What’s Inside

OutlookFeb. 12, 2009 U.S. Army Garrisons Vicenza & Livorno www.USAG.Vicenza.Army.Mil Vol. 42, Issue 5

Garrison newspages 2 & 3

Patterns of Success

“Tell me a story”

Carnevale safety

Army IG visit

Speak Out

Hiking Dolomite

Scam alert

Visa-waiver flights

Who’s at your service?

Communityevents

pages 4 & 5

Tranquil Merano

Trivia quiz

Camp Darby ITR/ODR

Community newspages 6 & 7

Out & About

Movie schedule

Post notes

Sportspage 8

Soldier’s B-ball back

VHS basketball

The

Top grunts take EIBs

Story and photos bySpc. Gregory Argentieri173rd ABCT Public Affairs

VICENZA, Italy - Ever sinceits creation in October, 1943,when one hundred Soldiers werevying to be one of the first toearn the Expert Infantryman’sBadge, and only one walkedaway successful, all infantrymendream of the day that they willearn the coveted badge.

After a series ofprerequisites, weeks of trainingand a battery of graded tests oninfantry skills 126 out of 450, SkySoldiers from Germany and Italyreceived their EIBs at aceremony Jan. 30 at the posttheater on Caserma Ederle.

A special group of 19 Soldiersknown as the "True Blue"completed the course without asingle retest or “No-Go”.Soldiers are permitted two No-Gos for the entire EIB course,which consisted of 18 stationsand more than 30 sub-stations.Soldiers who receive two No-Gos are called "Blade Runners"because they must walk a fineline to finish the EIB course.

Historically the EIB test passrate is between 5 -10 percent.The 173rd Airborne BrigadeCombat Team had a pass rate

of 28 percent.173rd ABCT command

sergeant major, Command Sgt.Maj. Nicholas A. Rollingaddressed the standing roomonly crowd at the post theaterbefore presenting the EIBs.

"Today is a special day inawarding the EIB badge, but thisdid not happen in one day orweek, it began three months agowith hundreds of hours ofplanning. Nothing was easy,"said Rolling. "The instructorsspent over 12 hours a day, everyday for several weeks in the

snow, ice and freezing rain, withonly a few days of sunlight.”

Twenty-five years of Armyexperience helped first timer 1stSgt. Buss L. Wood, HHC, 1-503rd, earn his EIB.

"With all the prerequisites itwas probably a month, with a lotof mud, a lot of getting wet. Itell you I couldn't be prouder, itwas very good training," saidWood.

Soldiers had to complete theprerequisites which included atimed 12-mile ruck-march, a PTtest with a higher standard thanthe Army standard, firing experton a weapon, and completing aday and night land navigationcourse.

Eight year veteran, Staff Sgt.Stephen J. Obert, HHC, 1-503rd, has been selected toattend Special Forces trainingstarting in March, so this was hislast opportunity as a prior No-Go to redeem himself.

"In 2004, I tied for the EIBand failed it because of the handgrenades. This time I got a littlered ink on call for fire, I made asimple mistake and it made thewhole experience a little moreintense," said Obert. "Personallyit just feels really good to earn it,it's always been a goal of mineto earn EIB, and I am just reallyglad and fortunate that I did."

SkySoldiersearnExpertInfantryBadge

A paratrooper readies ahand grenade for the 25-meter target during theExpert Infantryman’sBadge training Jan. 28. Thegrenade must land withinfive meters of its target orSoldiers receive a "No-Go."

Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Obert, HHC, 1-503rd, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, is close to earning hiscoveted Expert Infantryman’s Badge after three deployments and nearly eight years in the Army.

Feb. 12, 2009

Garrison news

SpeakOut

What do you consider the idealValentine’s Day gift? -By Laura Kreider

Outlook Staff

Chaplain (Maj.)Kelly Porter

USAG Livorno

“To know I am trulyloved by my wife.”

Sgt. John GonzalezHHC, 2-503rd

“Maybe a spongebath from my wife.”

Amanda, Grady andGunnar D’HondtFamily members

“ A date night withoutthe kids.“

Candy Hernandez andGaby Munoz

Students

“I think its amazingwhen I get somethingpersonal.” “I like cards asI can keep them forever.”

Pete HullerDPTMS

“The best gift I couldget would be a full daywith my wonderful wife.”

2 THE Outlook

Story and photo byBetty PhilipsSpecial to the Outlook

On Jan.31 the communityjoined together in the post chapelactivity room to hear Maj.Gen.William B. Garrett III,commander SETAF/U.S. ArmyAfrica, read a story about a littlegirl called Mercedes and an AirForce pilot , Col. Gail Halvorsen.Halvorson became known asthe Chocolate Pilot during theBerlin airlift.

This special event called “Tellme a story” was created by theMilitary Child EducationCoalition and hosted by the

“Tell me a story” hitwith local families

Maj. Gen. William Garrett III, commander SETAF-U.S. Army Africa, signscopies of Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot for local children.

Lt. Gen. R. Steven Whitcomb (center), the Dept. of the Army InspectorGeneral, speaks with 1st Lt. Ian MacGregor (left) and Spc.JonathanConstancio from 2-503rd Infantry (Airborne)during a break from theirCombatives Level II training. Whitcomb visited Caserma Ederle Feb.2-3 to gain a better understanding of SETAF-U.S. Army Africa, USAG-V,and tenant units; conduct unit training and readiness assessments;and check on the health, welfare, and morale of leaders and Soldiers.The itinerary included two sessions with enlisted personnel fromacross the installation and toured facilities on Caserma Ederle andDal Molin. (Photo by Sgt. Maj. Kimberly Williams, SETAF Public Affairs)

Vicenza Parent to Parent Team,with the help of many communityvolunteers and funds fromseveral post organizations.Eighty children and their parentsattended the event where theyreceived a complimentary copyof the book Mercedes and theChocolate Pilot, written byMargot Theis Raven.

