Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017Volume 10, Issue 47

Table of ContentsNews...........................2-5Inside the Gate..............6-8Outside the Gate.........9-11

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

Steven Vandeput, Belgian Minister of Defense, speaks to the audience during the opening of the new U.S. Army's pre-positioned stocks, or APS, site Nov. 21, 2017, in Zutendaal, Belgium. The APS sites are supported by U.S. Army Garrison Benelux and are vital components of total Army readiness as they give combatant commanders the ability to execute operation plans worldwide. (U.S. Army photo by Pierre-Etienne Courtejoie)

New APS site opens in Zutendaal

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Benelux News Briefs Thanksgiving ObservedU.S. Army Garrison Benelux will observe Thanksgiving on Thursday, Nov. 23. Many offices and facilities, will be closed in observance of the holiday. Check the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Facebook (www.facebook.com/USAGBenelux)for an updated list of closures. The Chièvres Exchange Mall will be closed Thursday. The mall will have extended hours on Black Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday will be regular hours of operation.Sugar Beets on RoadsThe harvest of sugar beets started, and many farm tractors with trailers are on the road. These vehicles track mud and drop beets on the road, which can create hazardous and slippery conditions. The only proven defense against these hazards is the application of the simple rules of defensive driving. Please maintain your vehicle in an acceptable safe condition, reduce and adjust speed and increase your following distance behind other vehicles.

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The Gazette is an unofficial publication published under the provisions of AR 360-1 for members of the 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 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, 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, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher will refuse to print advertising from that 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 usarmy.benelux.id-europe.list.pao@mail.mil by Monday at 3 p.m.

To submit or subscribe, email usarmy.benelux.id-europe.list.pao@mail.mil

Commander.....................Col. Kurt Connell

Public Affairs Officer......Marie-Lise Baneton

Editor..............................Jessica Ryan

Staff Writers....................Kristin Ellis Rita Hoefnagels Christophe Morel Julie Piron

Follow safe cooking practices By U.S. Army Installation Management Command-EuropeSpecial to the Gazette

Thanksgiving, or Turkey Day, is observed Thursday. As you plan your Thanksgiving feasts in Europe, don’t forget about fire safety. Did you know Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires? According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the average number of home fires on Thanksgiving is expected to be more than double the average number of fires in residential buildings on all other days of the year. Thanksgiving fires occured most frequently from noon to 3 p.m., when people were most likely preparing their meals. Keep these safety tips in mind as you prepare your meals:TURKEY If you are roasting your turkey, make sure you set a timer. This way, you won’t forget about the bird as you watch the parade or football. If you are frying your turkey, use a fryer with thermostat controls. This will ensure the oil does not become overheated. In addition, you should thaw your turkey completely. Ice on the bird will cause the oil to splatter. Don’t overfill the pot with oil. If you do, the oil will overflow when you add the turkey causing a fire hazard. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the fryer. Also, always use the fryer outdoors. STUFFING AND POTATOES You should stand by your stove when you are boiling potatoes or frying onions for stuffing. It is best to stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling or broiling. If you are in the kitchen, it is easier to catch spills or hazardous conditions before they become a fire.VEGETABLES You should keep the area around the stove clear of

packaging, paper towels, dish cloths and any flammable item. Be sure to clean up any spills as they happen. Keep a large pan lid or baking sheet handy in case you need to smother a pan fire. Lastly, turn pot handles towards the back of the stove so you don’t bump them. Please remember that unattended cooking is the leading factor in home-cooking fires. By following these tips, you will have a delicious and fire-safe Thanksgiving. Let the firefighters have dinner with their families, not yours. For more information about fire safety, visit https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/cooking.html. If you experience a fire emergency in your home, please call 112 in Belgium and the Netherlands. u

Thanksgiving meals can take a lot of preparation at home, where people use appliances like ovens, fryers and stoves to cook staple dishes such as turkeys, ham, vegetables, stuffing and potatoes. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, people should follow safety tips in order to avoid potential fires and cooking accidents. (Courtesy photo)

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Recognizing the early voices of our nationBy Therese Ayers

