January 30, 2004

Schweinfurt
Soldiers
enter the
Order of
the Spur
See Page 10
Deployment
extended
Some of the troops currently deployed to
the U.S. Central Command’s area of operations will be affected by the Department of
Defense announced tour extensions beyond
the “12 months boots on the ground” policy.
Elements of the following organizations
will be extended approximately five to 60
days, varying by unit and capability: 3rd
Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment,
Giebelstadt; 7th Battalion, 159th Aviation
Regiment, Giebelstadt and Illesheim; 27th
Transportation Battalion, Hanau and
Bamberg; 71st Corps Support Battalion,
Bamberg.
Drink up
Thanks to Army and Air Force Service,
or AAFES, troops deploying to Iraq won’t
miss the water they’ve grown accustomed
to. The third AAFES Culligan water purification plant, which opened in Kuwait in
November, recently produced its 100,000
bottle of water. Over 1,100 bottles-per-hour
are being packed in cartons for shipment to
PX/BX operations in Iraq and Kuwait.
FRGs for all
The Point
Vol. 12, No. 2
Serving the 98th ASG and the 235th, 279th, 280th and 417th BSBs – Army communities of excellence
Ansbach • Bad Kissingen • Bamberg • Giebelstadt • Illesheim • Kitzingen • Schweinfurt • Wuerzburg
Tax season rolls around again
Electronic filing
speeds up process
by Mark Heeter
The Point
Several tax assistance centers throughout the
98th ASG are scheduled to open Jan. 30 and will
help customers prepare and file taxes through
June.
The centers’ services are free, which is an advantage over allowing an outside company to
prepare taxes, according to Capt. Meisha Smith,
legal assistance attorney at the Schweinfurt Law
Center.
Tax centers are staffed with trained electronic
filers, or e-filers, who can take customers on a
walk-in basis, although appointments are also
available. E-filing allows customers to have
their tax refunds deposited directly into a bank
account in 10 to 14 days, according to Smith.
“We do have walk-ins, but it’s more advisable
for them to make an appointment. That gives the
e-filers a chance to talk with them in a nonrushed manner,” Smith said.
“We’re going to do both walk-ins and appointments,” said Udelgarde Alexandre, tax attorney in the 235th BSB Legal Assistance Office.
There, a unit tax representative will screen
customers to determine who should make an
appointment, based on the complexity of the tax
return.
Although no customer will be turned away,
some tax centers might assign priority to some
troops and families.
“Between now and February, we’re giving
priority to deploying single Soldiers, because
they don’t have anyone they can give a power of
attorney to,” Alexandre said.
Customers should bring their military identification cards, social security – or individual
taxpayer identification – cards, all W-2 and 1099
by Scott Rouch
The Point
Scholarships given
The American Legion has established
the American Legacy Scholarship for
children of active duty military and
federalized Guard and Reserve personnel
who died on or after Sept. 11, 2001. To
obtain a scholarship application, go to
www.legion.org and click on community,
or send a self-addressed stamped business
envelope to American Legacy Scholarship,
The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055,
Indianapolis, Ind., 46206.
Plan ahead
Celebrate dental
health
February is National Children’s Dental
Health Month and a number of activities are
being planned throughout the 98th ASG to
help children become familiar with proper
dental care for a lifetime of happy smiles.
This year’s national campaign theme is “A
healthy smile is always in style.” Children
attending Wuerzburg American Elementary School will be treated to puppet shows
Feb. 9-10, performed by members of the
Wuerzburg Dental Activity. Check with
local dental clinics to see what activities are
planned for your community.
Go on tour
The Wuerzburg Tour Guide Association
offers free tours in English. Upcoming
events include visits to Wuerzburg’s
Museum am Dom and the Mainfrankisches
Museum. For tour information, call Mary
Waltie at (0931) 372335.
forms, copies of last year’s returns, bank account
and routing numbers, and any other relevant tax
information.
Those filing jointly must bring their spouse or
a power of attorney authorizing the other to file
taxes alone, which could be a general power of
attorney, according to Smith.
The Schweinfurt Tax Center, in building 30,
Conn Barracks, is open Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Call 353-8573 or (09721) 968573.
The Katterbach Tax Center, in building 5817,
is open Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and the first two
Saturday mornings in February. Call 4672232/2234 or (09802) 832232/832234.
The Illesheim Tax Center in Stork Barracks
building 6546, is open Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Call 467-4576 or (09841) 834576.
For information about the tax centers in the
417th BSB, call 350-7174 or (0931) 8897174.
For information about the 279th BSB tax center,
call 469-7609 or (0951) 3007609.
Students get jazzed about music
Family readiness groups, or FRGs, prepare families for the stresses related to a
loved one’s deployment. FRGs now also
serve extended families to include;
fiancées, boy/girlfriends, retirees, Department of the Army civilians and interested
community members. Individuals interested in becoming involved in an FRG should
contact their local Army Community
Service. In Ansbach call 467-2510 or
(09802) 832510; in Bamberg call 469-7777
or (0951) 3007777; in Schweinfurt call
354-6486 or (09721) 966751/6486; and in
Wuerzburg call 351-4283 or (0931)
8897103.
Get a jump on your extra time off by
knowing when the federal holidays for
2004 occur. For that information, go to
www.opm.gov/FEDHOL. For information
on important 2004 dates for Department of
Defense Dependents Schools go to www.
feaonline.org/special/calendar.htm.
January 30, 2004
Scott Rouch
Wuerzburg American High School’s Dominic Legette
practices the alto sax.
For 12 Wuerzburg American
High School students, the 2004
DoDDS-Europe Jazz Seminar was
an experience of music and fun they
will not soon forget.
Wuerzburg American High
School hosted the 20th annual
installment of the seminar and the
12, along with 16 others of the best
young jazz musicians in Europe, got
five days of expert tutelage in the
form of noted jazz trombonist and
conductor Jiggs Whigam and the
seminar staff.
The five days culminated with
concerts in Wuerzburg at the high
school and downtown at the Mozart
Gymnasium before the students
traveled to Wiesbaden and Hanau,
giving concerts at those high
schools, respectively.
“It’s kind of like we’re going on
tour. Playing downtown will be cool
and going to Wiesbaden and Hanau
will make it more special. Just
getting to play is awesome,” said
Wuerzburg senior trumpet player
Chris St. Cyr.
In addition to practicing and
Know the housing rules
by Mark Heeter
The Point
well and trusts with the keys to the quarters,
according to Martin.
As the deployment of the vast majority of
troops from within the 98th ASG begins, some
family members might still consider returning to
the United States.
“You’re not just going to give your keys to
just anyone anyway,” said Helga Deherrera, customer service representative with the 280th BSB
Housing Office.
Before doing so, they are advised to know the
rules about leaving behind their government
quarters or private rental.
The appointment of a POC is required by
USAREUR supplement 1 to Army Regulation
210-50. The 280th BSB housing office uses
absences from quarters of 30 days or more as its
benchmark for meeting the requirement to
appoint a POC.
One rule stands out among the others.
“It’s a must that they leave us a reliable point
of contact,” said Edgar Martin, customer relations representative with the 280th BSB
Housing Office.
“We have to know who the point of contact is,
in case of emergencies,” Martin said, adding that
customers can complete point-of-contact-appointment forms the housing office already has
on file.
The only requirement for appointing a point
of contact, or POC, is that the person must be
reliable and someone the family member knows
Both the housing office and rear detachment
leadership must be notified of the identity of the
POC.
playing concerts, the students got to
attend two jazz concerts, stay in a
hotel in Rottendorf and have a
banquet at a local restaurant.
The high school’s musicians represented almost half of the ensemble, with a lion’s share of the
credit going to music teacher Jeff
Pellaton, who played host this year,
and the students that were on the
2003 edition.
In his first year at the school in
2002-2003, Pellaton created the
school’s jazz band.
The four students that auditioned
for the 2003 DoDDS-Europe
ensemble were selected. In 2004, 12
of 14 who auditioned made the cut
with one more chosen as an
alternate.
Pellaton, who was on the seminar
staff in 2003, encouraged his students to apply and was enthused
about the experience all the musicians were receiving.
“For four days they’re on an
absolute high. With every downbeat
this is the best thing they’ve been a
part of,” said Pellaton.
See STUDENTS on Page 11
Community focus
Where they’re having
a ball. Percentage of
households with a
soccer ball
p
p
p
p
Sweden
Germany
France
USA
61%
59%
53%
41%
If families do choose to return to the United
States, the deployed sponsor is still responsible
for his or her quarters. Therefore, general upkeep and maintenance of the unit likely falls on
the designated point of contact also.
See HOUSING on Page 10
Source: Calorie Control Council By: Olivia Janosch
Celebrate African-American history in February
2
Team of Teams!
The Point, January 30, 2004
We all feel
stress in
some
form or
another
Everyone is subject to stress in some form or another, even
children. Stress can be caused by the weather, our jobs, family,
or our own attitudes. Stress at the moment, just before a major
deployment and numerous redeployments with unknown challenges and dangers, affects not only Soldiers but can impact the
entire family.
However, not all stress is bad. Without some pressure, we
would never accomplish anything, or even want to get out of bed
in the morning. But being under a lot of stress, and not knowing
how to handle it, can lead to a number of health problems. Stress
can also damage personal and work relationships.
Stress is any change you must adjust to. Your attitude determines whether stress is good or bad, whether the task is a positive
challenge or a seemingly insurmountable hurdle.
Whenever stress occurs, the body prepares itself for action –
the fight or flight syndrome. If the stress is not released through
physical activity, it adds to bodily wear and tear.
