Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018 Volume 11, Issue 5

Published for members of the SHAPE/Chièvres, Brussels and Schinnen communities

Benelux News Briefs LRC closures The Chièvres Central Issue Facility office (Hangar 3) will be closed Feb. 12 to 16 for their annual internal inventory. ALL of LRC Benelux to include Schinnen/Brussels/SHAPE/ Chièvres Maintenance, Supply (CIF,PBO,SSD), Transportation (PPPO & TMP), and Plans & Operations will be closed Feb. 15 for an LRC Benelux Stand Down/training. Shuttle service on Feb. 15 will run as scheduled. Chili cookoff There will be a chili cookoff during the Total Army Sponsorship Program Rodeo Feb. 23 at the Community Activity Center on Chièvres Air Base. Participants and volunteers are needed. For more information, please contact Richard Smith by Feb. 13 at DSN 366-6192 or [email protected]. The TASP Rodeo will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is an informative event for those who plan to sponsor incoming personnel to USAG Benelux or want to learn more information about the community.

Table of Contents The Gilles are ready to dance in Binche The of Binche is one of the most famous Belgian celebrations. It draws thousands of tourists from News...... 2-8 all over the world to the Walloon city of Binche. The festival happens three days before Ash Wednesday. This Inside the Gate...... 9-12 year, it will occur from Feb. 11 to 13. The central figures are the Gilles, who wear a spectacular costume Outside the Gate...... 13-17 decorated with red, black and yellow symbols of lions, crowns and stars. (U.S. Army photo by Tim Clark) See Page 13 February 8, 2018 New First Sergeant Simms assumes responsibility at HHC

By Julie Piron USAG Benelux Public Affairs

First Sergeant Natalee C. Simms took responsibility as the First Sergeant of Headquarters and Headquarters Company at U.S. Army Garrison Benelux during a ceremony Feb. 5 at the Caserne Daumerie Chapel. Capt. Curtis Radoff, company commander, highlighted the great work and dedication of Master Sgt. Shauna Richardson serving as the Brussels provost sergeant and the first sergeant for the last few months. During the ceremony, Richardson passed the company guidon to Radoff who himself handed the guidon to Simms, demonstrating his confidence in her being the backbone of the company. Simms recently arrived from the Pentagon where she was the supply NCO for the Joint Improvised- Threat Defense Agency. “HHC Benelux has a history Capt. Radoff, HHC Company Commander, passes the company guidon of great leadership, and I will continue that history to 1st Sgt. Natalee C. Simms during her assumption of responsibility ceremony Feb. 5, 2018, in Chièvres, . (U.S. Army photo by Julie as the first sergeant,” Simms said. u Piron)

Official opening of the tax assistance office in Schinnen

From left to right: Gertrudis The tax assistance office in Schinnen will Guanga, tax volunteer, Noel be open for free federal and state income van Zandvoort, Walter tax preparation Monday to Thursday from Linden, Maj. David Trainor, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call Staff Sgt. Randell Butman DSN 360-7688 or +31 (0)46-4437688. and Staff Sgt. Efrain Valencia cut a ribbon during the For current information and required official opening Feb. 6 in documents, please visit the Schinnen. (Courtesy photo Law Center Facebook page. u by Clarence Grant)

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The Gazette is an unofficial publication published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for members of the Commander...... Col. Kurt Connell Department of Defense. Contents of The Gazette are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of the Army or the USAG Benelux. The Gazette is a free weekly publication Public Affairs Officer...... Marie-Lise Baneton distributed via email every Thursday, except when that day is an American, Belgian or Dutch Holiday, then The Gazette is published on Wednesday. The editorial content of this publication is prepared, edited, provided, Editor...... Christophe Morel approved and published by the USAG Benelux Public Affairs Office, Unit 21419, APO AE 09708. Telephone (0032) 068-275419/DSN 361-5419. Everything advertised in this publication will be made available for purchase, Staff Writers...... Kristin Ellis use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, Rita Hoefnagels political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this Julie Piron equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher will refuse to print advertising from that Jessica Ryan source until the violation is corrected. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised by the U.S. Army. Submit content or story ideas to [email protected] by Monday at 3 p.m.

[2] February 8, 2018 Community hosts first Harry Potter movie night By Jessica Ryan USAG Benelux Public Affairs

Community members came to the Prior to each screening, one contestant theater is Fantastic Beasts and Where SHAPE Cinema – Alliance Auditorium from that week’s drawing will win a copy to Find Them,” said Jackson. “We want Tuesday night for a screening of the of the book corresponding to the movie. to be a part of this community event.” Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Fans are also encouraged to dress Another parent Cat Harrington came to on SHAPE, Belgium. The screening is a up in costumes, Gault added. Before the screening with her five-year-old son. part of the Army Community Service’s the screening, fans can participate in “We really like Harry Potter, and we “Eight Nights of Harry Potter,” a special a costume contest. One lucky winner haven’t seen it [together] on the outreach event where each movie of from each screening will be in a drawing big screen,” said Harrington. “I like the Harry Potter series will be the series’ message that shown to families in the U.S. children are being accepted Army Garrison Benelux and for being different and can NATO communities. find comradery within their The event was more than differences.” an opportunity for Harry Potter The remaining screenings are fans to watch the film on the big scheduled Tuesdays at 6 p.m. screen. It was about bringing at the SHAPE Cinema from the geographically-dispersed Feb. 13 to Mar. 6 and Mar. 27 and international community to April 10. Admission is €2 per together while educating them person. For more information, about resources provided by call ACS at DSN 366-6824 or Army Community Service, Army +32(0)6532-6824. Family and Morale, Welfare and For a chance to enter AFN Recreation, SHAPE’s Morale Benelux’s trivia contests, Welfare Branch and other listeners can tune into community organizations at 107.9 FM (Chièvres), 106.5 SHAPE and the Army garrison. Cosplayers pose during a costume contest at the inaugural Eight Nights of FM (SHAPE), 101.7 FM “We do our best work Harry Potter event Feb. 6 at the SHAPE Cinema Alliance Auditorium. U.S. Army (Brussels), 99.7 FM and by promoting a healthy Garrison Benelux’s Army Community Service partnered with American Forces 96.9 FM (Tri-Border Area) environment for families,” Network Benelux, SHAPE International Library, and SHAPE Morale and Welfare or AFN360 Internet Radio at said Bill Gault, victim advocate Branch to organize a multi-week Harry Potter themed marathon to boost www.afneurope.net/Stations/ morale, present family resources to the audience, and use a popular story to at the ACS’s Victim Advocacy bring the SHAPE NATO community together. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Benelux from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Program and one of the lead Airman Brycen Guerrero) and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. u organizers for the event. “We hope to get a diverse population to attend to win a special prize, which will these events. In addition to watching be given at the final screening on a great family film, they will be able to April 10. meet with organization representatives Among the crowd during the and put a name to a face.” first event was Army Lt. Col. Amy Fans can also enjoy Harry Potter themed Jackson, deputy commander for activities at the cinema. administration for the SHAPE During the first night’s event, Dan Army Healthcare Clinic, and her O’Riley, library technician, set up an arts daughter Kaitlyn, who is in fifth and crafts table and helped participants grade. A huge fan of the series, with coloring Hogwarts’ house crests Kaitlyn began reading the books Three children color their Hogwarts house crests during and making sorting hats. He also played in second grade and just finished the inaugural Eight Nights of Harry Potter event Feb. 6 at music from the movie, such as “Hedwig’s the series this school year. the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) theme,” on the electric piano. It was a special night for the Cinema Alliance Auditorium. U.S. Army Garrison Benelux’s There are special giveaways at each mother and daughter duo, since Army Community Service partnered with American Forces screening, according to Gault. Fans it was their first time seeing the Network Benelux, SHAPE International Library, and SHAPE Morale and Welfare Branch to organize a multi-week Harry can listen to Armed Forces Network The “Sorcerer’s Stone” in a movie Potter themed marathon to boost morale, present family Benelux’s radio shows in the morning theater together. resources to the audience, and use a popular story to bring and afternoon for a chance to answer “Because Kaitlyn is only 10 years the SHAPE NATO community together. (U.S. Air Force photo trivia questions and enter a drawing. old, the only movie we’ve seen in a by Senior Airman Brycen Guerrero)