USAG Benelux Equal Employment Opportunity Office

November is Native American Heritage Month, honoring American Indians and Alaskan natives. The theme for 2017 is “Standing Together,” which was selected by the Society of American Indian Government Employees. In 1915, the annual Congress for the American Indian Association meeting in Lawrence, Kansas, formally approved a plan concerning American Indian Day. President Calvin Coolidge issued a proclamation Sept. 28, 1915 that declared the second Saturday of each May as an American Indian Day and contained the first formal appeal for recognition of American Indians as citizens. The year before the proclamation was issued, Red Fox James, a Blackfoot Indian, rode horseback from state to state seeking approval for a day to honor American Indians. On Dec. 14, 1915, he presented the endorsements of 24 state governments at the White House. The first American Indian Day in a state was declared on the second Saturday in May 1916 by the governor of New York. Several other states celebrated the fourth Friday in September. Additionally, several states designated Columbus Day as Native American Day, but it continued to be a day observed without any real recognition. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month. Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (including “Native American Heritage Month” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”) have been issued each year since 1994. Currently, there are 567 federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and more than 100 state recognized tribes across the United States. Each has their distinctive history, beliefs, governance structure and culture. In 2014, then President Barack Obama wrote, “Every year, our Nation pauses to reflect on the profound ways the First Americans have shaped our country’s character

and culture. The first stewards of our environment, early voices for the values that define our Nation, and models of government to our Founding Fathers – American Indians and Alaska natives helped build the very fabric of America. Today, their spirit and many contributions continue to enrich our communities and strengthen our country.” Native Americans have influenced every stage of America’s development. They are woven deeply into our nation’s rich tapestry. They helped early European settlers survive and thrive in a new world. This year, President Donald Trump wrote that “Native Americans contributed democratic ideas to our constitutional Framers. And, for more than 200 years, they have bravely answered the call to defend our Nation, servicing with distinction in every branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Nation is grateful for the service and sacrifice of all American Indians and Alaska Natives.” Trump also wrote that “Native Americans are a testament to the deep importance of culture and vibrancy of traditions, passed down throughout generations.” The U.S. Department of Defense along with the rest of our nation, will celebrate the first people to live on the land we all value. American Indians and Alaska Natives bravely defended and shaped our country’s character and our cultural heritage. American Indian and Alaskan Native patriots will continue to build legacies of freedom and diversity. During National Native American Heritage Month, we will honor the first Americans and recognize their contributions and their sacrifices. To learn more about Native Americans and Alaskan natives, check out resources at the Chièvres Library or SHAPE International Library. Read more about the history of American Indians’ in the U.S. Army at https://www.army.mil/americanindians/. u

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New APS site opens in Zutendaal By Julie PironSpecial to the Gazette

Army leaders honor the fallen in Dülmen

U.S. Army Garrison Benelux recently expanded its footprint to Germany as the garrison took responsibility in supporting Army pre-positioned stocks sites. Close to one of the garrison's APS sites in Dülmen was a ceremony to honor the fallen during the country's National Day of Mourning, or Volkstrauertag. The observance is a public holiday to remember all victims of war and tyranny. Army Col. Rodney H. Honeycutt, commander for the 405th Army Field Support Brigade, and Mr. Thomas Joyce, deputy to the garrison commander at USAG Benelux, paid their respects as they laid a wreath on a memorial site and met with Lisa Stremlau, mayor of Dülmen, and commmunity members Nov. 19, 2017. (U.S. Army photo by Marie-Lise Baneton)

The 405th Army Field Support Brigade opened a new Army pre-positioned stocks, or APS, site Nov. 21, 2017, in Zutendaal, Belgium. Army Maj. Gen. Steven A. Shapiro, commanding general of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command, Steven Vandeput, Belgian Minister of Defense, Matthew Lussenhop, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the United States to the Kingdom of Belgium and Ann Schrijvers, mayor of Zutendaal, gathered to celebrate the opening of the new site, which provides 450,000 square feet of humidity controlled warehouse space and 40,000 square feet of hardstand storage. By 2021, 31 units are planned to be located in this site, which will give the U.S. Army the ability to be ready for the fight within days instead of months. “Pre-positioned stocks, like the one in Zutendaal, also serve as a proof of the principle of ‘speed of assembly.’ Having these stocks pre-positioned across Europe give national-level leaders more effective options when addressing with emergency situations. This allows for a faster response as well as reducing deployment timelines, improving deterrence capabilities and providing additional combat power for contingency operations,” said Shapiro. u