Although it’s probably impossible to avoid all bad stress, you
can keep it from becoming overwhelming by following some
simple tips from stress-management experts:
p Exercise. This makes good use of the adrenaline built up in
a stressful situation.
p Talk about the situation with a friend or loved one.
p Prioritize your workload and don’t try to do everything at
once.
To find out if you are reacting positively or negatively to such
stressors as tight deadlines for work projects, an upcoming move,
or family problems, ask yourself whether your emotional reaction to the situation is getting in the way of doing the best job of
solving the problem.
If the answer is yes, you may need to learn more about stress
management. Classes and assistance are offered throughout the
98th ASG in our Army Community Service centers, our schools,
through our Chaplains and in our medical facilities. All great resources for us to manage stress in our lives.
Team of Teams!
DENNIS W. DINGLE
Colonel, Air Defense Artillery
98th Area Support Group Commander
Thumbs up – Thumbs down
Thumbs up to the 98th ASG commander for his assistance in getting
the Harvey Barracks Rod and Gun
Club’s rifle range operational again.
As an avid hunter and sport shooter, it is
absolutely critical to have a facility where you
can fire your weapons to be certain of their
accuracy. Thank you very much.
David DePauw, Wuerzburg
Thumbs up to Anton Stock, Mr. Graf, and
all of the STOV employees who have kept
Giebelstadt Army Airfield in tip-top shape.
From the fall cleanup to setting the holiday
mood and just making it all happen are accomplishments to be recognized and they have not
gone unnoticed. The Giebelstadt STOV personnel accomplish installation improvements even
during adverse weather conditions. It’s not just
the work being conducted that’s noticeable, but
the pride and care that results in a clean wellgroomed, well-managed and impressionable
installation. Thank you for a job well done.
SFC Jorge Garcia, Giebelstadt
Thumbs up to Payton Richard for turning
my wallet into the military police station. There
was some money in it, but more importantly it
contained my ID card, German bank card and
health insurance card. It would have taken a lot
of effort for my parents to contact all the
institutions to get new cards. It is nice to know
that there are still honest people out there who
are doing the right thing.
Janine Watts, Bamberg
Thumbs up to Capt. Kevin Nemelka and
his staff from the Schweinfurt Veterinary
Street talk:
Michelle Berkowitz, 235th BSB
Administrative
Assistant,
Barton Barracks, Ansbach
“My husband and I would
love to visit Ireland. How
much Waterford Crystal
can I carry on the plane?”
Clinic for their compassion and professionalism. They made a difficult day a little easier.
Ken and Karla Baum, Schweinfurt
Thumbs up to the entire staff at the Harvey
Barracks Army Post Office for the superior
service they provided the entire Kitzingen
community and myself during the holiday
season. The entire staff makes it a pleasure to go
to the post office and when you leave, you feel
that the workers there really do care. Even
during the busy holiday season they remained
very helpful and continued to display a “can-do”
attitude. Keep up the good work, we really
appreciate you.
Chris Garcia, Kitzingen
Thumbs down to all the inconsiderate drivers who don’t yield the
right of way to pedestrians crossing
the walkway leading from the mailroom on Conn Barracks, Schweinfurt, to the
parking area across the street. Some of you are
also traveling far too fast. What difference can
a few seconds make? I hope none of you ever
hit me.
Diane Mansfield-Williams, Schweinfurt
Thumbs down to the persons who so disrespectfully threw liquor and beer bottles under
and around the Christmas tree on Harvey Barracks. The tree was decorated with ornaments
by the spouses of the 147th Maintenance Company, as a tribute to our Soldiers in Balad, Iraq.
Not only was the area trashed, but ornaments
were removed from the tree and placed on
other trees in the area. We will rise above your
level of maturity and hope that others do not
Thumbs down to those non-deploying
Soldiers who complain when they are assigned
a duty or placed on a duty roster. Those who are
staying behind need to get their act together and
perform those duties with pride. Remember, the
stress is on the deployed servicemembers and
their families.
SFC Danny Pitts, Wuerzburg
Thumbs down to the cowardly individual
who hit my two-door red Saturn in the U.S.
Army Hospital, Wuerzburg, parking lot Jan. 13
and did not leave a note to identify themselves.
I thought I worked in a community where its
members were honest, full of integrity and assumed responsibility for their behavior. Apparently not! Accidents happen and are understandable, but irresponsibility is not one of the
Army values the last time I looked.
Melanie Rouch, Kitzingen
❋ ❋ ❋
“Thumbs up – Thumbs down” is about people who do
a good job. It’s also about people who need to be more
considerate of others. This column is not about
institutions, units, agencies or situations that could be
subject to legal action under the Uniform Code of Military
Justice.
Submissions must be brief and include the writer’s
name and telephone number, and must include the first
and last name of the person identified. The identity of the
submitter will be published along with the comments.
Send comments to Thumbs up-Thumbs down: The
Point; 98th ASG PAO; Unit 26622; APO AE 09244-6622.
Or bring them to room 216, building 208, Faulenberg
Kaserne, Wuerzburg. Phone-in submissions will not be
accepted.
Congratulations to Karen Rose, sponsor
of the National Junior Honor Society, and
Nancy Dauber, sponsor of the Golden
Knights Incentive program, from the
Schweinfurt American Middle School.
Both accepted checks on behalf of their programs from Keith Jackson, American Legion, Department of France, Omar Bradley
Post 42 commander, for their programs’
outstanding support to the students at the
school.
Congratulations to 98th ASG Family
Life Chaplain Stephen Kelley. The President of the United States has reposed
special trust and confidence in his patriotism, valor, fidelity and abilities. In view
of these qualities and potential for increased
responsibility, he is therefore promoted to
the United States Army rank of Lt. Col.
Congratulations to the Wuerzburg American High School students who recently
participated in the 2004 DoDDS-Europe
Jazz Seminar. Joseph Anderson – piano;
Steve Applegate – baritone sax; Angela
Ayres – bass guitar; Jim Curtis – trumpet;
Ian Hodges – trombone; Adam Lawrence
– tenor sax; Dominic Legette – alto sax;
Mike Lemke – drums; Ryan McDermott
– alto sax; William Mori-Ramos – alternate trumpet; Hannah Shebaro – vocals;
Chris St. Cyr – trumpet; Nick Ward –
guitar.
Milestones recognizes individuals and organizations
who have received honors. Submissions must have the
person’s name, rank, unit receiving award, and what
the award was given for. The submission should also
include the writer’s name and telephone number.
Where is the one place in Europe you would like to visit?
Alex Imhauser, Family Member,
Warner Barracks, Bamberg
“My sister went to England last year and I’ve
heard good things about
the country. I want to go
there to shop, even
though I’ve heard it’s very
expensive.”
Wilma Kuik, Family Member,
Employee, United Service Organization, Ledward Barracks,
Schweinfurt
“London, because I have
never been there before. I
just have London in my
head.”
The Point
Ansbach • Bad Kissingen • Bamberg • Giebelstadt • Illesheim • Kitzingen • Schweinfurt • Wuerzburg
Producer: MILCOM Advertising Agency
Roswitha Lehner
Zeilaeckerstrasse 35 · 92637 Weiden
Telefax (0961) 67050-32
Internet:
disrespect you and your units when you deploy.
Cindi McClain, Kitzingen
Milestones
www.milcom.de
Free classifieds (0931) 2964397 · Fax The Point (0931) 2964626
SSgt. Donzelle Perkins, 67th
Combat Support Hospital,
Wuerzburg
Rhonda Podraza, Family Member, Katterbach Kaserne, Ansbach
“I want to visit London.
I’d like to see the Queen if
possible, but definitely
want to see the changing
of the guards, Big Ben
and the wax museum.”
“I want to go to the Czech
Republic and the Pilsen
area because I have a
friend who grew up there.
I’ve heard some fascinating stories about the
history of this part of the
country.”
Photos by The Point staff
Nicole Ruiz, Family Member,
Warner Barracks, Bamberg
“I want to visit Italy and
experience those beautiful beaches. I also want
to enjoy Italian food and
visit a couple taverns.”
“The Point” is an authorized unofficial newspaper, published every two weeks under the
provisions of AR 360-1 for the members of the 98th Area Support Group.
“The Point” is a commercial enterprise newspaper printed by the “MILCOM Advertising
Agency”, a private firm, in no way connected with the United States Government or
Department of Defense.
The contents of “The Point” do not necessarily reflect the official views or endorsement of
the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Army or the 98th Area Support
Group.
The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does
not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense.
Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or
patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status,
physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit characteristic of the
purchaser, user or patron.
Circulation is 16,000 copies per issue.
Editorial content is provided, prepared and edited by the Public Affairs Office of the 98th
Area Support Group. The 98th ASG hot line is 351-4800 or (0931) 296-4800.
The editorial offices are located in building 208, Faulenberg Kaserne, Wuerzburg,
telephone 351-4564 or (0931) 2964564.
Mailing address:
Editor – The Point, 98th ASG-PAO, Unit 26622, APO AE 09244-6622.
email: [email protected]
Christina McWilliams, Headquarters and Headquarters
Company, 1st Battalion, 77th
Armor,
Conn
Barracks,
Schweinfurt
“Italy. I’ve heard it’s really beautiful there. I also
want to visit Greece.”
Jamie Gabbard, Family Member, Kitzingen
“I would really like to go
to Greece to see the 2004
Olympics. I plan to visit
Paris, and would like to
go to Vienna and participate in its New Year’s
celebration. In Germany,
I plan to visit Munich and
Berlin.”
The Ansbach, editorial office is located in building 5257, Barton Barracks, Ansbach,
telephone 468-7649 or (0981) 183649.
The Bamberg editorial office is located in building 7089, Warner Barracks, Bamberg,
telephone 469-7581 or (0951) 3007581.