[3] February 8, 2018 Take care of your car during winter months By Jessica Ryan USAG Benelux Public Affairs Experiencing car problems is never in the U.S. While Americans are used either by months or mileage, for when easy. Whether it is a dead battery, flat to filling tires based on the pounds per to replace the fluids. tire, worn-out brakes, bad engine or square inch, or PSI, Europeans use For coolants, Corbitt recommends another part failure, these unexpected kilopascals, or kPa, instead. Check your to use a proper antifreeze mix of half issues are hard to deal with especially car’s owner manual to ensure that you water and half antifreeze. The ratio during the winter months. use the right measurements for proper optimizes the freezing and boiling points However, simple car maintenance inflation. of the radiator fluid. Don’t put excessive can prevent some of those problems. It is also important that your car has amounts of fluid in the radiator as it won’t “The best way to avoid finding the right tires for driving in Europe. help with warming the engine quickly. yourself stranded, because you need According to Corbitt, all season radial a jump-start, or worse, stranded WARM THE CAR CORRECTLY and facing massive repair bills During cold days, it may be due to a cracked engine block, tempting to start your car and is by completing a thorough wait for it to warm up as you stay maintenance check on a regular indoors. However, according to basis,” said Tom Corbitt, the Corbitt, this method does not program manager at Family and warm the engine efficiently and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s is frowned upon. Since 2014, Auto Skills Center on Chièvres Air leaving the engine running when Base, Belgium. your car is parked is forbidden in Here are some tips on how to Belgium and violators can receive take care of your vehicle during fines. “The most effective way to the winter months: warm the engine, and thereby CHECK YOUR TIRES Jonathan Hopkins checks his car's battery at Family and Morale, Welfare get warm air blowing through The dreaded tire pressure and Recreation’s Auto Skills Center on Chièvres Air Base, Belgium. the cabin, is to drive the car,” monitoring system, or TPMS, The center provides work bays for community members who want to said Corbitt. light can turn on when the system perform repair and maintenance work on their cars. (U.S. Army photo by Another bad habit to avoid is Jessica Ryan) senses low tire pressure. Some pouring hot water on the car to systems may be sensitive during sudden tires, which typically display the “M+S” defrost the windows and windshields. temperature changes. When the light symbol, which stands for mud and This can result in shattered glass, comes on, drivers should immediately snow, on the sidewall are acceptable especially if the window already has check the pressure and then add air in all European countries that currently a nick or crack in it. Instead, Corbitt as needed to meet the manufacturer’s mandate winter tires. Belgium and recommends covering the windshield recommended tire pressure. Many gas The Netherlands do not have this rule. with a piece of cardboard, sun shade stations have machines where people can However, nearby countries such as or an old sheet to provide frost, ice or add air to tires for a nominal fee. However, Germany and Luxembourg do in addition snow build-up on the car. please keep in mind that tire pressure to other countries in Europe. Specific “Keep in mind, it is always best to clear is measured differently in Europe than regions, such as in the mountains, may all of your windows completely before require actual winter tires or snow driving the vehicle for line-of-sight and chains. As a general rule, this safety reasons,” said Corbitt. winter-tire requirement lasts from DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE Nov. 1 to the middle of April. It is never a good idea to wait until FILL VEHICLE FLUIDS AS NEEDED the last minute to get repair work done, Preventative vehicle especially if someone else is performing maintenance, such as checking the job or if parts need to be ordered in. the fluids, can help you avoid being “The most common issue we see in the stranded or having expensive Auto Skills Center from a maintenance repair bills. The main fluids to failure perspective is brakes that have check are engine oil, coolant, been ignored for far too long,” he said. A car is elevated on a work bay at Family and Morale, Welfare power steering fluid, brake fluid, “Generally, these are the same customers and Recreation’s Auto Skills Center on Chièvres Air Base, transmission fluid and windshield requesting brake inspections one or two Belgium. Community members can use work bays at the center to perform repair and maintenance work on their cars. (U.S. washer fluid. Your car’s owner days prior to leaving on an epic European Army photo by Jessica Ryan) manual should provide timelines, road trip.” As stated above, performing

[4] February 8, 2018 Take care of your car during winter months, continued from page 4 preventative maintenance is vehicles with professional key, and parts, such as brakes, quality tools and equipment should not be neglected. in addition to skilled and If you have questions or experienced assistance, out of concerns about your car, the the weather and for a fraction Auto Skills Center staff is there of what it would cost on the to help. “The staff is always economy to have it done for ready to listen, look, evaluate you,” he added. and recommend,” said Corbitt. The Auto Skills Center is The staff can perform repairs located in Bldg. 20186 on and preventative maintenance Chièvres Air Base. The center work. In addition, people work is open to all U.S., DOD and on their cars by renting work NATO cardholders. For more bays, tools, machinery and information on the center’s diagnostic equipment for a Tom Corbitt, the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s Auto Skills hours of operation and services, Center program manager, shows areas where drivers should look at during nominal fee. maintenance checks while looking at a car at the center on Chièvres Air Base, visit www.chievres.armymwr. “You have the opportunity Belgium. Corbitt recommended that drivers perform regular maintenance com/programs/autoskills or call to perform maintenance and checks to sure their cars are running properly. (U.S. Army photo by Jessica DSN 361-5796 or +32(0)68- repair on your privately owned Ryan) 275796. u Scout Sunday Celebrates 1 108 years of scouting in America By Cub Scout Pack and Boy Scout Troop 457 Special to the Gazette Feb. 4 marked the 2018 Boy Scouts of America Scout decision to become a chaplain and in his commitment to Sunday, a kickoff event to celebrate 108 years of Scouting God and service to others. in America. Traditionally, this observance is held on the “Events like this are meant to cause our Scouts and first Sunday prior to Feb. 8, a day that is meant to mark the Scouters to reaffirm their commitment to the Scout Oath” founding of the scouting movement in the United States. said Jerry Beck, the Cub Scout Pack 457 committee Services like this were conducted by the Cub Scouts chairperson. “I am so thankful for our local community and Boy Scouts located around the globe. They offered and their continued efforts to support scouting at events an opportunity for their congregations to honor scouts like this.” and their leaders. In addition, the event highlighted the The crowning event marking the 108th anniversary of the scouting movement and the value of scouting as a youth Boy Scouts of America will be the annual Blue and Gold program. Banquet on Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the 3 Star Recreation Dozens of local scouts and their families from Cub Center in Brussels. For more information about the local Scout Pack and Boy Scout Troop 457 gathered at the scouting program or attending this event, please email Community Chapel on U.S. Army Garrison Benelux in Brussels event organizers at cubscoutpack457brussels@gmail. to observe the milestone event and Communion Sunday com. u service under the guidance of former Boy Scout, Chaplain Rickey Brunson, and leadership of Elijah Morris, the troop chaplain’s aide and first class scout. Brunson’s message of selfless service and sacrifice was purposefully tied to the spirit of the Scout Oath and the 12 tenants of the Scout Law. His powerful message was conveyed through the heroic story of the four chaplains who gave their lives to save fellow service members when their transport ship was torpedoed by a German U-Boat. 2 The story spoke about the importance of helping other 1. Bear Scout Frankie Lichtenstein lights the remembrance candles to open people at all times by putting others’ needs before self. the Scout Sunday service. 2. Scouts and Scout Leaders from Cub Scout Pack In his sermon, Brunson acknowledged that as a Boy and Boy Scout Troop 457 pause for a post Scout Sunday photo. (U.S. Army Scout, the Scout Oath was instrumental in his personal photos by Jerry Beck)

