Vol. 66, No. 11 Published in the interest of Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson community. March 14, 2008Visit the Fort Carson Web site at www.carson.army.mil.

Word of the month: Pride

Story and photo by Spc. Courtney E. Marulli2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division Public Affairs

After a grueling 15-month deployment to two ofthe most dangerous places in Iraq — Baghdad and ArRamadi the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd InfantryDivision, is finally home.

On Feb. 28, the brigade’s colors were officiallyuncased, symbolizing its return to Fort Carson.

Maj. Gen. Mark A. Graham, commandinggeneral, Division West (First Army) and Fort Carson,spoke to 2nd BCT about how the individuals whocomprise the unit are living history.

“You are a historic unit in a historic time of ournation,” Graham said. Graham also commended theFamilies who stood by their Soldiers.

“Many know the accomplishment of this unit,but these Soldiers lived it,” Graham said. “This isthe land of the free because of the brave. You arethe brave.”

Col. Jeffrey L. Bannister, commanding officer of2nd BCT, 2nd ID, stood in front of the colors and saidthe Soldiers in his command had to make sacrificesduring their tour, but were not defeated by the enemy.

“We have emerged victorious from the mostdangerous place in the world,” he said. Bannister saidthe Soldiers have been amazing because of their hardwork and undying patriotism.

Many of the Soldiers were with the brigade inKorea, where it had been since July 1965 and was justa brigade, not a combat-ready unit. It wasn’t untilMay 2004 that the unit and its Soldiers made history.

The unit was called on to help fight in the GlobalWar on Terrorism, which resulted in the creation of the2nd Brigade Combat Team. Becoming a combat team,meant the unit now had six battalions that specializedin different tactics, creating a self-functioning whole.

The 12-month deployment required Soldiers toleave Korea, a hardship tour where no Families wereallowed, and fight in Iraq for a year. It wasn’t until twoyears later, after Korea and Iraq, that many Soldiers in2nd BCT, 2nd ID finally got to see their Families.

“I am thankful for the emotional support andpatience at home, which is nothing less than ordinary,”Bannister said. “You respected your Soldiers duty andmade our mission a success.”

After being at their new home for less than a year,the brigade deployed to Iraq again in 2006 as aModular Infantry Brigade Combat Team. This gavethe brigade new personnel and capabilities.

“They are quiet professionals, but I’d use(the word) versatile,” Bannister said of his Soldiers

that have had to endure long separations from theirloved ones.

During the second deployment, the brigadewas sent to some of the most violent sectors ofBaghdad, which was inhabited by more than sixmillion Iraqis and covered more than 5,159 squarekilometers in Multi-National Division—Baghdad’s area of operations.

When the surge of troops occurred, 2nd BCT tookon combat teams from the 82nd Airborne Division and3rd Infantry Division. This caused the battle space togrow to one-third the size it was.

Bannister said there was an average of 14 attacksa day when 2nd BCT took over control of the area.

2nd ID officially home

Col. Jeffrey L. Bannister, commanding officer, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, left, andCommand Sgt. Maj. William Johnson, uncase the brigade’s colors during a ceremony Feb. 28. The uncasing signifiesthat the brigade is officially back home at Fort Carson.

See Home on Page 4

“The way we use to do it.”See Page 5

MilitMilitararyy

Giving blood for Soldiers.See Page 11

CommunityCommunity

All-Army Wrestling Team competes.See Page 30

SporSportstsII

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2 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008 Opinion/Editorial

This commercial enterprise newspaper is

an authorized publication for members of the

Department of Defense. Contents of the

Mountaineer are not necessarily the official view

of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the

Department of the Army. Printed circulation is

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The editorial content of the Mountaineer

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Office, Fort Carson, CO 80913-5119, Tel.: 526-

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Every good mover knows

I’m not moving, I’m having an adventureCommentary by Patricia Abt GeorgeFamily member

I went running the other day and I noticed a few crocusesjust peaking their heads out of the ground. My heart soared at the prospect of winter coming to an end and spring on thehorizon. Then, just as quickly as my spirits had been raised,they crashed back down to earth: spring not only broughtwarmer weather, but it also meant summer wasn’t far off and summer meant moving. I reminisced about past movingadventures. In some cases they were more like fiascos thanadventures, but thankfully time takes the sting away andreplaces it with a more humorous perspective.

We find ourselves moving about every three years. Weusually live on post in quarters, but our last assignment tookus into a civilian community where we had the opportunity.to make some dear friends in that community and they wondered aloud how we managed this geographic upheavalso calmly. “I suppose,” I told them, “knowing I don’t have a choice is quite liberating.” Of course, my husband alwayshas the option to get out of the Army, but we continue tofind a great deal of satisfaction in serving our country so, in the end, we choose to live this way.

However, my friends’ open-mouthed amazement at our moving attitude did make me stop and think what characteristics make a “good mover”? After this most recent move, I’ve determined that it all boils down to threethings and if you’ve got them, then you’re good to go; ifyou don’t, then the going will probably not be very good.

• Just let go• Make sure your “advance party” has good taste• Remember, “you’re not moving, you’re having an

adventure.”First, I think letting go of the decision to move is

important and liberating. The decision has already been made,so it is only wasted mental and emotional energy to muddlethrough it over and over. Determine to control the things youcan and put the rest in higher hands. Make your motto: “Just let it go.” Try it on your psyche and see how it feels.

Second, knowing you have a place to unpack yourbelongings on the other end of your move provides a realsense of security and hopefulness. I have known familieswho rush to their final destination without a real plan andthen find themselves disappointed and frustrated whenthings don’t fall into place. Why rush somewhere

when you’ve got nowhere to park your load? Just like inthe Army, whenever possible send a small, preferably willing and responsible, advance party ahead of the morecumbersome main body and get the framework, such aswhere you will live, laid out. After this is done, you should be reasonably secure.

As an aside, I suggest you always put your name on the on-post/on-base housing list in the name of keepingyour options open. You can say “no” should quarters beoffered to you.

During this anxious waiting period while the advanceparty gets a sense of the new area, I often reflect on what I heard Henry Kissinger share during a speech to a group of college seniors: “When there is turmoil under theheavens, small problems become big problems and bigproblems overwhelm us. When there is peace under theheavens, big problems become small problems and smallproblems need not worry us.”

This, I think, is the perfect sentiment for a move. Worryabout the big problems and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Third, it’s all in how you look at it. I grew up in theArmy so moving was something I grew up doing. I neverknew my mother hated to move until she told me long afterI had moved out and started my own family. I thought sheconsidered it an exciting adventure just like I did. I give hercredit for putting up such a good act for all those moves.But even though she had to fake it a bit, she showed thefamily a positive attitude and each of us picked up on that. I know this made things easier on all of us, including her.

Plan out your moving path carefully and thoughtfully andthen keep your eyes on that path. An adventure, by its name,brings surprises, so be open to them. Maybe you decide tostop and see the sights along the way; you don’t have to travelto exotic places and foreign countries to experience somewonderful things. You can find some unforgettable surprisesin every state and in lots of tiny towns along the way.

I have found the hardest part of moving is leavingbehind all you can’t pack up, like special friends, familiarneighborhoods and comfortable houses. Unfortunately, Idon’t have a motto that makes these things any easier toleave, but I do try and remind myself that I have wonderfulmemories to take along with me and the potential for somany more memories wherever our next adventure takes us.

Now, when people ask me how I feel about moving, Itell them that I’m not moving, I’m having an adventure.

“Hawaii, because it’s a party all the time.”

Sgt. Tienpeng HoB Company, 2ndSpecial TroopsBattalion, 2ndBrigade CombatTeam, 2nd Infantry Division

“Hawaii, becausethere is so muchhistory in theislands.”

Allen HarrisonRetired military

“Germany, because I got to travel all over and see the world.”

Angela BennettRetired military

“Fort Sill, because there isgood fishing.”

Sgt. Chris Smith3rd Battalion, 16th Field ArtilleryRegiment, 2ndBrigade CombatTeam, 4th InfantryDivision

“Fort Bragg, because that’swhere the realArmy is — Airborne.”

Staff Sgt. GarySummers2nd SpecialTroops Battalion2nd BrigadeCombat Team 2ndInfantry Division

PPOOSSTTPPOOSSTT TTAALLKKTTAALLKKWhat has been your favorite duty station?

News 3March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

by the Directorate of Public WorksEnvironmental Division

Continuing its long history of educating futureleaders on environmental stewardship and sustainability,Fort Carson is hosting its 20th year of Earth Dayevents, which is celebrated nationally April 22.

Earth Day school events, planned for April 14-17,focus on educating students on practices to sustainresources for the future. The theme for this year’s FortCarson celebration of Earth Day is “Celebrate theEarth.” The activities planned are accomplishedthrough partnering with various local, state and federal organizations that help provide a broad, multi-faceted curriculum.

Earth Day activities scheduled this year include: � A recycled grocery bag drawing contest for

kindergarten-eighth grade. The artwork is todepict the Earth Day theme. Completedgrocery bag entries will be returned to the FortCarson Commissary, for use at the conclusionof Earth Day activities.

� A poetry contest open to all grades, discussingthe theme of “Celebrate the Earth.”

� An Earth/Arbor Day reading program atschools, featuring volunteers reading theenvironmentally-themed “The Lorax” by Dr.Seuss, April 14-15.

