in FranconiaBy Heidi Sanders, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 3

WASHINGTON – Twenty-one Medal of Honor recipients who put their lives on the line in extraordinary ways and circumstances paid tribute to four citizen-heroes who also went above and beyond for their fellow man.

The first Medal of Honor was presented March 25, 1863, to Union Army Pvt. Jacob Parrott. On the 150th anniversary of that event, more recent Medal of Honor recipients gathered at Arlington National Cemetery, Va., to honor fallen war heroes with a somber wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

To read more, click here.

continues to respond to a variety of disasters around the world, including hurricanes, such as Katrina and Sandy, earthquakes, such as the Haiti earthquake in 2010 and the Japan earthquake and tsunami in 2011.

Wudel said the Red Cross tries to prepare for the next large-scale disaster and encourages people to donate to the general disaster relief fund. Donations can be made by visiting www.redcross.org and clicking on the “donate now” link.

Wudel said while many people recognize the Red Cross for its large-scale disaster relief, the organization also provides aid on a smaller scale, such as to families who have been victims of a house fire or local floods, setting up cooling centers during heat waves and opening shelters during power outages in the cold months.

Wudel said the local Red Cross here has the ability to assist families who have been victims of a fire by providing immediate assistance, such as replacement food and clothing.

Wudel said the family needs to notify the local office as soon as the need arises.

“It does need to be something they come to us with immediately,” Wudel said. “We cannot reimburse them for their expenses, but we can help. We just need to know they need the help.”

Wudel said many Red Cross volunteers are previous recipients of aid from the organization.

“So many, the way they got started with the Red Cross is that they got help from the Red Cross,” she said.

Wudel said responding is only one way the Red Cross helps in disaster relief. The Red Cross also helps people prepare for disasters.

While in some areas people need to prepare for earthquakes or disasters, residents in Germany should be prepared for flooding and power outages – especially in the winter months – and ice storms.

Wudel said people should be prepared to shelter in place, or stay where they are, for up to 72 hours.

She said they should have an emergency kit with three days of supplies including

nonperishable food, water, flashlights and batteries, a radio, prescription medication, cash and pet food.

She also recommended people keep a smaller version of the kit in their vehicle.

“You need to have emergency supplies not just in your home but in your car,” she said.

A full list of recommended supplies for an emergency kit can be found online at www.redcross.org/prepare.

The Red Cross website also has tips on how to create emergency plans for families so that in case of a fire or other emergency, family members know where to go and what to do.

The Red Cross Little Juniors program includes a segment called Masters of Disaster, which teaches children how to prepare for various types of disasters. The program will be offered to children age 5 through second grade from 10 to 11:30 a.m. April 10 in the JFK youth center as a part of Month of the Military Child.

Wudel said on-post organizations, such as Boy and Girl Scouts, can also request to have the course presented to their group by contacting the local Red Cross office.

The Ansbach office is located on Katterbach Kaserne, Bldg. 5817 B, Room 201. It is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, call 09802-83-1760 or visit www.facebook.com/pages/The-American-Red-Cross-Ansbach/153833101408124.

The Bamberg office is located in the Army Community Service, Bldg. 7029 and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, call 0951-300-1760, send an email to Bamberg@redcross.org or visit www.facebook.com/ARCBamberg.

The Schweinfurt office is located on Ledward Barracks, Bldg. 274, across from the Ledward theater. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, call 09721-96-1760/6251 or visit www.schwinfurt.army.mil/info/services/rc.htm.

(DISASTER, from Page 1)

In this file photo from 2011, the damages still remain in many parts of Ishinomaki City, Japan, which was struck by an earthquake and tsunami March 11, 2011. The city lost more than 4,000 citizens, and extensive damage still remains in many parts of the city. The Red Cross is prepared to help when major natural disasters, like the one in Japan, occur.

Tetsuo Nakahari / USAG Japan Public Affairs

Medal of Honor recipients honor citizen-heroes

FORWARD OPERATING BASE MASUM GHAR, Afghanistan – Players from the National Football League visited the Soldiers of Masum Ghar for a motivational United Service Organization (USO) tour on March 18 in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

The NFL players included Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey, Cleveland Browns linebacker D’Qwell Jackson, Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Davin Joseph, Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller, Carolina Panthers wide receiver, Steve Smith...

To read more, click here.

NFL players visit Soldiers in Masum Ghar

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 4

SCHWEINFURT, Germany – Math and science aren’t just taught out of textbooks for students at the middle school here. That’s because Soldiers assigned to the 72nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion brought the subjects to life in an effort to give a boost to a DoDEA initiative aimed at invigorating science, technology, engineering and mathematics in the class room.

STEM is a Department of Defense education program intended to build a workforce more competent in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The nation depends upon the wealth of experience and expertise from these different dimensions and domains of learning, said the director of Department of Defense Education Activity, Marilee Fitzgerald, in a Nov. 6, 2012, radio broadcast.

“We have to begin to build this capacity in our schools,” said Fitzgerald. “We are being out-paced by other nations. DODEA is trying to address this problem in our schools.”

One way Schweinfurt Elementary/Middle School is integrating the STEM initiative is pairing students with subject matter experts – like the Soldiers from the 72nd ESB. These

Soldiers are specifically trained in STEM, such as in information technology and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosives, more commonly known as CBRN-E.

From March 19 to 20 students in grades four through eight got hands-on seminars and demonstrations in communications, engineering, chemistry, physical education and nutrition.

Soldiers trained in information technology, for example, demonstrated how signals travel thousands of miles in a matter of seconds.

Soldiers knowledgeable in CBRN-E guided students on common chemicals found in their households and quizzed them on how to safely handle hazardous materials.

Students also learned how Soldiers prepare themselves to be ready and resilient in order to perform at a higher standard in their job. The students had to participate in several fitness activities that included sprints, crouched runs and, to prevent injuries, stretches.

“We are all about building a strong community,” said Lt. Col. Neil K. Khatod, 72nd ESB commander. “A healthy lifestyle means that you will sleep better, grow stronger and be a more effective student.”

The subject of nutrition was also covered. Students came to understand how substances like sugar in foods affect the body, how these sugars are measured and what healthy alternatives to sugar-rich snacks are available.

“There are many careers in the health field which work closely with math, technology and engineering,” said Nancy Dauber, a teacher at the middle school and one of the event coordinators. “Math is used in analyzing diets, medication and temperature. Health and nutrition careers are using more and more technology in their areas.”

Through Soldiers with 72nd ESB and teachers, the students

saw how science, technology, engineering and mathematics benefit the community.

“I am hoping that students take away some ideas about possible careers in science, technology, health and nutrition,” said Dauber. “I hope that they realize that what they are doing in math, science and technology classes have many applications in the real world.”

Schweinfurt Elementary/Middle School offers STEM classes to students in the seventh and eighth grades. Classes include science applications, computer applications, graphic communications and video communications.

72nd ESB Soldiers explore math, science with Schweinfurt studentsBy Margaret Gotheridge, USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs

Soldiers from the 72nd Expeditionary Signal Battalion helped plant the seeds of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) into the minds of students at the Schweinfurt Elementary/Middle School March 19 to 20, 2013.

Margaret Gotheridge / USAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs

BAMBERG, Germany – Two more of the Exchange’s contractors have turned in their termination notices at U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg.

As of June 30, the Cleaners and Alteration Shop next to the Stable Theater will be closed.

Since no other source is available nor any new source is willing to provide this service due to the upcoming closure, the Exchange is not able to provide this service on post after June 30, said Petra Prell, Army and Air Force Exchange Service Office Technician.

USAG Bamberg community members will have to use alternative options when requiring cleaning and alterations for themselves or family members. Community members can still drive down to Schweinfurt or other

garrisons after June where the Exchange still has Cleaners and Alterations available or they can look outside the gate at local Bamberg stores.

The following are some options available for cleaners:

• Kingsgard Vollreinigung, Breitenau 2, 96052 Bamberg, 0951-32106

• Reinigung Albert Textilpflege Albert, Schillerplatz, 96047 Bamberg, 0951-25168

• Reiningung im Atrium, Ludwigstrasse 2, 96052 Bamberg, 0951-24853

• RoMi Alround GmbH, Teufelsgraben 9, 96052 Bamberg, 0951-4086836

The following are some options available for alterations:

• Amon, Stazinaeriweg 27, 96050

Bamberg, 0951-34712• Foerster, Siechenstrasse 68, 96052

Bamberg, 0951-3886854• Rudel, Pfarrfelstrasse 8, 96050

Bamberg, 0951-3020517• Yilmaz, Zinkenwoerth 8, 96047

Bamberg, 0951-9170864On July 6, the Barber Shop next to Military

Clothing and Sales will close their doors. The Barber Shop and the Bamberg Beauty Shop in the Exchange Mall will remain open.

“Since the contractor is in the possession of both Barber Shop contracts, he decided to terminate one of them,” Prell said. “The total sales dropped more than 50 percent since September, therefore he isn’t able to continue operating both locations.”

Barber, cleaner, alterations close at USAG BambergBy Jessica Lipari, USAG Bamberg Public Affairs

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 5

for the volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to accomplish any of the missions we’re mandated to do by Congress, as well as meet the needs of the direct community,” said Cassandra Wyatt, station manager.

To Kevin L. Griess, USAG Ansbach deputy garrison commander, the Red Cross is vital to the military – especially to military garrisons. Griess said he couldn’t “imagine a garrison operating without a Red Cross being on the ground.”

“Within a garrison, there are very few things that, outside military operations, bring people together as a community and allow them to anchor themselves in times of need and crisis,” Griess said. “The Red Cross provides that service, and the Red Cross also provides an outlet for people who want to contribute to that service.”

Griess said if trouble strikes a military community, “they’ll be the first ones on the ground, standing right there with blankets and food and shelter and everything else. They are a 360-degree partner, both in peace and in an emergency.”

Volunteer awards included the Certificate of Appreciation, Special Citation of Exceptional Volunteer Service, Certificate for Extraordinary Personal Action, and Presidential Volunteer Service Award with bronze, silver and gold designations and pins.

Before presenting awards alongside station Chairperson

LaDona K. Lane, Griess served as keynote speaker. The challenge to find the right words to describe how he feels about the Red Cross was among his points.

“How can I put that into words

in any language?” Griess asked the crowd. “There is no more powerful partner to the garrison than the Red Cross. … It is an anchor, a support structure if disaster comes to us. … To the

garrison, the Red Cross is part of its blood.

“It’s not, ‘What do you need?’ It’s, ‘What can we do?’ The difference is, ‘What can we do?’ is a blank check,” Griess continued.