Following the reading, thegroup divided into small groupswhere families brainstormedabout ways to help others. Everychild made a handkerchiefparachute and then each familyhad their book signed by Maj.Gen. Garrett. The children wereencouraged to write letters to be

sent to Halvorsen with ideas ofhow they could help others in ourcommunity.

The event was to empowermilitary children through

literature and their own storiesto fosters skills for resilience,peer and parent connections, asense of accomplishment, anda caring community.

Army IG checks out Caserma

Carnevale is coming. The festivities run from Feb.13-24 , makingVenice one of the top tourist destinations throughout Europe. Ifyou plan to visit Venice and partake in the fun and festivities, keepsafety at the forefront. Here are some tips that can help keep thefun safe.

* Hotels will be at a premium. If you don't already have areservation, you probably won't get one, so have a plan before yougo and know where you and your friends will sleep.

* Have a transportation plan; remember public transportationwill be busy. "Whoever is the less drunk will drive" is not a plan.

* Carnevale is not child friendly. It may be more efficient andsafer to use a child carrying backpack rather than a stroller.

* Dress for the weather, and expect cold and rain.* Keep valuables in hard to get to places.* Watch your footing, Venice can have slick walkways.* Use the buddy system and stay close to your group; there is

usually safety in numbers.* Have emergency numbers and contacts stored on your phone.* The costumes and masks can hinder your vision, so go slowly. ITR has several trips worth checking out. Keep safety in mind

and you can have the Venetian experience of a lifetime without thehassles. For more information call the safety office at 634-7045.

Being safe at Carnevale

Feb. 12, 2009 THE Outlook 3

Garrison news

SETAF CommanderMaj. Gen. William B. Garrett III

USAG Vicenza Commander and PublisherCol. Erik Daiga

USAG VicenzaPublic Affairs Officer

Jon Fleshman

EditorGary L. Kieffer

PhotojournalistLaura Kreider

The Outlook is an unoff ic ialpublication authorized and provided byAR 360-1.

All editorial content of The Outlookis prepared, edited, provided andapproved by the U.S. Army GarrisonVicenza Public Affairs Office in building3, room 101 on Caserma Ederle inVicenza, Italy. Telephone DSN 634-7000,

The Outlook Feb. 12, 2009 Vol. 42, Issue 6

off post at 0444-71-7000 or e-mail:editor@eur.army.mil.

The Outlook is published weekly bythe USAG Vicenza PAO, Unit 31401, Box10, APO AE 09630. It is printed by CentroStampa Editoriale SRL, Grisignano (VI)0444-414-303.

Editorial publication is an authorizedsection for members of the U.S. Armyoverseas. Contents of The Outlook arenot necessarily the official views of, orendorsed by, the U.S. government,Department of Defense, Department ofthe Army, Installation ManagementCommand-Europe, U.S. Army GarrisonVicenza or the U.S. Army SouthernEuropean Task Force.

Submissions: Send all submissionsfor publication to editor@eur.army.mil.Submissions should be made via e-mailand must be received by Monday at noonfor that week’s publication.

The editor reserves the right to edit allsubmissions for style, brevity and clarity.Circulation is 2,500 per week.

At your service

CTC Europe field representative

Avonne RosarioCTC Europe field rep

Story and photo byDarin RobinsonSpecial to the Outlook

It was snowing as the VMS Outdoor Education class came overthe edge of the Dolomites and pulled onto the snow covered gravelroad that led to the fields and wooded hills on which they wouldsoon be traveling. Students hurriedly put on their boots and beganthe short trek up to the snowshoeing area.

When they reached deep snow each student helped anotherstrap on their snowshoes. Then it was time to get a bit of practicewalking in, what could be equated to "really big feet." Soon all thestudents were slogging along the trail as snow continued to floatdown from the sky. Now it was time to dig in and climb some hillsso that each student could use all the training that they receivedwhile carrying their packs and hiking each day in their outdooreducation class.

When the woods were reached, Chris Wolf from OutdoorRecreation led the students into the trees to an area for a snackand do a little "post-holing" without their snowshoes on. After somenutrition and fun in the snow, the students once again donned theirsnowshoes and headed back the way they came, ending theiradventure with a bit of thick, Italian hot chocolate at a local refugio.

Hiking DolomiteVicenza Middle School students trudge through the snow of the ItalianAlps in snowshoes as part of outdoor education.

By Kent ThompsonUSAG VicenzaFinancial ReadinessProgram manager

Consumers need to bevigilant when seekingemployment online. The IC3continues to receive numerouscomplaints from individuals whohave fallen victim to work-at-home scams.

Victims are often hired to"process payments," "transferfunds," or "reship products."These job scams involve thevictims receiving and cashingfraudulent checks, transferringillegally obtained funds for thecriminals, or receiving stolenmerchandise and shipping it tothe criminals.

Other victims sign up to be a"mystery shopper," receiving

Work-at-home scams

fraudulent checks withinstructions to cash the checksand wire the funds to "test" acompany's services. Victims aretold they will be compensatedwith a portion of themerchandise or funds.

Work-at-home schemesattract otherwise innocentindividuals, causing them tobecome part of criminal schemeswithout realizing they are

engaging in illegal behavior.Job scams often provide

criminals the opportunity tocommit identity theft whenvictims provide their personalinformation, sometimes evenbank account information, totheir potential "employer."

The criminal employer canthen use the victim's informationto open credit cards, post on-lineauctions and register websites,in the victim's name to commitadditional crimes.

If you have been a victim ofinternet crime, file a complaintat www.ic3.gov.