Fort Carson celebrates Earth Day

Photo by Janinen Hegeman

Wildlife Habitat Council second grade students from Mountainside Elementary School plant trees during EarthDay events in 2007.

See Earth on page 4

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4 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008 News

� An Earth/Arbor Day Educational Fairat the Carson Middle School on FortCarson April 16-17. There will be atotal of six educational stations set upfor classes on the following subjects:• “Endangered Species,” featuring the“Suitcase for Survival,” presented bythe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.• “The Value of Trees,” presented bythe Colorado State Forest Service.• “Experiencing Cultural Resources,”presented by the Directorate PublicWorks Environmental Division.• “Encountering Wildlife,” presentedby the DPW Environmental Division.• “Recycling,” presented by the DPWEnvironmental Division.

A new station will be added this year: “TheHands-on Stormwater Runoff Demonstration,”also presented by the DPW EnvironmentalDivision. Students will learn how stormwaterrunoff behaves and interacts with the landscape. Students will also see howrunoff easily picks up contaminants from the

environment and carries them to mainwaterways off the installation.

Students will again participate in plantingtrees and shrubs during April and May,supporting Fort Carson’s “Tree City USA”certification, now in its 21st year.

Fort Carson will celebrate the earth thisyear with one of its partners, the WildlifeHabitat Council. The WHC has certified FortCarson and Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site’squality wildlife habitat since 1998. This year,the WHC will recognize Fort Carson as a“Signature of Sustainability” site during theEarth Day events and will be featured onthe WHC’s 2008 media tour.

More than 2,000 students from FortCarson schools and from schools nearPiñon Canyon Maneuver Site are expectedto participate in events this year, representingone of the Mountain Post’s most visible andlongstanding community outreach andpartnership efforts.

To make Earth Day celebrations a reality,Fort Carson always needs volunteer support.To find out how to volunteer for Earth Dayevents, call 524-4925.

See Earth from page 3

Through hard work andsacrifice, that number wasreduced to an average oftwo-three attacks a day.

“The reason was becauseof the COIN (counter-insur-gency) strategy,” Bannistersaid. “We were the tip of thespear in implementing theCOIN strategy.”

The 2nd BCT was the firstto integrate an embeddedProvincial Reconstruction Teamfrom the United StatesDepartment of State, and it ledthe way to create safer market-places for the Iraqis. Thisrequired that large concretebarriers be placed around accesspoints to 13 large markets, manyof which are over 100 years old.

“We made them intowalking markets like inGermany,” Bannister said.

“The Iraqis like it because theyknow it’s protecting them.”

After two tours in Iraq,the Soldiers of 2nd BCT, 2ndID aren’t ready to call it quits.

“The brigade is leadingthe Army in statistics,”Bannister said. “They like tofeel they are part of the team,and they are.”

Despite the successes andleaving a safer EasternBaghdad for the next unit, thebrigade also paid a high priceas 46 heroes were lost.

“We will miss you andyou will never be forgotten,”Bannister said after a momentof silence.

In April, the 2nd BCT,2nd ID will move in nameonly to Fort Lewis, Wash.,and the Soldiers and theirleaders at Fort Carson willreflag as 4th Brigade CombatTeam, 4th Infantry Division.

See Home from page 1

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Military March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER 5

by Sgt. Rodney Foliente2nd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Soldiers from Special Troops Battalion, 2nd BrigadeCombat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and former service-members from the Trinidad Chapter of the Veterans of ForeignWars shared stories and experiences Feb. 19 at Pinon CanyonManeuver Site.

Army, Air Force and Navy Veterans from World War II,the Korean War and the Vietnam War showed up to rubelbows with the 4th ID Soldiers and were shown currentweapon systems and armored vehicles.

The Veterans came out with a fascination of the currentweapons, armors and vehicles, but said the main reason fortheir visit was to honor the Soldiers currently serving andshow their appreciation to them, said WW II Veteran LowellThompson, chairman, Trinidad VFW.

Thompson was a private first class with the 78th InfantryDivision and shared his experiences, which included participatingin the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium.

“It’s always an honor when we have fellow veterans who’vealready walked in our shoes. We can share today’s Army withthem,” said Lt. Col. Leo Caballero, commander, STB.

“They can appreciate all the equipment the Soldiers havetoday, but whether they fought for this country in the past or arefighting for it now, it all comes back to the Soldiers: we’re allthe same,” said Caballero.

2-4 honor those who paved the way

Soldiers, VFW share experiences, tricks of the trade

Photo by Maj. Tanya Bradsher

Nick DeBono, who was a corporal with 2nd Infantry Division and Korean War Veteran, amazed at the differencesin weaponry from his days of service, holds an M-4 rifle while John Trammel, a specialist who served in theVietnam War, looks on and Lt. Col. Adrian Bogart, right, deputy commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4thInfantry Division, and Maj. Christopher Engen, left, executive commander, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, explain the featureson the weapon Feb. 19 at Piñon Canyon. Veterans of Foreign Wars came from Trinidad to visit with Soldiersfrom the 2nd BCT’s Special Troops Battalion and learn about current weapons and armored vehicles.

See VFW on page 8

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Military briefs6 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Miscellaneous

1st Infantry Division — will be holding its 90thannual reunion at the Crowne Plaza Hotel inColorado Springs Aug. 20-24. Anyone who has everserved with the “Big Red One” or any unitattached is cordially invited.

Details and reservation forms will be available inthe spring issue of the society’s newspaper, theBridgehead Sentinel, on the Web site;www.1stID.org; by contacting: Society of the FirstInfantry Division, 1933 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA19422, calling (215) 661-1969 or e-mailingSoc1ID@aol.com.

Joe Gmelch Wounded Warrior Welcome socials —are held the third Thursday of the month at 3:30 p.m.at Alternate Escapes to recognize wounded Soldierswho came home separate from their units and did notparticipate in a welcome-home ceremony. The nextsocial is Thursday and all are welcome.

CGSC courses available locally — The U.S. ArmyCommand and General Staff College educates andtrains intermediate-level Army officers and interagencyleaders prepared to operate in full-spectrum Army,joint, interagency and multinational operations asfield-grade commanders and staff officers. TheIntermediate Level Education core curriculum isdesigned to satisfy the educational needs of all active-component and reserve-component officers as aresult of the Army’s Officer Personnel ManagementSystem 3 for promotion to lieutenant colonel.Colorado Springs ILE class instructors: Lt. Col.Winterfeld and Lt. Col. Johnson. Phase-1: (AT) June15-June 30, San Antonio; Phase-2: (IDT) Oct. 1,2008- May 1, 2009, Colorado Springs, Colorado/U.S.Air Force Academy; Phase-3: (AT) June 1, 2009-June 15, 2009, San Antonio. For further informationcontact: mark.johnson@earthlink.net

Sgt. Audie Murphy Club Association — MountainPost chapter meets Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. atthe Family Connection. For more information contactSAMC President Sgt. 1st Class Tavarise Williamsat tavarise.williams@us.army.mil or SAMC PublicAffairs Officer Sgt. 1st Class Bradley Shufelt atbradley.shufelt@usar.army.mil.

New Medical Activity DetachmentCorrespondence Department office hours —The Correspondence (Release of Information)Office in the Patient Administration Division hasnew hours, Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.,closed on federal holidays. Call 526-7322 or 526-7284 for more information.

$10,000 Reward — The U.S. Army’s CriminalInvestigative Division is offering a $10,000 reward forinformation leading to the conviction of the personresponsible for the death of Joseph Eric Barker.Barker, a former Soldier, was found dead at thesewage basin of the Fort Carson waste water treatmentplant, Feb. 21, 2006. Anyone with informationconcerning this crime should contact Fort Carson CIDat 526-3991 or the military police desk at 526-2333.

$5,000 reward — The U.S. Army’s CriminalInvestigative Division is offering a $5,000 reward forinformation leading to the conviction of person(s)responsible for the theft of an M-4 carbine, serial num-ber W156244, from the motor pool adjacent to building3292, Fort Carson, between 8 p.m., Oct. 30, and 3:30a.m. Oct. 31. Please provide any information to the 41stand 48th MP Detachment, U.S. Army CriminalInvestigation Command, building 1816, Fort Carson,CO 80913-4203. Call 526-0564 /3991. with caseNumber 0318-07-CID056-20360. All information willremain anonymous. This reward expires Nov. 13, 2008.

Harmony in Motion — is looking for basses, tenors,altos and sopranos. Singers have opportunities totravel and perform for ceremonies and for militaryand civilian guests. Interested active duty Army,enlisted staff seargents and below, call 524-3618/3619 to schedule an audition.

$500 Reward — The U.S. Army CriminalInvestigation Detachment is offering a $500reward for information leading to the apprehensionand conviction of the person(s) responsible for thedamage to U.S. government property and f iresin motor pool building 1882 on May 2. If

you have information about this or any crime,contact CID at 526-3991 or the Military Policedesk at 526-2333. The $500 reward offer expiresMay 11, 2008.

Officer Candidate School — Packet submissionsfor direct select and local OCS Boards are handled bythe Personnel Actions Section, Personnel ServicesBranch, Military Personnel Division, in building1218, room 160. OCS direct selection is in effectuntil Sept. 30, and there are still slots open. ContactTom Grady at 526-3947 for more information.