Army Maj. Gen. Steven A. Shapiro, commanding general of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command, Steven Vandeput, Belgian Minister of Defense, Matthew Lussenhop, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the United States to the Kingdom of Belgium and Ann Schrijvers, mayor of Zutendaal, cut the ribbon during the opening of the Army pre-positioned stocks site Nov. 21, 2017, in Zutendaal, Belgium. APS sites are vital components of total Army readiness as they provide space for the U.S. military to store equipment and prepare to fight within days instead of months. (U.S. Army photo by Pierre-Etienne Courtejoie)

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AFN BENELUX 360 Internet Radio http://benelux.afneurope.net

Listen to AFN: Brussels : 101.7 FM l Chièvres : 107.9 FM SHAPE : 106.5 l Tri-Border community : 99.7 and 96.9 FM

Special to the Gazette

The Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas, or CFC-O, for this year kicked off in October. For those who are not familiar with CFC, it is the only fundraising that can be done in the federal workplace. This year's theme is "Show Some Love." From Oct. 16 to Dec. 15, federal employees (including U.S. and host nation employees) and U.S. service members overseas have the option to donate to charitable organizations via payroll deductions or one-time or reoccurring monthly pledge via credit card, debit card or direct bank transfer. Cash donations are not permitted. Eligible organizations are listed at https://cfcgiving.opm.gov/welcome. Pledges can be done via online or by paper forms. Paper forms are available through the local CFC office. Employees are advised to include their unit code (see column on the right) in their contribution. Employees can also pledge volunteer hours to participating charities in addition to monetary donations. CFC is one of the largest and most successful workplace fundraising campaigns in the world. Over the past 56 years, the CFC has raised $8.2 billion to help those in need around the corner, across the nation, and throughout the world. In 2016, more than 400,000 federal employees around the world pledged more than $167 million to help people and communities in need -- a reflection of the generous nature of federal employees. In addition, more than 19,000 uniformed service members and DOD civilians in the five overseas combatant commands pledged more than $4.7 million to help people and communities in need. The campaign has a collective impact, allowing employees to join co-workers in supporting those in need in our local military communities, across the nation, and around the globe. Additionally, the campaign shows how U.S. military members place service above self. Contributions through the CFC-O are a tangible extension of the selfless service give to their country every day.

For more information about CFC-Overseas campaign at U.S. Army Garrison Benelux, contact your unit representative or contact Richard Smith at DSN 361-5973 or richard.j.smith52.civ@mail.mil. u

BENELUX UNIT CODES

383650002: USAG Benelux Schinnen - Civilian383650003: USAG Benelux Schinnen -Military383670022: USAG Benelux Chièvres - Civilian383670029: USAG Benelux Chièvres - Military

383680001: USAG Benelux Brussels- All383650004: AAFES

383650005: DODD Schools Schinnen383670010: DODD Schools SHAPE

383650010: DECA383670001: AFN Benelux

383670003: 650th MI383670005: SHAPE Healthcare Facility

383680006: Brussels Health Clinic383680005: Dental Clinic

383670006: BFO383670007: Andrews FCU

383670008: 39th SIG383650001: AFNORTH ACO383670009: AFNORTH BCO

383670011: 424th ABS383670023: Air Force Element383670014: US Survey Division

383680002: US DEL NATO383680003: US MISSION NATO

383670027: Northern Law Center383670030: ACS

383680007: 409th CSB, RCO

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All communitiesMWR is Hiring

• Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation is hiring part-time and full-time U.S. employees. Visit the USAJobs website (USAJobs.gov) and search for listings in Belgium or the Netherlands.

BRUSSELS COMMUNITYSee also above in "All Communities"Open Enrollment for Cub Scout Pack 457

• Brussels community families are invited the sign up their children in first to fifth grade or age six to ten for the Cub Scouts. Scheduled activities planned for this year include camping, hiking, community service projects, day camps and quarterly pack outings to exciting venues in and around Brussels. For more information, call +32(0)49-1867101.