ACS FRP note: AAFES alsohas a "mystery shopper"program. It is important to notethat AAFES' mystery shopperprogram is not a scam.

For more information callACS FRP at: 634-8634.

Traveling spaceavailable from visawaiver country

Military dependents fromvisa-waiver countries areallowed to travel space availableon military aircraft to the U.S.and may be admitted as visitorsto the U.S. under the visawaiver program (VWP).

VWP military dependents arerequired to have in theirpossession:

- A valid passport from theirvisa-waiver country.

-A military dependentidentification card issued by theU.S. military department of theirsponsor, i.e., U.S. Army.

- An approved travelauthorization via the ElectronicSystem for Travel Authorization(ESTA).

The sponsor must accompany

Don’t miss your flightthem and should have:

-If active duty, orders or leavepapers from their command.

-If retired, a military retiredidentification card.

The military dependent mustnot intend to immigrate whileflying military space available.There are other documentsrequired for such cases andimmigrating military dependentsmust arrive at a Custom andBorder Protection (CBP) Portof Entry where they can beprocessed as immigrants.Military bases are not equippedto process such cases.

Military dependents shouldnote that an approved ESTA isnot a guarantee of admissibilityto the U.S. at a port of entry. Inall cases, CBP officers makeadmissibility determinations atU.S. ports of entry or pre-clearance facilities.

To record their departure

from the United States, thetraveler should surrender their I-94 to a CBP representative, ifavailable. If no representative isavailable, mail the I-94 alongwith the supporting documentssuch as boarding pass andkeeping a copy for their recordsto:

DHS - CBP SBU1084 South Laurel RoadLondon, KY 40744For more information call the

passport office at 634-7721.

Avonne Rosario is a Central Texas College Europe fieldrepresentative at the Vicenza education center on CasermaEderle.

"As the field representative I help students enroll forcourses, choose degree plans, get official evaluations andtranscripts and answer financial aid questions," said Rosario.

"I also recruit faculty members for on-site classes anddeployed positions,” she added.

Rosario can be found in the Education Center, 2nd Floor,Room 206. Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - noon and 1-4 p.m.Call 634-5414 or email vicenza@europe.ctcd.edu.

4 THE Outlook Feb. 12, 2009

Community events

Story and photos bySamantha SmithOutlook Volunteer

For travelers looking for agreat weekend destination a littleoff the beaten path, Merano,located in the beautiful SouthTyrol region of Italy, fits the bill.Merano is an easy drive up theA-22 Autostrada towardBrennero. Expect to hear a lotof German spoken, as it's themother tongue in this region.

With a long history as a sparesort, the town boasts abeautiful indoor/outdoorswimming complex rightdowntown called ThermeMeran. Open weekdays 1-10p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. - 10p.m., adults pay 10-15 Euro andkids pay 7-10 Euro depending onthe length of your stay. Moreinformation is available inEnglish at www.termemerano.it.The baths also offer convenientunderground parking.

Another treat downtown arethe many walking paths along thePassirio River with severallovely bridges to stop andcontemplate the view. The Northside also boasts several cafesand gelaterias to stop and havea pick-me-up.

Take the chairlift from viaGallilei near the CastelloPrincipesco up to MonteBenedetto and continue on footpast picturesque apple orchardsuntil you get to the Castel Tiroloor Castle Tyrol. There is also abus that runs along the main roadif the walk proves too difficult.The Castle is open Mar. 13-Nov.29, Tue.-Sun., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.It is closed Mon., with twoexceptions: April 13 and June 1for the Italian holidays. Cost is 6Euro per person or 12 Euro fora family of four. The views overthe valley are magnificent andyou can stop and have lunchalong the way at one of the manyrestaurants with outdoorterraces.

Instead of taking the liftdown, plan on walking along thePasseggiata Tappeiner(Tappeiner Promenade) and youwill be rewarded with moreviews and a walking path thatwinds through a botanical gardenon its way back down toMerano.

Accommodations can be a bitexpensive, but there are bargainsto be found if you stay outsideof the downtown area. Onesuch place is Hotel Gruberhof(www.hotelgruberhof.com), acomfortable spot within walkingdistance of downtown withprices from 38 Euro per personwith breakfast. The hotel also

offers dinners and has a niceswimming pool and relaxingbackyard.

Or trywww.meranerland.com forother reasonably priced hotels.Remember, star ratings in Italydon't necessarily refer tocleanliness or charm of a hotel,

Tranquil alpine beauty of Merano

but are a way for thegovernment to determine theprice range that a hotel cancharge based on the servicesoffered. With this in mind, a oneor two-star hotel will sometimesfit the bill, and the pocketbook,just fine.

If you're looking for another

reason to visit the area, take a lookat www.merano.info to see whatkinds of events are happening in thearea this year. Of note is theTraditional Haflinger horserace setfor April 13 and the annual JazzFestival, June 7-12.

To get to Merano, take the A-22Autostrada in direction Brennero.

Exit the autostrada atBolzano Sud and follow thesigns for Merano. Pick up afree map of the area at thetourist office located atCorso Libertà 45 just acrossthe bridge from the PiazzaTerme or call them at 39-0473-272000.

The spectacular view from the mountain sideTappeiner Promonade down across the valley floor towards the town of Merano.

(Far left, top) The CastleTyrol dominates the hilltopanove Merano. (Far left,bottom) The Passirio Riverflows through the valleyand has a pleasantwalkway along itsbanks.(Above) Childrenenjoy a refreshing drinkfrom the well in the castlecourtyard. (Left) Thecourtyard of the CastleTyrol is fully accessable toenter.