Finance in- and out-processing — In- and out-processing is held in building 1218, room 230. Use thefollowing phone numbers for more information: separations526-8473/8476/1302; retirement 526-4233/4234/8470;travel 526-9930/ 0507/0475; accessions 526-8479/8236/4558; and chief of in- and out-processing 526-6230.

$5,000 Reward — The U.S. Army CriminalInvestigation Detachment is offering a $5,000 rewardfor information leading to the apprehension andconviction of the person(s) responsible for the fire at4467 Ray Circle on post. If you have informationabout this or any crime, contact CID at 526-3991 orthe Military Police desk at 526-2333. The $5,000reward offer expires Aug. 8, 2008.

The Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline —accepts calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week at(800) 984-8523. The call center offers wounded andinjured Soldiers and their Family members a way toseek help to resolve medical issues and provides aninformation channel to senior Army leadership toimprove the way the Army serves the medical needsof Soldiers and their Families.

Food service special events — Family ReadinessGroups and units that conduct fundraisers by sellinglimited food items are required to fill out an applicationand checklist for their event. Contact Capt. TealReeves at 526-7922, or Sgt. Misty Gordon at526-7375 for details and a copy of the paperworkneeded. The application and checklist are alsoavailable through unit Family Readiness Groups.

DPW services — The Directorate of Public Works isresponsible for a wide variety of services on FortCarson. Services range from repair and maintenanceof facilities to equipping units with a sweeper andcleaning motor pools. Listed below are phone numbersand points of contact for services:

• Facility repair/service orders — KIRA service order desk can be reached at 526-5345. Usethis number for emergencies or routine tasks.

• Refuse/trash — Call Larry Haack at 526-9237when needing trash containers, trash is overflowingor emergency service is required.

• Facility custodial services — Call Larry Haackat 526-9237 for service needs or to report complaints.

• Elevator maintenance — Call Sharon Gayle at526-1695.

• Motor pool sludge removal/disposal — CallDon Phillips at 526-9271.

• Repair and utility/self-help — Call GaryGrant at 526-5844. Use this number to obtain self-helptools and equipment or a motorized sweeper.

• Base operations contract Contracting OfficerRepresentative — Call Terry Hagen at 526-9262for reporting wind damage, snow removal concerns,damaged traffic signs or other facility damage.

• Portable latrines — Call 526-1854 to requestlatrines, for service or to report damaged oroverturned latrines.

Hours of OperationCentral Issue Facility regular business hours — arelisted below. Call 526-3321 to make appointments.

In-processing

Monday-Thursday from 7:30-10:30 a.m.

Initial issues

Monday-Thursday from 12:30-3 p.m.

Partial issues

Monday-Thursday from 12:30-3 p.m.

Cash sales/report of survey

Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Direct exchange

Monday-Thursday from 12:30-3 p.m.

Partial turn-insMonday-Thursday from 12:30-3 p.m.Full turn-ins

Monday-Thursday 7:30-10:30 a.m.

Unit issues and turn-ins

Call 526-5512/6477 for approval.

Trial defense service hours — TDS hours ofoperation are Mondays-Thursdays from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.TDS is closed on Fridays except for appointmentsand emergencies. Administrative chapters and Article15 briefings are held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1p.m., and walk-ins are taken until 12:50 p.m atbuilding 6255, 526-5572.

Claims Division hours — are Mondays-Fridays 9a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. The office is closed onfederal and training holidays. Soldiers must attend amandatory briefing before receiving a claim packet.At the briefing, Soldiers must submit a Departmentof Defense Form 1840/1840R (pink form), atbuilding 6285, 526-1355.

DFAC hours — Fort Carson dining facilities operateunder the following hours:

• Striker’s Café — Monday-Friday 7-9 a.m.(breakfast), 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (lunch) and 5-6:30p.m. (dinner). Weekend hours are 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.(brunch) and 5-6:30 p.m. (dinner).

• Wolf Inn — Monday-Friday 7-9 a.m. (break-fast), 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (lunch) and 5-6:30 p.m.(dinner). Weekend hours are 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.(brunch), and 5-6:30 p.m. (dinner).

• 10th SFG — Monday-Friday 7-9 a.m. (break-fast), 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (lunch) and 5-6:30 p.m.Closed on weekends.

Education Center hours of operation — TheMountain Post Training and Education Center,building 1117, 526-2124, hours are as follows:

• Counselor Support Center — Mondaythrough Thursday 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday, 11a.m.-4:30 p.m.

• Learning Resource Center/Military Occupa-tional Specialty Library — Monday throughThursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.;Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; and training holidays 9a.m.-5 p.m.

• Defense Activity for NontraditionalEducation Support and Army Personnel Testing— Monday-Friday 7:30-11:30 a.m. and 12:15-4:15p.m.; closed training holidays.

• Basic Skills Education Program/FunctionalAcademic Skills Training — Monday-Thursday 1-4 p.m.; closed training holidays.

• eArmyU Testing — Monday-Friday, 12:15-4:15 p.m.; closed training holidays.

Legal Assistance hours — Operating hours for theLegal Assistance Office, building 6285 are Mondayand Thursday 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. (appointments only)and 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. (walk-ins), Tuesday 9 a.m.-3p.m. (wills by appointment only) Wednesday 9:30a.m.-3:30 p.m. (appointments only) and Friday 9a.m.-4 p.m. (power of attorney and notaries only).The office will be closed for lunch from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call 526-5572 with questions.

BriefingsArmy ROTC Green to Gold Briefings — are heldTuesdays at the Education Center, building 1117, room120 at noon. For questions contact University ofColorado Colorado Springs Army ROTC at 262-3475.

ACAP briefing –– The Army Career and AlumniProgram preseparation briefing is required for alldeparting servicemembers. Current ACAP policyrequires personnel ending time in service to register oneyear out and retirees two years out. ACAP preseparationbriefings are held Monday-Thursday from 7:30-9 a.m.Attendees should report to ACAP by 7:15 a.m. tobuilding 1118, room 133. Call 526-1002 to register.

ETS briefing — for enlisted personnel will be heldthe first and third Tuesday of each month until furthernotice. Briefing sign-in begins at 7 a.m. at building1042, room 310. Briefings will be given on a first-come,first-served basis. Soldiers must be within 120 daysof their ETS but must attend the briefing no later than30 days prior to their ETS or start date of transitionleave. Call 526-2240 for more information.

Story and photo by Sgt. Zach Mott3rd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th InfantryDivision, Multi-National Division — Baghdad

CAMP TAJI, Iraq — A prayerbrunch co-hosted by two Multi-National Division — Baghdadbattalions served as a spiritual pausefor attendees at this sprawlingmilitary compound on the northernoutskirts of Baghdad province.

“This makes my day,” saidPfc. Danita Griffiths, a humanresources specialist fromHeadquarters and HeadquartersTroop, 3rd Brigade Combat Team,4th Infantry Division. “Things likethis (are great) because sometimesI feel a little low and just some typeof inspiration from somewhere willmotivate me to carry on to the nextday with this deployment.”

Griff iths has been to otherprayer services, but this was herfirst prayer brunch in Iraq.

Chaplains from the 1stCombined Arms Battalion, 68thArmor Regiment, and 3rd SpecialTroops Battalion, organized theevent for members of the StrikerBrigade, which is on its third

deployment to Iraq in five years.“We like to have these events

because it brings people togetherin a sense of fellowship. Peoplewho normally aren’t together areable to fellowship,” said Capt.Leonard Siems, battalion chaplain,1-68 AR and who helped organizethe brunch.

The event featured Col. JohnHort, the brigade’s commander,who spoke to the assembled crowdabout Army Values and how theyhelped influence the leader hebecame from a self-described badboy in his youth.

Hort recounted snippets fromhis misspent youth that involvedvarious transgressions with thelaw that continued until he wasaccepted into the ROTC programat Duke University.

In his early experiences with theArmy, he said he learned thatthrough selfless service and personalcourage, he could be the man hisparents always knew he could.

Hort’s words also echoed withGriff iths, a married mother offour, who is on her first deploymentto Iraq.

“Those (messages) really hithome for me because that’s what Itry to strive for,” she said.

Military 7March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

Prayer brunch gathers Strikers in fellowship

Sgt. 1st Class Patrice Cenance, left, and Staff Sgt. Chad Kruse, with guitar, lead membersof the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division — Baghdad,through a rendition of “Amazing Grace” during the prayer brunch at the Striker DiningFacility Feb. 20.

Military8 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

DUI task force officers recognized

“Any war that you fought in and anytroop that served; it doesn’t matter if youwere on the front line, you served. You didyour part and we’re just grateful for ourAmerican Soldiers,” said Thompson.

The Soldiers were more than happyto show and explain their M-4 rifles,M-203 grenade launchers, M-9 pistolsand an M-249 squad automatic weapon.The Soldiers also showed the armamentsand capabilities of the M-1117 ArmoredSecurity Vehicle and M-2A3 BradleyFighting Vehicle.

“It’s a great thing to come out hereand talk to these guys. That’s the mainthing, to talk to the guys. We appreciatewhat they do as we sit at home safe,” saidJohn Trammel, who served as a specialistduring the Vietnam Conflict.

“We need to protect our good countryand today’s Soldiers are doing that andthey’re doing a good job. We appreciateand thank you all,” said Thompson.

The veterans showed pride in theirservice, taking in the sights and sounds.They talked to the Soldiers, also showingpride in how the tradition they loved somuch continues on with today’s military.