The Kitzingen editorial office is located in building 145, Harvey Barracks, telephone 3558575 or (09321) 3058575.
The Schweinfurt editorial office is located in Robertson Hall, Ledward Barracks,
Schweinfurt, telephone 354-6381 or (09721) 966381.
98th Area Support Group Commander . . Col. Dennis W. Dingle
98th ASG Public Affairs Officer . . . . . . . . . Donald Klinger
Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olivia Feher
Assistant Editor, Graphic Designer . . . . . Elaine Nicholas
Journalist (Ansbach) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lisa Eichhorn
Journalist (Bamberg) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl Boujnida
Journalist (Schweinfurt) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Heeter
Journalist (Kitzingen). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry Reilly
Reader contributions are welcome but will be published at the discretion of the editor.
235th Base Support Battalion: Ansbach, Illesheim
Cheer your team
The 235th BSB hosts two Super Bowl
parties, so join in and cheer on your favorite
team. They will take place at the Katterbach
K-Club on Katterbach Kaserne and the
Apache Club on Storck Barracks in Illesheim Feb. 1 starting at 8 p.m. Prizes will be
given out during the game. For more information, call 467-2945 or (09802) 832945.
Join family trips
The 235th BSB Outdoor Recreation will
take you to Bamberg’s Bazaar with Heart
Feb. 14. The bus will depart at 10 a.m. at the
new location on Katterbach, behind clothing sales and at 10:45 a.m. at the Illesheim
ACS. The trip is free of charge. For more information call 467-3225 or (09802)
833225.
We need to talk
Learn how to better communicate with
your spouse by attending the monthly
couples workshop at Army Community
Service. For more information, call 4672516 or (09802) 832516.
Find a job
Looking for a job but don’t know where
to start? The Katterbach and Illesheim ACS
offers an informational briefing on how to
manage the federal resume system and
gives tips on writing a winning resume.
They also provide information on how to
apply for other jobs in USAREUR. For information in Katterbach, call 467-2883 or
(09802) 832883, and for information in
Illesheim, call 467-4555 or (09841) 83555.
The Point, January 30, 2004
3
4th Brigade leaves Ansbach
Next stop is the Persian Gulf
by Lisa Eichhorn
The Point
Equipment, vehicles and aircraft from the 4th
Aviation Brigade in Katterbach are now on the
way to the Persian Gulf as the 1st Infantry Division begins the deployment process in support of
Operation Enduring Freedom II.
Months of training and focused maintenance
helped the brigade installation staging activities,
or ISA, and rail operations run smoothly and in
record time according to ISA Liaison Officer
Maj. Jim Rouse.
“The Soldiers in the brigade did a great job
getting our equipment moved out. There was
kind of a sense of relief from them to be actually
moving out. We’ve been planning this for a long
time, so this is a milestone for us in the deployment process,” Rouse said.
The operation lasted several days and was
done without any injuries to Soldiers.
“Safety is always first in the Soldier’s mind,
especially with the kind of weather we’re
having. But they were highly motivated and
ready to move out,” said MSgt. Leonard Fuller,
ISA noncommissioned officer in charge.
The 235th BSB managed both the ISA and the
rail loading. “We developed the plan incorporating subject matter experts from the 21st Theater
Support Command, or TSC, 29th Support
Group, 1394th Deployment Support Group, the
549th Maintenance, and the deploying units.
This, in conjunction with employees throughout
the entire 235th BSB, established an effective
area for the deploying units to process their
equipment,” said Maj. Bruce Griggs, 235th BSB
operations officer.
“The event went better than planned. The 1st
Inf. Div., in close coordination with the 21st
TSC, developed a movement plan to manage the
traffic flow throughout Europe. As a result, all
deploying units were able to complete their
ISA requirements prior to the time originally
planned. I also credit everyone involved with
this operation for its success. From the BSB
staff, our attached units, to the individual Soldier
directing traffic in and out of the area,” he added.
Photos by Lisa Eichhorn
This Soldier directs trucks onto railcars
with precision.
Be a good parent
The New Parent Education and Support
Program, or NPESP, provides services, free
of charge, to expectant families and families with children from birth through 3 years
of age. Through a variety of programs,
NPESP will help you learn to cope with
stress, isolation, deployment separations,
post-deployment reunions, and the every
day demands of parenthood. For more information, call NPESP at (09802) 832516.
ICE age is here
The 235th BSB offers Interactive Customer Evaluation, or ICE, Program to allow
customers of military services to give direct
input and immediate feedback to service
provider managers. To do this, visit the
website at www.ICE.disa.mil. For more
information, call Patrice McCray at 4681500 or (0981) 1831500.
Great place to meet
Looking for a place to hold your next
meeting in the Illesheim area? The community room on the 4th floor of building
6510 is now available. For more information, call 467-4515 or (09841) 83515.
235th BSB
The Point, 235th Base Support
Battalion, editorial office is
located in building 5257, Barton
Barracks, telephone 468-7649 or
(0981) 183649. Mailing address is PAO, The
Point, 235th Base Support Battalion, CMR
463, APO AE 09177-0463.
Internet web site address http:\\www.ansbach.
army.mil
The 235th BSB hotline is 468-7800 or (0981)
183800. The patient liaison number is (09841) 83512.
235th BSB
Commander ........................ Lt. Col. Parker Schenecker
Public Affairs Officer ............................ Frauke Davis
Journalist ................................................ Lisa Eichhorn
Vehicles from 4th Aviation Brigade await loading onto railcars.
New EEO wants to change stigma
by Lisa Eichhorn
The Point
When most people think of the equal employment opportunity, or EEO, office they think that
it’s a place to go as a last resort when having a
problem with a coworker.
It’s that stigma that Recardo Alexander, 235th
BSB EEO officer wants to change.
Alexander just arrived from Ft. Belvoir, Va.,
with more than 20 years experience working for
the government.
“I came here hoping to
bring organization and persistence to our programs.
By working hard as a team,
we hope to educate the
workforce about EEO and
get them familiar with us.
If we can make even 10
people at a time aware of
our processes, then we’re
on our way to being successful,” he said.
Alexander
To make the community familiar with EEO,
the staff hosts classes and promotes awareness
through the Special Emphasis Program, or SEP.
The SEP sponsors events throughout the year
based on a requirement from the Army according to EEO specialist and SEP member Ida
Dixon.
“The SEP is here to enhance equal employment opportunities for minorities and women in
the work force. It is also a commander’s program
designed to educate personnel on the different
cultures and the diversity in the community.
Within the 235th BSB, our SEP’s mission is to
ensure equity for minorities and women in:
recruitment, placement, promotion, training,
development, and recognition in all positions
and at all grade levels,” Dixon said.
“The SEP also administers the BSB’s employee of the quarter/year recognition program,
as well as leads or sponsors professional development workshops. The SEP also works hand
in hand with the BSB equal opportunity advisor
in sponsoring different cultural celebrations
within the BSB community,” she said.
Dixon added the SEP is recruiting new
members to become part of the committee. The
position is considered collateral duty and can be
listed as other experience on your resume.
As well as the SEP, the EEO office works with
employees to resolve issues they may have with
their managers or coworkers and one new way
they’re doing this is by alternative dispute resolution.
This process puts both parties together with a
mediator to openly discuss their issues.
“We’ve found that quite often the main issue
is communication. When there’s a dispute this
breaks down and the parties stop talking, so
there is no resolution. We bring them together,
let them talk it out and hopefully rebuild their
working relationship,” Alexander said.
“Our motto is ‘every employee, every time,’
which means no employee who comes to us will
be turned away. We’re here to help even if that
means we have to refer them to other agencies,”
he added.
Speak out on concerns, issues about Army life
by Lisa Eichhorn
The Point
It’s time to speak out and let your voice be heard on your
concerns about Army life and the perfect place to do that is the
annual Army Family Action Plan, or AFAP, symposium.
This year’s conference takes place Feb. 4 and 5 at the Von
Steuben Club on Bismarck Kaserne and promises to be filled
with fruitful discussions on how to make Army life easier for
Soldiers and family members.
The concept behind AFAP is to solicit issues from the community, then bring community members together to develop
solutions. This is done during the conference. Then issues are
researched to see at what level they can be solved, some going
all the way to the Department of the Army level or higher.
“Community members are encouraged to submit their concerns now and they can be on a wide range of topics,” said Becky
Candiloro, AFAP program manager.
“Anyone can submit an issue. Some examples of topics include: MWR, community support, consumer services, housing,
relocation, medical support, entitlements, force support, and
single Soldier living. Then once we begin the AFAP conference,
participants will join in the discussions on issues that have been
submitted. All of these issues affect our community, and the participants have the chance to make a difference by voicing their
concerns and suggestions,” she said
Candiloro added two issues from the 2002 AFAP conference
moved forward to USAREUR level.
“The first issue dealt with military spouse preference, and this
issue was one of the top-five issues that USAREUR forwarded
to the Department of the Army AFAP conference. American
Forces Radio and Television Service radio frequency is another
issue that went forward to USAREUR level. However, this was
determined to be unattainable at the USAREUR level,” she said.
Everyone involved feels this conference is the place to make
change happen. “I hope community members take the chance to
make their voices heard. If anyone has a great idea to improve
benefits or procedures in the Department of the Army, he or she
should speak up at AFAP. There have been some super improvements in Army benefits as a result of AFAP conferences, so
everyone should use this opportunity to contribute,” said 235th
BSB Army Community Service director Donna Bond.
New at this year’s conference is teen involvement.
If you would like to participate or have any questions regarding AFAP, call Candiloro at (09802) 83288.