Griess said it’s important to recognize the Red Cross volunteers and though they may appear to be unnoticed or underappreciated at times, they “deserve endless gratitude” for their work.

Lane, who serves as station chairperson and who received the President’s Volunteer Service Award (Silver), offered similar sentiments.

“We’re always glad to have volunteers, and it’s important to recognize those volunteers who do give their time because they could be doing a lot of other things – but they choose to volunteer, and that’s huge,” Lane said.

Lane added that as the Army shifts more of its focus to fiscal responsibility, volunteers are that much more in demand as tasks such as paying contractors are more challenging. And according to Wyatt, volunteers can pick up marketable skills, like in the Red Cross’ upcoming dental assistant training class.

Wyatt added, “It’s a win-win situation.”

To learn more about the services offered through USAG Ansbach Red Cross, or to volunteer, call 467-1760. To learn more about the American Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org.

(AWARDS, from Page 1)

U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Deputy Garrison Commander Kevin L. Griess, right, joins USAG Ansbach Red Cross station chairperson LaDona K. Lane, left, to present the Red Cross Special Citation for Exceptional Volunteer Service to Sarah Cokely during the Red Cross volunteer recognition ceremony and dinner March 22 at Orangerie Café in downtown Ansbach, Germany. Cokely also received the President’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold) during the ceremony.

Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

SCHWEINFURT, Germany – The team that’s engineered the construction and delivery of the Schweinfurt garrison closure blog earned gold in an Army-wide competition, and two of those members earned top awards for their individual work.

The Office of the Chief of Public Affairs conducts the Maj. Gen. Keith L. Ware Public Affairs competition annually to recognize journalistic excellence among servicemembers and Army civilian employees. A special panel of judges from the

Department of Army selected the winners.

Garrison leadership and subject-matter experts write for the award-winning blog. But the Schweinfurt team that built it and continues to groom it is the result of a communications concept begun in 2010 that brought together, under one roof, all of the garrison’s communications experts. Dubbed the Fusion Cell, teammates include Nathan Van Schaik, Elvira Gladwell, Michele Bradfield, Leslie Brians, Margaret Gotheridge and Spc. Latoya Dallas.

The closure blog now advances to the DoD-wide Thomas Jefferson competition.

Two members won individual awards at the Installation Management Command level.

USAG Schweinfurt staff writer, Spc. Latoya Dallas, won

the military individual award under the Human Interest/Feature Article category for her story on Spc. Christopher Lewis, European Rodeo President. She also won the military individual award for best photograph for a photo she took accompanying

her coverage of the 172nd Infantry Brigade’s return home from Afghanistan.

Nathan Van Schaik took first in the civilian individual category for a news article for his piece, “Commander discusses base closure, presents priorities.”

Schweinfurt closure blog earns gold in Army-wide competitionUSAG Schweinfurt Public Affairs

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 6

NÜRNBERG, Germany – Eighteen members of the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach community took a trip March 16 to the Palace of Justice here to tour the Memorium Nuremberg Trials exhibit and Courtroom 600, where members of Nazi Germany’s leadership were tried between 1945 and 1946 for war crimes.

The trip marked the culmination of the USAG Ansbach’s Traveling Book Club’s activities for this quarter, which also included a viewing of the film Judgment at Nuremberg and William F. Buckley Jr.’s book, Nuremberg: The Reckoning.

The club was organized through USAG Ansbach’s Storck and Bleidorn community libraries as a way to get people talking about a subject for which they would go to the library, give them an opportunity to see and learn about something in person that they can also read about, and help familiarize them with the region’s transit network to do so.

Librarian Mike Colarusso, who helped organize the event, said library officials are also planning more trips, including to Rothenberg and Munich.

He added that these trips are different from those offered by Outdoor Recreation because

these are only daylong trips people can take separately and on their own time. Plus, the group incorporates library materials into the event as an educational component.

“It’s something that, once we put an idea in someone’s head, they don’t have to go with the group,” he added “They can say, ‘Well, that’s cool. I can do this any time.’”

For this first trip, tour guide Ingo Eigen led the group through the exhibit in the top floor of the Palace of Justice’s east wing, weaving through the sectioned room and stopping at each backlit informational panels to assemble the pieces of the trials: from the events leading to the trials to the judgments of the defendants. In between, Eigen provided biographical information on the defendants, the prosecutors and the judges; he outlined the course of the trial, which included successes and failures on both sides; and he talked about the aftermath of the trials, including the judgments themselves, and the trials’ legacy and applications for such venues as the International Criminal Court in the Hague.

Eigen then led the group into Courtroom 600, a site that is not always accessible during tours because it still serves as a regular venue for jurisdiction today. In fact, the courtroom itself has only been open to visitors since 2000 and only as part of the exhibition since

late 2010.Eigen, a native German speaker, leads

tours both at the Palace of Justice and the nearby Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. He said his style of teaching often differs based on his audience.

“When I have school classes and students are 15 and 16 [years old], I am happy when they realize that history is important and not some ‘boring, nerd stuff,’” Eigen said. “When I have adult groups or senior high school students, I try to teach them to think for themselves education for autonomy – maybe to have a look at the sources themselves. But this is usually hard to do as I just have the chance to work 45 minutes to one hour with them.”

The tour group from USAG Ansbach included Soldiers, spouses, children and civilians. Eigen said with American groups in particular, he’s noticed a positive reaction when they walk through the doors of the real Courtroom 600.

Brooke Covington, spouse of Chief Warrant Officer Neil Covington, an AH-64 Apache pilot assigned to 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, said being inside the courtroom stood out the most to her.

“Architecturally, it’s gorgeous,” she said.

Standing in Courtroom 600 with members of the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Traveling Book Club, tour guide Ingo Eigen provides a history of the courtroom and how things have changed since the Nürnberg trials in 1945 and 1946, during a tour March 16.

Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

USAG Ansbach Traveling Book Club members see, touch history in NürnbergBy Stephen Baack, USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

(TRIALS, on Page 7)

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 7

“I don’t know many people who can say they’ve stood in the courtroom where the Nürnberg trials were held. Since I’ve also been to Dachau, Auschwitz-Birkenau, Krakow Ghetto, [Oskar] Schindler’s factory and other World War II historical sites, it’s nice to be in the location where some justice was served.”

Brooke said she has become a World War II history buff since she and her husband have been in Germany. Once she found out a tour was in the works for Courtroom 600, it was an easy choice because she had not yet visited.

“I would definitely recommend the trip to anyone who has studied the history of the trials. I found the fact that the location hasn’t been

preserved given its significance to history,” Neil said, referring to changes to the courtroom throughout the years, including modernization. “I also feel that anyone who doesn’t know the full history would greatly appreciate the guided tour and find it quite informative.”

“We enjoyed it,” Brooke added. “We thought it was very cool to be in a place of so much history.”

The Traveling Book Club, organized by the community libraries at Storck and Bleidorn, are planning more trips. To learn more, call the Bleidorn Community Library at 09811-83-1740 or DSN 468-1740 or Storck Community Library at 09841-83-4675 or DSN 467-4675.

(TRIALS, from Page 6)

Above: Pictured is the exterior of Courtroom 600 at the Palace of Justice in Nuremberg, Germany. Eighteen members of the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Traveling Book Club visited the courtroom and the Memorium Nuremberg Trials exhibit March 16, 2013.Top right: Tour guide Ingo Eigen explains the final judgments of the Nuremberg trials during a tour through the Memorium Nuremberg Trials exhibit March 16, 2013, in Nuremberg, Germany, which is part of the Palace of Justice and Courtroom 600. Eigen also recounted the chain of events that comprised the Nuremberg trials from 1945 to 1946.Right: Pictured is a repurposed U.S. Army ammunition box from World War II later used during the Nuremberg trials to send documents the U.S. Army had found that were pertinent to the trials. Supreme Court Justice Robert. H. Jackson, who served as the American chief prosecutor, took custody of the box and its contents for final research and classification.

Stephen Baack / USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 8

SAN ANTONIO – There’s no shortcut to make the pending Proposal of Notification Letter easier or quicker to produce. Officials across the Army await the exact details and wording of the furlough communication to minimize confusion among employees.

Employees of the U.S. Army Installation Management Command are expected to receive their notification letters soon. Officials now estimate that furlough notices will go out on or about April 5, said Navy Cmdr. Leslie Hull-Ryde, a Pentagon spokesperson, in a recent announcement.

Before notifications can be made, human resource officials are expecting a signed memo from the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Thomas R. Lamont. In that memo will come specific guidance for conducting the furlough process.

With civilian personnel across the Army anticipating furloughs, approximately 27,000 IMCOM employees are waiting to find out if they, as individuals, are going into temporary non-duty and non-pay status. Those employees will be notified directly by their supervisors.

Once employees are notified, several things must be accomplished. They will first acknowledge in writing their receipt of notification. They will then have seven days to exercise their right to reply. Employees may appeal orally or in writing to the designated reply official.

Also, supervisors will inform employees of their exact furlough schedule. IMCOM is considering various methods to balance the work schedule, including a shortened 4-day workweek, but no decision has been made.

Finally, supervisors will distribute decision notification notices to employees to begin the furlough schedule. These letters are expected to go out the week ending April 19, in time for the following furlough week. Then furloughs are expected to continue for 22 discontinuous days or one day per week for the remainder of the fiscal year. Employees may appeal the agency’s decision to the Merit System Protection Board within 30 days from the effective date of the furlough.

A furlough places an employee in a temporary non-duty and non-pay status. IMCOM is furloughing its employees as a result of the Budget Control Act passed Aug. 2, 2011. The act requires more than $487 billion in cuts from the defense base budget over 10 years, beginning in fiscal year 2013. These cuts are commonly referred to as the “sequester.”

IMCOM is taking other steps to help preserve financial resources during sequester.

These include close scrutiny of 783 contracts across the IMCOM garrisons with a performance period starting in May or later. Contracts under review may be new awards or contracts with options scheduled for extension during this period.

Most of the contracts under review fall in the municipal services arena. These include pest control, refuse, custodial care and grounds maintenance services. To maintain fiscal goals during sequester, IMCOM must make contracting decisions for the balance of fiscal 2013 and into fiscal 2014; however, no enterprise-wide contracting decisions have been made so far.

Active-duty, Reserve and National Guard service members are exempt from furloughs.

While the furlough is the equivalent of an 8.5 percent annual reduction in pay, each employee will experience a 20 percent reduction during the last five months of fiscal 2013. IMCOM realizes and regrets this hardship on employees.

For those employees who are enrolled in the Thrift Savings Plan through payroll deductions, TSP offers some relief. Go to the TSP website and explore the non-pay status options.