Through Nov. 24 • CYS Coed Basketball Open Enrollment - Children age 3 to 15 can enroll for the winter basketball season

from Dec. 4 to Feb. 17, 2018. A valid sports physical is required before a youth can participate. Spaces are limited. The cost is $25 for participants age 3 to 5 and $45 for participants age 6 to 15. This is open to all U.S. and NATO ID cardholders. For more information, call DSN 368-9651 or +32 (0)27-179651. Volunteer coaches are needed. Coaches receive waived and discounted registration fees. Contact the Youth Sports & Fitness office for more information.

• CYS Cheerleading Open Enrollment - Children age 6 to 15 can enroll for the winter season from Dec. 2017 to Feb. 2018. A valid sports physical is required before a youth can participate. Spaces are limited. The cost is $45. This is open to all U.S. and NATO ID cardholders. For more information, call DSN 368-9651 or +32 (0)27-179651. Volunteer coaches are needed. Coaches receive waived and discounted registration fees. Contact the Youth Sports & Fitness office for more information.

Through Nov. 30 • November Fitness Challenge - Participants are challenged to do plank for two minutes, four days a week.

The two minutes can be done all at once or in intervals. The challenge is open to all fitness levels. For more information, call DSN 368-9667 or +32(0)27-179667.

• Community Movie Night - Take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy free entertainment at the 3 Star Recreation Center starting at 6:30 p.m.! The schedule includes Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man Tell No Tales (PG-13) on Nov. 30. For more information, call DSN 368-9822 or +32 (0)27-179822.

SCHINNEN/BRUNSSUM COMMUNITYSee also above in "All Communities"Closures

• Troop Store and Gas Station closed Nov. 23 - These businesses will be closed in observance of Thanksgiving. The Troop Store’s operating hours for Black Friday/Saturday sales are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call +31 (0)46-4437233 or DSN 360-7233.

• Commissary closed Nov. 23-24 - The Schinnen Commissary will be closed those days in observance of Thanksgiving.

• Schinnen Hazmat Office closed Nov. 24 - The office will be closed all day. For more information, call DSN 360-7437 or +31 (0)46-4437437.

Netherlands Law Center • Change of Office Hours - The Netherlands Law Center's office hours at Schinnen changed. The center

will be closed Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to conduct training. However, they will be open on Fridays except during tax season. The Netherlands Law Center will continue to be closed for client visits between noon and 1 p.m. daily.

• Free or Subsidized Travel by a Non-federal Entity - If you are offered free or subsidized travel by a non-federal entity please contact your ethics counselor before acting on the offer. These have to be previewed for ethical compliance before acceptance. Reportable 31 U.S.C. 1353 travel payments are all payments from non-federal sources to DA employees which exceed $250, and which cover travel, subsistence, and related expenses for employees to attend meetings or similar functions in their official capacities away from their duty station. 31 U.S.C. §1353 and 41 CFR § 304 are the laws requiring an ethics review prior to acceptance. Army Directive 2007-01, paragraph 15g (3) requires ethics counselors to consolidate reports of payments accepted from a non-federal source (31 USC 1353) on Standard Form 326. To ensure that the receipt and reporting of travel benefits is properly accounted for, please contact the ethics counselor prior to acceptance. If you have an offer of travel from a non-federal source, please contact The Netherlands Law Center at DSN 360-7693; or +31 (0)46-4437693. For questions, please call DSN 360-7682/7654 or +31 (0)46-4437682/7654.

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Nov. 28• Tri-Border Fall Festival - Celebrate Thanksgiving at the Geilenkirchen Air Base multipurpose room from noon

to 5 p.m. There will be traditional Thanksgiving dishes, bouncy castle, games and more. Through Nov. 24

• CYS Cheerleading Open Enrollment - Children age 6 to 15 can enroll for the winter season from Jan. 16 to Feb. 24, 2018. Practice begins Jan. 8 at the CYS Gym/AFNORTH Gym. Youth must be registered with CYS Services and have a valid health assessment. The cost is $45. For more information, call DSN 606-244-3121/2023 or +31 (0)45-5263121/2023.