A number of the veterans comparedthe weapons they fought with and thebattle conditions. They talked of battles theyounger Soldiers had been inspired by, likeliving, breathing, valuable tomes of history.

For the younger Soldiers, veteransspun tales and described our nation’shistory first hand, giving a glimpse of

how they stood as young Soldiersthemselves defending freedom.

“They fought with a lot less thanwe have. It’s good for them to see what wehave and what we’re using to continueon with what they fought so proudlyfor,” said Pfc. Elton Lambert, militarypolice, Headquarters and HeadquartersCompany, STB.

“I enjoy talking to (veterans) andletting them see what new equipment wehave to help our fight is pretty cool,” saidLambert, who said his father and grand-father served as well as other members ofhis Family. “It’s good to let them see whatwe play with and what we use nowadays.”

The visit with the STB Soldiersculminated when the Veterans rode in theBradley and ASV.

“That’s a great machine,” saidTrammel, laughing and grinning as heexited the Bradley. “It’s great to see howthings advanced since we were in.”

It was an honor to share with them,said Sgt. John Lange, MP, HHC, STB.He expressed an interest to also comeback decades later as a Veteran and seethe future Army.

“60 years from now, I’d like it if theArmy did something like that for me: Iwant to see some lasers,” he said with agrin and a nod echoed by some of theSoldiers around him.

After the visit with STB Soldiers,the veterans visited with other FortCarson Soldiers and viewed the UH-1medevac helicopter and UH-60 BlackHawk helicopter.

See VFW from page 5

by Master Sgt. Paul ZedalisProvost Sergeant Major

Ten top law enforcement officers of thePikes Peak Region DUI Task Force, whowere nominated for the Officer Ken JordanAward for Excellence in DUI Enforcement,met Feb. 12 at the Colorado Springs PoliceDepartment, Gold Hills Division.

Nominees were officially recognized fortheir accomplishments to their respectivejurisdictions, communities and the PikesPeak Region DUI Task Force as a whole.

The officers nominated for this prestigious award came from several lawenforcement agencies in the Colorado Springs area and vicinity including theColorado State Patrol, Colorado Springs Police Department, MonumentPolice Department, Pueblo Police Department, Teller County Sheriff’s Office,El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and the Fort Carson Provost Marshal Office.

Two Fort Carson police officers receivedthis prestigious award. Department of theArmy Police Officer Jose P. Barraza andMilitary Police Officer Sgt. Angela Muldoon,Fort Carson Provost Marshal Office, were bothformally recognized for their outstanding workin DUI Enforcement and making Fort Carsonand the people who live and work here saferfrom drunk drivers.

This is the second time both officers havebeen nominated and recognized by their lawenforcement supervisors and peers.

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Rambus

Cpl. Jose Barraza

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Rambus

Sgt. Angela Muldoon

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Military10 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Story and photo by James H. EgbertMountaineer staff

March 10 before noon,smoke was rising from thegrassland areas just west ofButts Army Airfield. Wildlandfire crews were dispatchedfrom Turkey Creek, ButtsArmy Airfield and the mainstation on the Fort Carsoncantonment area. The fire wasin an area about a half milewest of Butts Road Route 5and north of Wilderness Road.

The burn area encompassedapproximately 15 acres in aravine where the fire appearedto have started. Unexplodedordnance, consisting of mostlyblank cartridges, wereexploding throughout theentire burn area. Fort CarsonFire Department Capt. TomTillman was the on-scenecommander for the respondingfire crews that responded fromthe multiple stations.

The fire was containedwithin the first few minutesafter the fire crews arrived andextinguished within 30 minutes.Overhaul crews stayed on scene

to maintain the fire’s outerperimeter and to watch forpossible flare-ups. Trainingoperations on surroundingranges in the area were notaffected. The cause of the fire isstill under investigation.

“The dry conditions in thisarea are highly susceptible tofast moving grass fires. Extracare needs to be taken toprevent the start of any firethat can be quickly spread bythe high winds we have in thearea. There are prescribedburns due to be scheduled laterthis spring, but it would be wiseto keep an eye out for any smokein the area,” said Tillman.

Tillman also cautionedanyone who may be in the areaof any fire to be cautious andimmediately report it. Withoutthe proper training or equip-ment, a grass fire can becomeout of control quickly, causeserious injuries and possiblydeaths. Grass fires are highlyunpredictable and fast-moving.Fires in the training range areasare exceptionally dangerous dueto the possibility of unexplodedordnance that can explode andcause serious injury.

Firefighters stop blaze downrange

A crew from Brush Truck 32 overhauls the burn area.

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11March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEERCommunity

Spc. Kimberly Andino, 4th Engineer Battalion, 43rd AreaSupport Group, jokes around with Alva Johnson, Fort Knox,Ky., as she gives blood. "I know a lot of people can'tdonate," said Andino. "It's nice to help out since I can't bethere (Iraq and Afghanistan)."

Blood donors and volunteers fill the Special Events Center at Fort Carson during the Armed Services Blood Program drive March 7.

Story and photos by Michael J. PachMountaineer staff

The Armed Services BloodProgram held its second blooddrive on Fort Carson at theSpecial Events Center March 6-8. Representatives from Armymedical centers across the country as well as volunteersfrom post were on hand to help.

Capt. Christopher Evans,William Beaumont ArmyMedical Center, Fort Bliss,Texas., was the officer in chargeof the blood drives here and at the Air Force Academy. Heexpressed the importance of theASBP and was impressed withthe support from the community.

“These blood drives supportthe troops downrange and helpsave lives,” said Evans. “There’sso much of a need for blood intheater in Iraq and Afghanistan.One unit (one pint) can help savetwo lives. We’re supporting ourtroops in harm’s way. That’swhat’s important to me and that’swhy we’re here. Fort Carson and Colorado Springs aretremendous. I’ve never seen abase that supports the blood program more than this base. Thiscommunity has the best supportout of all facilities by far.”

Once a day, blood collectedwas transported to Peterson AirForce Base and flown to FortHood, Texas, for processing.From there, the blood goes toArmed Services Whole BloodProcessing Laboratory in Falls Church, Va., before it issent to Iraq and Afghanistan.

ASBP holds three annualblood drives; one here, one at the Air Force Academy and oneat West Point. Last year was the

first year ASBP held a drive on Fort Carson, which was combined with the Air ForceAcademy drive. Organizers were planning to collect 300units of blood on post and endedup breaking Colorado andDepartment of Defense recordswith 3,300 donations total.Blood collected in excess ofASBP’s mission was donated to Colorado Springs hospitals.

With this year’s Air ForceAcademy drive cancelled, orga-nizers set the goal for the FortCarson drive at 500 units perday. As of press time, the finalnumbers were not available.

According to ASBPCoordinator Carmen Dietrich-Williams, WBAMC, 5 percent of the population donates blood.She knows from her own personal experience how blooddrives save lives.

“I’ve been in combat andI’ve transfused blood to our servicemembers, so I’ve seenfirst-hand how important theseblood drives are,” said Dietrich-Williams. “You can have the bestcombat surgeon, the best medicsand top-of-the-line supplies, but if you don’t have bloodyou’re not saving anybody.”

Ruth Everingham, a lifetimemulti-gallon donor, first came toFort Carson in 1959 from FortHood, Texas, with her husband,who retired from the Army in1961. At age 80, Everinghamstill gives blood regularly.

“I’m one of those peoplewho likes to help people,” said Everingham. “We’re allborn to help each other.”

Other donors shared theirreasons for supporting the troops.

Spc. Walter Hughes, 4thEngineer Battalion, is a bonemarrow and a blood donor. “I donate because it’s going toour fellow troops,” he said

Reagan Morrow, SecurityService Federal Credit Union,said, “I think it’s really important. My husband is inthe military. If I were to giveblood anywhere, this is theplace I want to do it.”

Dietrich-Williams said thatbecause of the support from the community, she wants to bepart of Colorado Springs.

“Colorado Springs is theonly community that I’ve experienced in 18 years of military service where there’ssuch a strong support towardthe military,” said Dietrich-Williams. I have never seen this at any (other) installation.Colorado Springs defines patriotism because the peoplebend over backwards for theirservicemembers in uniform.Give my thanks to everyonethat reads your paper becausewithout your support, I wouldn’tbe coming back.”

For more informationabout ASBP visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil.

‘Give blood, give often’

ASBP holds 2nd Carson blood drive

Spc.BenjaminMiller,WilliamBeaumontMedicalCenter,Fort Bliss,Texas,packsblood in a coolerwith ice for transportto FortHood,Texas.

Community12 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

by James H EgbertMountaineer Staff

Active-duty Soldiers and theirFamilies are invited to enjoy a week of fun and relaxation withYoung Life Family Camp, at TrailWest in Buena Vista.

Trail West offers an assortmentof activities and ampleopportunity to relax andenjoy some much-neededpeace and quiet.

Daily activities includehorseback riding, a ropes

course, Frisbee golf, jeep tours, fishing and whitewater rafting alongwith great food and accommodations.

Trail West is a family resort locatedat the base of 14,196-foot Mt. Yale,views are among Colorado’s finest.

Last summer, 108 Fort CarsonFamilies with a deployed parent or one who had recently returned from

a combat zone attended Trail WestFamily Camp. Family camp is morethan spectacular scenery and highadventure; it’s about building Familiesand making memories.