[5] February 8, 2018 African-American WWI 'Harlem Hell Fighters' proved their mettle, patriotism in combat By Col. Richard Goldenberg New York National Guard When the African American National Guard Soldiers of New York's 15th Infantry Regiment arrived in France in December 1917, they expected to conduct combat training and enter the trenches of the Western Front right away. They could not have been more wrong. The black troops were ordered to unload supply ships at the docks for their first months in France, joining the mass of supply troops known as stevedores, working long hours in the port at St. Nazaire. More than 380,000 African Americans served in the Army during World War I, according to the National Archives. Approximately 200,000 of these were sent to Europe. But more than half of those who deployed were assigned to labor and stevedore battalions, assigned to tasks that many Army leaders saw as most appropriate. These troops performed essential duties U.S. Army African American Soldiers of the 369th Infantry Regiment learn from French mentors in trench for the American Expeditionary Force, warfare in an undated photo during WWI. The 369th Infantry, an all-Black combat unit, served with building roads, bridges, and trenches in distinction under French command in WWI and received the nickname 'Hell Fighters of Harlem' from their support of the front-line battles. German enemies. (Courtesy photo) In St. Nazaire, the New York National of thousands of forces yet to arrive in France. Guard Soldiers learned they would work to prepare the docks The African American regiment was a quick and easy and rail lines to be a major port of entry for the hundreds source of labor, according to author Stephen Harris in his 2003 book, "Harlem's Hell Fighters." "First, Pershing would have a source of cheap labor," Harris wrote. "Second, he wouldn't have to worry about what to do with black Soldiers, particularly when he might have to mix them in with white troops." But officers, leaders and the combat Soldiers had not signed up for labor. They were committed to fighting the Germans and winning the war. "They had no place to put the regiment," said infantry Capt. Hamilton Fish, according to the Harris book. "They weren't going to put us in a white division, not in 1917, anyway; so our troops were sent in to the supply and services as laborers to lay railroad tracks. This naturally upset our men tremendously." The regiment's best advocate was their commander, Col. African American stevedores in an undated photo during WWI. African William Hayward. American supply and services units provided a great amount of labor for the "It was time for us to try to do something towards extricating arriving American Expeditionary Forces in France in 1917-18. They would be ourselves from the dirty mess of pick-swinging and wheel joined by the African American 369th Infantry Regiment, formerly the National Guard's 15th New York Infantry. The 369th arrived in France in December barrel trundling that we were in," Hayward had said to Capt. 1917 and initially served as a labor force to improve the port of St. Nazaire, Arthur Little, commander of the regimental band, according France for follow on forces. The infantry regiment would not move on to prepare to Jeffrey Sammons in his 2014 book "Harlem's Rattlers for combat operations until March 1918. (Courtesy photo) and the Great War."

[6] February 8, 2018 African American History Month, continued from page 6

"We had come to France as combat troops, and, apparently, weeks of combat training. we were in danger of becoming labor troops," Hayward said. They also learned they had a new regimental number as the Hayward argued his case in a letter to General Pershing, now-renamed 369th Infantry Regiment. Not that it mattered outlining the regiments' mobilization and training, and much to the Soldiers; they still carried their nickname from followed up immediately with a personal visit to Pershing's New York, the Black Rattlers, and carried their regimental headquarters. flag of the 15th New York Infantry everywhere they went He would bring with him the regiment's most formidable in France. weapon in swaying opinion: the regimental band, lauded as While the 369th Infantry would become part of the U.S. one of the finest in the entire Expeditionary Force. Army's 92nd Infantry Division, it would be assigned to fight While the regiment literally laid the tracks for the arrival with French forces. This solved the dilemma for Pershing of the two million troops deploying to France, the regimental and the American Expeditionary Forces of what to do with band toured the region, performing for French and American the African-American troops. audiences at rest centers and hospitals. The 369th Band The black troops would see combat, but alongside French was unlike any other performance audiences had seen or forces, who were already accustomed to the many races and heard before, noted Harris. The regimental band is credited ethnicities already serving in the ranks of their colonial troops. with introducing jazz music to France during the war. "The French army instructors literally welcomed their African The military band would frequently perform a French American trainees as comrades in arms," Sammons wrote. march, followed by traditional band scores such as John "To the pragmatic French army instructors, the Soldiers were Philip Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever." Americans, black Americans, to be trained for combat within "And then came the fireworks," said Sgt. Noble Sissle, their ranks. The trainees clearly excelled at their tasks." After learning valuable lessons in trench warfare from their French partners, the Soldiers of the 369th finally had their chance to prove their worth as combat troops when they entered the front lines, holding their line against the last German spring offensive near Chateau-Thierry. Their value was not lost on the French, and the regiment continued to fight alongside French forces, participating in the Aisne-Marne counter offensive in the summer of 1918 alongside the French 162nd Infantry Division. The Hell Fighters from Harlem had come into their own, in spite of their difficult start. The regiment would go on to prove itself in combat operations throughout the rest of the war, receiving the French highest honor, the Croix de Guerre, for its unit actions, alongside some 171 individual decorations for heroism. Soldiers of the 369th Infantry Regiment man a trench in France during World War I. The Signal Corps photograph February is African American collection includes every major aspect of the U.S. Army involvement in WWI. (Courtesy photo) History Month. U.S. Army Garrison Benelux leaders and community band vocalist and organizer, in the Harris account, as the members are joining the Army and nation in celebrating 369th Band would play as if they were in a jazz club back the tremendous contributions of African-American Soldiers, in Harlem. civilians and family members. On Feb. 15, a special event After some three months of labor constructing nearby will held at the SHAPE Cinema from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. railways to move supplies forward, the Soldiers learned that To learn more about this event, call DSN 423-8369 or DSN they had orders to join the French 16th Division for three 361-5235. u

[7] February 8, 2018 Proper Dietary Habits Vital for Children’s Oral Health By Capt. Nathan Persell SHAPE Dental Clinic

Children’s Dental Health Month is observed throughout hook. Many sports drinks and juices contain just as much February. The American Dental Association’s slogan for the sugar and acid as those soft drinks and can be disguised 2018 national health campaign is “Brush Your Teeth with as good sources of nourishment. Fluoride Toothpaste and Clean Between Your Teeth for a While the type and quantity of sugar our children consume Healthy Smile.” The purpose is to highlight the importance makes up a big piece of the puzzle, the last variable is how of proper dental care and teaching children good oral health often these “sugar exposures” occur. Even if the overall habits. consumption is low in volume, a child who frequently sips Children have wide array of food choices. Walking down on sugary drinks or eats starchy snacks has greater risk a super market aisle can be intimidating due to the wide of cavities. This “grazing” habit can have a real adverse variety of available foods. From fresh fruits and vegetables effect on oral health. to processed and packaged foods and soft drinks, each of The American Dental Association recommends the following these products can significantly affect oral health. hints to reduce your children’s risk of tooth decay: More often than not, it’s the non-nutritional foods that are • Sugary foods and drinks should be consumed with meals. conveniently packed, cheaper and quick-and-easy meals. Saliva production increases during meals and helps Plus, the marketing firms have figured out ways to attract neutralize acid production and rinse food particles from consumers. Dress up the food packaging with bright colors the mouth. or have a child’s favorite television star be a spokesperson • Limit between-meal snacks. If kids crave a snack, offer for the product. The pressure for a parent to buy grows them nutritious foods. exponentially. • If your kids chew gum, make it sugarless. Chewing Besides, kids know what tastes good. Generally, the first sugarless gum after eating can increase saliva flow and two ingredients in anything a child picks out for themselves help wash out food and decay-producing acid. is corn syrup and High Fructose corn syrup, code words for • Monitor beverage consumption. Instead of soft drinks, sugar. Parents need sports drinks and juice to remember that they all day, children should are the ultimate say also choose water and in what their children low-fat milk. are eating. • Help your children When it comes to develop good brushing avoiding cavities, there and flossing habits. may be something • Schedule regular even more important to dental visits. avoid than those sugar- Let’s face the fact laden convenience that children are going foods: the sugar- to eat and drink sugar. laden beverages. The The questions remain average teenage boy in how much sugar, what the U.S. consumes 81 types of sugar and gallons of soft drinks how often the sugar each year. That’s exposures occur. Are almost three 2-liter our children getting the bottles each week! nutritious foods that Sugar alone cannot they need? Parents, cause cavities. It’s it’s up to you to lay the only when bacteria Help your children develop good brushing and flossing habits. (Courtesy photo) foundation now for a break down the sugar lifetime of healthy eating into acid that the teeth start to corrode or demineralize. habits and proper oral health. Typical soft drinks are high in both acidity and sugar content Army Capt. Nathan Persell is a general dentist at the dental and therefore become a double-edge sword. Even the parents clinic in the SHAPE Healthcare Facility. To learn more about who minimize their children’s soft-drink intake are not off the their services, visit http://rhce.amedd.army.mil/SHAPE. u