5 THE Outlook Feb. 12, 2009

Community events

DDDDDarbyates

By Joyce CostelloUSAG Livorno Public Affairs

Command Sgt. Maj. FelixRodriguez, the USAG LivornoCommand Sgt. Maj., used hiscreativity and ingenuity to comeup with a new way to help

Exploring diversity daily keeps community on its toeseducate theCamp Darbyc o m m u n i t yabout African-A m e r i c a nH e r i t a g eMonth. Hedecided to do adaily triviaquestion via e-mail to those onthe CampDarby e-maildistribution listwith winnersreceiving smallprizes donatedfrom AAFESand DECAvendors.

"I thought inmy mind- 'isthere anothermedium thatwe could use toeducate thew h o l ecommunity?'"said Rodriguez.

"My intent is to allow all of thoseworking on Camp Darby to learnwhile they researched and at thesame time give them a betterappreciation for the African-American heritage."

Stacy Walker, who correctlyidentified Vernon Baker as an

answer to one day’s trivia saidshe has used this opportunity tofurther educate her children.

"My son had to do a reportfor school and he wanted to doa report on Martin Luther King,Jr., along with the other 27children in his class, but I insistedthat he learn about some of thegreat men who served asBuffalo Soldiers, like VernonBaker," said Walker.

During the Feb. 2, kick-off ofAfrican-American heritagemonth, USAG Livornocommander, Lt. Col. StevenCade told gatherers that "theselittle nuggets of knowledge area unique way to learn abouthistory, where we came fromand where we are today."

Rodriquez added that Cpt.Nathaniel Paschal from theLivorno Unit Health Clinic didall the research for the questionsand the trivia challenge is opento all personnel with valid IDcards and authorized to purchasein the commissary and PX , butonly once per day. Past winnersmay continue to participate.

Upon receipt of the dailychallenge, bring written answersto the community mail room andplace them in the designatedcardboard box before 5 p.m.Make sure to add your name, e-

mail address and telephonenumber. Do not e-mail youranswers or call AFN with youranswers.

Answer sheets will be pulledat random, the first person withthe correct answer is the winnerand will be announced the nextday. The winner will need to call633-7505 upon notification.

Example question: I was born in Washington in

1877, and first entered themilitary as a temporary firstlieutenant on July 13, 1898, duringthe Spanish-American War.Mustered out in 1899, I enlistedas a private just six months later.Within two years, I wascommissioned a secondlieutenant of cavalry in theregular Army. My service as anofficer with the famed BuffaloSoldiers regiment in thePhilippines and on the Mexicanborder was exemplary. Ibecame the first AfricanAmerican to be promoted tobrigadier general in the U.S.Army and in the armed forces.Who am I?

To read past questions andanswers, visitwww.usag.livorno.army.mil andclick on the African-AmericanHistory Month banner.

Camp Darby Out & About

Dietician visitingCamp Darby

The dietician from theVicenza Health Center willbe available forappointments at theUSAHC-Livorno on Feb.19. For more informationcall 633-7357 for anappointment.

Single servicemember meal

Stop by, pick up a plateor eat in on Feb. 24.Contact ACS for details.

Saving and investingBefore you begin to

invest, there are questionsto ask and information toknow. Class coversassessing liabilities vs.assets, budgeting basicsand more on Feb. 26.

Call 633-7084 fordetails.

Interview skillstraining

Get tips on putting yourbest foot forward at thisinformative class on Feb.27. Call ACS for details.

Story hourDon't miss story hour

every Wednesday at 10a.m. for children ages 3 to5.

Call the post library at633-7623 for details.

Karaoke nightYou can stop singing in

the shower now, join theDarby community Clubkaraoke night and impressyour friends on Feb. 26.Call 633-7855 forinformation.

Reintegration,relationships & PTSD

Find tips on how tobetter manage familyrelationships and dealingwith Post Traumatic StressDisorder following adeployment at thisinformative class on Feb.18. Call 633-7084.

Army Family TeamBuilding level 1

Level 1 training featuresmilitary acronyms andterms, the chain ofcommand and introductionto military customs andcourtesies. Class isplanned for Feb. 18.

For more informationcall 633-7084.

Crazy about chocolate?Choccolandia 2009 is a chocolate

festival that will take place in Livorno Feb.14-15 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the CruiseTerminal at Livorno Port. Producers fromall over Italy will display their products.Classes on chocolate art and its couplingwith foods and wines are on offer.

As part of the show, there will be a"Cioc Beauty Farm" where all the positiveeffects of chocolate on beauty will behighlighted. The cost of the ticket is 3Euros.

It is easy to get to the show area justfollowing the signs "imbarco traghetti"(ferry-boat embarkation).

For additional information contactSpazioEventi di Patrizia Noce at 3476357063 or e-mail: www.spazio-eventi.itor info@spazio-eventi.it

Carnivals aboundCarnevale di Viareggio trip

The Carnival of Viareggio is a yearlyevent held in the Tuscan city of Viareggio.It is considered among the most renownedcarnival celebrations in Europe. Theparade features floats and masks depictingcaricatures of popular people. The paradeis held on the Viareggio avenue locatedalongside the local beach. The ITR tripthis year is Feb. 22.

Call ITR at 633-7589 for information.

Marlia (LU)The Carnival in Marlia was established

in 1904, it is one of the most popular carnivalcelebrations in Tuscany, it will take placeFeb.15, 22, and Mar. 1, from 2:30 p. m. to6 p.m.

For information call Carneval Marlia at0583 30416 or e-mail:www.carnevalmarlia.it.

Orentano (PI)This is a special carnival for children, it

is called the children's carnival, it wasstarted by the local parish in 1956. Thisyear's celebrations will be Feb. 15, 22, and24 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

For information call Ente Carnevale deibambini at:0583 23462 or e-mail:www.orentanocarnevale.it.