• CYS Coed Basketball Open Enrollment - Children age 3 to 15 can enroll for the winter season from Jan. 16 to Feb. 24, 2018. Practice begins Jan. 8 at the CYS Gym/AFNORTH Gym. Youth must be registered with CYS Services and have a valid health assessment. The cost is $20 for youth age 3 to 5 and $45 for youth age 6 to 15. For more information, call DSN 606-244-3121/2023 or

+31 (0)45-5263121/2023. Volunteer coaches are needed. Coaches receive waived and discounted registration fees. Contact the Youth Sports & Fitness office for more information.• CYS Junior Girls Basketball Open Enrollment - Children age 13 to 15 can enroll for the winter season from

Jan. 16 to Feb. 24, 2018. Practice begins Jan. 8 at the AFNORTH Gym. Youth must be registered with CYS Services and have a valid health assessment. The cost is $45. Volunteer coaches are needed. Coaches receive waived and discounted registration fees. For more information, call DSN 606-244-3121/2023 or +31 (0)45-5263121/2023.

Nov. 28• Christmas Crafts Market -The American Spouses Club is organizing their annual Christmas Crafts Market

from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the JFC Brunssum International Conference Center. Entrance is free.Dec. 4-8

• Veteran’s Administration - 2017 SFL/TAP Classes - Registration for the Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program SFL/TAP is open. The SFL/TAP classes are mandatory for separating and retiring service members. All classes will take place at the JFC Brunssum Library's multipurpose room from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can attend all or any that you may be interested in. For more information, call DSN 606-244-3848/3475 or +31 (0)45-5263848/3475. The five-day class consists of:

•Dec. 4-6 - Department of Labor Employment Workshop: Learn the skills needed to make your transition to civilian life successful. DOLEW includes effective job search, résumé-writing and interviewing techniques. Be sure to bring a laptop computer or electronic tablet. •Dec. 7 - Veterans Affairs I and II Briefings: VA Benefits I and II briefings are part of VA's portion of Transition Goals, Plans, Success, or GPS, which is designed to help military members make the transition to civilian life. Find out the latest on VA policies, benefits and eligibility from the people who know. •Dec. 8 - Personal Financial Planning for Transition: This briefing will help prepare you and your family with the financial management tools and resources to help assure your family's strong financial future. Dec. 21-22

• Host Nation - Newcomer’s Orientation & Cultural Tour – From 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Schinnen ACS, all newcomers and spouses are invited to learn about your new community, including local customs, culture and language. On the first day, explore the Dutch culture with an introduction to the language and get an overview of Tri-Border services. On the second day, go beyond the gate to visit a few local attractions and shopping areas and learn how to use the local train system. For more information, call DSN 360-7500 or +31 (0)46-4437500.

SHAPE/CHIÈVRES COMMUNITYSee also page 6 in "All Communities"Commissary Hours of Operation for Thanksgiving Week

• In observance of Thanksgiving, the Commissary will be open Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The store will be closed Thursday and Friday.

Demolition and Remediation Sites• Works at POL10-3, near the gas station, are completed. At POL10-2 (near Bldg. 20006), works are expected

to be completed no later than the end of November. Please remember to follow the speed limits and stay safe while driving near this area.

SHAPE Trips & ToursServing Brussels, Chièvres and SHAPE. Call DSN 423-3884 or +32 (0)65-443884.

• London, Nov. 25• Luxembourg Christmas Markets, Dec. 2• Reykjavik & Iceland, Dec. 3-7• Düsseldorf, Germany Christmas Markets, Dec. 9• Strasbourg, France, Dec. 16• Aachen and Monschau, Germany, Dec. 23• Paris, Dec. 27• New Year's Celebration in Berlin, Dec. 29 - Jan. 1• Amsterdam Light Festival, Jan. 13• Thermae 2000 in Valkenburg, Jan. 20

• Belgian Beer Tour in Antwerp, Feb. 3• Japan, Feb. 9-16• Valentine's Dinner Cruise on the Seine in Paris, Feb. 17• Marrakech and Essaouira, Morocco, Apr. 8-15 (School Break)

Schinnen Trips & ToursCall DSN 360-7560 or +31 (0) 46-4437560.