While on furlough, there will be strict adherence to employee standards – for example, overtime and compensatory time are curtailed, and no employee will be allowed to volunteer services to their organization during the furlough. Telework and the use of government issued electronics, such as mobile phones, laptops or tablet computers, will not be permitted on furlough days.

During the furlough period, the accumulation of annual and sick leave will be slowed. Leave is earned each pay period depending upon the pay status of the employee and the number of hours worked. With fewer hours comes a proportional decrease in the accrual of leave hours. Employees can obtain the exact status on their leave and earnings statements.

Some scheduled annual leave during the furlough may be cancelled by the commander to fulfill manpower shortages. Management will be looking closely at leave schedules to balance the demands of the mission. Employees are reminded to work closely with supervisors on leave schedules, especially around these upcoming federal holidays: May 27 (Memorial Day), July 4 (Independence Day) and September 2 (Labor Day).

Before seeking any part-time employment in the civilian sector, employees should discuss with their supervisor to assure they have met all ethics requirements.

While health benefits, flexible spending accounts, federal group life insurance, vision and dental plans, and federal long term care plans are not impacted during this furlough period, the employee will still be responsible for the full premiums due for these benefits.

No decision has been made regarding the termination of temporary and term employees.

For more information on how sequestration and furloughs affect the IMCOM-Europe workforce, visit the IMCOM-E Sequester FAQ page at www.imcom-europe.army.mil/webs/sites/faq.

Furloughs delayed, planning requires more preparationBy Robert Dozier, Installation Management Command

A group of Soldiers carrying a stretcher makes its way toward the finish line during the American Red Cross Wounded Warrior Awareness 5-kilometer run on March 22 in Bamberg. More than 300 people participated in the run.

Aritta Lane / USAG Bamberg Public Affairs

Bamberg runs Red Cross Wounded Warrior Awareness 5K

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 9

[Editor’s Note: This is the final article in a three-part series about moving to Italy.]

VICENZA, Italy – Thinking about driving in Italy, one might envision Bugatti, Ferrarri, Lamborghini and Maserati, but the reality for most of us on the government payroll is something quite different.

Soldiers reassigned to Vicenza from the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team bringing their BMWs, Fords, Lincolns and Mazdas can best be prepared for driving in Italy by being aware of some differences south of the Alps.

Vehicle registrationMembers of the force in Italy

may register no more than three vehicles, to include motorcycles, during their tour of duty. The only exceptions, with proper authorization, are for replacement of a vehicle destroyed in an accident or properly disposed of after mechanical failure.

Your primary vehicle will be registered tax free, additional vehicles will be assessed an annual road tax.

To register a vehicle you must have proof of insurance and the vehicle must pass a safety inspection, provided on post. Once your vehicle is registered on post for a SETAF license plate, you will be issued an Italian cover license plate. The Italian plate will be in European dimensions, either a narrow rectangle or a large square, which can present mounting difficulties with some

American vehicles. If you need to, seek assistance

in mounting – do not bend the plate enough to create a crease. If Italian law enforcement determines they cannot easily read the license plate – this is subjective – your vehicle can be confiscated without legal recourse.

FuelYou will be authorized to

purchase fuel coupons through Army and Air Force Exchange Services based on the engine size of your primary vehicle. The maximum fuel authorization per month is 400 liters. Fuel coupons in Italy remain paper based and redeemable only at ENI and Agip stations. If pumping your own gas, be certain to watch the liters and not the price – gasoline pumps are high volume.

Stations on the autostrada, Italy’s network of toll highways, remain open 24/7. Smaller gasoline stations, however, are often closed on Saturday afternoons, Sundays, nighttime and for afternoon “riposo.” At these times one can usually still purchase gasoline with cash from at least one automated fuel pump, but at the economy price. Some stations have a single machine to operate several pumps that can be a bit confounding. You may want someone to show you the ropes before you need to do an emergency pit stop.

In Italian, unleaded gasoline is called “senza piombo” or “benzina verde” and diesel fuel is called “gasolio” – be certain you are purchasing the correct fuel.

Be aware that the fuel ration is the amount determined to be necessary to commute to and from the workplace, based on the primary vehicle. If you operate two or more large vehicles, have a long commute or make multiple daily trips, you may find you will need to make fuel purchases at economy prices after your monthly fuel ration is consumed.

Driver’s licenseThe SETAF driver license is

only valid with a valid stateside driver’s license, or European Union license. The SETAF driver license is valid only in Italy. It is strongly recommended to obtain an AAA international driver permit or equivalent for driving in Austria, Switzerland or other European nations.

Italy’s road markings and signage are quite similar to those in Germany, however the use of yellow diamond priority road signs is very rare.

The road network in northern Italy has increasingly made extensive use of the traffic circle or roundabout to ease traffic congestion. Some traffic circles are amoebic shapes with multiple arrays of exits and entrances, sometimes confounded by pedestrian crosswalks and bicycle paths. Traffic entering must yield to traffic in the circle. Drivers exiting the circle should signal their intent to do so, but often do not. Drive defensively and take it easy when driving in unfamiliar areas. An up-to-date GPS map can be a real help.

While the results are still out on whether traffic circles have reduced the number of accidents, they have improved traffic flow and are probably reducing injury with fewer red light runners and intersection broadsides.

Fines, speeding and traffic stops

There are a few things to watch out for while driving in Italy. The Veneto is dotted with picturesque towns and cities with medieval historic central districts which are marked with signage and pavement markings indicating ZTL, or zona a traffico limita. Only authorized vehicles may be driven in a ZTL, all others will be

caught by cameras and expensive fines will result. Authorization is for the vehicle, not for the operator, so a downtown resident cannot borrow someone else’s car and drive home without being fined.

Italian law enforcement not only employ mobile traffic cameras generally announced with a sign reading “controllo elettronico della velocita” to catch speeders, but also have installed Tutor systems on heavily trafficked routes. Tutor cameras along a road segment calculate the time taken to cover the distance and will result in a ticket if traversed too quickly.

There is a maximum speed on the autostrada of 130 kilometers per hour with only a very few portions marked 150 kilometers per hour. Many European drivers will exceed the speed limit on limited access sections, but are potentially liable for speeding fines, especially if involved in an accident. Many segments of the autostrada will be posted for reduced speeds, especially at exchanges. The maximum on divided highways is 110 kph and 90 kph on secondary roads.

The autostrada is a toll system. Options for payment are cash at a manned booth, cash payment at a machine, electronic system TELEPAS or payment by credit card, Bancomat or Viacard.

A final wordWhile fine Italian wines are a

part of la dolce vita, never drink and drive. Italian authorities conduct random sobriety stops and checks occur at installation gates. Blood alcohol limits are strict at .05 and there is literally zero tolerance for new drivers (fewer than three years as indicated by your state driver’s license) and motorcycle operators. Drivers under the age of 21 are presumed to be new drivers. Not only will getting caught result in fines, possible incarceration and problems with the Army, but if you get stopped off post your vehicle will be confiscated without recourse, permanently. Have a designated driver or take a cab.

Things to know before hitting the road in ItalyBy Grant Sattler, USAG Vicenza Public Affairs

USAG Vicenza Public Affairs

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 10

[Editor’s note: Zackery DeHart is a senior at Schweinfurt High School.]

SCHWEINFURT, Germany – Financial literacy is an important step toward a successful transition to college and careers for our high school students.

Andrew’s Federal Credit Union, in collaboration with Army Community Service, sponsored the student competition “Road Trip to Savings,” which was open to all USAG Schweinfurt students in grades 9 through twelve.

“The goal of Road Trip to Savings was to encourage our students to think about their financial future and plan ahead. The responses were inspiring and well thought out, the goal was met, and our Andrews Federal team is very proud of everyone who participated,” said Elba Barnaby, Branch Manager of Andrew’s Credit Union.

The competition had three categories – art, literature and photography – and was designed to let the students demonstrate their creative sides.

More than 20 students from the Schweinfurt High School Career Practicum and Family

and Consumer Science classes applied. Out of the many entries, only two students won the top prize of $50 in the categories of art and literature. Logan Mansfield and Aimee Cutcher, both seniors, stood above the rest for their creativity and effort.

“I like to write poetry; it’s fun,” said Mansfield. His poem about how he will

reach his life’s goals showed a positive and determined outlook.

Cutcher’s painting of shadowy people and a car with a license plate reading ‘determination’ driving into the sunset elicited much appreciation. Cutcher remarked that she will be saving the money for college.

From left, Arcelio Alleyne, a financial manager with Army Community Service, senior Aimee Cutcher and Elba Barnaby from Andrew’s Federal Credit Union. Senior high school students, Logan Mansfield and Aimee Cutcher, won cash for their creative work in an AFCU “Road Trip to Savings” competition.

Hana McWilliams / Schweinfurt High School Career and Technical Education

By Zackery DeHart, Schweinfurt High School

Schweinfurt High school students get creative, earn cash

Soldiers, civilians train at USAG Ansbach in various capacities

Above: Civilian firefighters from the USAG Ansbach Fire Department work to extinguish a fire on a mock aircraft, building and cars during an exercise held at the Urlas Fire Simulator March 20, 2013. The USAG Ansbach Civilian Fire Department trained individuals from USAREUR and other nations. The firefighter simulator is the only facility available in USAREUR that can conduct environmental disaster response, firefighter training and certification.

Right: Soldiers assigned to the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Military Police Detachment conducted collective weapons training at the Engagement Skills Trainer 2000 while at the Training Support Activity Europe, Training Support Center Ansbach, German, March 21, 2013.

Georgios Moumoulidis / USAG Ansbach Training Audiovisual Support Center

Georgios Moumoulidis / USAG Ansbach Training Audiovisual Support Center

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 11

ANSBACH, Germany – Within the German communities of Franconia, seeing a tree in a yard decked out in eggs is a fairly common sight. It is a sign that the Christian religious holiday Easter has arrived. Eggs don’t typically grow on trees in the United States this time of the year, but there are many other analogous traditions shared by German and American culture.

One of those is the Easter egg hunt. Easter can be a time for families to spend with each other, but with many American nuclear families stationed in Germany away from their extended families, the Franconia Military Community’s different garrisons sought to give their families a sense of home and community by coordinating this longstanding Easter tradition.

“Especially around holidays, this is the time when you want to get people together because most of us are not with our extended families,” said Darlene Hines, the special events coordinator with Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation. “This is a great opportunity to spend time with your other family, your Army family.”

The USAG Ansbach’s Easter egg hunt takes place at Duggan Gym at Barton Barracks from 10 a.m. to noon March 30. The event, originally planned to take place at Urlas Housing, had a change of venue due to a forecast of inclement weather.

“There’s still snow on the ground with more snow expected and rain and snow on Saturday,” said Hines on why the egg hunt changed locations.