Bientina (PI)Bientina carnival is celebrated since 50

years, it includes, besides the traditionalallegoric floats, also a little train loadedwith children passengers riding around thetown. The Carnival concludes withfireworks in the evening Feb 24. Thecalendar will be Feb. 15, 22, and 24 from3 p.m. to 11 p.m.

For information call AssociazioneCarnevale Bientinese at: 333 6996091 ore-mail: URP@comune.bientina.pi.it.

Santa Croce (PI)The carnival in Santa Croce will feature

float parades Feb. 15, 19, and 22, from3:30 p.m. The celebrations will include anexhibition on the history of the carnivaltradition, and a photo contest. The bestcarnival related photo will be used for nextyear's carnival flyers.

For information call Santa CroceMunicipality at: 0571 360592 or e-mail:www.carnevalesantacrocese.it.

Many Italian carnevale celebrations featureparades of floats and costumed revelerssuch as this one in Malo. (Photo by LauraKreider, Outlook Staff)

Now ShowingNow ShowingNow ShowingNow ShowingNow ShowingEderle Theater

Feb. 12 Australia (PG-13) 6 p.m.Feb. 13 Nothing Like the Holidays (PG-13) 6 p.m.

Four Christmases (PG-13) 9 p.m.Feb. 14 He’s Just Not That Into You (PG-13) 3 p.m.

The Day the Earth Stood Still (PG-13) 6 p.m.Feb. 15 He’s Just Not That Into You (PG-13) 2 p.m.

Four Christmases (PG-13) 6 p.m.Feb. 18 Nothing Like the Holidays (PG-13) 6 p.m.

Camp Darby TheaterFeb. 12 Punisher: War Zone (R) 6 p.m.Feb. 13 Glory Road (PG) 6 p.m.Feb. 14 Australia (PG-13) 6 p.m.Feb. 15 Paul Bart: Mall Cop (PG) (1st Run) 2 p.m.

Admission: Age 12 and over $4, under age 12, $2.The Ederle Theatre box office opens one hour prior to show time.

6 THE Outlook Feb. 12, 2009

Looking for the movie synopsis? Check out the AAFES Website: www.aafes.com, scroll to the bottom of the page and click onMovie Schedule.

Looking to buy or sell items? Check out MWR’s Marketplace at www.mwrmarketplace.com.

Out&About by Anna Terracino

Ski tripsEvery weekend ODR takes

you to the slopes so call ODRfor information on equipmentand fees at 634-7453.

Trip to TuscanyVisit the hill towns of Siena,

San Gimignano and

Monteriggioni with iTR! Trips onFeb 28. Siena is Italy's mostpreserved medieval town withmany outstanding works of artand architecture. San Gimignanoand Monteriggioni are bothwalled cities with 13th centurycharm. Call 634-7094 forreservations.

Wine down WednesdayiTR! Trips next wine down

Wednesday trip is to the Bericihills to taste cabernet. On Feb25, 8:15 a.m. -2:30 p.m., you willlearn more about this dark rubywine with an intense and slightlytannic taste. Call 634-7094 tomake reservations.

Snow,hill towns,wine withITR/ODR

Hit the fresh powder in the Dolomite with ODR.

Valentine's Day in ItalyThis holiday is named after

Saint Valentine. According to alegend, during classical Romantimes, Emperor Claudius IIdecreed marriage forbidden forsoldiers.

A priest named Valentineignored this decree andencouraged young people to beunited in holy matrimony. Forthis, he was sentenced to prisonand executed on February 14,273.

Legends vary on how themartyr's name becameconnected with romance: thedate of his death may havebecome mingled with the feastof Lupercalia, a pagan festivalof love, or with the ancient beliefthat birds first mate in the middleof February.

Modern Italy perceivesValentine's Day as a festivityimported from the USA likeHalloween and Mother's Day.

This day is reservedexclusively for couples andlovers; family and friends do nottake part or exchange gifts.However, for those who are inlove this day is an important oneto show their beloved how muchthey care.

In the evening couples usuallygo to dinner at a pizzeria or at arestaurant. Gifts could includered roses or perfume, diamonds,or the famous Baci Perugina.These chocolate-coveredhazelnuts contain a small slip ofpaper with a romantic poeticquote in four different languages.

Valentine's Day in Venice,Feb. 14, starting at 7 p.m., PiazzaSan Marco. Live music, dancesand fireworks.

Verona in Love, Feb. 14, 10a.m. - 7 p.m., Piazza Dei Signori.Un cuore da scoprire: a heart-shaped exhibition and market ofromantic gift ideas, crafts. Livemusic and entertainment. "Lightup your heart" show at 6:45 p.m.in Piazza dei Signori with livemusic and a waterfall of heart-shaped coriandoli (confetti).

Carnevale Float Parade,Feb. 15, 2 p.m., in MontecchioMaggiore, about 12 miles westof Vicenza, Via MatteottiGiacomo,48. Games, foodbooths and live music.

Carnevale, Feb. 15, 3 p.m., inMalo, about 20 miles northwestof Vicenza. Float parade, liveentertainment with the Malo'smusical band and jugglers.Sports center, Piazza Zanini, 6p.m., magic show and live music.Free entrance.

Carnevale in Venice:Children's opening

celebration, Feb. 14, 3 p.m.,Piazza San Marco. Games,entertainment, and childrencostume contest.

Carnevale Party, Feb. 14,from 11 a.m. onwards, Sestieredi Cannaregio. Water Paradewith the participation of theVenice Rowing club and thedistrict's gastronomic specialties.

Dialogo al Buio (Dialogue inthe dark) Carnival Party, CastelloDistrict, Feb. 14 -24, 11 a.m. - 8p.m.