[8] February 8, 2018 ALL COMMUNITIES Through Feb. 28 • American Legion Post BE02 Scholarship: Boys State/Girls State - The American Legion Post BE02 and the American Legion Auxiliary is sponsoring the 2018 Boys State and Girls State programs. The students in Boys State/Girls State will be flown to Maryland to participate in the week long program during the third week of June 2018. All expenses will be paid by American Legion Post BE02. Boys State and Girls State are summer leadership and citizenship programs sponsored by the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary for high school juniors. For further information and a registration form, please contact Post BE02 representatives at flanders.fields.post.be02@gmail. com. The deadline for submission for the registration form is Feb. 28. • American Legion Post BE02 Scholarship: Eagle Scout of the Year - Scholarships are awarded for the Eagle Scout of the year at the Post and Department levels. The national scholarship is awarded to the Eagle Scout who is selected "The American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year." The winner is eligible to receive a $10,000 scholarship to be awarded over a four-year period. Three additional scholarships of $2,500 each are also awarded. For further information and a registration form, please contact Post BE02 representatives at [email protected]. The deadline for submission for the registration form is Feb. 28. • First quarter Joint Top III Scholarship Award Contest - The Joint Top III and Andrews Federal Credit Union are offering a scholarship to Brussels active-duty enlisted service members and enlisted spouses who are currently enrolled in an associates, bachelor, or master's degree program at an accredited college or university. Award of the scholarship will be based on a specific essay topic writing contest. The essay must be two pages with 1-inch margins on all sides, double spaced, original work, Arial Font size 10- 12, with references included. The topic is "How have you recovered from a past mistake, challenge or disappointment? What happened, were you responsible for this action, and what did you learn?" The deadline for essay submissions is Feb. 28. The NATO Joint Top III Association will board the submissions, determine the eligibility, acceptability and quality of the entries, and announce a winner in March. One award of $150 will be offered. Please send your email essay or questions at antonio.gonzalez22.mil@mail. mil or [email protected]. The following are VTC-projected classes. For information about and to register for VTC classes, contact: • For SHAPE: DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)65-326824 • For Brussels: DSN 368-9783 or +32 (0)2-717-9783 • For Schinnen: DSN 360-7500 or +31(0)46-4437500 Feb. 14 • Car Buying and Financing - Held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. This class is mainly for those with plans to purchase a new car in the near future and are relatively new to the buying and financing of automobiles.

Inside the Gate Feb. 21 • Insurance Products - Held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. This class covers various types of life insurance, ways to use life insurance products to enhance financial planning, the pitfall of various types, how to maximize insurance needs at the least cost and how life insurance can be used to create an instant estate to protect loved ones. Feb. 28 • Blended Retirement System - Held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. This training offers a complete review of the BRS along with the Thrift Savings Plan component and other relevant points, such as the incentive bonus and the lump-sum options as we as the flexibility offered with this new program. BRUSSELS COMMUNITY See also above in "All Communities." Open Enrollment for Cub Scout Pack 457 • Cub Scout Pack 457 is now registering girls into their Scouting program and also launching a Lions pilot program for all kindergartners. All Brussels community families are invited to sign up their children, boys age 5 (Kindergarten) to 10 years old (6th grade) and girls age 5 (Kindergarten) to 9 years old (5th grade) for the Cub Scouts. Scheduled activities are planned throughout the year in and around Brussels. Contact the pack recruiting coordinator at [email protected] for more information. Tax Assistance Services on Tuesdays • The Northern Law Center will provide U.S. federal and state income tax assistance to eligible clients on Tuesdays in Building 4, Room 316. Services are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call DSN 423-4868 or +32 (0)65-444868. For more information on legal services and documentation needed for tax returns, visit www.usagbenelux.eur.army.mil/org-legal.html.

[9] Inside the Gate Closures See alsopage9in"AllCommunities." SCHINNEN/BRUNSSUM COMMUNITY Feb. 21 Feb. 19-Mar. 9 Feb. 16 Feb. 15 FridayEvery Thursday and FridayEvery Feb. 11-13 Through Mar. 16 UMUC Student Appreciation Scholarship • • • • • • • • • • • • •

office to before atSchinnen earlier upmail pick office theroads closefor theCarnaval Parade. pick-up Mail will not be able to mail out packages or purchase stamps or money orders. This closure will allow the post Office Brunssum Post required. Call DSN 368-9783 or +32 (0)2-7179783. civilians andmembers, their family to members inHost Nation Orientation. Registration participate is Nation/Newcomer'sHost Orientation and Cultural Tour 368-9651 or +32 (0)2-7179651. are required For for more information, participants. stop by (Bldg. 3)or call DSN Parent Central Services ages 6to 12and $25for ages 3to 5.Child, Youth registration and health assessments and School Services Spring Soccer Registration Sports CYS $15. Please make by a reservation Feb. 14 at [email protected]. a special menu: beef bulgogi with rice, hot pot with vegetables and gambas, and a salad bar. The cost is Couples' Night Out children. Reservations are required by Feb. 13 and can be made at [email protected]. Dinner3 Star Special " AllYou Can Eat Taco Bar" For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)2-7179822. at 7p.m. U.S. Military,Line Dancing will start NATO, U.S. Embassy and mission cardholders are welcomed. at 5p.m.at the 3Star Recreationmovies Center. starting Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Recreation3 Star Night and Line Dancing Shape of Water on Feb. 9, The schedule includes Community Movie Night don’t try to cut throughdon’t try the revelry. Be careful and remain vigilant when in a large crowd or gathering. If until at least 3 a.m. The streets will overflow with Carnaval revelers and parades. If held up by a parade, Carnaval Schinnen at at DSN 606-244-3121Services or +31 (0)45-5263121. and have a valid health assessment at the time of enrollment. For more information, call Parent Central 5, and $45 for youth age 6to must be registered 15. Participants with Child, Youth and School Services begins Apr. 10. This is open to youth of all U.S. or NATO ID carholders. The cost is $25for youth age 3to - Girl'sCYS Softball 606-244-3121 or +31 (0)45-5263121. at the time of enrollment. For more information, at DSN call Parent Central Services registered Youth Child, with andhave Services andSchool avalid healthassessment or NATO ID carholders. The cost is $45for youth age 10 to must be 15. Participants Jun. 2. Practice begins Apr. 10 at Slagheap Fields. This is open to youth of all U.S. BaseballCYS Season Registration - 4437620. To apply, go to www.europe.umuc.edu/secure/600-student-appreciation-scholarship. current students. For more information, contact a program coordinator at DSN 360-7620 or +31 (0)46- University to Europe College scholarship $600 University aone-time eligible offers onSchinnen ofMaryland down Feb. 15. For more information call DSN 360-7481 or +31 (0)46-4437481. LRC Office IACS 360-7273 or +31 (0)46-4437273. will not be affected.services The Finance Window will reopen Feb. 14. If you have any questions, call DSN - The IACS Office in the Schinnen MP Building will be closed Feb. 9 starting atnoonandFeb. beclosedFeb. will MPBuilding allday. 12 theSchinnen in IACS -The starting 9 Office Ferdinand - The Logistics Readiness at Schinnen will center be closed all day offices for quarterly Stand (R) on Feb. 23. For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)2-7179822. -