Besides poor weather making Urlas Housing a less feasible option for the location of the event, Duggan Gym, according to Hines, has many attributes that make it an ideal location.

“Duggan Gym is a great location because there’s plenty of parking here,” said Hines. “It’s an easily accessible facility. If, by chance, the weather does end up being nice, then we have the option of putting the event

outside in the field behind [the gym]. The Eagle’s Nest is a great location that we could utilize for food services as well.”

As a venue for food, the Eagle’s Nest, a small community-oriented building adjacent to Duggan Gym, will serve as the location for vending food.

As in other Easter egg hunts,

children are separated by age. Children ages 3 years and younger hunt eggs at 10:15 a.m.; children ages 4 to 6 years old hunt eggs at 10:45 a.m.; children ages 7 to 11 hunt eggs at 11:15 a.m.

The organizers want parents and guardians to bring their children well before the start times of the hunts to ensure their

children have a chance to get eggs.

Before and after the hunts, there will be several other activities to entertain the children and their families, including an Easter tattoo station, an coloring station, refreshments and photos with the Easter Bunny. There is also a plan to hold games such as a sack race and egg race.

Garrison ID card holders are welcome to bring their families. To learn more, call 09811-83-7227 or DSN 468-7227.

Child Youth and School Services, Army and Air Force Exchange Service and Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers host the USAG Bamberg Easter egg hunt March 30 at 11 a.m. at Friendship Park. In addition to the hunt, children can take pictures with the Easter bunny and play in the bouncy houses, and families can enjoy the barbecue and more.

Bamberg is still looking for more volunteers to help hide eggs, cook, supervise games and assist with clean-up. To learn more, visit the Bamberg BOSS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/#!/Bamberg.BOSS.

USAG Schweinfurt holds their Easter egg hunt at Conn Club Event Field at Conn Barracks from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. March 31. The hunt will be split into four age categories: children 3 years and younger, children 4 to 6 years old, children 7 to 9 years old, and children 10 to 12 years old. The Easter Bunny will pose for photos with children and families. To learn more, call Schweinfurt FMWR at 09721-96-8398 or DSN 353-8398.

Franconia Military Community celebrates Easter with egg hunting

The Easter Bunny meets with children during U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach’s Easter egg hunt in 2012. This year’s Easter egg hunt will take place at Duggan Gym at Barton Barracks from 10 a.m. to noon March 30 because of anticipated inclement weather.

USAG Ansbach Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers

By Bryan Gatchell, USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 12

SAN ANTONIO – Since the summer of 2012, personnel from Army installations around the world have worked to change the way barracks are managed across the Army. The First Sergeants Barracks Program 2020 puts the responsibility of providing barracks management and ensuring good order and discipline back in hands of the Army units.

“The core principles of FSBP 2020 are to support the mission, take care of Soldiers and use resources wisely,” said Connie Glenn, chief, Housing Division, Headquarters, U.S. Army Installation Management Command. “We realigned the roles of the garrison and mission units as a means to standardize barracks management worldwide and reduce costs.”

FSBP 2020 is a program implemented by the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management and IMCOM. Its goal is to see that barracks are managed through the military units and non-commissioned officer channels, with ongoing support from the IMCOM garrison personnel.

“By the end of 2012, units moved to the forefront as the face of barracks management when they assumed an increased responsibility for the day-to-day management of barracks operations,” said Glenn. “Garrison staffs fell back to a more supportive oversight role, providing units with expertise in property management, training, mentoring and to serve as the liaison between the units and the garrison.”

To develop the plan, IMCOM activated an FSBP 2020 task force comprised of experts from IMCOM Headquarters, OACSIM and 12 installations from around the world. Each garrison also created an internal team to provide support and technical advice as the plan to transfer barracks management responsibilities back to the units was being developed. Officials

say the plan is a major shift in the barracks management paradigm and it was a lot to accomplish under a short deadline.

“Getting unit-level military leadership back in the barracks is a good thing,” said Mark Hjuler, acting chief, Unaccompanied Personnel Housing Branch, Housing Division, Headquarters, IMCOM. “Noncommissioned officers need to be in the barracks checking on the living conditions and morale and welfare of their Soldiers.”

Historically, it was commonplace for noncommissioned officers and individual units to manage the barracks where their Soldiers lived. It became apparent in 2007 that conditions in some of the Army’s barracks had deteriorated to an unacceptable level. In addition, the Army was also in the process of investing billions of dollars in barracks improvements and construction. This led the Army to reassign responsibility of barracks management functions to the garrison staff.

According to Glenn, by 2012, the growth in the costs to the Army made garrison management of the barracks no longer sustainable.

“Garrisons across the installation management community have done a fine job managing these barracks while living up to our commitment to ensure Soldiers have high quality living quarters,” said Hjuler. “Now it is time to put the NCOs back in charge where they belong.”

Staff Sgt. Margarita Thomas, barracks manager with the 31st Combat Support Hospital, assumed her part of the new management plan at Fort Bliss, Texas.

“We (NCOs) have a better understanding of who is living in the barracks and exactly where they are living, as well as the conditions they are living in,” said Thomas. “The Soldiers really like having one of their own to come to for issues.”

The program is designed to help the noncommissioned officer stay more involved in their Soldiers wellbeing.

“There are a lot less doors to knock on to get services requested or address room assignments,” said Thomas. “Instead of going to an outside agency, they are able to come directly to me.”

Despite handing the management of the barracks back to the military units, garrisons across the Army Installation Management Community still have a large role to play to include providing oversight of accompanied housing, managing other installation facilities, and providing resources, support and training for the units who are assuming barracks management.

“FSBP 2020 is designed to give units the resources, training and responsibility while ensuring the quality of life standards are met,” said Glenn. “NCO leadership, with IMCOM guidance, is critically important to the program’s success. We have to ensure standards and barracks quality so that the garrison housing divisions continue to serve as the primary source of on-the-job training, oversight, quality assurance and mentorship to the military units.”

At Fort Bliss, Texas, the Garrison Command’s Single Soldier Branch provided the initial training to the units and the Soldiers assuming the management duties.

“We provide ongoing occupancy maintenance training as transition of responsibilities occurs within the units,” said Barbara Lehman, chief of the Single Soldier Housing Branch, Fort Bliss Directorate of Public

Works. “We also conduct stakeholder meetings, which serve as an additional training forum and a way for Soldiers managing barracks to get help with issues.”

The branch also provides area managers who will conduct ongoing site visits and help unit barracks managers work through issues.

“They have been very helpful,” said Thomas, who is responsible for 122 barracks rooms at Fort Bliss. “They also hold monthly meetings, which help us stay up to date with the latest information.”

To help in this training effort, OACSIM and IMCOM released a document in January called the First Sergeants Barracks Program 2020 Handbook. The handbook outlines the program and serves as a guide to managing and operating an Army barracks building. The document explains roles and responsibilities, quarters eligibility, key management and control, facility maintenance, furnishing management, property loss and damages, inspections and many other topics.

“This is a great document,” said Hjuler. “When I was a first sergeant, I didn’t have a document like this.”

While the program is working through some kinks, a huge part of the process of transitioning these responsibilities back to units and NCOs has been completed. Since the summer of 2012, 52 of the 74 IMCOM installations have migrated basic barracks management responsibilities to military units.

By Luke Elliot, Installation ManagementCommand

Army-wide program returns barracks management to NCOs

Soldiers can relax in their downtime in the courtyard of Massello Hall Barracks at Fort Bliss, Texas. FSBP 2020 puts the responsibility of providing barracks management and ensuring good order and discipline back in hands of the Army units.

U.S. Army Photo

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 13

Franconia Military Community Announcements

Spring forwardOn March 31, Europe sets its clocks forward one hour for daylight saving time.

April 3 Stand DownAll health clinics at installations in Bavaria will close to support and participate in the U.S. Army-Europe Sexual Assautl Stand Down Day training activities April 3. Emergency Behavioral Health and Family Advocacy Services will be available at this time. To learn more, visit http://ermc.amedd.army.mil/Bavaria.

OHA and MIHA If you’re a Soldier who lives in privately leased or rented residential housing in Germany, the ongoing Overseas Housing Allowance Utility and Move-in expense survey is your chance to have a say in setting your housing allowance rates. Please take the time to complete this important survey. It helps determine the amount of money you receive for utilities and recurring maintenance. This year’s survey also collects data for the move in housing allowance (MIHA). To take the survey through March 31, visit www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/marutilmiha.cfm. Savings fund application warning The Apple App Store is offering a free iPhone application called TSP Funds that is not sanctioned by the Thrift Savings Plan. The app asks TSP participants for their account login information. TSP recommends that participants not use the TSP Funds app to access their TSP accounts because using the app could result in a security risk to their accounts.

Flu Vaccines Flu vaccines are now available at your local health clinic. An annual average of 36,000 deaths and 226,000 hospitalizations occur each year in the U.S. due to influenza infections. Annual flu vaccinations are the most effective method for preventing influenza virus infections and its complications. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/flu-shot-video.

Bicycle fines increaseThe German parliament has approved increases in the fines for bicycle offenses. Failing to use a bike path or riding without a light will cost 20 euro instead of 15 starting April 1. The fine for biking through a pedestrian zone will be 15 euro instead of 10. Parking a car on a bike path will cost 20 to 30 euro.

DLA Disposition Services Sites NoticeDLA Disposition Services Sites in Schweinfurt and Grafenwoehr have re-opened for property turn-in. Reutilization, Transfer, Donation and Hazardous Waste Disposal services has also resumed. For any urgent matters, the site team can be called at 09721-96-8277 in Schweinfurt or 09641-83-6384 in Grafenwoehr.

Care ExperienceReturning an Army Provider Satisfaction Survey can generate money for the local health clinic. Positive responses to the questions that generate money for the clinic are great, but honest responses about the customer experience is necessary to improve the clinic’s quality of service. Beneficiaries who do not receive a survey within six weeks of a visit to a local clinic should ensure their Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System is up to date.

CID Seeks Qualified SoldiersThe U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, commonly known as CID, is recruiting qualified Soldiers who are interested in pursuing a career as a federal law enforcement officer. For more information, visit www.cid.army.mil/join_CID.html.

Army Suggestion ProgramThe Army Suggestion Program encourages Soldiers, civilians and any concerned individuals to submit ideas regarding how the Army can increase efficiency and cut costs. Approved suggestions are assessed on how much they save the Army and can earn individuals thousands of dollars. For more information, or to submit an idea, Army Knowledge Online registered users can visit the ASP website at http://asp.hqda.pentagon.mil/public. Those unable to access AKO can submit a DA Form 1045 to their installation coordinator.