Based on the "Dialogo nelbuio" exhibition, it is held totallyin the dark to intensify all thesenses, especially touch. It offersa completely new "in the dark"experience in collaboration withthe Milan Institute for the Blind.Admission fee: 5 euro.

The angel's flight, Feb. 15,noon, Piazza San Marco.Ancient tradition with a guest-star who "flies" from the Torredel Campanile reaching theground, immediately followed bythe Venice historical parade.

La Festa delle Marie, Feb.15, 3 p.m. Seven Venetian girlsparade accompanied byhistorical traditional groups fromSan Pietro di Castello to Piazza

San Marco. The prize for thewinning "Maria" will be awardedon Feb. 24.

Period Costume Festival,Feb. 15, starts at 3 p.m., PiazzaSan Marco. Period Costumesparade, dances, theatricalperformances.

For detailed information inEnglish about Venice "Sensation- 2009 Carnevale" visit http://www.carnevale.venezia.it/.

Live in Love, Valentine’s Day, Carnevale, concertsFree concerts, exhibits

and classes:S a r a h a c h u s t e r

live@Birracrua, Feb. 12, 9:30p.m., in Vicenza, BirrificioBirracrua, Strada VicinaleMonte Crocetta, 6. Live rockmusic.

The Black Atlantic + KimJanssen, Indie Pop fromNetherlands, Feb. 12, 9 p.m., inVicenza, Bar Sartea, Corso SanFelice.

Piano Concert withConservatory Students, Feb. 14,5 p.m., in Vicenza, Santa ChiaraChapel, Contrà Santa Chiara.

Imgine Peace - PaintingExhibition, Feb. 15 - March 8;10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m and 3 p.m. -7 p.m.; closed on Monday inVicenza, Casa Cogolio, CorsoPalladio 165.

Acoustic Spirit Duo, Feb.15, 9:30 p.m., in Vicenza,Birrificio Birracrua, StradaVicinale Monte Crocetta, 6.

Explore the sky,Astronomical Observatory ofArcugnano, Feb. 17, 8:30 p.m.,Via S. Giustina, 127 - about fivemiles south of Vicenza. Viewthe sky and the planets in greatdetail with their telescope.

Universal Experience Jazznot Dead Festival 2009, Feb. 17,9 p.m., in Vicenza, Bar Sartea,Corso SS Felice.

Movies in EnglishFeb.16, The day the earth

stood still plays at the OdeonTheater in downtown Vicenza,Corso Palladio, 176. Tickets: 6euro. Times: 5 p.m., 7 p.m., and9 p.m. For the schedule ofmovies go to the web site, visitwww.mymovies.it/cinema/vicenza/6217/.

A Heart to Discover is featured in the marketplace of the Piazza diSignori in Verona on Valentine’s Day Feb. 14 along with romantic gifts,crafts and live music. (Photo courtesy Verona Tourist Board)

Religiousactivities

Post notes

Caserma Ederle ChapelCall the chapel at 634-7519

(0444-71-7519) for details onpost religious activities.

Chaplain Crisis Line:To speak with a chaplain afterhours call 634-KARE (634-5273).

Saturday services4p.m.: Sacrament of

Reconciliation, or byappointment.

5 p.m.: Vigil Mass

Sunday Services9 a.m.: Roman Catholic MassMass is held weekdays at

noon.9 a.m.: Protestant Sunday

school and AWANAs (Sept.through May in Vicenza HighSchool)

10:45 a.m.: Catholic religiouseducation (Sept.-May inVicenza High School)

11a.m.: Protestant worship1:30 p.m.: Full Gospel

Pentecostal worship4 p.m.: Lutheran worship6 p.m.: Contemporary

Christian worship

MondayNoon: LDS Scripture Study3:05 p.m.: Middle School Club

in the high school cafeteria.(October -May)

5:30 p.m.: High School Clubin the Teen Center. (October-May)

For details contact JocelynCary at 634-7890 or 349-385-3476 or vicecb@yahoo.com.

Tuesday9:15 a.m.: Protestant Women

of the Chapel

WednesdayNoon: Protestant Men of

the Chapel Bible study (atDFAC)

5:30 p.m.: PWOC eveningBible study

Thursday9:30 a.m.: Catholic Women of

the Chapel5:30 p.m.: Gospel service

choir rehearsal7:15 p.m.: Gospel service

Bible study

Faith group contactsIslamic: Mohamed Noeman

at 634-6306.Jewish: Sandy Schoenberg

at 634-6202 or sandy.schoenberg@eur.army.mil.

Latter Day Saints (LDS):Scripture study is held eachMonday, noon-1 p.m. at theChapel. Sunday services, 9:30a.m.-12:30 p.m. downtown. Fordetails, call Sean Peterson, 335-8219492.

Darby ChapelFor details call the chapel at:

633-7267 (50-54-7267).9:40 a.m.: Catholic

Reconciliation10 a.m.: Catholic Mass11:15 a.m.: Protestant

worshipProtestant Sunday school

starts at 9:45 a.m.Catholic CCD is at 11:15 a.m.

Feb. 12, 2009 THE Outlook 7

All briefs must be received at editor@eur.army.mil noon Monday, or by Friday at 4 p.m. if Monday is a holiday.

Parent Child DanceDFMWR will host the Parent

Child Dinner and Dance at ClubVSaturday, Feb. 21. Dinnerstarts at 6p.m .with dancing tofollow. There will also be freegiveaways and photoopportunities. Enjoy a specialnight out with your children.Ticket costs adult $19 andchildren $14. Tickets are on saleat all CYS locations and TaxRelief Office. Call for more infoDSN: 634-5087.

