BASH: Big Annual Summer Happening Published June 29, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Carnival rides, face painting, live music and more can only mean one thing - the Bitburg Big Annual Summer Happening is in full swing. The 50th Annual BASH, open to all base personnel, retirees, civilians and local nationals, kicked off Thursday and runs through Sunday. "The BASH serves as a celebration to enhance community relations with our local hosts and it is the primary means for 52nd Services Squadron to "give back" to the Saber community," said John Olson, 52nd SVS director of marketing. "Services uses MWR funds to provide high quality carnival rides, attraction, and entertainment at reasonable prices." There will be bazaar's each day, carnival rides for every age, face painting, magic show, scavenger hunt, "Making the Act" competition and numerous of games for children. "There is so much going on and so much to do," Mr. Olson said. "Folks have a chance to win a five-piece furniture set from one of our sponsors. We have live entertainment scheduled for each night with a different genre of music from country and R&B to Latin and salsa and a live performance from a popular alternative rock band "Lit." It's going to be awesome!" Highlight events include reduced carnival rides Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. and a performance by "Lit," best known for songs like "My Own Worst Enemy" and "Miserable" Saturday from 10 - 11:30 p.m. followed by an autograph session. "All music and most children's events are free, including admission/entry," Mr. Olson said. "The only costs our customers will incur are rides, food (supporting private organizations), beverages and face painting. The thought is to provide a fun filled family experience to our Airmen and German friends for little or no cost. That is what Services does!" Dog owners have the opportunity to show off their best friend during the Dog Day Afternoon Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. Competition categories include cutest dog, most unique breed, smallest dog, largest dog, best trick, best dressed, best haircut, best in show, best behaved and most "look-a-like" the owner. Owners and their dogs must arrive 15 minutes early to register. Dogs must be kept on a six foot lead at all times. Participants must bring paper towels and bags to clean up after their dogs. Once the show is over, dogs must be removed from the BASH area. Pets are only allowed on Sunday for the dog show. In addition, no back-packs, alcoholic beverages, bottles or sharp objects are authorized at the BASH. "This is a big event for the Wing as well as the Eifel community and we'd encourage everyone to take advantage of it," Mr. Olson said. "It's a great way to spend quality time with friends, family and associates. Awesome rides, terrific children's events and some world class entertainment. There's something for everyone, it's our 50th so come out and be a part of history." Event times: Friday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday from noon to 1 a.m. * Reduced rides noon to 2 p.m. * Dog show noon to 2 p.m. * "Lit" performance 10 - 11:30 p.m. Sunday from noon to 1 a.m. * Reduced rides noon to 2 p.m.