OneSource MobileArmy OneSource is now available for smartphone browsers. The launch of a mobile device version will optimize Army OneSource the mobile experience for visitors. Visit www.myarmyonesource.com today.

Get EFMP RegisteredIs your Soldier coming back from deployment? If your Soldier is receiving orders to another location, it is not too early to start your Exceptional Family Member Program paperwork. Family members can start the paperwork now. Your local Army Community Service EFMP manager can assist in determining what you need to do. Remember, if you have someone registered in EFMP, the registration has to be updated every three years or when the condition changes.

Sexual AssaultYour Sexual Assault Response Coordinator is available 24 hours a day. Call 0162-510-2917 for the 24-hour hotline.

Pre-Separation BriefingPlanning to move from Soldier to civilian? Take advantage of the transition services offered by the Army Career and Alumni Program, such as a Department of Labor two-and-a-half-day job assistance workshop, resume preparation assistance and information about veterans benefits. Make an appointment to attend the mandatory ACAP Pre-Separation Briefing offered weekly and about an hour long. Separating Soldiers can start the ACAP process one

year before separating. Soldiers who will be retiring can start two years out from their projected retirement date.

Trial Defense ServicesIf you’re a Soldier and you are questioned by law enforcement, Criminal Investigation Division or members of your command about suspected acts of misconduct, you have the absolute right to remain silent. You have the right to refuse to answer any question, even from your commander, and you have the right to talk to an attorney. If questioned, you should immediately demand to speak to an attorney. As a Soldier, you are entitled to free consultation and representation by a military defense counsel. All communications with a trial defense attorney are privileged and will not be released to your command. Let a U.S. Army trial defense attorney help you. To learn more, speak with a free trial defense attorney.

Teen StressThe National Military Family Association has created a kit to give the people in military teens’ lives a way to help them manage stress and affirm the positive aspects of military life. To obtain a copy of the tool kit and learn more, visit https://www.myarmyonesource.com/News/2010/07/OperationPurple.

Scout ProgramEach year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars selects three young people — of the Boy or Girl Scouts, Sea Scouts or Venturing Crew — who have demonstrated practical citizenship in school, scouting and the community. The first-place winner receives a $5,000 award, the second-place winner receives a $3,000 award and the third-place winner receives $1,000. To learn more, visit www.vfw.org/Community/Scout-of-the-Year-Scholarship.

PTA ScholarshipsApply for European Parent Teacher Association scholarships. For more information, visit http://europeanptaonline.org/EPTAScholarship.aspx.

Post-9/11 GI BillTake advantage of your military benefits. Earn a degree or skill with your Post-9/11 GI Bill. Find out more about your benefits by visiting www.gibill.va.gov.

Edelweiss ResortOngoing specials and packages are available for Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. This full-scale resort and alpine lodge is in the heart of the Bavarian Alps and ski country. The hotel is part of USAG Garmisch. There are often deals and package specials available. For more information, visit www.edelweisslodgeandresort.com.

Don’t throw that egg shell away. Rinse it, crush it and add it to your garden. The calcium in

crushed egg shells stimulates plant growth.

Recycling Idea

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 14

Ansbach Community Announcements

Send all announcements to Ansbach Public Affairs at usarmy.ansbach.imcom-europe.list.webmaster@mail.mil.

Community

Inclement weather informationFor up-to-date information on weather conditions, visit our new “What You Should Know when Inclement Weather Comes to USAG Ansbach” at www.ansbach.army.mil/webpages/InclementWeather.asp. You can find the link to the website under the Weather Information menu item on the left side of the homepage and, when the popup menu pops up, select “What you should know.”

Tax centersKatterbach Tax Center, located on the third floor of the ACS building, is open now. The Tax Center at Storck is open now with regular hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Walk-in customers will be accepted; however, it is recommended to make an appointment to avoid unnecessary waiting time. Call Katterbach Tax Center at DSN 467-2324 or 09802-832324 and Storck Tax Center at DSN 467-4511 or 09841-834511.

AER campaignThe 2013 Army Emergency Relief campaign takes place now through May 15. To learn more, visit www.aerhq.org.

Little WomenThe Terrace Playhouse presents a stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women at the Terrace Playhouse March 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the performance. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for youths and $30 for Families. Tickets are available from the concierge in the Von Steuben Community Center by phone through credit card or at the door. To learn more, call 09811-83-7636 or DSN 468-7636. To purchase tickets, call Von Steuben Community Center at 09802-83-2930 or DSN 467-2930.

Easter egg huntU.S. Army Garrison Ansbach hosts an Easter egg hunt March 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Duggan Gym in Barton

Barracks. In addition to the hunt, the earliest of which begins at 10:15 a.m., there will be an Easter tattoo station, egg-coloring station, refreshments and photos with the Easter bunny. The hunt will be separated into three age categories, including those 3 and younger, children 4 to 6 years old and children 7 to 11 years old. To learn more, call 09811-83-7227 or DSN 468-7227.

Library orientationAttend a USAG Ansbach library orientation and find out about the resources and programs available, meet the staff, take a tour of the library, get one-on-one help and enjoy refreshments. Storck Library holds their orientation March 28 at 4 p.m. To learn more, call 09841-83-4675 or DSN 467-4675.

Storck yard saleThe Storck Barracks community holds a yard sale March 30 and 31 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. To learn more, call 09841-83-4515 or DSN 467-4515.

ISCC meetingThe Illesheim Spouses’ and Civilians’ Club holds its spring mixer at 10 a.m. April 3 at Café Bohne, Bahnhofsplatz 3, Bad Windsheim. This is an opportunity to speak to current board members about open positions for next year’s board and how to make a difference in the Storck Barracks community. Participants get a free drink for attending.

Bicycle rodeoU.S. Army Garrison Ansbach’s Safety Directorate, military police and Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation present a bicycle rodeo from noon to 4 p.m. April 5 at Storck Elementary School and April 12 at Katterbach Elementary School. There will be prizes, bicycle training, bicycle safety inspections, helmet training and fit testing, bicycle registration and first-aid training for parents. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The event will be canceled if it rains. To learn more, call 468-7594 or 09811-83-7594.

Storck focus groupsStorck Recreation Center at the Storck Community Activity Center will hold focus groups April 5 and May 3 from noon to 1 p.m. to get ideas from its clients and give them the experiences they want. To learn more, visit the center on the third floor of Bldg. 6510 Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or call 09841-83-4714 or 467-4714.

Ansbach clean-upThe Ansbach city-wide clean-up is April 13 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach community members interested in pitching in can meet at the Bismarck Kaserne gate parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Clean-up areas will be off-post and include around Katterbach, Shipton, Urlas, Barton and Bleidorn. Those helping should wear work gloves, boots and proper outdoor clothing. To sign up, call 09802-83-2158 or DSN 467-2158.

Hearts ApartHearts Apart is a program for families separated by temporary duty, training or deployment. The program helps ease stress, teaches effective communication and keeps family members in contact with the community. Katterbach and Storck Army Community Service host a class April 23 from 10 a.m. to noon. To learn more, call Katterbach ACS at 09802-83-2883 or DSN 467-2883 or Storck ACS at 09841-83-4555 or DSN 467-4555.

Automotive grand openingThe grand opening of the Automotive Skills location at Bldg. 8130 at Urlas Housing is April 26 at 1 p.m. There will be a ribbon-cutting, safety demonstrations, tours, classic cars, refreshments, entertainment, free car washes, giveaways and coupons. Urlas Automotive Skills will be open Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and

Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The location will be closed Mondays and U.S. holidays. To learn more, call 09802-83-2753 or DSN 467-2753.

Closures and changes

Community Bank closureCommunity Banks will close March 29 through April 1. To learn more, visit www.DoDCommunityBank.com.

Resurfacing of B-14 Resurfacing is ongoing for state road B-14 along Urlas and Shipton Kaserne. The speed limit is reduced to 50 kilometers per hour. Access and exit to and from Obereichenbach will remain the same. During phase one, two lanes going toward Katterbach will be resurfaced. Entering from Katterbach and exiting toward Ansbach will remain possible. There will be a detour exiting toward Katterbach and entering from Ansbach, offering two possibilities to turn around: One at Hotel Windmühle and one at Obereichenbach. During phase two, two lanes going toward Ansbach will be resurfaced. The current access near the traffic light will be blocked and drivers coming from Katterbach toward Ansbach will be detoured by Soldier Lake. The detour for exiting toward Katterbach

For more information on Ansbach community announcements, visithttps://www.facebook.com/U.S.Army.Garrison.Ansbach

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and entering from Ansbach will remain in place.

Sports, health and fitness

Spouse PT challengeKatterbach Fitness Center hosts an Army Spouse Physical Training Challenge April 2 through May 16. Sign up at the fitness center by March 28. The challenge costs $25 per participant. Maximum participation is 25. To learn more, call 09802-83-2771 or DSN 467-2771.

Ansbach boxingU.S. Army Garrison Ansbach is meeting to form a boxing team April 2 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Katterbach Fitness Center. To learn more, call 09802-83-2771 or DSN 467-2771.

Golf teamThe U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Community Golf Team has been newly formed. Team membership is open to both men and women ID card holders 18 years and older and out of high school. Prospective members should have a handicap of 24 or lower. To learn more, call 09802-83-2085 or DSN 467-2085.

Mission Complete RaceFifth Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment, and USAG Ansbach Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation hold the “Mission Complete Race,” a five-kilometer obstacle course, May 3 at Franken Kaserne off B13 with

GPS address of “Muna Siedlung, 91613 Marktbergel.” Registrants pay $30 now through April 19 and $35 April 20 through May 3. Family teams pay $50; non-family teams pay $100. Register at Katterbach and Storck Fitness Centers as well as the race location the day of the race. To learn more, call 09802-83-2771, 09841-83-4582, 467-2771 or 467-4582.

Intramural VolleyballU.S. Army Garrison Ansbach holds intramural volleyball games Tuesdays at Storck Physical Fitness Facility and Thursdays at Katterbach PFF. To learn more, call Katterbach PFF at 09802-83-2771 or 467-2771 or Storck PFF at 09841-83-4582 or 467-4582.

Youth and teens

Child developmentDoes your child run, talk and play like other children their age? Ansbach Educational and Developmental Intervention Services and Rainbow and Ansbach elementary schools are offering developmental screening to assist you with determining if your child, from birth to 5-year-old, is meeting their developmental milestones. The free developmental screening is by appointment only April 3 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Rainbow Elementary School. To learn more or make an appointment, call 09811-83-7644 or DSN 468-7644.