Road closurePhase 2 electrical

construction will take place onpost through Feb. 28. This is thelast phase of the medium voltageunderground conduit to supportthe new construction of theEnhanced Health ServicesCenter.

During this construction therewill be no parking along 8th St.next to Barracks B-170 and the509th B-131.

Access to the Towers will belimited to pedestrian only duringthis time.

There will be limited vehicularaccess to the Ed Center and 14thTrans. via a single lane -alternating in direction controlledby traffic lights.

CDC trainingOn Friday, Feb. 13 the CDC

398 will be closed so that staffmay conduct training. Allchildren normally cared for inCDC 398 will be provided careat CDC 395 which operates 6a.m.-6 p.m. For additionalinformation contact MichelleSterkowicz at 634-5008 or LucaHarbeson at 634-8433.

Valentine’s Day dinnerDFMWR will provide free

transportation for couplesValentine’s Day dinner at SetteSanti, Feb. 14, 7 p.m. Two menuoptions are available for 25 Euroand the ladies will receive a rose.The bus will depart at 6:30 p.m.Child care can be arranged withCYSS Parents Night Out at theCentral Registration officeReservations for dinner must bemade at ITR before Feb. 5.

Health Clinic hoursThe health clinic is open

Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30p.m., closed Thursdays at 2 p.m.for training.

Medical sick call is byappointment, call 634-7484.

President’s Day schedule:Feb. 13 – ClosedFeb. 14 – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Feb. 15 – ClosedFeb. 16 - ClosedYou can make medical

appointments on-line. Registerwith TRICARE on www.Tricareonline.com.

For technical questions youcan call 001-800-600-9332 orstop by the TRICARE office.Call the nurse advice line at800-87-7660. The call mustbe made from Italy, and is tollfree.

Red Cross eventsBabysitter’s training is

Feb. 21 - 9 a.m.-4 p.m. inDavis Soldier & FamilyReadiness Center, bldg 108.

Pre-registration is requiredfor all classes. Call theAmerican Red Cross at 634-7089 or 0444-71-7089 fordetails.

Now hiriingUniversity of Phoenix is

now hiring adjunct faculty inVicenza for the MBA andMAED programs. Qualifiedcandidates must have aMAED or MBA (or relateddegree) and 5-plus years ofprofessional experience in arelated field.

For more information or tosubmit a resume, contactDiana Frayne via e-mail at:dfrayne11@email.phoenix.edu.

Valentine's Dayat the Arena

Adults compete for a dreamdate in the Lion's Den versionof the Dating Game at Feb. 14,9 p.m. Then find out how wellour married couples know eachother in the Arena's version ofthe Newly Wed Game at 10p.m. in the Lion's Den. Couplesalso can enjoy bowling wherehourly rates will apply and theladies receive a small gift.

Virginia Coalitionperforms

Armed ForcesEntertainment presentsVirginia Coalition on Feb. 16,8 p.m. at the Arena. "HomeThis Year" is their new albumand that is where they hope totake you. Their concerts areknown for high energy andconnecting with the audience.This is one concert that willtake you home, at least for anhour or two.

CYS ServicesSKIESUnlimited has

openings in Tae Kwon Do,Capoeira and Creative Actingclasses. Tae Kwon Doteaches a mixture of balance,self-defense and discipline.Beginner's class is onMondays and Wednesdaysfrom 3:30-4:30 p.m. forbeginners. Advanced class isavailable for students whohave obtained their yellow beltsand is held Mondays andWednesdays from 4:30-5:30p.m.

Capoiera is Brazilian martialarts and incorporates music,movement and games and isheld on Tuesdays and Fridaysfrom 3:30-4:30 p.m. for youth 5years and older.

Creative Acting will buildskills in improvisation,vocalization, monologue writingand movement. This session willrun March 11-May 6 and will beheld Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30p.m. It is open to youth 12-18years old. Students will have theopportunity to participate in theSKIES Spring Recital in May.

For more information on theseclasses and more SKIESprograms call Kelli Covlin at 634-8051 or emailSKIES@vicenzamwr.com. Toregister, stop by CYS ServicesCentral Registration in the DavisSoldier and Family ReadinessCenter

NCO inductionA Year of the NCO Induction

Ceremony will take place at 2p.m. Feb. 17 at the post theater.The ceremony will include abrief history of the NCO Corpsand inductions of Soldiersrecently promoted to sergeant.The ceremony is open to thepublic.

Transport tech neededPosition: Transportation

technician (OA), YB-2102-02,full-time.

Location: DoDDSMediterranean Districtsuperintendent's office, Vicenza,Italy.

Opening date: Feb. 9.Closing date: Feb. 23.For more information go to:

http://www.opm.gov/fedclass/html/gsseries.asp or call Rusty

Rollins at (39) 0444-71-8158 orDSN 634-8158 or e-mailrusty.rollins@eu.dodea.edu .

USO eventsValentines Day poem

contest. Submit an originalpoem of any style and any lengthto the USO by Feb.12 about theone you love the most. The toppoem selected will receive aprize.

Level One Italian class isbeing offered from Feb.23 toApril 22. The classes will be heldMonday's and Wednesday'sfrom 5:45-7:45 p.m. at theEducation Center.

Course cost is $118 plus 11Euro for the book. Sign up at theUSO.

RockBand 2 is now at theUSO. Come out and show usyour skills on our new drum setand wireless guitars.

The USO is located in bldg.9A. Hours are Monday- Friday11a.m. - 10p.m. and Saturdayand Sunday non - 6p.m. For infocall the USO at 634-7156.

VCC Poker ClubThe first meeting of the

Vicenza Community Club's"Evening Poker Club" will be onFeb. 18 at 7 p.m. at the Arena.If you are interested in playing,please email Rich Breen atrichard.breen@us.army.mil orcall 331-867-4676.