A family of five would normallypay $4,000 per week. However,thanks to the financial support ofanonymous donors around the country,

approximately 170 Soldiers and theirFamilies will enjoy a vacation atresort for a minimal registration fee, charge based on rank. For paygrades E1-E5 the rate is $50; E6-E9,$75, CW1-O3 $100; O4 and abovepay $150. The registration feeincludes all meals, activities andlodging for the entire week.

Of the Families attendingcamp, most had a parent who has been deployed to acombat zone in the last 18months. Several of theFamilies currently had aspouse in a combat zone.Many of the Soldiers attendingthe camp will be deployingthis fall, making this summer a great opportunityto spend quality time withtheir Families.

Single-parent militaryFamilies and Families with adeployed spouse are encour-aged to attend as well. Spaceis limited, so apply now.

“We are so pleased thatwe can offer this program to our military communitymembers to show them howmuch we appreciate their

Military Families camp together, grow together

Photos courtesy of Young Life Military MinistriesSee Camp on page 15

Right: Horseback riding is justone of the many Family activitiesavailable at Trail West Camp.Inset: Children enjoy games ofall kinds played with the entireFamily at the Trail West Camp.

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Community14 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Photos by 2nd Lt. Tyrell Keplinger

SSaappppeerrss lleenndd hhuurrrriiccaannee

vviiccttiimmss aa hhaannddMembers of the 62nd Engineer Company, 4th Engineer Battalion volunteered their timeand services to assist an elderly couple with their move back to New Orleans, La. Theunit had contacted Silver Key Senior Services, Inc., looking for a way to help our seniorcitizens. Originally from New Orleans, the couple was forced to leave their homebecause of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005. TwelveSappers spent the entire morning moving household goods from the couple’sapartment to their moving truck. The couple appreciated and admired for the Soldierswho took the time to help them.

Community briefs 15March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

Miscellaneous

TAPS — The Tragedy Assistance Program forSurvivors will hold Survivor Seminars and a GoodGrief Camp April 5 at the Elkhorn ConferenceCenter. TAPS facilitates peer-based emotional support for loved ones of those who died whileserving in or support of the U.S. Armed Forces.The seminars are open to all those who are grieving without regard to circumstances, relationshipto the deceased or branch of military. TAPS is aprivate organization with no affiliation to theDepartment of Defense. For more information or to register for free seminars held at Fort Carson, go to: www.taps.org/taps_programs/seminars/ FortCarson08.aspx.4th ID Town Hall Meeting — all Family and friendsof the division are encouraged to attend. The meetingwill be March 26, 10:30 a.m. at McMahonAuditorium. Child care will be available with priorreservations. Contact Melissa Glasspoole at 526-8149or melissa.glasspoole@us.army.mil by March 21.Army Community Service — will be closed March21 due to the Fort Carson training holiday. For emergencies only contact: AER: 279-3941, FamilyAdvocacy Victim Advocate: 577-3171. EmploymentReadiness Program will be closed today due totraining and on March 28 due to the Child and Youth Services Youth Career Fair.Motorcycle safety courses — All active-dutySoldiers are required to complete a Motorcycle SafetyCourse to ride a motorcycle anywhere, anytime, on or off post. Basic Rider Course is for those who have never ridden or have minimal experience.For a schedule or to register visit: www.motorcycle-trainingacademy.com or call 380-1448. The experi-enced rider course is for those who have completedthe basic course, have their own motorcycle andwant additional training/refresher course. Questionscan be directed to Ken Sundgren, lead instructor at 526-8045 or ksungren@capefoxit.com.Abandoned Vehicles — The Fort Carson ProvostMarshal’s Office Traffic Section has initiated a vigorous campaign to rid Fort Carson of the abandoned vehicle problem. The PMO will continueto pursue this campaign until the problem isminimized or eliminated.

In accordance with Fort Carson Regulation 210-4, Fort Carson Regulation 190-5, and CriminalCode 18-4-509, it is unlawful to abandon a motorvehicle and or personal recreational property on theinstallation. A motor vehicle left unattended orunmoved upon a street, highway, right of way orparking lot for more than seven days is consideredan abandoned vehicle; failure to display currentlicense plates or identification; or has been damagedor deteriorated so extensively that it has value onlyfor junk or salvage. All personal trailers and recreational vehicles must be stored with theMorale, Welfare and Recreation facilities while onFort Carson. Once a vehicle has been identified in violation of one of the above categories, a notification form FC 1094 will be issued. After72 hours of the violation notice, the property will be seized and stored at the owner’s expense. After120 days, the vehicle/property will be disposed of in accordance with state law. Any questionsregarding policies and/or procedures should bedirected to the Fort Carson Office of the ProvostMarshal Traffic Section at 526-1770.

Disposition: Checker Towing (contracted) for disposing of abandon vehicles.

Fees: $75 hook up $25 tow fee$20 a day storage. After 120 days, Checker

Towing will dispose of the vehicle in accordancewith state law.Fabulous Spouses Social Group — is a group forthe spouses of Soldiers who suffer from traumaticbrain injury and post traumatic stress disorder. Thesocial group has activities such as getting massages,having coffee, taking bike rides and hiking.Meetings are held at Healer Chapel at Evans ArmyCommunity Hospital, the second Wednesday of each month from 4:30-5 p.m. or 6 p.m. For moreinformation contact Jackie Skinner at 261-1011.Operation Purple Camp — The National MilitaryFamily Association announced recently that Airmanand Family Readiness Center at Peterson Air ForceBase and Outer Edge Performance were chosen tohost a Operation Purple Summer Camp in 2008.Peterson’s Operation Purple Camp for 7-11 year olds is July 6-11 and will be at Snow MountainRanch in Winter Park. Outer Edge Performancecamps are for 10-17 year olds and will be held inLarkspur at Ponderosa Conference Center June 2-8,June 14-20 and June 29-July 5.

Registration for Operation Purple Camp beginsMarch 24. Applications will only be accepted online.Sign-up at www.operationpurple.org to receive e-mail notices and camp updates. Each camp is purple and open to children of servicemembers ofany branch of service, active duty, National Guard or Reserve, as well as children of members of theCommissioned Corps of the Public Health Serviceand National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.

Camps are free to all eligible children thanks to apartnership with the Sierra Club Foundation and support from the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation.

If you would like to volunteer at an OperationPurple Camp or for additional information, contactTracie Modrell at tracie.modrell@us.army.mil or719-282-8351.Creative movement class — School District 8 andthe city of Colorado Springs TherapeuticRecreation Program is sponsoring a series of classes designed to enhance your child’s creativethinking and imagination. This program seriesdesigned for children 1-2 years old with and withoutdisabilities. The program includes movement tomusic, cooperative play, sensory integration andperceptual motor activities. Parents/guardians areencouraged to attend with their children and siblings are welcome. Classes with be held 9:30-10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, in the staff developmentroom at the Lorraine Education and CommunityCenter, 301 E. Iowa Ave., Fountain. The fee for thefive-week program is $36. To register, pick up aregistration form at any School District 8 school.For more information, contact Felicia Barnhart at385-6964 or fbarnhart@springsgov.com. Fountain-Fort Carson School District — hasopenings for food delivery drivers and food service workers. Call Dawn at 382-1334.Donated annual leave needed for Fort Carsoncivilian employees — Lou Ann Armstrong,Garrison Resource Management; Helen Crow,Bureau of Land Management; Carl DeFranco,Michelle Bower, Derrick Richeson and Charles(Chuck) Woodson, Space and Missile DefenseCommand; May Harris, Army Community Service;Mary Gomez, Craig Daniels, Military PersonnelDepartment; Danette Wyatt, Directorate of Morale,Welfare and Recreation, Child and Youth Services;Michael Welsh, Directorate of Logistics andTimothy C. Hensley, Training Support Team,Directorate of Plans, Training and Maneuver, Range Division, had medical emergencies and have exhausted all available leave.

Armstrong, Crow, Harris, Bower, DeFranco,

Woodson, Gomez, Daniles, Wyatt, Richeson, Welshand Hensley have been accepted in the VoluntaryLeave Transfer Program. To donate annual leave,call or e-mail Garrison Resource Management, at526-1841/39 or lisa.hurtado1@us.army.mil to obtainform OF-630A, “Request to Donate Annual Leave.”Hurtado’s fax number is 526-3054.Claims against the estate —With deepest regrets tothe family of Sgt. James Craig, deceased. Anyonehaving claims against or indebtedness to his estateshould contact Capt. Erica Mitchell, (706) 294-1844.Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Scholarship applications — As a part of the Annual Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Parade held in July, AleutManagement Services, in coordination with theColorado Springs Chamber of Commerce MilitaryAffairs Division, sponsors scholarships awarded todeserving Family members of U.S. servicememberskilled or wounded in action while in a designatedcombat zone. The applicant must be accepted to an accredited college or university or a current college student. Applicants must be committed toattend during the 2007-2008 academic year.Students who have already been selected for fullscholarships that will be awarded during the 2008-2009 academic year or have been selected to attenda Military Service Academy are not eligible.

All applications must be postmarked no later thanApril 30. Send applications to: Military AffairsCouncil, Attention: Rodeo Parade ScholarshipCommittee, Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce,6 S. Tejon, Ste. 700, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.