New parent boot campU.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Army Community Service hosts Mommy and Daddy Boot Camp for new and expecting parents the second Wednesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. Storck ACS will host it April 10 and Katterbach ACS will host it May 8. To learn more, call Katterbach ACS at 09802-83-2883 or DSN 467-2883 or Storck ACS at 09841-83-4555 or DSN 467-4555.

EFMP bowlingThe Exceptional Family Member Program offers free bowling at Katterbach and Storck bowling centers April 22 and May 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. Sign up in advance with you Army Community Service. To learn more or sign up, call Katterbach ACS at 09802-83-2883 or 467-2883 or Storck ACS at 09841-83-4555 or 467-4555.

Parents’ day outNeed a little break? Child, Youth and School Services hosts a parents’ day out every so often. Let CYSS staff take your children off your hands for a while. The next parents’ days out happen at Storck Child Development Center/School Age Center May 18 and Sept. 28 and at Katterbach ACS/SAC June 22, Oct. 12 and Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations must be made no later than one week in advance and cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance. Dates and times are subject to change. To learn more or to register, call Katterbach CDC/SAC at 09802-83-2533 or 467-2533 or Storck ACS/CDC at 09841-83-4880 or 467-4880.

FCC providersBecome a Family Child Care Provider. Family Child Care offers small, multi-age group care in a nurturing home environment. Providers can earn extra income, start a career and provide a valuable service to their communities. To sign up for the next FCC program orientation, call Parent Central Services at 09802-83-2533 or the FCC office at 09802-83-2536.

FRG Child Care NightChild care is available for mission-related Family readiness group meetings on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. To learn more, call Parent Central Services at 09841-83-4880 or 09802-83-2533.

Reminders

Coffee seminarStorck Army Community Service hosts coffee seminars Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Through the seminars, you

can experience new towns, foods and people and enjoy coffee. To learn more, call 467-4555 or 09841-83-4555.

Culture CollegeKatterbach and Storck Army Community Service hold a two-day “culture college” calls every third Wednesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn the German way of life, culture and customs and pick up some basic German phrases. Registration is required. Classes require a minimum of five participants or it is otherwise subject to cancellation. To register or learn more, call 09802-83-2883 or DSN 467-2883.

Brown Bag LunchBring a lunch and explore a new town with ACS. The meeting place is ACS on the first Wednesday of every month at Katterbach and the fourth Wednesday of every month at Storck Barracks. Meet at 10:30 a.m. Cost is 10 to 15 Euros. To learn more, call 09841-83-4555.

ASCCThe Ansbach Spouses’ and Civilians’ Club is a way to meet people, develop new interests and get involved with the community. To learn more, email asccgermany@googlemail.com.

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Bamberg Community Announcements

Please send all announcements to Bamberg Public Affairs at usarmy.bamberg.usareur.mbx.pao@mail.mil.

BSCC LuncheonThe Bamberg Spouses and Civilians’ Club will host its monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. April 2 at the Warner Conference Center. The theme is “Getting Wiggy With It.” Get our your favorite, fabulous wig and get ready to flow and groove to some smooth jazz and poetic rhymes celebrating National Poetry Month and Jazz Appreciate Month. The cost is 10 euros for BSCC members and 12 euros for guests. RSVP by March 29 to bsccreservations@gmail.com.

Month of the Military ChildApril is the Month of the Military Child and U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg will have a variety of events throughout the month to celebrate. The kick-off will be April 4 at the JFK Youth Center from 10 a.m. to noon for ages 2 to 5 and from 4 to 7 p.m. for ages 5 and older, with a Harlem Shake video recording from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The month will wrap up April 26 with a bike safety check from 3 to 4 p.m., an on-post bike ride and family fun run from 4 to 5 p.m. and a barbecue from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Warner Conference Center. For a complete list of Month of the Military Child events, visit www.bamberg.army.mil/directorates/dfmwr/docs/cyss/momccalendar2013.jpg.

BSCC BingoThe Bamberg Spouses and Civilians’ Club will be hosting bingo April 5 at the Warner Conference Center. Card sales begin at 6:30 p.m., and Bingo starts at 7 p.m. The theme is “breaking in spring break.” Wear spring break attire and receive a free bingo card. To learn more, email bsccactivities@hotmail.com.

Sexual Assault Awareness Run and FilmApril is Sexual Assault Awareness month and several events have been planned at U.S. Army Garrison Bamberg. On April 3, there will be a 5-kilometer run beginning at 7 a.m. at the Freedom Fitness Facility. The Invisible War, a documentary on sexual assault in the military will be shown at the post movie theater at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. April 3, 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. April 18 and 9 a.m. April 19. A panel discussion with experts on sexual assault will follow each viewing of the movie. All events are open to the community.

Towel ServiceTowel service at garrison physical fitness centers will be ceased in the near future. Installation Management Command Europe provided guidance to garrison commanders to discontinue towel service in physical fitness centers. “The discontinuation of this service will result in significant cost savings and allow the staff to provide better customer support on the floor by interacting with patrons,” according to the memorandum dated March 12. The towel service is scheduled to stop April 15.

SurveyIf you’re a Soldier who lives in privately leased or rented residential housing in Germany, the ongoing Overseas Housing Allowance Utility and Move-in expense survey is your chance to have a say in setting your housing allowance rates. To take the survey through March 31, visit www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/marutilmiha.cfm.

Take Our Daughters and Sons to WorkThe Department of Defense Dependent Schools Europe invites you and your child to participate in an enjoyable and beneficial learning experience April 26 known around the globe as Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work. Designed to be more than a career day, the Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work program goes beyond the average “shadowing” of an adult. Exposing girls and boys to what a parent or mentor in their lives does during the work day is important, but showing them the value of their education, helping them discover the power and possibilities associated with a balanced work and family life and providing them an opportunity to share how they envision the future and begin steps toward their goals in a hands-on and interactive environment is key to their achieving success. Students in third through eighth grade will accompany their parents from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Parents are responsible for their child’s transportation.

Arts and Crafts ContestThe 2013 Arts and Crafts contest starts May 1 and runs through June 30. It is open to all Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation patrons (active duty, National Guard, Family members, retirees and Army civilians) of all ages. Categories are ceramics, digital art, drawings, fibers/textiles, glass, metals/jewelry, mixed media, paintings and wood. Contact your local Arts and Crafts Center for details.

Bamberg Lodging Furniture SaleThe Bamberg Inn will host a furniture sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 17. The special sale is open to ID cardholders only. Items for sale will include bedroom furniture, twin and queen-size mattresses, and box springs, bed frames, headboards, nightstands, desks, chairs and bed linens. All purchases have to be made with cash. To learn more, call the Bamberg Inn at 0951-300-8604 or email michael.t.stevens16.naf@mail.mil.

Bulk Item PickupThe Directorate of Public Works will pick up bulk items for disposal the first Monday of the month. The dates for 2013 are April 2, June 3, July 1, Aug. 5, Sept. 2, Oct. 7 and Nov. 4. Spring cleanup will take place in May so bulk pickup will be the week of May 15 to 20.

Postal Service Center HoursBeginning April 1, the Postal Service Center opening hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the finance windows and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for mail and package pickup. Official mail pickup will be open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.

Garrison Easter Egg HuntChild, Youth and School Services, in partnership with Army and Air Force Exchange Service and Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, will host the garrison Easter Egg Hunt March 30 at 11 a.m. at Friendship Park.

Activities will include an egg hunt, pictures with the Easter Bunny, bounce houses, barbeque and more.

Single Soldier SupperThere will be a Single Soldier Supper at 5:30 p.m. at the Bamberg Community Chapel April 22, May 20 and June 24. Single Soldiers are invited to enjoy a free, home-cooked meal. For more information or to help with the supper, call Matt and Tina Huisjen at 09502-8037.

Community Flea MarketsCome and sell your unwanted items or search for a great find at the Community Flea Markets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the second Saturday of the month at Summerall Field near the Community Activity Center. Dates for the flea markets are April 13, May 11, June 8, July 13, Aug. 10, Sept. 14 and Oct. 12.

Tacos and TurntablesBetter Opportunities for Single Soldiers and the Community Activity Center are teaming up to offer Tacos and Turntables from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 16, May 14 and June 11 at the CAC. Enjoy the CAC’s taco buffet,

For more information on Bamberg community announcements, visithttp://www.flickr.com/photos/bambergmwr

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which includes two hard or soft tacos or nacho chips with your choice of topping, and music provided by BOSS.

English as a Second Language ClassesEnglish as a Second Language classes will take place each Monday and Tuesday in the Family Advocacy Program classroom, Bldg. 7487 on Armor Drive behind the flower shop. ESL Level 1 will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m., Level 2 from 10:30 am. to noon and Level 3 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. All U.S. ID cardholders are eligible to attend. For more information, contact Jeffrey Card at jeffrey.p.card.civ@mail.mil or 0951-300-7777.

Emergency Placement Care Program The Emergency Placement Care Program, which provides a safe and caring environment to children in crisis, is looking for Emergency Placement Care Providers who will open their homes to children in need. To learn more, call Army Community Service at 0951-300-8397/7777.

Parenting Skill Builder ClassesBamberg Family Life Center New Parenting Skills Classes start the first Tuesday of every month and meet from 9 to 11 a.m. for four sessions. Learning the skills to parent with love and logic can help make parenting fun and rewarding, instead of stressful and chaotic. You will learn practical tools and techniques to build respectful, healthy relationships with children and help prepare children for the real world. To learn more, to register or to sign up for child care, call 0951-300-1570/8141 or email chrisopher.d.floro.mil@mail.mil.

Amsterdam and Keukenhof Garden TripBetter Opportunities for Single Soldiers will be taking a trip to Amsterdam and Keukenhof Garden April 5 through 8. The cost is $395 per person for a double room or $595 for a single room. The price includes roundtrip transportation, three nights in a three-star hotel, three breakfasts and a city tour of Amsterdam and a day trip to Keukenhof Gardens, including entrance fee. The trip is open to single Soldiers, geographical bachelors, married Soldiers and their authorized guests ages 18 and older. To learn more, call Outdoor Recreation at 0951-300-9376 or contact your local BOSS office.

Lloret De Mar, Spain, TripBetter Opportunities for Single Soldiers is heading to Lloret De Mar, Spain, May 23 through 27. The cost is $320 per person for a double room or $370 for a single room. The price includes round-trip transportation, three nights in a three-star hotel, three breakfasts and a city tour of Barcelona and a medieval dinner. The trip is open to single Soldiers, geographical bachelors, married Soldiers and their authorized guests ages 18 and older. Deadline to sign up is May 9. To learn more, call Outdoor Recreation at 0951-300-9376 or contact your local BOSS office.