The baseball season will run from Apr. 21 to Jun. 2. Practice Celebrate Valentine's Day at the 3Star Recreation Center! Couples are invited to enjoy (PG) on Feb. 15, - Shops in and parts of Germany stay will pubsandbars closewhile will and parts Limburg open in -Shops - The Brunssum Post Office Finance - Window The Brunssum Post will be closed Feb. Office 12and 13. People Murder On the Orient Express -

Enjoy at the free 3Star Recreation entertainment at 6:30 p.m. Center starting The baseball season will run from Apr. 21 to Roman J. Israel ESQ - The season will last from April through June. The cost is $45for [10] -

Join the Brussels community for games, cards, music and -

Starts at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $11 forStarts adults and $5for (PG-13) on Feb. 8, - Army is inviting Community Service all service on Feb. 16, The Star Thank You For Your Service (PG) on Feb. 22, and February 8,2018 The (R) Inside the Gate Feb. 24 -Mar. 17 Feb. 23 Feb. 16 Apr. 14 Mar. 2 Feb. 15-16 Feb. 14 Feb. 13-16 • • • • • • • • • • •

The course dates course The are University College,orUMUC. atUniversity studycourse ofMaryland field this in threecollege credits earning UMUC Travel andLearn: Dublin Class of the live auction items.auction and the start To tickets, reserve email [email protected]. at5:30 p.m.The 7p.m.,followed silent auctions willbegin at that time. Dinner will be served by adessert forperson the auction, which includes a gourmet meal and a chance to win prizes. Thewill open doors at aswelldependent college scholarships asto assistother programs inthe community. Tickets are €25per Conference Room inBrunssum. All money made from the auction prizes willgo toward student and American Spouses Club's Charity Auction Event Post, visit www.facebook.com/PostNL01. relations with veterans of Allied Nations to honor all sacrifices. For more information about the Margraten orphans. veterans The mission continues as they military serve of the U.S. The post maintains and builds the Margraten Post was formed by veterans to helpfellow veterans, families, their widows ofveterans and Benelux in Schinnen Bldg. 3in Classroom by Chartered The American A. Legion National Headquarters, American NL01 Legion Post Meeting General Membership [email protected]. For more information, callDSN360-7560or +31 (0)46-4437560 or usarmy.schinnen.id-europe.list. more. Cost is $5per Tickets person. can be purchased on the event days at the Schinnen Bowling Center. Bowling, Indoor Wall Climbing (10 a.m. to 3p.m.), Bouncy Castles, basketball shoot, corn-hole and much Winter Break Fun to use the local train system. For more information, call DSN 360-7500 or +31 (0)46-4437500. Tri-Border On the second day, services. go beyond the gate to visit a few local attractions and learn how day,On the first explore the Dutch culture with an introduction to the language and get an overview of areinvitedand spouses to new learnabouttheir community, localcustoms, including cultureandlanguage. Pickleball email to [email protected]. Spaces are limited so schedule your appointment now. Education Center at DSN 360-7620 or +31 (0)46-4437620 on Mondays-Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or Center and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Brunssum Library. For an appointment, contact the Schinnen advising. Meet an advisor on base on Tuesday, Mar. 2 from 9a.m. to noon at the Schinnen Education UMUC on-site advising ends Feb. 12. Newcomer's Orientation & Cultural Tour from 2 p.m. toLibrary 5 p.m. For more information, call DSN 606-2442469 or +31 (0)45-5262469. DayLEGO® call DSN 360-7561 or +31 (0)46-4437561. the Schinnen Fitness is free. Center Refreshments at 9a.m. Entry will be available. For more information of LoveHearts 5KRun/Walk DSN 606-244-3121/2023 or +31 (0)45-5263121 or +31 (0)45-5262023. ends Feb. 9. children from sixth toSchool Services grade. Camp fees twelfth depend on income category. or 606-244-3121/2023 Karneval Camp DSN call information, +31 (0)45-5263121 or 31 (0)45-5262023. more For H-602. apply. Register Bldg. onJFCBrunssum atParent CentralServices children grade. from Camp fees toServices Kindergarten fifth may carnival-themed camp. The camp is open to Child, Youth and School CarnivalCYS Camp p.m. and 4 p.m. and will delay access and exit to and from the base during that time! Remember to be safe and don’t drink and drive! The parades in Schinnen are Feb. 12and 13 between 1 en-route to USAG Benelux in Schinnen and a parade is in progress, park the car and enjoy the festivities. - It is a paddle sport (similar to that combines elements a racquet- It is a of paddle badminton, sport sport) tennis, - Set your world looseandexplore imagination attheJFCHQBrunssum ofLego® thewonderful Register For H-602. Bldg. onJFCBrunssum moreinformation, atParent Central Services call Call DSN 360-7620 or +31 (0)46-4437620 or email [email protected]. -Enjoy aKarneval-themed camp from 7a.m.to 1p.m. - Come to the Schinnen Bowling Center from 10 a.m. to 4p.m. Fun includes Cosmic

- Have Center Age funattheSchool this with Feb. 24 to Mar. 17. classmeets The on-site from Dublin in Mar. to 3 10. - Visit an advisor from University the University College of for Maryland on-site - Bring your to sweetheart this Valentine's Day event! at The run/walk starts - Discover the literary, historical and cultural center of Ireland while - From 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Schinnen ACS, all newcomers [11] - This special event will be held at the International - The meeting will start at 5p.m. at USAG- The meeting will start The camp isopen to Child,Youth and February 8,2018 Registration Registration +32 (0)65-44 or Chièvres and Brussels, SHAPE. Call DSN 423-3884 Serving SHAPE Trips & Tours • • • • • • • • • •

London (with optional musical Dreamgirls), Italy, Northern Netherlands, Amsterdam, Germany,Bad Münstereifel, Germany,Hamburg, Mar. 3 "A Bridge Too Garden Market Far"Operation in Arnhem, Cooking Class in Lille (or Lille only), Valentine's Dinner Cruise on the Seine in Paris, Carnival in , Rosenmontag The Hague, Netherlands, Inside the Gate Feb. 23 Feb. 19-Mar. 9 Feb. 16 Feb. 15 Through April 10 Tax on SHAPE Center Services See alsopage9in"AllCommunities" SHAPE/CHIÈVRES COMMUNITY Feb. 27-28 • • • • • • •