6
The Point, January 30, 2004
SimMan sustains medics’ training
New technology
takes giant step
by Roger Teel
U.S. Army Hospital, Wuerzburg
Simulation training for Army medics has
taken a giant step forward with the recent fielding of “SimMan,” a life-sized, computer-linked
robot that can simulate nearly any battlefield
condition or hospital situation.
Coupled with computerized individual training modules that focus on and train to each
medic’s weaknesses, SimMan delivers hands-on
training unavailable anywhere else.
“The robotic training aid was developed because the Army medical community recognized
a training deficiency facing young Army
medics,” according to John Rodgers, representative of Laerdal Medical, the Gatesville, Texas,
company that produces SimMan.
“Their skills tend to atrophy without sustained training, and the young medics, the 18 to
21 year olds, are just not getting the hands-on
training they need in the hospital setting,”
Rodgers said.
“SimMan gives them realism, aimed at the
training they need, and is especially valuable to
those who will become far-forward medical
assets,” he added.
Once fully fielded and trainers become
familiar with its use, SimMan will allow Army
medics to focus on the individual skill sets they
need to better perform their duties. The lifelike
computerized patient, which breathes and has a
pulse, assesses and tracks a medic’s weaknesses
and reinforces these skills in training scenarios
developed by the trainers.
SSgt. Juan Hickson, the hospital’s education
noncommissioned officer in charge, said he sees
a number of training environments where
SimMan will excel.
“Since SimMan affords us scenario-based
training, we think he will become an important
part of the Soldier’s semi-annual validation
training, as well as in emergency medical
training, advanced cardio life support and
trauma training. This is a really smart tool that
will help our medics train for the battlefield,”
Hickson said.
Another training aid coming to the medical
community is MicroSim, another computerbased simulation tool. MicroSim is skill specific
so trainers can set disciplines to engage the
entry-level medic (MOS 91W10) or a veteran
physician. MicroSim has trauma, medical and
nuclear, biological and chemical scenarios for
the medic to engage.
“The goal is to have all 91Ws maintain a
personal CD-ROM of this program so they can
Roger Teel
SSgt. Juan Hickson learns some of SimMan’s unique characteristics from John
Rodgers of Laerdal Medical, the company that produces the robot.
train at home or wherever they have computer
access,” Hickson said.
MicroSim is currently available to Soldiers at
the U.S. Army Hospital, Wuerzburg.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times
by Bill Burns
Wuerzburg Military Intelligence Detachment
We are all, more or less, conscious of the current threat conditions in the world today, and more specifically, here in
Germany, to include our local area in the 98th ASG.
During the 1st Infantry Division’s deployment for the next
year, it’s important to remember that numerous agencies are
working out front and behind the scenes to provide safety and
security for those of us who live and work in the 98th ASG
footprint.
The German police and German military members patrolling
our bases provide significantly to our mutual protection against
terrorism.
Local Securitas guards provide an increased measure of
security and safety as they courteously and professionally con-
trol entrance and exit gates to our facilities. The military police,
criminal investigation division and military police investigators,
all provide law enforcement expertise to resolve potential terrorism threats and help resolve numerous suspicious incidents to
ensure our security.
The Wuerzburg Military Intelligence Detachment, or MID,
works closely with both host nation and U.S. law enforcement
and intelligence agencies to provide seamless force protection to
the 98th ASG.
The Wuerzburg MID, with offices in Ansbach and Schweinfurt, investigates suspicious incidents, which may be related to
terrorism and disseminate threat information to various key
personnel and commands within the 98th ASG.
With a desire to continually keep force protection and security
foremost in the minds of all who remain in the 98th ASG, the
Wuerzburg MID will provide ongoing articles under the title of
“Terrorism Incident Prevention,” or TIPs. They will make
tailored briefings available to family readiness groups concerning the details of what are, and how to report suspicious
matters accurately and appropriately.
TIP #1 – While traveling or living in Germany, be aware of
your surroundings and try to blend with the local population.
Avoid wearing clothes with unique American identifying icons
or advertisements. Terrorists look for random, easy targets. Be
alert and don’t be an easy target. Avoid American hangouts
during periods of announced high threat. You might happen to be
in a place terrorists target. Terrorists that target Americans look
for the obvious American tourists. Large groups of Americans
make a potential high value target for terrorists. An example of
a large, vulnerable group would be groups of Americans at night
clubs, in hotels and in apartment buildings. Avoid possible target
areas.
LOOK AT THIS SPACE.
FILL IT WITH YOUR ADVERTISING.
Fax 09 61/6 70 50-32
www.milcom.de
8
279th Base Support Battalion: Bamberg
The Point, January 30, 2004
Shop at bazaar
Shop until you drop at the Bazaar with
Heart, sponsored by the Bamberg Spouse’s
and Civilian’s Club, or BSCC, at the
BASICS building Feb. 13-15 on Warner
Barracks. Opening hours: Feb. 13 from 11
a.m. to 7 p.m., Feb. 14 from 10 a.m. to 5
p.m. and Feb. 15 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attend the opening ceremony Feb. 13 at 10:45
a.m. The bazaar is open to all U.S. military
ID card holders. Cash and checks accepted.
Staging area readies tactical vehicles
by Cheryl Boujnida
The Point
Store automobiles
safely
Store privately owned vehicles at designated unit storage areas before deploying. For more information, call Sgt. Wesley
Pyle at 469-8549 or (0951) 3008549.
Become an active
parent
Attend an Army Community Service, or
ACS, active parenting seminar at Preston
Hall Feb. 17-20 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Rekindle the spark of being a parent. Four
days of support and fun. To sign up, call
469-7777 or (0951) 3007777.
Don’t stress
Attend an Army Community Service
stress management class at the ACS building in room 214 Feb. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to
1 p.m. For more information, call 469-7777
or (0951) 3007777.
Cheryl Boujnida
Spec. Yuridia Arballo readies a vehicle at
the convoy staging area.
There’s been an emphasis on tracks and
wheels in Bamberg lately.
Bamberg units, readying equipment for deployment, are inspecting tactical vehicles thoroughly before shipment to Iraq by rail and barge
transport.
The 279th BSB Deployment Operation Center erected an installation staging area, or ISA,
Jan. 14-24 for vehicle inspections.
“When a unit is deploying from a home station, everything must be in order so there are no
maintenance faults or documentation problems.
This review process makes it easier to fix a problem here rather than finding out you have a problem at a port or at the final destination. Essentially, the ISA process prevents equipment from
getting stalled en route,” said Capt. Stephen
Maire, 279th BSB, Headquarters and Headquarter Detachment commander.
Maire, ISA executive officer, noted the staging area is comprised of six stations and each
checkpoint ensures tracked and wheeled vehicles are thoroughly inspected.
“Over a period of 10 days, approximately 900
vehicles will be checked at the ISA. We are
averaging about 80 vehicles each day,” he said.
At the starting point, Soldiers are briefed in
the reception area. Each vehicle must undergo
safety and maintenance inspections, document
review, fueling and de-fueling and final inspection before reaching the convoy staging area, or
last station. Vehicle flow through the ISA was
calculated so Warner Barracks traffic patterns
were not blocked or hindered.
Personnel control also proved to be challenging.
“Since we only have a finite amount of space
we have to maximize our use of it,” said Sgt.
George Kline.
The first unit to undergo stringent inspections
is 1st Battalion, 33rd Field Artillery.
“We have great Soldiers – we’re a day ahead
because they’re flying through, which is attributed to our strong maintenance focus. With a
strong and positive maintenance posture you can
create more enhanced training opportunities,”
said Lt. Col. Kenneth Boehme, 1st Battalion,
33rd Field Artillery commander.
He stressed the maintenance focus allowed
the battalion to win the 2003 Army Award for
Maintenance Excellence for the division.
In conjunction with the ISA, servicemembers
with Kaiserslautern’s 29th Support Group and
191st Ordinance Battalion oversaw operations at
Bamberg’s Marshalling Area Control Group, or
MacG, for wheeled vehicles en route to the
barge site.
Enjoy getaway
The community activity center offers an
overnight couples trip Feb. 7 and 8 to the
Andechs Monastery near Ammersee in
upper Bavaria. The monastery is known for
its brewery, restaurant featuring local specialties, and cultural history. Cost is $100
per couple. For more information, call 4697450 or (0951) 3007450.
Ride for free
Enjoy free transportation to the Hirschaid indoor swimming pool Feb. 10. The
bus departs from the community activity
center at 9 a.m. and returns at 2 p.m. Pool
fees for adults are €3.50 for 2 hours, €1 for
every half hour after that. Pay €1.50 per
child, 4-18 years old, for 2 hours, 50 cents
for every half-hour after that. Children
under 4 are free. To sign up, call 469-7450
or (0951) 3007450.
Vote for it
Through the Federal Voting Assistance
Program, eligible people are encouraged to
vote. Voting information is available from
unit voting assistance officers or by calling
LuEy Corbett at 469-8750 or (0951) 3008750.
New Year’s
reception fosters
G-A relations
Brig. Gen. John Morgan III, 1st Infantry Division assistant commander for maneuver in Bamberg,
and wife Deborah, greet Edi Pfahlmann, chief of the German Criminal
Investigation Division, at the annual
New Year’s reception Jan. 9. The
Morgans, Lt. Col. Daniel Thomas,
279th BSB commander, and wife
Tricia, greeted more than 250
guests who attended the reception,
which included Bamberg’s Lord
Mayor Herbert Lauer and County
Commissioner Dr. Guenther Denzler. Morgan thanked Bamberg city
and county officials, German police,
the International Women’s Club and
the German-American Men’s club
for ongoing German-American support.
Simon Hubser
Go sightseeing
Enjoy a free trip to the Wuerzburg Castle
Feb. 26. Bus departs the community
activity center at 8:30 a.m. and returns at 2
p.m. For more information, call 469-7450
or (0951) 3007450.