• Cologne Christmas Markets, Dec. 2• London Express, Dec. 9• Bruges, Jan. 13• Luxembourg, Feb. 17• Weekend Trip to Normandy, France, Jul. 20-23

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AAFES is Hiring• AAFES is hiring on Chièvres Air Base. To apply, visit https://www.applymyexchange.com. For more information,

call DSN 361-5337 or +32 (0)68-275337.Through Nov. 30

• Dinovember - Visit the SHAPE International Library during November to learn all about dinosaurs. Create your best Dinovember scene, take a photo of it and submit to the SHAPE International Library by Nov. 30 for a chance to win a "DINOMYTE" prize! For more information, call DSN 423-5631 or +32 (0)65-445631.

Through Dec. 9• American Legion Oratorical Scholarship Contest - The American Legion "Flanders Field" Post BE02 will

sponsor the first stage of the American Legion High School Scholarship Contest Dec. 9 starting at 1 p.m. at SHAPE American Middle School. The contest is open to U.S. high school freshmen through seniors, or the home-school equivalent. The local prizes are $250 for first place and advancement to the Department of France competition, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place. For more information, visit

http://postbe02oratoricalcontest.weebly.com or email flanders.fields.post.be02@gmail.com.Through Dec. 13

• Winter Driving Training Classes - The Logistics Readiness Center will provide mandatory annual winter driving classes for government license holders. Classes are held at SHAPE Bldg. 220 training room on Wednesdays from 9:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. (in English). For more information, call DSN 366-6603 or

+32 (0)65-326603.Nov. 23

• Thanksgiving Dinner at the SHAPE Club - Skip the cooking and have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at the SHAPE Club (Bldg. 903) starting at 6:30 p.m. Cost is €9 per child and €18 per adult. Reservations are required. Please call DSN 423-4133 or +32(0)65-444133 or email shapeclub@shapemwb.be.

Nov. 24• 80's Night at B3's Bar - Travel back to the 1980's as DJ Pillepalle plays gnarly jams. Doors open at 10 p.m.

Nov. 25• German Christkindlmarkt - Experience an authentic German Christmas Market at SHAPE. There will be

crafts, decorations, baked goods, German foods, and glühwein for sale from noon to 5 p.m. at the SHAPE School cafeteria. All proceeds will go to charity.

• A Taste of Norway - This event held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the SHAPE Chapel Center. Activities include Kids' Christmas workshop, handmade arts and crafts, and a performance by the Royal Norweigan Navy Band. Norweigan food and drinks will be served. All donations will go to charity.

Nov. 27 - Dec. 2• SHAPE International Basketball Tournament - The opening ceremony begins at 7:15 p.m. Games are

scheduled each day, and the playoffs start Nov. 30. For the full schedule, go to www.shape2day.com.Nov. 28

• SHAPE Arts & Crafts Centre Open House - Check out arts and crafts for sale in the SHAPE Library (Bldg. 307) lobby from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information, call +32(0)65-446049 or

artsandcraftsshape@gmail.com. Dec. 5

• BUN-D Grand Opening - The BUN-D will host its grand opening at noon in the Army and Air Force Exchange Service, or AAFES, Mall on Chièvres Air Base.

Upcoming Organized Trips & Tours

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You may experience some delays while driving in Belgium this season. Road construction projects are occurring throughout the country and may result

in temporary lane closures and road congestion. We will provide regular updates to ensure that the community is informed and prepared.

Please be cautious and patient while driving at all times. If you have questions or would like to report other highway construction sites and road closures, please

email the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Public Affairs Office at usarmy.benelux.id-europe.list.pao@mail.mil.

Mons/Nimy: Because of the Mons-Obourg project, there is still road congestion at all hours of the day on the boulevards in Mons and on N6 between Mons and the access to the highway in Nimy.

Andenne/Daussoux (E42/A15): The three-way yard project between Andenne and Daussoulx has been underway since August. This project involves 15 km in both directions. Two lanes of traffic will be maintained. Work is scheduled to be completed by August 2018.

Route de Wallonie: Try to avoid this road in Ghlin. This construction project is still underway, and the scheduled completion date is to be determined.

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Highway Construction and Road Closures

Tournai-Mons (E42): Work on the bridge started Nov. 13 in Bernissart and is expected to last two years. Traffic will be reduced to only one lane in the direction of Mons.