Total Rodeo Program Army Sponsorship or +32(0)65-326839/6797. (SHAPE Bldg. 503)or call DSN 366-6839/6797Services Forfor moreinformation, participants. stop by Parent Central registration and health assessments are requiredServices to 12 and $25 for ages 3 to 5. Child, Youth and School last from April through June. The cost is $45for ages 6 SoccerRegistration Spring Sports CYS For more information, call DSN 423-5631 or +32 (0)65-445631. Chinese New Year. to learn some and Chinese an opportunity words. Activities times, crafts include story Chinese New Year information, call DSN 423-8369 or DSN 361-5235. four historical who figures broke and fought asbarriers they their country served for freedom. For more Event Month Black History April 10. March and April. The next screenings will be held Feb. 13, Feb. 20, Feb. 27, Mar. 6, Mar. 27, April 3and Cinema. Admission is €2 per All person. eight Potter Harry of Nights Eight call DSN 423-4868 or +32 (0)65-444868. eligible clients from Monday to Friday from 9a.m. to 11 a.m. and noon to 5p.m.To schedule an appointment, Law CenterThe Northern will provide U.S. federal and state income tax assistance at SHAPE Bldg. 318 to information call DSN 360-7561 or +31 (0)46-4437561. more details, give itatry, and signup for the upcoming "Couples" Pickleball Challenge on Apr. 14. For more and table tennis created for all ages and skill levels. Visit the Schinnen Andre Bruls Fitness Center for 366-6824 or +32 (0)65-326824. Nation Orientation in SHAPE Bldg. 318 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration is required. Call DSN is inviting civilians members, and their familyService all to incoming members service in Host participate Nation Orientation Host Volunteers are needed for this event! For more information, call DSN 366-6192 or DSN 361-5973. are invitedto 3p.m., participants to visit each station and receive valuable information on sponsorship. 3884. Apr. 3-12 Mar. 10-11 Upcoming Organized Trips&Tours Feb. 10 -Come to from the SHAPE International 2p.m.to Library 5:30p.m.to learn about Mar. 24 Mar. 17 - The original orientation has been in February rescheduled. Army Community -Cometo from Cinema theSHAPE 10 a.m.to 11:30 a.m.andlearnabout Feb. 12 - Starting at 6 p.m.,watch at6 - Starting Feb. 24 Apr. 14 Feb. 17 - The seasonwill -The - Held in the - Heldin [12] Call DSN 360-7560 or +31 (0) 46-4437560. Schinnen Trips & Tours Harry PotterHarry • • • • • • • • •

Weekend Trip Normandy, to France, Keukenhof Gardens, Family Day Trout Fishing, Paris, Comedy Tour Kevin in Antwerp, Hart in Paris, Concert Bruno Mars Rhine Dinner Cruise with Fireworks, Reims with Champagne, Gouda & Keukenhof Gardens, Harry Potter Stone Sorcerer's andthe Harry Chièvres Chièvres Mar. 17 films will be shown films on Tuesdays in February, Community ActivityCommunity Center from a.m. 9 Apr. 21 Apr. 28 Apr. 7 Jun. 30 Apr. 21 Jul. 20-23 May 5 Aug. 25 February 8,2018 attheSHAPE Outside the Gate Discover Belgium:theCarnival ofBinche through the streets to the drumbeat. the whole process, andallthe characters shuffle-dance each stop. Adrummer accompanies eachsociety during tradition, Gilles have to drink a glass of champagne at to groups. ofhis collectmembers According to the leader of each “society” goes from one house to another offamily thehelp thewith Inthemeantime, members. straw-stuffed onhis puts costume eachGille which during of the festival: parts the dressing of the Gilles,important Tuesday. at dawn, The day with one of starts the most The three-day festival reaches its climax on Shrove 4 p.m. and fireworks close out the joyful day at 7p.m. costumed children a dance perform atthe colorfully in the town at 10 square starts that battle, a.m. After On Monday, a confetti battle between local children is just the beginning. explosion of and colors sounds will amaze you, and it secretly been working on for months, if not years. This their impressiveshow off costumes that they have accompanied by drums and brass instruments asthey parade inthe streets of Binche at 3p.m.They are On Sunday, the 13 societies inthe Carnival take part the Gilles’ wives also play a major role in the Carnival. the threeother characters involved theprocess, in and commitment. As for females, they can become one of his age but needs to keep in mind that it is a lifelong male from Binche can become a Gille regardless of wear a mask and a feathered magnificent hat. Every and will,during different stages of the street party, attached to their costumes. They wear wooden clogs collar, awhite head covering, and have yellow bells of lions, crowns and They stars. also don a white-filly costume decorated withred, blackandyellow symbols The central are figures the Gilles, who wear a spectacular Peasants, the Harlequins, the Pierrots and the Gilles. as one of the four characters involved in the festival: The More thanathousand inhabitants of Binche dress up of this Carnival is the tradition. since that time, proving that one of the main aspects dates backto the14th little century. changedvery Things written the first recorduncertain, of the celebration Even though Carnival of Binche’s exact origins are the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2003. It was recognized by the UNESCO as a Masterpiece of morethanafestival tois thepeopleofBinche. andparty and folkloric traditions such asthe throwing of oranges, unique This carnival, costumes stunning includes which it will occur from Feb. 11 to 13. happens three days before Ash Wednesday. This year, the world to the Walloon city of Binche. The festival Each year, it draws thousands of tourists from all over Binche, one of the most famous Belgian celebrations. You have probably alreadyheard about theCarnival of USAG BeneluxPublicAffairs By Stéphanie Borrell-Verdu [13] is considered as a grave insult. At 8p.m.,the last good and luck, that refusing one, or sending it back, to know that catching or being hit by an orange brings not want to be hit by one. Nevertheless, it isimportant are throwing or passing if oranges. you Stay do alert parade one more time on the street, but this time they During the procession of the oranges, all four characters (3 kilograms). be up to 35.4 inches (90 centimeters) and 6.6 pounds ostrich-feathered ontheir masks andput hatsthat can remove theGilles which during their starts, oranges them medals. At 3p.m., the famous procession of the enters thetown honoredasthemayor hallandis gives like moustache and green glasses. Then, each society sinister-looking porcelain masks with a Napoleon III- to ward evil spirits. During off this process, they wear streets with abunch of willow twigs that they shake Once every society the finishes, Gilles parade on the photo by Tim Clark) outfit.the complete clogs wooden and attached bells with and awhiteheadcovering. collars with whitefrilly A red andyellow belt red, andyellow black symbolsof lions, crowns andstars,off topped The stunning costumes, in centuries, unchanged are decorated with www.carnavaldebinche.be/accueil.html. will enjoy. For more information about the event, visit explosion andsoundsthatadultschildren ofcolors who loves and culturally rich events. colorful It is an Carnival The amust-seefor is ofBinche anyone hats are too precious to be ruined by Belgian weather! due to weather feathered becausetheGilles conditions, to thattherecouldbesomechanges mind theschedule so it is better to book far in advance. Finally, keep in and around thefestivities, areusually fullduring Binche tothe Carnival. know Itisalsoimportant thathotels in car, but extra trains will run to and from Binche during It is better to arrive early to a place to find park your in the townparty square late into the night. p.m., but not entirely, as they are followed by a huge festival end with fireworks around officially 9 starting on the Grand Place. The dayis performed and the “rondeau,” in which the Gilles dance in a huge circle, February 8,2018 u (U.S. Army Outside the Gate fun, but it is also the perfect time to try some delicious to time fun, but itisalsothe perfect try . Carnival is not only the time perfect to have alsohometo is Belgium numerous other worth-visiting Even though the most famous is the one is in Binche, Carnival isdeeply rooted inthe Belgian culture. known Laetare as“The ofStavelot,” heldMar. be will 10 The 516th edition of the Carnival of Stavelot, also in StavelotWhere: streets Different When: Mar. 10 to 12 Stavelot For more information, call +32(0)82-710124. in the wheeland barrow take part decorating contest! of the Carnival is that youpart can disguise yourself 2 p.m. at the Cultural Center of Dinant. The funniest their paradethe famous at giants of Dinant, will start “Guinguet,” the “Cafonnette” and the “Cheval Bayard,” its 12th edition will be held this year on Feb. 15. The Carnival The not is ofDinant astheothers, asancient 37 5500, Dinant Where: Esplanade du centre culturel, Rue Grande When: Feb. 15 Dinant folklore-et-carnaval/le-carnaval/programme-2018.html. more information, visit www.malmedy.be/fr/Tourisme/ dialect. It won’t prevent you from enjoying the festival! For during theCwarmê speakinalocalWalloon aspeople will if you Don’t worry don’t understand everything said the Carnival. Tuesday 1er,” at the “Place Abert marking the end of role in the parade. They are then burned at 7p.m. on the principle characters of the Carnival, play a major Malmedy’s “Place de Rome.” The Huguètes, which are from throughdancing thestreets. start paradewill The Shrove Sunday allofthecharacters with and parading but the Cwarmê reaches the main event at 2p.m. on Saturday ofthe“Grosse aparade with (fat police” police), a.m.onShrove at9 start Thecelebrations edition! days year, offun.This celebrate Malmedywill 560th its -Brussels community and is spread into four asImmaterialhas been recognized Heritage ofthe Carnival The ofMalmedy, alsoknown asthe“Cwarmê,” I, 4960 Malmedy Where: Place Albert When: Feb. 10 to 13 Malmedy famous Belgian Carnivals: of the best Belgian Here beers! is a list of the most celebration, Carnival is also a great time to have some and the Pets-de-nonne. Just like every other Belgian regional specialities, such as the Baiser de Malmedy to costumes, paradesandbeer! to costumes, From fries,waffles andbeer Carnavals page13 inBelgium,continuedfrom USAG BeneluxPublicAffairs By Stéphanie Borrell-Verdu