279th BSB
Forces join to break racial barriers
Community honors
Martin Luther King Jr.
by Nick D’Amario
The Point
The Point, 279th Base Support Battalion,
editorial office is located in building
7089, room 423, Warner Barracks,
Bamberg, telephone 469-7581 or (0951)
3007581. Mailing address is PAO, The
Point, 279th Base Support Battalion, Unit 27535,
Warner Barracks, APO AE 09139-7535.
The 279th BSB hotline is 469-4800 or (0951)
3004800. Patient liaison number is (0951) 3007492.
Internet web site 279th BSB:
http://www.bamberg.army.mil
279th BSB
Commander ............................ Lt. Col. Daniel Thomas
Public Affairs Officer .......................... Renate Bohlen
Journalist ........................................... Cheryl Boujnida
When it comes to breaking down the walls of
discrimination and cultural indifference, rest assured your local equal opportunity professionals
have got their sledgehammers poised and ready.
Bamberg’s equal opportunity, or EO, and
equal employment opportunity, or EEO, teams
hosted the Jan. 15 Martin Luther King Jr. birthday celebration at Warner Chapel.
“King is our drum major for justice, and he
has left us a legacy of commitment,” said LuEy
Corbett, EEO program manager.
The King celebration bannered the theme “A
day on, not a day off,” and featured vocal per-
formances by the MLK Celebration Choir, special readings from King’s “I have a dream”
speech by Stephen Grandison and Lisa Moore,
guest speaker Col. Victoria H. Diego-Allard, and
an ethnic food buffet that pleased the palates of
over 100 attendees.
The EO will host February’s AfricanAmerican Heritage Month celebration for the
community on Feb. 18 at the Warner Club. The
observance starts at 6 p.m. and features the BiOkoto Drum Band, a cultural display, and soul
food tasting. Entry to the event is free and door
prizes and giveaways will be awarded.
“This will be a learning process, and we hope
that everyone in the community can partake in
the fun,” said SFC Jimmy Ford, 279th BSB
equal opportunity advisor.
Organizing ethnic observances is an EO function, and spearheaded for the 279th BSB by
Ford. EEO regularly supports community EO
programs, and works with EO to maximize
awareness about ethnic observances in the community.
Volunteers are needed for the Feb. 18 event
and should contact Ford at 469-8624 or (0951)
3008624.
“As Dr. Martin Luther
King Jr. sought to forge the
common ground on which
people from all walks of
life could join together as
equals to address important
community issues, we ask
the Bamberg community to
continue to forge ahead and
continue to come together
in the many observances
the Army recognizes,” said
Sharon Yelder, EEO speLisa Moore
cialist.
Bamberg teen represents U.S. Army Europe
by Nick D’Amario
The Point
Meet Katie Gioia, a local Bamberg teen who is the European
teen panel representative for the 98th ASG, and will be headed
for Washington, D.C., Feb. 11 to 15 to represent all U.S. Army
teens in Europe.
Gioia, a 15-year-old Bamberg American High School sophomore, is the daughter of CSM John Gioia, 82nd Engineer Battalion, and Fay Gioia, Bamberg Spouse’s and Civilian’s Club
president.
Demanding criteria such as academic achievement and public
speaking skills were requirements fulfilled by Gioia for selection
as the ASG’s top teen, and she joins six other teens from Germany, Italy and Belgium.
These teen panel representatives comprise the new U.S. Army
Installation Management Agency–Europe, or IMA-E, initiative,
introduced by Russell Hall, the Europe region director for the
May 2003-2005 term.
In addition to fact-finding conferences and networking with
teens in Europe, Gioia has also met with officials at the ASG and
USAREUR levels, to include IMA-E’s Hall, and Katie Bell, wife
of USAREUR Commanding General B. B. Bell.
At a 2003 teen conference in Heidelberg, teen panel members
and their advisors met for three days to discuss and brainstorm
how to improve teen programs and services.
One particular issue, the use of transportation resources for
youth services and school teens to interact with fellow teens from
other communities, was well received at all command levels.
Gioia
“They were wonderful, very receptive,
willing to help, and open to all ideas,”
Gioia said.
Bamberg also hosted an ASG-wide
conference for teens in August 2003,
which was attended by 30 teens from
neighboring Schweinfurt and Ansbach
communities.
“It’s been very beneficial for Katie, and
has raised her self-confidence and public
speaking skills to new heights,” said Tony
Untalan, youth services teen director, and
Gioia’s coach and mentor in the program.
10
280th Base Support Battalion: Bad Kissingen, Schweinfurt
The Point, January 30, 2004
Support blood drive
The community is
urged to donate blood
at the Kessler Fitness
Center Feb. 24 and 25
from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The
Schweinfurt
Health Clinic also
needs volunteers to
assist blood drive
personnel. Training
will be provided. The
drive helps Soldiers
in Operation EnMartin
during Freedom and
Operation Iraqi Freedom who are injured
daily, according to Spec. Jeremy Martin,
coordinator of the Schweinfurt Blood
Drive. For more information, call 354-6665
or (09721) 966665.
Attend DARE
graduation
Attend the drug abuse resistance education graduation at the Schweinfurt American Elementary School Feb. 5 at 1:15 p.m.
For more information, call 354-7029 or
(09721) 967029.
Sign out DVDs
Community members can now sign out
DVDs at the Ledward Library. For more information, call 354-1740 or (09721) 961740.
Take a break
Parents can take a night off thanks to the
child and youth liaison education and outreach services, or CLEOS, program Feb. 20
from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. This child care service is free and available to families with
children 6 weeks to 10 years. For more information, call 354-6414/6517 or (09721)
966414.
Learn about
Schweinfurt
Newcomers to the 280th BSB should
attend the Schweinfurt Newcomers Awareness Program for Spouses, or SNAPS, at the
Army Community Service Center, or ACS,
Feb. 2-6. Navigate the city’s transportation
system, see local landmarks, and take the
train to Bamberg or Wuerzburg. Free child
care is available. For more information, call
354-6751 or (09721) 966751.
Jobs galore
Job seekers can visit the employment
readiness center at The Commons every
day from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1 to
4 p.m. There are four computers reserved
exclusively for job hunting, building a
resume and searching for jobs on the Internet. For more information, call 354-6486 or
(09721) 966486.
Ski in Italy
Go skiing with the outdoor recreation
center on an Italian ski safari Feb. 13-16.
The bus leaves Feb. 13 at 11 p.m. and returns Feb. 16 at midnight. For more information, call 353-8080 or (09721) 968080.
280th BSB
The Point, 280th Base Support
Battalion, editorial office is
located in Robertson Hall on
Ledward Barracks, Schweinfurt,
telephone 354-6381 or (09721) 966381.
Mailing address is PAO, The Point, 280th
Base Support Battalion, CMR 457, APO AE
09033-0457.
The 280th BSB hotline is 354-4800 or (09721)
964800.
Internet web site 280th BSB:
http://www.schweinfurt.army.mil
280th BSB
Commander ......................... Lt. Col. Edward Manning
Public Affairs Officer ................................ George Ohl
Journalists ............................................... Mark Heeter,
Margot Cornelius
Leaders train for tough task
Role-playing brings reality home
by Mark Heeter
The Point
As Capt. Todd Jackson approached her,
Patricia Lamson-Poeschel, role-playing as the
wife of a deployed servicemember, already
knew why he was there.
“I know. It’s okay, I know why he’s here,” she
said abruptly, moments before Jackson, rehearsing his role as a casualty notification officer, or CNO, broke the news.
The mock notification was one of six such
interactions at the end of a casualty notification
training and exercise session held throughout
Schweinfurt Jan. 9.
“Emotionally, I went through the process. It
really is emotionally draining. It caught really
everyone off guard,” said Jackson, who will be a
CNO when the 1st Infantry Division deploys.
The training was a two-part session,
beginning with instruction about the rules and
regulations guiding the notification process,
followed by the mock notifications.
“This is going to allow our senior leaders to
be informed so they know the process of what
they’re getting into,” said John McIntyre, who,
as personnel officer for the 280th BSB, is among
the first people to know of a local casualty.
“It gives a sense of security to the community
and lets them know we’re there for them if they
need us,” he said.
In the event of a casualty, Army officials have
extremely strict rules about the process of
notifying the primary next of kin and are under
tight time constraints for making the initial
notification.
Much of the instructional portion was devoted
to the explanation of this process and admonition about the security of information in the first
hours after a casualty occurs.
“This was really well attended, which signifies to me the brigade’s dedication to this mission,” said Chaplain (Maj.) David Mikkelson,
family life chaplain for the 280th BSB.
“They want to get it right. Casualty notification is not a mission they’ll push to the back
burner,” Mikkelson said.
Among the benefits of the training and exercise is a heightened awareness of the seriousness and emotional challenges facing a CNO.
“I’m not going to say this makes it any easier;
the training just made me more aware. We’re
dealing with emotional people,” Jackson said.
The increased CNOs’ knowledge and confidence also would allow Mikkelson to turn his
focus to the family member, where it belongs, he
said.
Mark Heeter
Patricia Lamson-Poeschel, left, reacts to
the bad news that Capt. Todd Jackson
has just given to her.
“I want the community to know we are prepared to handle this in a caring and professional
way should we need to do this,” said Mikkelson,
who praised the team of ladies who acted as
family members for the practical exercise.
Team takes pulse of local families
Army wants to know
how its own is doing
by Mark Heeter
The Point
A research team of contractors and members
of the Community and Family Support Center in
Washington, D.C., sponsored focus groups with
military spouses in Schweinfurt Jan. 8.
“The Army is interested in finding out how
families are doing,” said Joan Serpa, 280th BSB
Exceptional Family Member Program, or
EFMP, manager.