Youth and Teens

Boy ScoutsBoy Scout Troop #40 in Bamberg is looking for boys ages 12 and older interested in becoming Boy Scouts. The troop meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., except on holidays. The boys work on requirements for advancement and earning merit badges. The troop is also looking for adult volunteers and Eagle Scouts to assist with troop activities. To learn more, call 0160-1585894.

CYSS Track and Field Sign-ups Sign-ups for Child, Youth and School Services Track and Field for youth ages 6 through 14 runs through March 15. Practice will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting April 16. The season runs from April to June. Visit Parent Central Services to sign up. Don’t forget to use your deployment benefits before they run out.

Disney Imagination Movers Armed Forces Entertainment and Navy Entertainment present the Disney Imagination Movers at 3 p.m. April 13 at the Freedom Fitness Center. Young kids will love seeing their TV favorites onstage in Bamberg. Doors open 2 p.m. Admission is free. To learn more, call 0951-300-8647.

Applications sought for the Military Youth of the YearThe Military Youth of the Year is a Boys & Girls Club of America recognition program that partners with the Military Child and Youth Services. Local clubs recognize members ages 14 to 18 as Youth of the Month winners and select a Youth of the Year, who then participates in state competitions. State winners each receive a $1,000 scholarship and participate in regional competitions. Five regional winners each receive a $10,000 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives up to an additional $50,000 scholarship and is installed by the president of the United States. Visit the JFK Youth Center, Bldg. 7663, to pick up an application or call 0951-300-8871 and ask for Destiny Cilumba for more details.

Closures and Changes

Commissary ClosureThe Commissary will be closed March 31 for Easter Sunday. For more information, call 0951-300-8819.

Vehicle Registration Office ClosureThe Vehicle Registration Office will be closed March 29 and April 1. To learn more, call 0951-300-7580.

Changes for Bamberg CDCHourly care services at the Bamberg Child Development Center are temporarily reduced to 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. There also is currently reduced space at the School Age Center.

Subway New HoursSubway, located in the Shoppette, has reduced its hours. The new hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For the latest hours of all Army and Air Force Exchange Service locations, visit www.shopmyexchange.com/ExchangeLocations/WarnerBarracksStore.htm.

Optical Shop ClosureThe Optical Shop will be closed beginning March 31. Customers in need of optical services after the closure can visit the optical shops at other garrisons.

Sports, Health and Fitness

Red Cross 5-Kilometer RunMarch is American Red Cross month and the Red Cross will host a 5-kilometer run at 7 a.m. March 22 at the Freedom Fitness Facility. The run highlights the partnership between the Red Cross and the Wounded Warrior Program. Preregister by March 15 to ensure enough goodie bags for all participants. To register, visit the Bamberg Red Cross Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ARCBamberg, call 0951-300-1760 or email bamberg@redcross.org.

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Schweinfurt Community Announcements

Please send all announcements to Schweinfurt Public Affairs at usarmy.schweinfurt.imcom-europe.mbx.pao@mail.mil.

Tax centerThe Schweinfurt tax center is located at the Conn Annex in Bldg. 7. The garrison shuttle buses have added an additional stop there to accommodate community members needing to visit the tax center. For more information, visit www.schweinfurt.army.mil/support/legal/tax.htm.

Sensational Spring Events This spring find something fantastic for all ages and interests. Everything from classes, international excursions, ceremonies, events, trips, camps and more. Visit www.schweinfurt.army.mil/infovault/sensationalspring.htm to learn more. A detailed description of each activity is

available in addition to a printable version for all of your must-attend Spring Events. The weather is heating up and so are the things to do in and around Schweinfurt!

Seeking Volunteer Drivers/Phone OperatorsVolunteer drivers and phone operators are needed to staff a program aimed at slashing the number of DUIs in Schweinfurt by providing a vehicle pickup service to those Soldiers consuming alcohol on weekend nights. To get involved, call 0173-794-2998 or 0160-987-98955, or visit the Schweinfurt AADD Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SchweinfurtAADD.

Seeking Cake DecoratorsThe Schweinfurt High School Culinary Club seeks volunteers experienced in cake decorating. Contact Culinary Club sponsor Hana McWilliams at 09721-96-6812 or Hana.McWilliams@eu.dodea.edu.

Photo Scavenger Hunt: Basic ChallengeThe Ledward Library has an ongoing photo scavenger hunt. How well do you know your military community in U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt? Check out the photo gallery in the library and guess where in the community they came from. Submit your guesses about where the pictures were taken and the person with the most correct answers wins a prize.

Recycling Education ClassA recycling education course, for trash disposal offenders and anyone who wants to learn about recycling, is offered twice a month Wednesday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Family members 9 and older are encouraged to attend with a parent. Bring a friend if he or she lives in military housing or military-leased housing. Class space is limited, so call 09721-96-6955 to sign up. Classes will be cancelled if no one signs up by 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday before class.

Closures and Changes

Closure 2014Stay up to date with the latest information regarding the Schweinfurt’s closure in 2014. Visit the Closure 2014 page for reliable, honest information on the most recent service modifications and reductions, closure news, Soldier, Family and employee resources and frequently asked questions. Visit www.schweinfurt.army.mil/closure2014 to stay informed on how closure may impact you.

Closure BlogThe Closure Blog addresses real answers and issues asked by community members regarding how closure will affect them. Topics such as PCSing tips, how services will be modified, and employment resources are discussed. Have a concern about closure? Then submit a question and get real answers. Don’t fall victim to the rumor mill; be informed and prepared by visiting www.schweinfurt.army.mil/closure2014/closure_blog.htm.

Youth and Teens

Give Me 20 Looking to get fit? The Youth Center is offering a free fitness program every Wednesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for youths ages 13 through 18. Program facilitators will show youths how to safely work out and stay fit. Dedicated participants will see positive results. Workouts will include sports, spinning, weightlifting and more. Participants must be registered with CYSS and have a permission slip on file. To learn more or to register, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732.

Smart GirlsYoung ladies, the Smart Girls program is up and running again. Topics include life skills, healthy eating, fitness, health care systems, positive mentors, respecting yourself,

fashion shows, dinner with parents, lock-ins and more. Age groups include 11 to 14 and 15 to 18. Smart Girls meets every Monday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Youth Center. For more information, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732.

German ClassLet’s talk German! Learn German one on one every Wednesday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Youth Center. This program is taught by our own education tech who was born and raised in Schweinfurt. This class can help your German grade go from a C to an A+ and it may even help you make friends in the German community. Test your skills by joining us on a field trip downtown. For more information, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732.

SKIESUnlimited SKIES offers different classes every month for youths 18 and younger. The program is designed to complement, expand and support the academic, life skills and athletic

For more information on Schweinfurt community announcements, visithttp://www.schweinfurt.army.mil/calendar/google.html

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experiences children and youths have within Child, Youth and School Services programs and in schools. For the latest class listings, click here.

4-H Club4-H is a club designed for middle and high school students. As a club, students will plan field trips, events and activities based on their four core values: head, hands, heart and health. 4-H meets every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. in the Youth Center. To participate, students must be registered with CYSS. For more information or to get involved, call the Youth Center at 09721-96-6732.

EDISAre you concerned about how your child is developing? If so, call Educational and Developmental Intervention Services to schedule a free screening. Screenings are available to children ages birth to 3 years old. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 09721-96-6257.

Wanted: Youth Sports Coaches and OfficialsThe Schweinfurt community is looking for coaches and officials for the youth sports program. No experience is

necessary to participate. By registering through Child, Youth and School Services, you will become a certified coach in the National Alliance for Youth Sports. This is a great way to volunteer in the community and earn extra income by officiating. For more information, call CYSS at 09721-96-6822 or email Derek.r.walker.naf@mail.mil.

Family Child Care Providers NeededHelp the community and start a new career as a Family Child Care provider. FCC providers maintain a happy home-away-from-home atmosphere (in government-controlled housing only) for children who can’t be with their own parents during the day. You can care for your own children in addition to outside customers. All training and education is provided for free. Call 09721-96-6487 for details.

Sports, Health and Fitness

Paintball Field OpenRelieve some stress or have some good old-fashioned fun every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rental equipment is available at the Paintball Field. For more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 09721-96-8080.

Thursday Night Bowling Fun LeagueEnjoy a weekly dose of bowling and fun every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m! Meet new people and learn a new sport. Open to all ID holders ages 18 and older. Practice round starts at 6:45 p.m. with games beginning promptly at 7 p.m. Cost is $10 per game to participate. For more information or to register, contact the Kessler Bowling Center on Kessler Field, Bldg. 449, by calling 09721-96-6332 or DSN 354-6332.

Weekly Reminders

Newcomer Meet and Greet Meet other spouses, learn about the community and get connected here in Schweinfurt every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Bradley Inn kitchen. The newcomer meet-and-greet initiative links up incoming spouses with seasoned Schweinfurt residents, offering the warm welcome our community is known for. Coffee and refreshments will be served, and children are welcome. For more information or to register, call Army Community Service at 09721-96-6933.

Inclement Weather in SchweinfurtKnow where you can find information on school closures, weather and road conditions. To learn more, click here.

Local Flea MarketsFlea markets are a fun way to find a bargain. The Army Community Service Information and Referral program provides a monthly list of flea markets here.

Dental Clinic Space Available The U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Dental Clinic now offers space available stand-by appointments for other-than-active-duty eligible beneficiaries. Appointments can only be scheduled 24 hours in advance.

BOSS MeetingsBetter Opportunities for Single Soldiers meetings are the second (at the Warrior Zone) and fourth (at the Finney Recreation Center) Tuesday of every month. For more information, call the Warrior Zone at 09721-96-6082 or the Finney Recreation Center at 09721-96-8476.

Open Mic NightCome and share your talent with the Warrior Zone every Friday at 8 p.m. to midnight. The event is intended for single Soldiers but open to the entire community. Adults only. No early sign-ups required. To learn more, call 09721-96-6082.

KaraokeKaraoke all-stars, come and share your talent with the Warrior Zone every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. The event is intended for single Soldiers but open to the entire community. Adults only. No early sign-ups required. For more information, call 09721-96-6082.

Children’s Story TimeBring your child in to the library Wednesdays at 11 a.m. for Children’s Story Time.

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 20

Trips and Travel OpportunitiesRegistration for trips begin the 15th of the month before the scheduled trip and must be made no later than the Monday before the scheduled leave date or they may be cancelled. To sign up or for more information, go to Outdoor Recreation. All trips depart and arrive from ODR unless otherwise noted. No refund will be given for no-shows. Military duty restraint or illness will be refunded with documentation.