[14] Place de Lille, Rue de la Madeleine, Avenue des États- inTournai streets Where: Ondifferent (Place Crombez, When: Mar. 9 to 11 For more information, visit www.laetare-stavelot.be. monks who were forbiddencentury from the Carnival. dress and don carrot-nosed masks, parodying 15th traditional icons of the Carnival. They wear a white region is held at 9 p.m. The “Blanc moussis” are the 2 p.m. and one of the biggest fireworks shows in the and beautiful floats takeslocal participants place at day Sunday. is Ahugeparadeinvolving morethan2,000 showslight andother funfestivities! Themostimportant to famous This 12. Carnival fireworks, includes confetti, For moreinformation, [email protected]. email event,a great for especially young thosewith children. the balcony ofthetown hall. The Carnival of Andenne is King and Queen throw hundreds of tiny toy from bears “Place des Tilleuls,” where the recently elected Carnival The parade ends at the end at of the the afternoon and sweets are thrown into the air. andtons p.m. at2 ofconfetti paradestarts The Martel. of Andenne led by II and the giantFonzi, bears Martin the mascots of the town, parade through the streets event,this have which “bears,” morethan500 become that was terrorizing barehands.During his with thecity on a young boy who was rumored to have killed a bear wasBears, created in1954 and celebrates the legend The Carnival of Andenne, also called The Carnival of in AndenneWhere: streets Different When: Mar. 11 Andenne [email protected]. For more information, call +32(0)69-766526 or email held at the Halle aux Draps at 10 p.m. on Saturday. toa bonfire the sound of drums. A masquerade is then the 'Carnival King'isburned, while children dance around the biscuits at 6p.m. arefrom After thrown, the Belfry Saturday and the throwing of Pichous, traditional biscuits, Children willenjoy the launch of balloons at 5p.m.on of the city. magnificent costumes and parading through the streets Saturday, with all the different “brotherhoods” wearing light and sound show, on but the Carnival itself starts on Fridaystarts the Nuit with night des aIntrigues, will be “Drôle de biète” (weird creatures). The festival it has a different theme each year. This year’s theme What makes the Carnival of Tournai special is that Unis)

Courtesy photo Courtesy February 8,2018 u Outside the Gate Friday Feb. 9: be listed in another Gazette. month ofFebruary. March events will for list afirst Hereis Belgium. in the carnivals take andparadeswill place weeks,time! Inthecoming many to prepared Be have festive avery Sunday, Feb. 11: Saturday, Feb. 10: Parades inBelgium Special to theGazette • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Children’s parade in As starts Hamont-Achel starts 2:11 p.m. starts Hamont-Achel at 3:11 p.m. Hamont starts 1:49 p.m. Essen starts at 2:11 p.m. Eksel starts 2:33 p.m. starts Eisden near Maasmechelen at 3:11 p.m. De Klinge starts atBlankenberge 2:33p.m. starts at 2:11Baasrode p.m. starts at 1:11 p.m. starts Baarle-Hertog at 1 p.m. Aalst starts at 2:33 p.m. starts Children’s parade inTongeren at 2:11 p.m. Tienen starts Teuven at 2:11 p.m. starts Steendorp at 2:33 p.m. starts at 3:11 p.m. starts Children’s paradeinSint-Truiden 2:11 p.m. at Huibrechts-LilleSint starts Ophoven at 2:11 p.m. starts at 2 p.m. Oostende starts at 2:11 p.m. Genk starts 7:30 p.m. Illuminated parade Brakel starts at 2:11 p.m. starts Children’s parade inSteendorp at 1:33 p.m. Children’s parade inOpwijkstarts 2:11 p.m. Parade at Ophoven in starts p.m. Parade at 2 in Oostende starts at 1:33 p.m. Children’s parade in Mesen starts at 2:11 p.m. starts Lokeren paradein Children’s at 1:33 p.m. Children’s parade inGenk starts at 1:33 p.m. Children’s parade inBree starts at 12:45 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21: Tuesday, Feb. 13: Monday, Feb. 12: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Opglabeek starts 2:11 p.m. Opglabeek starts Oostduinkerke at2:33p.m. starts 7:33starts p.m. Illuminated paradeNeerpelt 2:11Moerzeke p.m. starts at 7:30starts p.m. Illuminated paradeMaldegem 3:30 p.m. Maldegem starts 2:11 p.m. Maaseik starts at 2:11Lummen p.m. starts 2:11 p.m. Lommel starts Lokeren3:33 p.m. starts 2:11Lanaken p.m. starts 2:11Kinrooi p.m. starts at 2:11Kaulille p.m. starts 2:33p.m. Kanne (Riemst) starts 1:30 p.m. Herenthout starts at 2:33 p.m. Heist starts In Oostduinkerke, Children's 7:33 p.m. Illuminated paradeWellen starts at 3:11 p.m. Smeermaas starts at 8:11 p.m. Clown Parade inMaaseik starts p.m. ‘s Gravenvoeren at 2:33 starts at 2:33 p.m. Children’s parade inDiest starts Blankenberge 3 p.m. starts Sint-Truiden 2:11 p.m. starts 2:11 p.m. Rekem nearLanaken starts at 2:11 p.m. nearKinrooiMolenbeersel starts 2:11 p.m. Moelingen starts 2:11Lutlommel p.m. starts Kermt 2:11 p.m. starts 3:11 p.m. Genoelselderen starts 2:11 p.m. Bocholt starts 1:45 p.m. Aalst starts Zwevezele at 3:11 p.m. starts Zonhoven 2:11 p.m. starts 2:30 p.m. Zichem starts at 1:30 p.m. starts Weelde paradein Children’s Vroenhoven 2:33 p.m. starts Vosselaar 1:40 p.m. starts Vilvoorde at 2:33 p.m. starts Tongeren 2:33 p.m. starts at 2:11Tielrode p.m. starts [15] Saturday, Feb. 24: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • photo) photo) It's oneofthelargest inLimburg Genk’schildren’s annual carnivalparade. in heaving withyoungpeopletaking part In Genk, the city centre will onceagainbe

Elversele starts 2:33 p.m. Elversele starts 2:11 p.m. Dendermonde starts 2:11 p.m. Borgloon starts 1:30 p.m. Bilzen starts 2:11 p.m. Assenede starts 2:33 p.m. As starts Sunday, Feb. 25. 2:33 p.m. Zeebrugge starts Uikhoven 2:11 p.m. starts p.m. Rukkelingen-Loon at2:11 starts at 2:33 p.m. Kraainem starts 2:11 p.m. Heusden starts 2:11 p.m. starts Heers at 2:11 p.m. Children’s parade Borgloon starts at 1:33 P.M.parade starts Wijnegem starts at 3:11 p.m. Wijnegem starts 2:33 p.m. Wortel starts p.m. 2:11Sint Martens- starts 2:11Schoonderbuken p.m. starts p.m. Rotem 2:11 near Dilsen starts 2:11Overpelt p.m. starts 2:11 p.m. starts Opgrimbie near Maasmechelen Ninove 3:11 p.m. starts 3:11 p.m. Lede starts p.m. Kessenich 2:11 (Kinrooi) starts February 8,2018 (Courtesy (Courtesy u Outside the Gate Read about events nearChièvres,SHAPEandBrussels. Feb. 14 Feb. 11 Feb. 10-11 Feb. 10 • • • • • • • • • •