The researchers visited junior-enlisted Soldiers’ spouses in the first focus group at the yellow ribbon room on Ledward Barracks, followed by conpany-grade officers’ spouses.
“Issues for the wife of a private through
specialist would be a lot different than they
would be for a second lieutenant’s or captain’s
wife,” Serpa said.
Regardless of the servicemember’s rank,
topics that Serpa expected the focus groups to
explore were quality-of-life issues, such as child
care, family readiness group and command
support, and medical services.
“For a lot of these spouses, this is the first time
away from family, so we’re looking at support
systems. Are we taking care of our families?”
Serpa asked.
For some participants, combating that isolation was one of the reasons of coming together
for the focus group.
“It opened up doors for me,” said Catherine
Jones, one of the focus group participants, noting that she was glad to hear other people have
concerns similar to hers.
“The biggest benefit is to know that other
people are feeling the same way,” said Shannon
Fitzsimmons, another focus group participant.
The researchers were expected to evaluate
whether issues were isolated in a specific community, particular to overseas communities, or
spread throughout the Army.
“I think it’s good they’re trying to help us out
and figure out the big picture,” Fitzsimmons
said.
Over the past several years, using tools such
as the focus group, the Army has developed and
improved its ability to evaluate issues and concerns facing Army families, according to Serpa.
“The Army has really come a long way in
getting the families connected, and we have an
awesome team here in Schweinfurt,” she said.
Soldiers enter the Order of the Spur
by Mark Heeter
The Point
As clouds of purple, green and
yellow smoke filled the air and
mixed with the stench of gunpowder, the assault team popped
off blank rounds and moved
closer to its objective.
This was station one for more
than 100 Soldiers who were on a
recent “Spur Ride” through the
victory training center maneuver
area north of Schweinfurt.
The spur ride, sponsored by
the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry, is
an old cavalry tradition and marks
troops’ entrance to the Order of
the Spur.
“The intention was always to
test a cavalryman’s ability to
conduct all the tasks required of
him as a cavalryman,” said 2nd
Lt. Andrew Rohrer, the ride
master who oversaw the spur
ride.
See SOLDIERS on Page 11
HOUSING
From Page 1
“Regardless of the deployment, occupying military housing is
a privilege. It is not a right,” said Maj. Kari Otto, 280th BSB
Directorate of Public Works director.
The chain of command has said no family member will be
appointed as a building or area coordinator during the
deployment; nevertheless, families are responsible for taking
care of their homes, according to Otto.
“The unit will pick up the role as building coordinator;
however, that does not absolve the occupants of that building of
having to clean or maintain that building,” Otto said.
Mark Heeter
Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry, practice their techniques on a member of the opposition force.
Some families might wish to clear their government quarters,
which they may do while the sponsor is deployed; however, cost
of household goods shipment might fall back on the family.
“They have to be on Advanced Return of Dependents, or
AROD, or Early Return of Dependents, or EROD, orders if they
want the government to pay for the shipment of their household
goods,” Otto said.
“Basically, unless they fall into one of those categories,
shipment of household goods is not authorized,” Otto said,
noting that most AROD and EROD cases for the term of the
deployment have likely already taken place.
“If you clear housing without any orders, you’re on your
own,” Martin said.
Some of those who will remain here have also asked about the
permissibility of having family or friends stay with them for
extended periods during the deployment.
“Especially during deployments, sometimes family visits for
a longer time frame. If it’s going to be for longer, they have to
get the approval in writing,” Deherrera said.
This is allowed, provided extended visitors are eligible to
receive an installation pass.
“It needs to be approved by the BSB commander,” Otto
said.
Single servicemembers occupying private rentals also have
the option of terminating their contracts, in accordance with the
rules stipulated in the rental agreement. For this reason, they
have the option to store their household goods during the
deployment.
Questions about housing issues related to the deployment
should be directed to the local housing office.
The Point, January 30, 2004
11
VICTORY-gram #1
A year of victory
by Lt. Col. Christopher Kolenda
Commander, 1st Infantry Division Rear Detachment
Victory comes to those with a true-believing hunger for it. Overcoming fear and doubt,
frustration and despair, anxiety and sadness
takes the iron will of a champion. This is
exactly what our families possess and it will
lead to a year of Victory.
Our Soldiers will achieve Victory in Iraq.
They have the best leaders, teams, and equipment of any force on the planet. They will
reshape the Middle East, bringing hope to a
people made destitute by tyranny, privation,
incompetence, and neglect.
Our families will achieve Victory at home.
Never have I seen a group of communities
better organized to assist families in achieving
life-long goals than those here in the Big Red
One. Our rear detachments are staffed with
world-class Soldiers and civilians; our garrisons and community agencies are filled with
dedicated professionals; our volunteers are
national treasures – freely giving their precious time, energy, and resources to making our
home a better place. The door to Victory is
open for anyone who wants to walk through it.
As we crafted our Victory strategy, we recognized that we needed to empower our families to be self-reliant, informed and fulfilled.
p Self-reliance is the foundation of empowerment and self-respect. Champions take
pride in solving the daily challenges of life.
They know whom to call for questions and
what community resources to leverage. Our
team of Soldiers, civilians and volunteers is
trained and ready to answer questions and
provide the best points of contact so families
achieve the full benefit of what our great communities have to offer.
p Being informed is the next step to empowerment. Our robust communications
suites offer tremendous opportunities to stay
abreast of news in Iraq and in our communities, and for our Soldiers downrange to tune in
to the magical events happening at home. At
the same time,
information can
be a doubleedged
sword.
If
something
sounds too incredible to be
true, it probably
is. Our rear detachments
and
family
readiness
groups are the wellsprings of timely and accurate information. If they do
not know the answer, they will find it out and
get back with you immediately. We need your
help to be a part of the solution for rumorcontrol.
p Fulfillment is empowerment’s pinnacle.
Sociologists tell us that leading a balanced life
is the key to fulfillment. Balance is achieved
by engaging in the four domains of existence:
physical, social, mental and spiritual. Our
communities offer terrific programs for our
families in each domain. Over the next view
weeks, we will discuss some of the many
opportunities for fun and personal growth
available over the next year.
Separation from our loved ones will be unquestionably hard. The pangs of loneliness at
night, the challenges of single-parenting, the
anxiety over the safety and well-being of our
loved ones are tremendous burdens to bear.
We don’t have to bear them alone.
Victory depends on how each one of us
responds, individually and as a member of
the community. The choice is ours to make.
For those who wish to make it so, this year
will be a positive, life-altering, fulfilling
experience. We will look back on this year
not just as a difficult time but a special one in
which we grew as individuals, built lasting
friendships, kept our commitments, and
made a difference in the hearts, minds and
souls of others.
Medical troops deploy
Family and friends gather in front of the 67th Combat Support Hospital formation
in the Leighton Fitness Center for the casing of the unit colors Jan. 13. Following
the short ceremony, Soldiers spent two hours with their loved ones before completing last-minute training, loading buses with personal effects, and departing
in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Scholarships are available
by Scott Rouch
The Point
Less than three weeks remain to apply for one
of the Scholarships for Military Children.
The scholarship program was created in
recognition of the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and to
celebrate the role of the commissary in the
military family community. It is the intent that a
scholarship be awarded annually for each commissary operated by the Defense Commissary
Agency.
One $1,500 scholarship will be awarded at
every commissary location where qualified ap-
STUDENTS
From Page 1
Scott Rouch
Jim Curtis, left, and Chris St. Cyr trumpet the arrival of big band music.
SOLDIERS
From Page 10
“All the tasks here are based on the individual readiness
training, or IRT, that we’ve had already,” Rohrer said, referring
to the seven stations on the ride.
In addition to a road march to the training area, the spur ride
included tests on reacting to direct and indirect fire, personnel
and vehicle inspections, and 9-line medical evacuation procedures.
“This is geared to what we’ll be doing in future operations in
Operation Iraqi Freedom,” said SFC Robert Huettner, one of the
ride’s planners and organizers.
The cadre who evaluated the troops, all spur holders, designed
the course in accordance with challenges they faced during their
own spur rides.
“Based on past experiences with spur rides I’ve been on, this
is one of the most challenging training exercises we do for any
type of home station training. Every station is run by a noncommissioned officer-in-charge, and we make it as challenging as
possible,” said SSgt. Jim Therwanger, one of the trainers.
Once they completed the two-day event, the newly inducted
members of the club gathered in a ceremony during which they
were given their spurs and a certificate recognizing their accomplishment.
At that point, they were rewarded for the teamwork and perseverance that led them to completion of the spur ride.
Roger Teel
“There were four people from Wuerzburg last
year. We came back and told everyone about the
fun we had and how much we learned and it
became contagious,” said bass guitarist Angela
Ayres.
“I heard about this from the kids from last
year and decided to give it a try,” said alto
saxophone player Dominic Legette. “Getting to
meet Jiggs was great. He’s a funny guy and good
to be around,” Legette added.
Whigam kept the kids loose during practice
sessions and his repore with them showed with
the way they enjoyed the music and each other.
The audience gave them standing ovations at
both Wuerzburg sites, taking from the performance what Whigham intended.
“I want to make sure these guys can work together and are able
to come together as a team and move to assault a position,”
Therwanger said.
Teamwork was the defining factor that would separate those
who succeeded in their quest to wear the spurs, according to
Rohrer.
“We want to stress teamwork. Teams are going to have a rough
go of it if they start to be individuals,” he said.
Soldiers from throughout the Schweinfurt community took
part in the spur ride, which is traditionally, but not exclusively, a
cavalry event. Tankers, infantry troops and even maintenanceand-support personnel were along for the ride.