For more information, contact Brian Binn at575-4325 or e-mail brian@cscc.org or the PikesPeak or Bust Rodeo Parade Event Manager,Brenda Carender, at 262-7160 or e-mailbrenda.carender@aleutmgt.com.

sacrifices and to give them a chanceto bond deeper as a Family and relax.There are so many activities that areFamily-related to create an entireFamily adventure and bonding time,”said Debi Nancarrow of Young Life,Military Community Youth Ministries.

According to observations madeby Young Life, Military Community

Youth Ministries, military childrenmay walk the same school hallwaysas other teens, but often you cannever tell them apart by appearance.They live in a much different world.For them, being labeled a military“brat” is like being called a “brother” or “friend.” Military bratsmay attend as many as six differentschools between sixth-grade andtheir senior year. Many move to

other countries. Most are likely tolive with only one parent while often enduring multiple 15-monthdeployments by their other parent. In their world, uncertainty hasbecome the only certainty.

Recognizing that “reachingevery kid, everywhere” includesthose on military installations,Young Life, Military CommunityYouth Ministries has been

ministering to military children foralmost 50 years.

Military Family Camp opens the experience up to the militarybrat’s entire Family and offers thechance for renewal and strength amidthe pressures and stresses common to military life.

The summer camping experiencehas become an integral part of Young Life’s outreach and ministry.

See Camp from page 12

Community16 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Commentary by Chap. (Capt.) Brian K. Smith2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment

Everyone often wonders if their life has any relevance. Everyone ponders their personal worth or value. I recently heard a person ask, “Does God really care?” My answer was quick, “Of course he does!”

The prophet Jeremiah had a profound revelation fromGod. He had been chosen to carry God’s message to thenations before he was even conceived (Jeremiah 1:4-5). God cared enough for the nations that he provided Jeremiahas a messenger for them. He would also use this individual to deliver the message that a messiah would be provided toredeem the world.

God cares enough to have a plan and a way to use us init. God used the woman at the well to introduce Jesus to theSamaritans. God used John Mark, a young man, to collect the teachings of Jesus and compile one of the first Gospels.He used Paul, a former persecutor of the early church, to lead one of the first great missionary movements and to writemost of the New Testament. He used Lydia, a businesswoman, to help Paul start one of his more successful churches when she allowed him to work from her home.

No matter how good or bad our past has been, God has asignificant purpose for each of us. You may not know whenthe opportunity happens. You may not even realize that youhave made your contribution. But by being obedient to the teachings of Christ and following his daily disciplines,we will in the least do no harm to the world and at the most, further the success of God’s providence as he fulfillshis will for the world.

Everyone’s life is important. Everyone’s existence is relevant. We only need to see ourselves in the importance of God’s relevant plan.

God has a plan

Catholic� Holy Thursday, Mass at 7 p.m.,

Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel� Good Friday Liturgy, March 21

at noon, Healer Chapel� Good Friday Liturgy at 7 p.m.,

Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel� Easter Vigil, March 22,

Mass at 8 p.m., Soldiers’Memorial Chapel

� Easter Sunday, March 23, 9 a.m., Soldiers’Memorial Chapel

Protestant� Post wide Easter Sunrise

Service, March 23, 7 a.m.,Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel

� Easter Sunday, Contemporary Service, 11 a.m., Veterans Chapel� Easter Sunday, Gospel Service, 11 a.m., Provider Chapel� Easter Protestant Service, 11 a.m., Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel� No 9 a.m. Protestant Communion Service at Provider

Passover Seder � Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel will host a Jewish-style Seder for the Protestant

congregation, officiated by a Rabbi, Thursday, 7 p.m. Meal and a walk through of the Passover provided. This is a no-cost-to-you event.

Holy week and Easter services

Chapel briefs18 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Chapel Schedule

ROMAN CATHOLICDay Time Service Chapel Location Contact PersonMon., Wed., Fri. noon Mass Healer Evans Army Hospital Fr. Gagliardo/526-7412Tues., Thurs. noon Mass Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Chap. Coe/526-5769Saturday 5 p.m. Mass Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Chap. Coe/526-5769Sunday 9:15 a.m. Mass Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Chap. Coe/526-5769Sunday 10:30 a.m. CRE Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Pat Treacy/524-2458Sunday 11 a.m. Mass Healer Evans Army Hospital Fr. Gagliardo/576-7412Tuesday 6:30 p.m. RCIA Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Pat Treacy/524-2458Saturday 4 p.m. Reconciliation Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Chap. Coe/526-5769

PROTESTANTSunday 9 a.m. Protestant Healer Evans Army Hospital Chap. Pollok/526-7387Sunday 9 a.m. Protestant Communion Provider Barkeley & Ellis Chap. Mitchell/650-8042Sunday 11 a.m. Protestant Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Chap. Pies/526-8011Sunday 11 a.m. Protestant/Gospel Provider Barkeley & Ellis Chap. McBride/526-0478Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sunday School Provider Barkeley & Ellis Chap. McBride/526-0478Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sunday School Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Pat Treacy/524-2458 Tuesday 9 a.m. PWOC Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Chap. Pies/526-8011Tuesday 6 p.m. Adult Bible Study Soldiers' Nelson & Martinez Mr. Love/526-5229Sunday 11 a.m. Contemporary Veterans Magrath & Titus Chap. Lesh/526-8890Tuesday 7 p.m. Youth ministry Soldiers’ Nelson & Martinez Pat Treacy/524-2458

JEWISHFor information and a schedule of Jewish Sabbath services, call the U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel at 333-2636.

WICCAMonday 7 p.m. Building 4800, corner of Harr and O’Connell Rhonda Helfrich/338-9464B

NATIVE AMERICAN SWEAT LODGENative American sweat lodge ceremonies (He Ska Akicita Inipi) are offered to military dependents and Department of Defense personnel. These lodges are traditionalLakota spiritual ceremonies for cleansing, purification and prayer, and are fully sanctioned and supported by the Fort Carson Chaplain Command. Please call thefollowing for information and directions: Charlie Erwin at 382-8177 or erwincl@msn.com; or Zoe Goodblanket at 442-0929.

Daily Bible readings: To assist in regular Scripture reading, the following Scriptures are recommended. These Scriptures are part of the common daily lectionary, which is designed to present theentire Bible over a three-year cycle.

ChapelHoly Week and Easter services:

Catholic:Holy Thursday, March 20 — Mass at 7 p.m.,

Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.Good Friday, March 21, noon, Healer ChapelGood Friday, March 21, Liturgy at 7 p.m.,

Soldiers’ Memorial ChapelEaster Vigil, March 22, Mass at 8 p.m., Soldiers’

Memorial ChapelEaster Sunday, March 23, 9:15 Soldiers’

Memorial ChapelProtestant:Postwide Easter Sunrise Service, March 23,

7:30 a.m., Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel.Military Council of Catholic Women — is a

group of Catholic women who meets weekly to provide spiritually enriching programs that enablewomen to minister to one another while serving as a vital enhancement of the religious support mission of Army chaplains and chapels.

The group meets at Soldiers’ Memorial Chapel the first Friday of the month from 9-11:30 a.m. fordevotions and a chapel project; on the second and thirdThursdays, 9-11:30 a.m. for Bible study and on thefourth Thursday of the month from 9-11:30 a.m. for“Mary’s Mommies,” an outreach to mothers and children under the age of 6. Child care provided, ifneeded; contact Tana Caballero at 886-4360.

Vacation Bible School — will be June 16-20, inSoldiers’ Memorial Chapel, from 8:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.Volunteers are needed to help children learn throughfun, song, adventure, drama and games how much Godloves them; call Pat Treacy, 524-2458 or Amy West,393-139, amywest43@msn.com.

Today — Psalms 97, Deuteronomy 19-21Saturday — Psalms 98, Deuteronomy 22-24Sunday — Psalms 99, Deuteronomy 25-27Monday — Psalms 100, Deuteronomy 28-30Tuesday — Psalms 101, Deuteronomy 31-34Wednesday — Psalms 102, Luke 1Thursday — Psalms 103, Luke 2-3

The Army Cycle of Prayer

Please pray this week for the following:Unit: Soldiers, noncommissioned officers, officers and

Families of the 1st Cavalry Division headquartered at FortHood, Texas.

Army: For members of Army aviation, providing fireand maneuver from the air to combat, combat serviceand combat service support in coordinated operations as an integral member of the combined arms team.

State: For all Soldiers and their Families from

the state of California. Pray also for Gov. ArnoldSchwarzenegger, the state legislators and municipal officials of The Golden State.

Nation: For the elected members of the U.S. Senate and their task of crafting public and foreign policy.

Religious: For members of the Christian faith who willobserve Holy Week and Easter Sunday in recognition of thepassion and resurrection of Christ.

For more information on the Army Cycle of Prayer, orto pray for items from previous weeks, visit the cycle’s

Web site at www.usarmychaplain.com.

Here’s to YOUR next

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Community20 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Story and photo by Cindy MathisAssistant Den Leader

Fort Carson Pack 264 held its annual pinewoodderby race at the Special Events center.

Weeks prior, the Scouts were each given a blockof pinewood with two notches for wheels, four plastic wheels and four nails. The finished car mustuse all nine pieces, must not exceed five ounces,must not exceed a certain length and must fit on thetrack used by that particular scout pack. Other thanthe basic design rules, the Cub Scout is able to carve

and decorate the car as he chooses.This year’s designs were one-of-a-kind. Usually the Scouts work on this project with

their fathers, but Cub Scout Pack 264 held a workshop to help Scouts who have a deployed parent get their cars completed. There were morethan 35 entries with many different car designs.