+32(0)2-5461660. per couple. Reservations are recommended. Call 10 is €75 p.m.) and a three-course menu. Entry decorations, live acoustic music (from 8p.m. to Valentine's Day attheHard Rock Cafe from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. René Declercq, 20(Colruyt) featuring 120booths Flea Market inWoluwe-Saint-Pierre - booths from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sylvain Westland) (Shopping Dupuis featuring 300 Flea Market inAnderlecht Rue de Tournai,Departs 103 from 8a.m.to 6p.m. Volksmarch inQuevaucamps 5,10 for or 20km from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 20 km - Volksmarch in Meslin-l'Évêque 5,10, for 15or +32 (0)2-7364165. Free entry. du Cinquantenaire, 11. For moreinformation, call the rally through Brussels until 6 p.m. Held on Parc a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Afterwards, will the start cars Beetles.VW Enjoy atmospherefrom theVW 11 an impressivegathers groupe of modern and classic 2018 in front of Autoworld Brussels. The parade of the Love Bugs Parade will take place Feb. 11, Love BugsParadeinBrussels Havenlaan 86c. from 10 a.m.to p.m.HeldatTour 5 &Taxis on open Saturday from 10 a.m.to 7p.m.andSunday Admission ranges from €12 to €80. The event is Davies from Lord Of The Rings and many others. Nichols from the originalStarTrek, John-Rhys Superman, Jeremy from Bulloch StarWars, Nichelle Dean Cainfrom Lois&Clark: The New Adventures of guests include: Seth Gilliam from The Walking Dead, series, clothes, toysTV gadgets andmore. Special actors collectibles, andcomics,games,films, artists, Comic Con inBrussels 3 p.m. Léopold IIfeaturing 100 booths from a.m.to 7 Flea Market in Koekelberg - Louis, on Avenue €20. Louise, 32. Entry: HeldatBloody p.m. at9:30 start will concert The renowed with perform will DJ (SLS). LeSaint Simon Belgian National Orchestra, with 45musicians, Beethoven's music meets electronic music. The Classic clubbing inBrussels Grand-Rue from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free entry. and lots more. balloons, activities for children, sweetsartists, in the streets. There will be also Crazy Carnival inMons- Departs the school on RueDeparts Centrale, 13

Held on Rue de la Chaussée and -Fans dealers, will find A marching band willplay - Held on Boulevard -During this evening, -

The 10th anniversary Held on Boulevard

mascots, street -Candlelight, Held on Rue

[16]

Courtesy photo photo photo photo photo Courtesy Courtesy Courtesy Courtesy Courtesy Feb. 9-11 Feb. 9-14 Feb. 12-18 Feb. 12 Feb. 11 Feb. 10-18 Feb. 10 the Netherlands unless otherwise indicated).the Netherlands unlessotherwise Read aboutevents nearBrunssumandSchinnen (in • • • • • • • • • • • •

Kampeer (camping)&Outdoor inGorinchem is €15. Open frommore. Entry noon to 9 p.m. acrobats, Dance,Ninjas, Lion as theChinese and Rijnkaai, 150 with several Asian activities such AntwerpAsia in (BE) information, visit www.boot-holland.nl. navigation apparatus, clothes, etc. For more on display as well as all kind of accessories, attractive This 52. fair hasmany boatsandships ExpoonHeliconweg, heldatWTC enthusiasts sports Boot Holland in Leeuwarden and free for children under age 12. 42. Open from 11 €12.50, a.m. to 7p.m. Entry: the Rotterdam Euromast on Vierhavensstraat, 38- Object Rotterdam Gorinchem. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Held atEvenementenhal on Franklinweg, 2 in information, go to www.abnamrowtt.nl/en. Held at AHOY with several top players. For more AMROABN World Tennis Tournament Rotterdam in aroundparades. They noon. all start and other cities in GermanyDüsseldorf stage "Rosenmontag Zug"inGermany at 3 p.m. on the Market Square. Carnaval brass inSittard band contest 41. Open from 11 €2. a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry: Held at Werkspoorkathedraalcourt. on Tractieweg, large market. There isalso live music and a food Swan Market in Utrecht from is €6. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entry helmets, accessories, medals and more. Open Jan van 191 Rijswijcklaan, saleofuniforms, with Fair inAntwerpMilitary Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to 10 €15. p.m. Entry: Maaltekouter, 1. Open from 10 a.m. to 6p.m.; and recreation. Held Expo at Flanders onsports Belgian BoatShow inGent(BE) children age 12 and younger have free entrance. days from is €10, 9:30 a.m. to 6p.m. Entry and in Oktoberhallen on Schroverstraat, 18. Open both everything about motor bikes from the past. Held Moto Retro Wieze at the statue of “’t Mooswief” (Cabbage Woman). Market Square where the Prince willlay awreath at 1:11 p.m.At 1:55p.m.,they willmarch to the and hisretinue Reception Prince of the Maastricht Carnaval - Held at the city’s train station - Held in the HAKA building and

(BE) -HeldatAntwerp Expoon - HeldatWaagnatie on - A large indoor fair with - Alifestyle event witha - A fair for water -Aachen, Cologne, -Afair for water February 8,2018 - Held

Outside the Gate You may experience somedelays whiledrivinginBelgiumthisseason.Road construction projects are occurring throughout thecountryandmay result Please be cautious and patient while driving at all times. If you havePlease becautiousand patient whiledrivingat questionsor alltimes. If in temporary laneclosures androad congestion. We willprovide regular would like toreport otherhighway construction sitesandroad closures, please updates toensure that thecommunity isinformed andprepared. direction of . direction of and isexpected tolast Tournai-Mons (E42): isreduced traffic to 70km/h. Tournai. The speedof the direction of There isstillroad congestion onE429(A8)between Tubize andEnghienin Tubize- (A8): three months. Jan. 27,theReyers-Meiser Meiser for tunnel isclosed inthedirection of Brussels. Work isscheduled to becompletedby Brussels: 9 a.m.to4p.m., there isexpected toberoad congestion inthat area. will have totakedeviation,the ordetour,Imagix untilthe roundabout. From you Brusselsdrive toBrusselsthe Grand near viatheR5,you Prés. If of Mons/The Ring(A7): completed by -Tournai Mons. Vaulx, inthedirection of Antoing-Tournai Vaulx(E42): Work isscheduled tobecompletedby involves willbemaintained. 15kminbothdirections. traffic Two lanesof Andenne andDaussoulxhasbeenunderway sinceAugust.This project Andenne/Daussoux (E42/A15): be determined. construction isbehindschedule. The expected completiondate isyet to Traffic isreduced toonelane, andthere isroad congestion. Road Brussels: Highway Construction email theU.S. at ArmyGarrison BeneluxPublic Affairs Office and RoadClosures Renovation of theReyers Renovation tunnelsisinprogress of inthecenterof Be patient if you are drivingonBoulevard Bepatient delaWoluwe if (R22). [email protected]. Feb. 14 Until Friday, there willberoad construction indirection Work onthebridge Nov. started 13inBernissart Pay attention if you are Pay drivingfrom Brussels. attention if . two years [17] Roadconstruction beganFeb. in on E42 6 The three-way yard project between . Traffic isreduced toonelaneinthe August 2018 the end of theyear the endof Work isscheduled tobe .

February 8,2018 . Since