“For a lot of people, this is cross-training, and this will help
them when we get downrange,” said Sgt. Rene Amador, another
member of the cadre.
During combat, Soldiers might find themselves in a convoy
containing troops not assigned to the cavalry, according to
Huettner, noting that a trip through the spur ride might help to
close that gap.
“Everyone’s a cavalryman. You might be turning wrenches,
but everyone’s a cavalryman,” Huettner said.
Membership in the Order of the Spur is for life and applies
from unit to unit, according to Rohrer, who earned his spurs with
the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment.
“If you look across the unit, I’d say half the current spur
holders did not earn their spurs with the 4th Cavalry,” he said.
Participating in combat operations with the cavalry makes one
an automatic member of the Order, although neither of the two
ways of earning spurs is more valuable than the other, Rohrer
said.
plications are received. The scholarship provides for payment of tuition, books, lab fees and
room and board.
Eligible are dependent, unmarried children
under the age of 21 – under 23 if enrolled as a
full-time student – of active duty personnel,
reserve/guard and retired military members, or
survivors of deceased members.
Applicants must be planning to attend an accredited college or university, starting in the fall
term, on a full-time basis.
Applications due Feb. 18 are available at
commissaries or can be downloaded at
www.militaryscholar.org.
“They have a huge gift,” said Whigham, referring to the students. “When you have a great
gift you have to give it back to people like those
who listen to the concert and inspire them.”
“I told the kids they could sound like nice high
school kids or like a fantastic jazz orchestra,”
Whigham added.
“The biggest difference is that this year’s
band is a lot better,” said senior percussionist
Mike Lemke, who was voted the ensemble’s
most valuable player. “We were able to focus on
a lot of things, like the minute details that make
it good,” he added.
Instrumental with the details were the members of the 2004 seminar staff, which included:
Tom Donaldson, Wuerzburg Elementary
School; Kent Yardley, Ramstein High School;
Jim Miller, Aviano Elementary School and
Brenda Bartholomew, Menwith High School.
(Editor’s note: See MILESTONES on Page 2
for list of local musicians.)
Mark Heeter
During a vehicle search, troops subdue a mock
terrorist.
417th Base Support Battalion: Giebelstadt, Kitzingen, Wuerzburg
Orientation set
Three American Red Cross volunteer
orientation sessions will be held during
February. On Feb. 5, a session will be held
at the Leighton Barracks in building 16
from 9 to 11 a.m. On Feb. 19, a session will
be held at the U.S. Army Hospital, Wuerzburg, in room 1NW47 from 9 to 11 a.m. On
Feb. 21, a session will be held at Leighton
Barracks in building 16 from 10 a.m. to
noon. For more information, call 350-1760
or (0931) 8891760.
Parents night out
Child care for a parents’ night out on
Valentine’s Day will be provided at the
Marshall Heights, Kitzingen Child Development Center by the 417th BSB Child
and Youth Services. The service is offered
Feb. 14 from 6 p.m. to midnight. For information, call (09321) 3052222.
Take self-defense
The Wuerzburg Community Spouses’
Club has a membership luncheon at the
Cantigny Club on Leighton Barracks Feb.
19 at 11:30 a.m. A class on self-defense will
be presented during the luncheon. The luncheon will start at 11:30 a.m. The cost is
$10. To make luncheon and child care reservations, call Clare Neal at (0931) 4676556
by Feb. 11.
Join TIPOSH
training
Training in the prevention of sexual harassment, or TIPOSH, offers a class in building 26 on Larson Barracks in Kitzingen
Feb. 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. by the 417th BSB
Equal Employment Opportunity Office.
TIPOSH is mandatory training for all civilian employees and military and local national personnel who supervise civilians.
For more information, call 355-8550/8736
or (09321) 3058550/8736.
Getaways available
A family-friendly getaway trip is offered
by the 417th BSB Outdoor Recreation. The
trip visits the Nautil swimming pool and ice
skating facility Feb. 11. The bus departs the
Marshall Heights Shoppette at 9 a.m. and
then the dental clinic parking lot, Leighton
Barracks, at 9:30 a.m. It will return to the
dental clinic parking lot at 1:30 p.m. and the
Marshall Heights Shoppette at 2 p.m. For
more information, call 350-7103 or (0931)
8897103.
SNAP has meeting
The Point, January 30, 2004
15
Vehicles are ready for Iraq
by Larry Reilly
The Point
From Jan. 14 to 26, hundreds of tactical vehicles were driven on then off Harvey Barracks in
Kitzingen on a daily basis. However, it was the
vehicles’ brief stop in Kitzingen that provided
the checks and balances needed to ensure the
vehicles would make it to their final destination
of Iraq.
“More than 2,600 vehicles were processed
through the Installation Staging Area, or ISA, on
Harvey Barracks and each one of the vehicles
went through an elaborate inspection process to
ensure it was ready to be deployed to Iraq,” said
Capt. Darrell Otto, 417th BSB, and officer in
charge of the ISA operations.
The process to send a vehicle to Iraq is similar
to the one Soldiers go through to ship their privately-owned vehicles to Germany, just a little
more elaborate.
“When it comes to the shipping of tactical vehicles it can literally come down to pounds and
inches,” Otto said.
The vehicles leaving Kitzingen were either
being put on a train at the Harvey Barracks’
railhead or taken to a barge and in both scenarios, the exact weight and measurements of the
vehicle were important.
While the exact size and weight of the vehicles may have played a major part in the further
movement of the vehicle, those weren’t the only
things checked before being cleared through the
ISA.
“Each vehicle was put through an five-station
process and at each station the vehicle had to go
through a laundry list of items that had to be
checked and receive a go before the vehicle
would be able to move on to the next station,”
Otto said, who added that the Harvey Barracks
ISA was the largest of the ISA locations all vehicles deploying out of Germany to Iraq had to
process through.
Also taken into consideration at each of the
stations was the aspect of safety and environmental impact.
“At our station, we checked the vehicles from
top to bottom to ensure the vehicles were clean,
didn’t have any class 3 leaks or any other major
discrepancies,” said Sgt. Nobel King, Company
C, 652nd Air Defense Artillery from Ansbach,
one of many Soldiers from other units that
augmented Otto and his team of Soldiers from
the 417th BSB to help process the large volume
of vehicles.
Larry Reilly
Spec. Robert Hardwick, Company C,
521st Air Defense Artillery, checks the
engine compartment of a truck for leaks.
Soldiers make DVDs for their kids
Reading program put to good use
by Larry Reilly
The Point
More than 80 deploying Soldiers stopped by
the Wuerzburg American Elementary School on
Leighton Barracks Jan. 12 to 16 to record a DVD
of themselves reading books.
The Soldiers took advantage of a reading
program coordinated by elementary and high
school teachers and students.
“The program was a huge success. We kept
the school open on Thursday, Jan. 15, until 9
p.m., so parents unable to participate during
normal school hours could record a DVD,” said
Ed Drozdowski, the school principal.
The elementary school set up a reading area
complete with an overstuffed chair and an
American flag in a room just off the entrance
lobby and high school students taped the
sessions and made DVDs, donated by Army and
Air Force Exchange Service-Europe, for the
parents to give to their children.
For a number of parents, the sessions started
out a little rough and it wasn’t because of
stage fright.
“It was really tough looking into the camera
at first, because it made me realize that I was
having to leave my family for a long time. After
the first book, I really felt comfortable about
reading and starting talking to the camera like I
would my children and am really glad I did the
reading session,” said SSgt. Genaro Silvas, who
deployed with his unit, the 67th Combat Support
Hospital, the day after he recorded the DVD.
“With generous donations of DVDs and
recording equipment from AAFES, we will be
able to pick up the recording program from the
school and offer it until all the units in the area
have deployed,” said Thomasina Hergert, 417th
BSB Army Community Service.
The recording sessions will be taped at the
Leighton Barracks ACS office in building 16
and can be scheduled by calling 350-7103 or
(0931) 8897103.
“We will record all the school events and
make DVDs the children can send to their
parents,” Drozdowski said.
Larry Reilly
SSgt. Genaro Silvas, 67th Combat Support Hospital, reads to his children while
being recorded.
A Safe Neighborhood Awareness Program, or SNAP, community volunteer meeting will be held in building 109 on Harvey
Barracks Feb. 9. The topic of the meeting
will be force protection conditions and
antiterrorism and force protection training
for family members. For more information,
call 350-7251 or (0931) 889-7251.
Residents
celebrate King
with march
417th BSB
The Point, 417th Base Support Battalion,
editorial office is located in building 109,
Harvey Barracks, telephone 355-8575 or
(09321) 3058575. Mailing address is
PAO, The Point, 417th Base Support Battalion, Unit 26124, APO AE 09031-6124.
The 417th BSB hotline is 355-8999 or (09321)
3058999.
Phone numbers for patient liaisons are: Kitzingen,
355-8415 or (09321) 3058415; Wuerzburg and Giebelstadt, call the 67th Combat Support Hospital, 350-3874
or (0931) 8043874.
417th BSB
Commander ................................. Lt. Col. Thomas Fass
Public Affairs Officer ........................... Gabriele Drake
Journalist ................................................... Larry Reilly
Larry Reilly
A number of community members marched through the
streets of the Marshall Heights
housing area in Kitzingen in
recognition of Martin Luther
King Jr.’s birthday Jan. 15.
Nearly 100 people gathered prior
to and after the march in the
school age services building to
pay tribute to the former civil
rights leader. The local talents of
the Abundant Life Youth Choir
and the Abundant Life Mass
Choir serenaded the standing
room only crowd and SFC
Carolyn Ford, 701st Main Support Battalion, presented a chilling rendition of the “I have a
dream” speech made famous by
Martin Luther King Jr.