Brussels-Tournai (E429): Pay attention if you are driving from Zutendaal. There is road congestion on E429, between Tubize and Hoves, in the direction of Tournai/Lille. Traffic is reduced to one lane, and the speed of traffic is reduced to 50 km/h. Work is scheduled to be finished by the end of November.

Mons-Obourg (E19-A7): There is still road congestion due to the rehabilitation of the section between Mons and Obourg in the direction of Brussels. Work is scheduled to be completed by the end of November.

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Through Nov. 23• Indoor Winter Fair in Den Bosch (NL) - Held in

Brabanthallen on Diezekade 2. Entry: €20 for adults and €9 for children age 4 to 11. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Through Nov. 26• PAN Amsterdam (NL) – This is a large international

art and antique fair held at RAI in Amsterdam. Every year, more than a hundred art and antique dealers sell paintings, jewelry, design, silverwork, glass, statues, Asian art and more. Open Wednesday and Friday from noon to 9 p.m., Thursday from noon to 6 p.m, and Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. Entry: €15 for adults, €7.50 for children ages 12 to 18, and free for children age 11 and younger.

• Country & Christmas Fair (NL) – Held at the Castle De Haar near Haarzuilens (NL). The fair has more than 200 stands featuring exclusive articles, accessories and novelties. Open Wednesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry: €20 for adults; €10 for children age 12 to 16.

Nov. 24-25• “Gees in Winter” (NL) - The beautiful village is

transformed into a winter wonderland. Attendees will enjoy the many activities, music, theater, culture and stands with decorations, furniture, antiques and more. Open Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Nov. 25• Attractive Antique & Curiosa Market in Roermond

(NL) - Held at Kloosterwandplein in the center of Roermond from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nov. 26• Vintage Winter & Christmas Fair (NL) - Held at

Preuverie in de Wiesj on Wissengrachtweg 6 in Hulsberg (NL) from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Entry: €2.50.

Nov. 29 - Dec. 3 • Barbara Market (GE) - Held in in the center of

Pulheim (GE). Open all days from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.Through Dec. 24

• Christmas Show (NL) - Held at Lupa Outdoors Vijvercentrum Limburg on Op de Bies 70 in Schimmert. Open Mondays from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Through Jan. 31• Winter Efteling in Tilburg (NL) - Held at Efteling

Amusement & Fairy Tale Park in Kaatsheuvel on Europalaan near Tilburg. Open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., weekends and Dec. 20 to Jan. 4 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Dec. 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Entry: €40.

Read about events near Brunssum and Schinnen (in the Netherlands unless otherwise indicated).

Read about events near Chièvres, SHAPE and Brussels.Through Dec. 3

• Autumn Fair in Mons - The traditional Autumn Fair stands on the Grand'Place until Dec. 3 and near the Grands Prés, on Avenue Abel Dubois, until Dec. 10. There are more than 65 attractions for all ages.

Through Dec. 7• Brussels Museums Late Night Openings - Each

Thursday, between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., at least five museums offer guided tours and workshops. It's the occasion to discover the Brussels museums in a relaxed atmosphere. The full schedule is at http://brusselsmuseumsnocturnes.be/en/. For more information, call +32 (0)25-127780. Reservations are required. Free entry.

Through Feb. 25• Exhibition in Mons: David LaChapelle. After the

Deluge - The Beaux-Arts Mons (BAM) is hosting, for the first time in Belgium, a major exhibition dedicated to the American photographer and director David LaChapelle. With an international reputation in the world of fashion, advertising and fine art photography, his work is characterized by touches of surrealism and humor. Held on Rue Neuve, 8. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call +32 (0)65-405325 or visit

http://www.polemuseal.mons.be/en. Entry is €9. Free entry on every first Sunday of the month.Nov. 24-26

• Christmas Market in Hautrage - Held at the Sports Center on Rue Gustave Miroir. Open Friday from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday from 2 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Free entry.

Nov. 25-26• Christmas Market in Nimy - Attendees wil l

find traditional Christmas goods, accessories, decorations, jewelry, food and drinks. Held on Place de Nimy. Open from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free entry.