ANSBACH

March 30-31 Pottery shopping in Italy, Poland $129Shop in the famous handmade-pottery factories of northern Italy and Poland, including one of the factories in Italy that produce for famous retailers and several family-owned factories in Poland. The trip costs $129 for adults, $79 for children and $279 for families. The trip leaves Storck Barracks at midnight and Katterbach Kaserne at 1 a.m. the morning of March 30 and returns at approximately 8 a.m. March 31.

April 5-7 Austrian glaciers ski/snowboard $249Close out the winter season with spring ski and snowboarding on the glaciers at Hintertux, Stubaital, Sölden and Pitztal. This includes two overnight stays in an Austrian guest house, breakfast, dinner and transportation. The trip leaves Storck Barracks at 9 a.m. and Katterbach Kaserne at 10 a.m.April 5 and returns approximately at 10 p.m. April 7. The trip costs $249 for adults and $129 for children.

April 27-28 Keukenhof Gardens and Amsterdam $129Enjoy the tulips at their peak of glory. There will be an opportunity to visit the Anne Frank House, Heineken Brewery and more. Cost is $129 for adults, $79 for children and $279 per family. Free for children 3 and younger.

For more information, call Ansbach Outdoor Recreation at 09802-833225.

BAMBERG

April 11 Tour Under Bamberg $25This unique trip through the tunnels under Bamberg gives you a view of the city that shouldn’t be missed. The tunnels are generally cool and damp, so please wear appropriate clothing and bring a flashlight. Trip departs from ODR at 5 p.m. and returns at approximately 7:30p.m.

April 13 Salzburg, Austria with city tour $65Visit the city famous for the Von Trapps, the birth of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the Fortress of Hohensalzburg. The trip includes transportation and a two-hour city tour. The trip is $65 for adults, $55 for children ages 4 to 12 and $45 for children 3 and younger. the trip departs from the chapel parking lot at 5 a.m. and returns at 10 p.m.

April 20 Nurnberg Zoo $25With well-designed paths among the animal enclosures, enjoy a leisurely stroll as you observe the many species the zoo possesses. Observe live animal feedings and shows, and when your legs get tired grab a snack at one of the restaurants located inside the zoo. Includes transportation and admission. Cost for Children ages 4 to 12 is $20, and $10 for children 3 and younger.

For more information, call Bamberg Outdoor Recreation at 0951-300-9376.

SCHWEINFURT

April 11 Nurnberg Toy Museum Price VariesACS Destination Schweinfurt series is headed to Nuremberg Toy Museum on the train. We will be using the Bavarian pass price so cost will vary depending on the size of group. Children ride for free. The museum is 5 euros for adults or 5.50 euros for one adult and as many as three children. Two adults with as many as three children is 10,50 euros. Please register in advance by calling ACS at 09721-96-6933 or DSN 354-6933.

April 20 Hike the Rhön Mountains $15Enjoy a leisure hike in the Rhön Mountains and then end the day with food and drink from the Kreuzberg Monastery. All participants depart from Schweinfurt Outdoor Recreation at 9 a.m. and return at approximately 5 p.m. Transportation fee is $15 per person. Bring euros for souvenirs, food and drink.

For more information, call Schweinfurt Outdoor Recreation at 09721-96-8080.

coming to THEATERS

IN THEATERS • March 28 - April 3

BAMBERG THEATER • 0951-297-3934March 28 - Playing for Keeps (PG-13) 7 p.m.March 29 - Admission (PG-13) 7 p.m.March 30 - The Croods (PG) 3 p.m.; Admission (PG-13) 7 p.m.March 31 - The Croods (PG) 3 p.m.; Admission (PG-13) 7 p.m.April 1 - Playing for Keeps (PG-13) 7 p.m.

ILLESHEIM THEATER • 09841-83-4546March 30 - Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) 4 p.m.; Dead Man Down (R) 7 p.m.March 31 - Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) 3 p.m.

KATTERBACH THEATER • 09802-83-1790March 28 - Snitch (PG-13) 7 p.m.March 29 - This is 40 (R) 7 p.m.March 30 - Jack the Giant Slayer (PG-13) 4 p.m.; Gangster Squad (R) 7 p.m.March 31 - Jack the Giant Slayer (PG-13) 3 p.m. SCHWEINFURT THEATER • 09721-96-1790March 28 - Les Miserables (PG-13) 7 p.m.March 29 - The Call (R) 7 p.m.March 30 - The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (PG-13) 3:30 p.m.; The Call (R) 7 p.m.March 31 - The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (PG-13) 3:30 p.m.; The Call (R) 7 p.m.April 3 - Broken City (R) 7 p.m.

Admission

Now Showing | 164 Minutes

Straight-laced Princeton University admissions officer Portia Nathan is caught off-guard when she makes a recruiting visit to an alternative high school overseen by her former college classmate, the free-wheeling John Pressman. Soon, Portia finds herself bending the rules for Jeremiah, putting at risk the life she thought she always wanted -- but in the process finding her way to a surprising and exhilarating life and romance she never dreamed of having

Rated PG-13 for language and some sexual material.

Visit www.aafes.com for more information.

RecyclingUse the envelopes without a plastic window. The cellophane contaminates and lowers the grade of paper for recycling.Send emails instead of fax, and think before printing out emails to avoid wasting paper.

Eco-Friendly Tips

Energy-saving TipsThink before getting something out of your fridge, and be quick.Don’t turn on inside room lights during the day – enjoy the natural light.

Water-saving TipsUse the minimum amount of water needed for taking a bath, and reduce water by bathing once per week.Take shorter showers. Five minutes or less is best!

Vol. 10, Issue 13 Thursday, March 28, 2013 Page 21

Was ist los in Franken?

AAFES Corner Defense Commissary AgencyCorner

Go to http://www.commissaries.com.

Click here for printable online coupons.

Click here for recipes from Kay’s Kitchen.

Bring your own bag

Click here to view weekly savings

By Bianca Sowders,USAG Ansbach Public Affairs

Visit AAFES for egg-celent deals!

Volksmarch in FrankenVolksmarches have been popular with Americans stationed in Europe for decades, and with winter on its way out and the weather gradually improving, the hiking season is about to pick up again. Participants in Germany can typically choose from 5/6k, 10k or 20k distances; hikers don’t start all at once, but within a certain time frame and cover the chosen distance at their own pace. Food and drinks are sold on location and registration is possible on site. It is best to contact the listed point of contact for exact starting times, updates and detailed location information. For other locations within Germany, visit www.dvv-wandern.de.Here is a quick look at upcoming Volksmarches in Franconia:

• March 29 in Thüngersheim (6/10/20 km); RV Concordia Thüngersheim, 97291 Thüngersheim, 09364-3368 – Start time: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Veitshöchheimer Str. 29, Weingut Hart (vintner’s yard) – www.dvv-wandern.de/files/file/thngersheim.pdf.

• April 1 in Neuhaus a.d. Pegnitz “Cave to Cave Tour” (13k); VVV Neuhaus a. d. Pegnitz, 09154-911576. Start time: 9:30 a.m. at Neuhaus a.d. Pegnitz, Zur Linde, Finstermühle 28.

• April 6 and 7 in Langenzenn (5/10/20 km), Wanderfreunde Alte Veste Zirndorf, 09103-1812. Start time: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Stadthalle, Pfaffenleite 16, 90579 Langenzenn – www.dvv-wandern.de/files/file/langenzenn.pdf.

• April 13 and 14 in Creußen: Hike (5/10/20 km) and bike (25k); Wanderfreunde Funkendorf-Creußen, 09270-399, Start time: Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sunday 7 to 11 a.m. at Mehrzweckhalle, Bahnhofstr. 11, 95473 Creußen – www.dvv-wandern.de/files/file/funkendorf-1.pdf.

• April 13 and 14 in Höchstadt (5/10/20 km); Wanderfreunde Höchstadt, 09193-3351. Start time: 6 a.m. to noon at An der Steige 5, Aischtalhalle, 91315 Höchstadt a.d. Aisch – www.dvv-wandern.de/files/file/hchstadt.pdf.

Easter in the Handwerkerhof NürnbergThe Handwerkerhof in Nürnberg, a medieval enclosure across from the main train station, is now decorated in Easter fashion; all the little traditional houses, stores and restaurants and the well will feature season greens, colorful eggs and more. The Handwerkerhof is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; the stores are open 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. To learn more, visit www.handwerkerhof.de.

Easter Market in NürnbergThe traditional annual Ostermarkt is still open on Nürnberg’s Hauptmarkt until April 1. More than 80 vendors are offering household products, wood and ceramic crafts, curtains, clothes, books and more. Opening

hours are Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Easter Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; closed on Good Friday.

Spring Fest in Bad WindsheimThe annual spring fest in Bad Windsheim, March 30 through April 7, offers rides, musical entertainment and food daily, starting at 2 p.m. at the Festplatz am Schießwasen. For details visit www.tourismus.bad-windsheim.de.

Flamenco Festival in WürzburgThe Flamenco Festival in Würzburg presents itself with an entertaining program, showing Flamenco dance in traditional and modern ways. The festival takes place March 30 through April 7 in the Mainfrankentheater Würzburg and the Zehntscheune Weingut Juliusspital. To learn more, visit www.wueflamencofestival.com.

Spring Fest in NürnbergThe annual spring fest at the Dutzendteich in Nürnberg is scheduled for March 30 through April 14. For details, map and opening hours, visit www.volksfest-nuernberg.de.

Bamberg Spring FestThe Bamberger Frühjahrsplärrer is one of the largest spring fests in the area. It takes place at the Plärrerplatz an der Breitenau (Zeppelinstraße) from March 30 through April 14 and is open daily from 2 to 9:30 p.m. and 1 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For details visit www.schausteller-bamberg.de.

Easter Egg Hunt in Bad WindsheimThe Freilandmuseum (open air museum) Bad Windsheim on Eisweiherweg 1 is hosting a traditional Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday, March 31 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. More than 1000 eggs as well as a few nests will be hidden for the children between the old farm houses. For more information go to www.freilandmuseum.de.

Easter at the FunPark in ZirndorfThe Easter bunny will visit the Playmobil Funpark (Brandstätterstraße 2-10) on March 31 and April 1 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.; other entertainment includes fun egg games, an Easter bunny machine (?) and a mini disco for kids. To learn more go to www.playmobil-funpark.de.

Historischer Schäfertanz - RothenburgThe historical „Shepherd’s Dance“ with dancers in colorful traditional clothing will take place on the Marktplatz in Rothenburg on Sunday, March 31 at 2 p.m. For details check www.schaefertanzrothenburg.de.

April 1 a German holidayApril 1, in Germany known as Easter Monday, is a nationally observed holiday, which generally means that stores and businesses will remain closed and public transportation services will be reduced. Easter Market and Open Shops in Bad Windsheim.