Ceramics studioThe art center offers open

sessions every Thursday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Just drop in and pay bythe hour. This session is open tobeginners, hobbyists and parentchild pairs. Call 634-7074 formore information.

The Vicenza Mako Sharks joined a multi-cultural event inhistorical Berlin which hosted the 2009 European Forces SwimLeague (EFSL) Championship. After a two year hiatus, the MakoSharks took the European swim championship by storm in anOlympic facility in the former East Berlin. Swimmers JonathanBowman, Chris Unger, Rima Gasparini and Kyla Hallam,collectively dropped 44 seconds from their times, unheard of foran end of season competition. The hero though was 9-year-oldKyla Hallam, who earned one 1st place medal, one 2nd placemedal, two 3rd place medals and one 6th place medal. Rima, isin her first year of competitive swimming. If your child is interestedin competitive swimming, contact Coach Tiffany atcoachmakosharks@gmail.com.

Sharks score in Berlin

Kyla Hallamstands beside

the pool with herchestful of

medals after theEuropean Forces

Swim LeagueChampionship

in Berlin. ( Photoby Dave Hallam)

8 THE Outlook Feb. 12, 2009

Sportshorts

Youth baseballand softball

Enrollment forbaseball, ages 3-15, andsoftball for ages 10-15,continues through Feb.27.

Parents should bringa health assessmentvalid through the seasonto Central Registrationwhen registering. Call634-6151 for additionalinformation.

Little Leagueumpires

CYS Services isoffering a free LittleLeague Umpirecertification class onMarch 9-13, 6-9 p.m. forthose interested inbecoming a paid umpire.

CYS baseball clinicCYS sports is holding

a free baseball clinic forages 10-18, Feb. 24-26,3-5 p.m. at the VillaggioField. Enroll before Feb.20 by calling 634-6151.

High Schoolvolunteer coaches

Vicenza Middle/HighSchool needs volunteersto help with fast-pitchwomen’s softball(especially need apitching coach) andtrack and field. Springpractice starts March 2.

Volunteers must beregistered with ACS.Please contact the VHSAthletic Director GarrettBarton at 335-773-9710or the high school mainoffice at 634-7656.

PaintballODR is offering

another paintball trip thismonth on Feb. 22.Transportation is $10and the field fee is 10Euro.

You can rentequipment for anadditional fee if youdon’t own your own.Call 634-7453 forinformation.

Indoor soccertournament

USAG Vicenzaindoor soccertournament is Feb. 27-28. Teams should havea max of 7 playersincluding the coaches.

The coachesmeetings are Feb. 24,2:30 or 5:30 p.m. at theSports office. Bring yourrosters to the meeting.Call 634-7009 forinformation.

Story and photos byLaura KreiderOutlook Staff

After a two-week break dueto some renovations at the postgym, the Soldiers' basketballleague restarted this past weekwith games on Monday andWednesday nights.

The Unbeatables met anddefeated The Mix by two pointson Feb. 4.

"As a team, we have playedand won a couple of times andlost a couple of times. Tonight,we didn't give up and we keptplaying", said Richard Anderson,of the 106th Finance, who playswith the Unbeatables.

"I come to the gym and shootevery day, twice a week as ateam because I love basketball,I used to play while in college,"said Anderson.

"Everybody on the team hasfun, especially in close games likethis with a two-point differencefinal score," he added.

From the point of view of theother team, Adolph Dubose, No.8 for The Mix and a member ofthe 509th Signal Battalion,observed that his team needsmore practice playing together.

"We had a better team," saidDubose, "but we don't havemuch time to practice becausewe have a busy schedule. Wehave been playing only a coupletimes together.

"Definitely, if we have moretime to practice and buildteamwork, we are going to winnext time," he highlighted.

Soldier’s league basketball back

Vicenza militarycommunity

Soldier's basketball

Team Win Loss Certified 5 0 HSC SETAF 1 5 Unbeatables 5 2 14th Trans. 2 4 The Mix 0 2

Soldier's leaguebasketball scores

Feb. 2 Certified 69 vs The Mix 46

Unbeatables 68 vs14th Trans 52

Feb. 4Unbeatable 51 vs The Mix 49

Certified 93 vs SETAF 34

USAG Vicenzacommunity soccer

Team standings Win Tie Loss 2 2 6

Latest scores Jan. 31

Perlena Calcio 2 vs USAG 1

Feb. 7Piovene Rocchetta 1 vs USAG 0

VHS holds final home games

(Above) Hilliard Ladd, No. 11, of the Mix, releases a short jump shot against The Unbeatables’ No. 8,Michael Dickey. (Below) Richard Anderson, No. 3 of The Unbeatables adds two points with a layup althoughsurrounded by his opponent’s defense during the game.

(Above) The Unbeatables’ Luis Santos, No. 10 goesfor a lose ball as Adolph Dubose, No. 8, from The Mixtries to reach it as well during Wednesday's gameplayed at the post gym.

Shakael Skeete, Cougar No. 42, releases a jumpshot around Aviano’s Shakees Seaton .

(Below) Vicenza Cougars' No. 32, Rebecca Matheson,defends the ball against her opponent Aviano's No. 21,Alyssa Lane, and No. 4 Emily Cartwright. Final resultsfor the girls' games: Friday, Aviano vs. Vicenza 63-16,Saturday 70-26. "The VHS boys' were up against one ofthe toughest teams in our division," said Angela West,VHS basketball boys coach assistant. "We were veryproud that our team members did not give up throughoutthe game and kept playing hard until the end." Finalresults for the boys' games: Friday, Aviano vs. Vicenza72-28, Saturday 77-35. (Photos by Laura Kreider,Outlook Staff)