• Book Fair in Mons - Attendees will find many literary genres: comics, art, audio, history, youth, poetry, culture, romance, cooking and more. Held at Lotto Mons Expo on Avenue Thomas Edison, 2. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free entry.

Nov. 26• Volksmarch in Le Roeulx for 5, 10, 15 or 20 km

Departs Grand Place, 37-38 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.• Volksmarch in Bon-Secours for 5, 10, 15 or 20

km - Departs Rue des Sapins from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.• Volksmarch in Piéton for 5, 10 or 20 km - Departs

Rue Laurent, 18 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.• Flea Market in Anderlecht - Held on Boulevard

Sylvain Dupuis featuring 300 booths from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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eNovember 22, 2017

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Christmas Markets in the Benelux Special to the Gazette

Starting at the end of November, many Christmas Markets open their gates in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. In Germany every town, city or village has at least one Christmas Market. Some even have four or five. Most German Christmas Markets start around Friday and close around Dec. 23 or 24. On Sunday, a German religious fest day, many markets will be closed or open for only a few hours. In Belgium and the Netherlands, the majority of Christmas Markets do not start until after the fest of Sinterklaas, Dec. 5 and 6. This week’s Outside the Gate includes a few Christmas Markets and fairs. A large list of Christmas markets and fairs in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands will be available soon.Through Nov. 26

• Country & Christmas Fair in Haarzuilens – Held at Castle De Haar. More than 200 stands featuring exclusive articles, accessories and novelties. Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry: €20 for adults; €10 for children age 12 to 16.

Nov. 23-25, Nov. 29 to Dec. 3 & Dec. 6-10, 13-17, 20-23• Opening of the Castle Merode - Christmas Market

(GE) - The market is open Wednesdays to Thursdays, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m. Entry is €7 (Wednesdays to Fridays), €8 from Saturdays to Sundays, and €2 for children age 6 to 16.

Nov. 23-25, 30 to Dec. 3, 7-10, 14-17• Christmas Market in Bad Sassendorf (GE) - Open

from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.Nov. 24-26

• Finnish Christmas Market in Rotterdam (NL) - Held on Gravendijkwal, 64 with lots of Finnish articles and delicacies. Open Friday from noon to 8 p.m., and Saturday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nov. 24-28• Magical Christmas Moments in Bruges (BE) – Held

in Oud Sint-Janshospitaal, in the center of Bruges, the event offers a variety of gifts, Christmas decorations, and workshops. Open all days from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry: €15; free for children age 13 and younger.

Nov. 24-Dec. 23• Christmas Market in Aachen (GE) – Held around

the historic Town Hall. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., except Sunday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Nov. 24-Dec. 30• Christmas Village in Liège (BE) - Held at Place

de Marché and Place Saint-Lambert, this is the largest Christmas Market in Belgium. Open Sundays to Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Thursdays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to midnight.

Through Dec. 23• Christmas Market in Valkenburg (NL) - Located

in a cave in Gemeentegrot on Cauberg, 4. Open Mondays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Dec. 23, the market will open from noon to 6 p.m. Entry: €7 for adults; €5 for children age 5 to 11.

• Another Christmas Market in Valkenburg (NL) - Held in the Fluwelen, or Velvet, Cave under the castle ruins on Daalhemmerweg. Open Sundays to Thursdays from noon to 7 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Dec. 23, the market will open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry: €7 for adults; €5 for children age 5 to 11.

• Christmas Market in Bonn (GE) – Held on the Münsterplatz, the Bottlerplatz, the Friedensplatz and connecting streets. The vendors offer traditional Christmas goods such as candles, arts and crafts and more. Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sunday.

• Warm Winter Weeks in Soest (NL) – Held at Garden Center Vaarderhoogt on Dorresteinweg. It has a Christmas village with many nostalgic shops, music, and more. Open all days from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. No entrance fees.

Through Dec. 24• Christmas Show in Schimmert - Held at Lupa

Outdoors Vijvercentrum Limburg on Op de Bies 70. Open Mondays from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Christmas Show in Valkenburg - In English country style at Ricos on Hekerweg, 37. Open Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays to Sundays from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Through Jan. 17• Valkenburg - Christmas Town - On Wednesday at 7

p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., a Christmas parade with floats will move through the center. u

Courtesy photo.