All of the first place winners will be moving on to the district-level event in April.

For more information about joining CubScouts on Fort Carson, contact Cindy Mathis at 559-8886 or cubscouts264@yahoo.com.

Cub Scouts hold Pinewood Derby race

Cub Scouts of Pack 264 stand by during the local Pinewood Derby.

Overall racewinners were:Tigers Den (first-graders)1st place: Zaine Magiera

2nd place: Conor Hale3rd Place: A.J. Arnold

Wolf Den (second-graders)1st Place: Blake Massey

2nd Place: Colton Barnhart3rd Place: Camerin Pfeifer

Bears Den: (third-graders)1st Place: David Boyles

2nd place: Jamire Pierce3rd place: Austin Pfeifer

Webelos den: (fourth and fifth-graders)1st place: Jake Greene

2nd place: Kevin Wolgast3rd place: Brandon Cohn

Fort Carson, Colorado • www.carson.army.mil

You are invited to

First Baptist Church of Peaceful Valley

• Independent - Fundamental

• King James Bible

• Soul Winning and Visitation Program

• Bus Ministry

• Faith Promise Missions

• Annual Missions Conference

• Old Fashioned Preaching

• Strong Bible Centered Families

Services are as follows:

Sunday 9:45am Sunday School

10:30am Preaching Service

6:00pm Evening Service

Wednesday 7:00pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting

Thursday 9:30am and 6:30pm Visitation

Saturday Men’s Prayer Meeting

We are located at the corner of Fontaine and Powers

7925 Fontaine Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80925

AW Payne, Pastor (719-392-4444)

www.firstbaptistchurchofpeacefulvalley.org

Community 21March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

Story and photo by James H. EgbertMountaineer staff

On March 4, The Boys and GirlsClub of the Pikes Peak Regionannounced that the Army School-AgePrograms in Your Neighborhood program has received a $125,000 grantfrom the El Pomar Foundation benefitsthe Families of Soldiers at Fort Carson and surrounding community.

The grant was awarded to offset

costs of setting up the program.Presenting the grant was WilliamHybl, chairman and chief executiveofficer of the El Pomar Foundation.

Hybl said,“This grant supports aterrific organization in the Boys andGirls Clubs and of the more than4000 Boys and Girls Clubs inAmerica, only 14 are participating in the ASPYN program. We hope that number will grow because thisprogram deals with the before-and-after school efforts of those Families

who have men and women serving inIraq and Afghanistan. The Boys andGirls Club is stepping up to help.”

ASPYN program is a collaborativeeffort among the United States Army,the Boys and Girls Clubs, and theNational Association of Child CareResource and Referral Agencies thatprovides fee assistance to militaryFamilies and Department of Defensecivilian employees and their familiesliving off post. This is in response tothe growing military population atFort Carson, due to the impact of the Base Realignment and Closurestrategy. ASPYN providers are speciallytrained to meet the National AfterSchool Association Standards forQuality School Age Care.

The ASPYN program providesArmy-sponsored off-post school agecare as a supplement to, not a substitutefor Army operated on-post school-agecare. According to statements made byBoys and Girls Club representatives,ASPYN program care options provide the same quality and peace ofmind as on-post school age programs.Participating civilian school-age pro-grams must meet standards comparableto those required in the Army Child andYouth Services System. The civilianprograms will receive ongoing trainingand oversight as staff work to achieve

national accreditation.Families pay reduced fees,

comparable to those charged on-post.Fees are based on total-family incomein order to make the programs moreaffordable to everyone.

“One very important aspect ofwhat we are doing here is bringing the community together, whetheryou’re in the Army, The Boys andGirls Club organization, a supporter or part of El Pomar. This is one community that we have to work withto make sure it functions effectivelyfor everyone,” said Hybl.

The El Pomar Foundation has beeninvolved with fostering a cooperativerelationship between Fort Carson, Boysand Girls Club and the surroundingcommunity since the early 1930s byhelping to support programs that benefit both the Army Family and local families of the Pikes Peak region.

Accepting the grant was LauraNeumann, board chair, Boy and Girls Club of the Pikes Peak Region.Neumann said, “As we celebrate our120th year of serving the youth inour community, we are proud that theArmy entrusts us with one of theirmost treasured assets, those are thechildren of Soldiers, serving our

El Pomar Foundation reaches out to military community

At a press conference, Sgt. Thurman Foster and Staff Sgt. Ayesha Bogart talked abouthow the program has helped their Families and allowed them to be more focused intheir work and achieving mission goals.

See ASPYN on page 22

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Community22 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

All books are located in the New Book Section:

� The Mighty Fallen, Our Nation’s Greatest War Memorials.

731.7609

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� Military Transition to Civilian Success, the Complete

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community and our country and ultimately protecting our freedom.”

In 2003, BGCPPR was selected asa pilot site by the Boys and Girls Clubof America and the Department of theArmy to support “Operation ProudPartners” by providing military Familieswith access to the same programsoffered for youth from 6-18 years old.The BGCPPR surpassed the initial goalof serving 100 military children and nowcontinues, having served more than 500youth through the program’s history.

Boys and Girls Clubs of the PikesPeak Region offers a variety of programsand activities that can be divided intothe following five core service areas:character and leadership development,education and career development,health and life skills, the arts, andsports, fitness and recreation.

Col. Eugene Smith, garrison commander said, “This program provides a peace of mind to the parentsserving at Fort Carson at home ordeployed, knowing that their childrenare being taken care of with the highest-quality before and after school care.This allows the Soldier to keep theirfocus on their mission knowing thattheir Families are being cared for.”

Two Fort Carson Soldiers representedtheir Families and Fort Carson at thepress conference. Staff Sgt. AyeshaBogart, a single mother of a 9-year

old son, who participates in the ASPYNprogram in School District 11.

“The program gave me peace ofmind knowing that my son will bepicked up after school and taken to thecenter where he can do his homeworkand have some down time and just be akid before going home. When we gethome, I want it to be our sanctuary. Theprogram gives us the time and supportwe both need,” said Bogart.

Sgt. Thurman Foster, who is also asingle parent serving full time in theNational Guard and his 8-year olddaughter also participated in the program through School District 8.

“Basically the program allows meto focus on my job knowing that mydaughter is being cared for. She has fun and has time to relax as well afterschool, and because they help her get her homework done before coming home, she has more play timewhen we get home.”

Both of the Soldiers added that thestaff tutors their children when theyhave difficulties with their homework.

The grant from the El Pomar foundation is just one of a continuingstring of grants that are a direct reflection of the Fort Carson communityand the needs of the Families. ElPomar has been involved with FortCarson, even when it was called CampCarson, helping to augment programsfunded by the Army and other localcommunity agencies.

See ASPYN from page 21

(888) 266-1555www.ctudegreenow.com

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Call today for details about exciting new military scholarship opportunities.

25March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER24 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Layout by Jeanne Mazerall

Feature

Story and photos by Pfc. Chelsey WatsonFort Carson Public Affairs Office

In preparation for the upcoming SurgicalExercise, the 10th Combat Support Hospital setup its new Alaska Shelters last month. AlaskaShelter is a structure that provides protection forequipment, personnel, and supplies in all types of extreme climate and terrain. This practice willaffect the setup of the hospital by making theprocess go more smoothly and faster.

Soldiers in the CSH showed their determinationand skills while setting up these shelters. The unithas 72 hours to set up a fully functional hospital and24 hours to get the EMT section up and running tomission capable standards. The EMT section was to standard in approximately four hours; the entirehospital in approximately 48 hours. Taking down the hospital, took one day, compared to the old temper which took approximately two days.

Sgt. Kindra Ussery said, “With these newshelters, more people are able to work at once,which makes set up a lot faster. There is also less heavy lifting the bundles are much lighter.Once we become fully proficient, we should beable to set each shelter up in one hour.”

This process will only improve as the CSH becomes more proficient and experiencedwith Alaska Shelters.

The mission starts before any shelters are setup with a group of Soldiers staking out the fieldsite and plotting where everything will go, downto the last millimeter. They placed different colored strings to represent where each shelterwill be setup. They calculate the spacing betweeneach shelter and the order in which each shelterwill go, to make a fully functional hospital.

Then a dunnage team receives a layout of thehospital and strategically places each Military-OwnedDemountable Container around the perimeter, bothfor protection and easy access for supplies per section.

Temper teams were set up, which work on one shelter at a time. These teams are composed of approximately 10-12 Soldiers. There were fourtemper teams and one International Organizationfor Standardization team.

The ISO teams open up the operating roomand X-ray lab. A power-distro team places generators, heaters, air conditioners and powersupply lines for the entire hospital.

Together, these teams are successful in setting up a Combat Support Hospital.

Soldiers in the 10th CSH direct the placement ofthe Military-Owned Demountable Containers.

Sgt. Zeth Holbert and Pfc. Bo Taylor, 10th CSH, put the frame work for the Alaskashelter together. The new shelters are easier and faster to put together.

Left: Spc. Joanne Hillcoat, Pvt. AngelinaMayoya, Spc. Sara Lister and Spc.Samantha Mendez, all from 10th CSH,pull the Alaska Shelter liner over thestructure. The CSH is preparing for anupcoming surgical exercise.

Soldiers from the 10th CombatSupport Hospital lay the floorfor the Alaska shelter.