12th Aviation Brigade Soldiers head for home
by Larry Reilly
The Point
Soldiers of the 12th Aviation Brigade, headquartered at the
Giebelstadt Army Airfield, are in the process of returning from
their year-long deployment to Iraq.
“The Soldiers started returning home Jan. 21 and will continue
returning throughout late winter and early spring,” said 1st Lt.
Sean Dansberger, 12th Aviation Brigade, public affairs officer.
The brigade deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi
Freedom and provided such support as air assault and evacuation
missions, special operations support, escort and VIP missions,
and numerous humanitarian aid missions.
“As each group of Soldiers returns, we will hold a small
ceremony to welcome them back, reacquaint them with their
families, and during their first week back, they will go through a
reintegration process,” Dansberger said.
“The reintegration process is actually a mandatory
requirement for all Soldiers returning from a long deployment.
The process enables Soldiers to reestablish themselves into the
community,” said Capt. Kevin Tyler, 417th Base Support
Battalion, officer in charge of the reintegration process.
The reintegration process enables Soldiers to retrieve their
privately owned vehicles, household goods and other personal
items that were put into storage during their deployment. They
will also receive medical and dental checkups, a safety and
chaplain’s briefing and an opportunity to meet with various
community agencies. “There were a number of Soldiers who
were assigned to the 12th Aviation Brigade while it was deployed
and were sent to their unit without fully processing into their unit
and community. The reintegration process ensures they get
completely in-processed,” Tyler said.
Probably the last thing Soldiers want to do after a year-long
deployment is go through more military processing, but the
community and the command plan to make it as painless as
possible.
“The Soldiers will be on a half-day schedule during the sevenday integration process and then will be offered the option of
taking 30 days leave. No Soldier will be returning to full duty
before 45 days after deployment,” Dansberger said.
18
Sports
The Point, January 30, 2004
Climbing’s good for the soul
by Lisa Eichhorn
The Point
Lisa Eichhorn
Bill Anderson teaches
the basic on the climbing
heim Fitness Center.
new climbers
wall at the Illes-
It’s as addicting a sport as any, yet it’s one you don’t see or
hear much about on television. But ask those who are devoted to
the sport and they say that doesn’t bother them at all.
Rock climbing by all accounts is a sport that uses every
muscle in the body. It takes a great mix of athleticism and smarts
to be good at it, climbers say. It’s also a sport that is all about
bonding with nature. But before you can head for the mountains
you have to learn the techniques.
For those living in the 235th BSB, learning to climb only takes
a trip to the Bunch Fitness Center on Storck Barracks in
Illesheim. There, the indoor climbing wall is the perfect place to
learn the art of this very demanding sport.
“I’ve been climbing since 1996 and love it. I learned how to
do it here on the wall when they first put it in. After I felt like I
knew enough, I headed for climbs outdoors. It didn’t take long
for me to become addicted to the adrenaline rush you get when
you climb, it’s an awesome feeling,” said SSgt. Doug Demint.
Demint is now a seasoned instructor with loads of experience
to share with the novice climber. “When I teach a class I always
talk safety first. I always tell my students you’re only as good
climber as the person that you’re climbing with. So pick a partner
carefully,” he added.
Safety is a top concern of the fitness professionals as well.
According to Bill Anderson, certified personal trainer, no one
can use the wall unless they’ve been certified and have a partner.
“We take the safety aspect very seriously, so we give every
new climber an initial class to certify they understand how to use
the wall. Then we have them sign a consent form. Once all that
is out of the way though, the fun starts,” he said.
“What most people don’t understand is that climbing is one of
the best total body workouts you can do. You use all the major
muscle groups,” Anderson added.
But before climbers take to the great outdoors Demint said
they really need to learn the basics on an indoor wall. “I won’t
take anyone climbing outside that doesn’t have experience on
this wall or one like it.”
Moms-to-be twist
yoga moves to
keep fit, healthy
by Cheryl Boujnida
The Point
Expectant mothers can focus on fitness from within at
prenatal yoga classes in Bamberg.
“Yoga offers a combination of meditation and relaxation
which benefits a mother and her baby’s overall health,” said
Lisa Karr, Army Community Service new parent education
and support plus coordinator.
The class, which began in September last year as a
monthly alternative, is now offered weekly on Warner
Barracks, headed by Karr.
“It’s especially important to keep in shape during
pregnancy. Women are learning specific yoga poses suitable
for every stage of their pregnancy. The poses and breathing
techniques learned can be vital during labor,” Karr said.
Karr noted that space is limited in the classes, which are
offered to family members free of charge.
Novice or experienced yoga practitioners can take part.
In a class with four women in different stages of pregnancy,
Tanja Castro learned to meditate, relax and breathing
techniques.
“It’s pure relaxation and a lot of fun,” Castro said.
Karr encourages women to practice yoga two to three
times daily, so their bodies become accustomed to relaxed
breathing and to help avoid panic when labor starts.
“The body thus self-recognizes positions and remembers
how to react. By practicing it regularly benefits the fetus:
yoga stimulates the oxidant and flood blow, which effects
the development of the fetus. Also, when the mother is
relaxed, so is the baby,” Karr said.
Karr stressed fathers-to-be may also join the class.
Attend classes each Thursday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in
building 7486, located near the veterinary clinic.
To sign up, call 469-8495 or (0951) 3008495.
Barons still on track for 2004 championship
by Melanie Janssen
Bamberg American High School
The Bamberg Barons are the twotime Division III high school basketball champions and playing in top
form, well on their way to winning yet
another European championship in
2004.
That third-consecutive title is what
they are working towards.
“I think about the European championships year-round. If the team
trains and reaches a certain level, I will
tell them that I can get them there,”
said head coach Charles Jordan.
The Barons’ performance against
Bad Aibling Jan. 16-17 gave Jordan
and the players an opportunity to review team strengths and weaknesses.
While Jordan had predicted the
game would be tough, the Barons
succeeded in showing their dominance
throughout.
Fri Jan. 16 they won 53-12 and followed it up the next day with a 69-36
triumph.
The home bleachers were filled
with faculty, students, and members of
the community supporting their team,
which helped the team, according to
Jordan.
“The faculty and student body is
what makes us a great team. The crowd
is on our side. The team played very
well with a few exceptions, which we
will work on improving,” Jordan said.
“We played a really good game, but
our defense is what won the game for
us,” said junior Ezra Sherman.
In Friday’s game, Tim Gamble led
the Barons with 9 points, Mike Green
added 8 points, Paris Simmons had 7
points, and three others chipped in
with six points apiece.
The following night, Miguel
Lozada scored 12 points, Nik Krauchi
had 8 points, Ben Woomer added 7
points, T’andre Stuckey chipped in
with 6 points, while Gamble and Paris
Simmons had 5 points apiece.
There are a number of players that
Jordan relies on.
“Our varsity’s strongest players
are Gamble, Lozada, Sherman and
Krauchi,” he said.
“I am also very proud of our junior
varsity players, they performed well
against Bad Aibling,” Jordan added,
referring to the players that were
bumped up to play in the varsity
games.
“This is an opportune and effective
Wade Krauchi
means to develop junior varsity players for next year’s varsity team,” he Barons coach Charles Jordan provides his team with direction and encouragement during a game
break.
added.
Roundup
How fit are you?
The 235th BSB now has the state-of-the-art
MicroFit Health and Fitness System. Anyone
interested in having a fitness assessment done
with this new equipment can visit the Katterbach
Fitness Center on a walk-in basis or by making
an appointment to guarantee a set time. To see
what the system has to offer, click on http://
www.microfit.com. For more information, call
Sharon Morejon at 467-2810 or (09802) 832810.
Hit some balls
The 235th BSB sports division hosts a racquetball tournament at the Illesheim Fitness Center
Jan. 24 and 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more
information, call 467-4582 or (09841) 83582.
Attend party
Watch the Super Bowl at the Bamberg Com-
munity Activity Center Feb. 1. The party starts
at 10 p.m. and kick off is at midnight. For
more information, call 469-8837 or (0951)
3008837.
Play ball
Compete in Bamberg’s unit-level basketball
championships at the JFK Physical Fitness Center Feb. 9-13. To sign up or for more information, call 469-7597 or (0951) 3007597.
Tournament set
The Schweinfurt community hosts the
USAREUR racquetball tournament at the
Kessler Gym Feb. 7 and 8, beginning both days
at 10 a.m. A mandatory coaches and players
meeting will be held an hour before the first
game. Men and women wishing to compete in
one of five categories can register up until the
beginning of the tournament. For more information, call 353-8234 or (09721) 968234.
Fitness program
continues
The 280th BSB community recreation division encourages family members in the
Schweinfurt military community to participate
in the family member fitness program. The child
development center offers limited free child care
while parents work out at the gym Tuesdays, 9
to 11 a.m., or Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
For details, stop at the Finney Fitness Center or
call 354-6281 or (09721) 966281.
Super Bowl parties set
The military clubs in the 417th BSB will all
be open and hosting Super Bowl game parties
Feb. 1. Activities at the Red Baron Club, the
Cantigny Club, the End Zone and at the Woodland Inn Lodge will start at 9:30 p.m. There will
be plenty of free pizza and hot dogs. For more
information, call 355-1550 or (09321)
3051550.
Ski Hintertux
The 417th BSB Outdoor Recreation Office
has a ski trip to Hintertux, Austria, Feb. 14-16.
The cost, which includes transportation, equipment, lodging and some meals is $249. Additional euros will be needed for lift tickets. The
bus leaves the outdoor recreation office on
Harvey Barracks, building 132, Feb. 14 at 3
a.m. and will return Feb. 16 at 10 p.m. For more
information, call 355-8629 or (09321)
3058629.