10th CSH practices for

SURGEX

Right: Sgt. Danny Madena drives a stakeinto the frame of the Alaska Shelter with

help from Pfc. Timothy O’Keeffe.

Community26 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

by Capt. Craig ScroghamOffice in charge, Fort Carson Tax center

There have been a lot of questions lately regarding the stimulus package that was recentlypassed and how it will affect those of us serving and retired from the military. The Internal RevenueService has answered our questions regarding thestimulus, and I’m happy to say it is good news.

In most cases, the stimulus will amount to $300-$600 for individuals and $600-$1,200 for marriedcouples who filing jointly, with an additional $300payment per qualifying child. All that is required toget the stimulus payment is to file a 2007 Federaltax return with at least $3,000 in qualifying income.The majority of taxpayers don’t need to do anythingextra to receive the payment. If you chose to haveyour refund direct deposited, the stimulus paymentwill be direct deposited as well. If you choose to receive your refund via check, your stimulus payment will also be sent via check.

The main questions to answer are what is “qualifying income” and whether people who normallydo not need to file a tax return qualify for these stimulus payments? For instance, many retireeswhose only source of income is from the Veterans’Affairs and the Social Security Administration donot always need to file a tax return. Likewise, manyactive-duty Soldiers whose only income qualified forthe combat exclusion also do not normally need tofile. If you are in either of these two groups, you canget the stimulus payment by filing a return. On thereturn form, you simply include VA benefits, SocialSecurity benefits, and excludable combat pay to

reach the $3,000 limit and you willqualify for a stimulus payment. By filing a return and including these benefits will in no way affect the amountof your future VA or SSA benefits orcreate any tax liability. The stimuluspayment is tax-free and you will notneed to report this as income in 2008.

If you fall in this category of notnormally needing to file, but wouldlike to receive the stimulus payment,you must file a 2007 Federal tax returnin a special way. For retirees an IRS1040 or 1040A, enter your name,address, Social Security Number and filing status on the form. Then write the amount ofyour VA or SSA benefits you received on line 14aof the 1040A or line 20a of the 1040. If you are notpositive of the yearly amount of your benefits, youcan estimate them by taking your monthly amountand multiplying it by the total number of monthsyou received these payments. You can include wages earned to reach the $3,000 mark by enteringthat amount on line 7. All that needs to be done thenis to write “stimulus payment” at the top of yourreturn and then mail it to the IRS.

For Soldiers, who would not normally need tofile a tax return because your only income wasfrom excludable combat pay, include the amount of excludable combat pay (found in block 12 ofyour W-2 and listed with a Q code) on line 40b of the 1040A and write “stimulus payment” on the top of your form as well.

If your spouse or Family member is deployed

and they were planning on filingtheir 2007 Federal tax return whenthey get back and you are worried

they might miss out on this stimuluspayment, there are a number ofoptions available. Most Soldierswill have access to a tax center,where they can do their own taxeswhile deployed, or have access to a Legal Assistance office that canhelp them make a special power of

attorney for tax purposes to sendhome. Soldiers who have access to the Internet who can go to

www.IRS.gov where they can downloadand complete IRS Form 2848 (power of attorney)which they can send home. So long as they filetheir return by Oct. 15, 2008, they will receive the stimulus payment.

The IRS will begin mailing an informationalpacket regarding the payments in late March withfurther guidance on how to claim the stimulus payment. The IRS will begin mailing/direct depositingthe stimulus checks in late May. If you would likefurther information on the stimulus payments, please visit the IRS Web site at www.IRS.gov.

The Fort Carson Tax center is more than willingto help with preparing stimulus-payment-onlyreturns, but be sure to call and set up an appointment.The Fort Carson Tax Center hours of operation are 8 a.m-5 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Fridays, and will be open on Saturdays (tomorrowand April 5) from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The Tax Center can be reached at 524-1012 or 524-1013.

Stimulus available to taxpayers

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Community 27March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

Community28 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Desertion and AWOL crimes__9_ servicemembers were cited with AWOL

— failed to go to place of duty.__2_ servicemembers were cited with AWOL —

surrendered to military/civilian authorities.__5_ servicemembers were cited with

desertion.

Motor vehicle crimes__1_ servicemember was cited with driving

under the influence of alcohol.__2_ servicemembers were cited with blood

alcohol content of .08 or more.__1_ servicemember was cited with driving

while ability impaired.__1_ servicemember was cited with DUI per se.__1_ civilian was cited with traffic accident

with damage to government property.__1_ servicemember was cited with traffic

accident with damage to governmentproperty.

Drug and alcohol crimes (not including motor vehicles)__3_ servicemembers were cited for

possession of marijuana.__1_ servicemember was cited for cocaine

use determined by urinalysis test.__1_ servicemember was cited for illegal

consumption of alcohol by an underage person.

Property crimes__2_ servicemembers were cited for larceny

of AAFES property.

Miscellaneous crimes__2_ servicemembers were cited with

domestic assault — civilian female victim.__2_ servicemembers were cited with simple

assault — consummated by battery.__5_ servicemembers

were cited withfailure to obey ageneral order.

__2_ civilians werecited with assault.

__1_ civilian was citedwith third degreeassault.

__1_ servicememberwas cited withdisorderly conduct.

__1_ servicememberwas cited withassault on apeace officer.

__1_ servicemember was cited with disorderly conduct.

__1_ civilian was cited with criminal mischief.__1_ civilian was cited with accessory

after the fact to commit other crimesagainst property.

__1_ servicemember was cited with larceny of AAFES property.

__3_ civilians were cited with theft (shoplifting).

__2_ civilians were cited with domestic violence — military male victim.

Police blotterThe following crimes were committed on the Fort Carson installation between Feb. 28-March 5.

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29March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

‘ColoradoElite’cheerleaderstake tophonors Phyllice Johnson-Love, left, and Michele Smith, second from left, watch as their daughters Yasmeen Smith, second

from right, and Sydni Stevenson-Love talk to them about pre-practice warmups.

Story and photos by Walt JohnsonMountaineer staff

Sometimes the sweetest victory comes when you know you did everything you could to be the bestand you are rewarded by winning a championship.

The young boys and girls who compete with the Colorado Elite competitive cheerleading teamknow what that feeling is all about by making history by capturing the national championships in Atlanta in February.

This is the first time that a team representingColorado has won this prestigious event whichbrings together the best competitive cheerleadingteams from all over the country. Two members of

the Colorado Elite team, Yasmeen Smith andSydni Stevenson-Love are also members of theMountain Post Family. The two young women have a tremendous love for the sport of competitive cheerleading.

Smith decided she wanted to become involvedwith competitive cheerleading after she made thechoice to give up gymnastics for the sport of cheerleading. “I lived in Oklahoma where I didgymnastics. I decided I wanted to choose betweengymnastics and cheerleading recently and I wentwith cheerleading. I found more of a challenge incheerleading than I did in gymnastics,” Smith said.

Stevenson-Love has also had a natural love forthe sport, which comes partly from the fact that hermother, Phyllice Johnson-Love, was a member ofthe Denver Broncos cheerleaders when she was inher younger adult years. Stevenson-Love, who carries a 4.0 grade point average, is a gifted athletewho loves being part of a team where she can helpher teammates, and herself, become the best theycan be. “I love being a part of this team becausethere is a lot of teamwork here and everyone loveseach other,” Stevenson-Love said.

Stevenson-Love’s mother said the framework forthe team to be successful was laid in the team’s

training sessions in Colorado Springs and then whenthe team arrived in Atlanta. Johnson-Love said shewas looking for a place to take her daughter so shecould continue to pursue the sport of competitivecheerleading and she feels fortunate to have foundColorado Elite for what they do for the children inhelping them athletically and helping them becomebetter young men and women. She said she loves the time it takes to get the team to be as one and she said the practice sessions here and a session inAtlanta was key to the team’s success.

“The parents were locked out of the team building because the coaches wanted the kids tolearn how to trust each other. The game I liked themost was ‘who is the weakest link’ and what I likedwas none of the other team members would pointout another as the weak link. That is when theyknew what they were made of,” Johnson-Love said.

Michele Smith said she was as surprised as anyone when the team was named the winner becausethe competition was as tough as a two-dollar steakand a lot of the teams performed exceptionally well.

“When they were announcing the teams in thetop 10, the more they didn’t mention Colorado, the more we thought they didn’t do well. You couldsee the team getting lower in spirit because they

didn’t think they got as high asbeing in the top three.

When the (announcers) got tosecond place and they (ColoradoElite) didn’t get that they thoughtthey were out of it. There weresome other teams there that Ithought were just excellent so I was shocked when they wereannounced the winner. They were really clean with their routines but there were some other teams that we felt the sameway about and we thought theywould win,” Smith said.

Both Smith and Stevenson-Love said they are looking to add to the success they enjoyed in Atlanta as national championsin the future. Each said representing the Mountain Postcommunity and themselves was satisfying and they hoped wasthe start of a long and fruitfulcareer in the sport.

Sports

Sydni Stevenson-Love warms up with her Colorado Eliteteammates during a recent practice session at theteam’s training site in Colorado Springs.

Yasmeen Smith, front, warms up with her Colorado Elite teammates duringa recent practice session at the team’s training site in Colorado Springs.

Sports30 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

On the Bench

Nuggets to coachyouth hoop players by Walt JohnsonMountaineer staff

The Denver Nuggets are hosting anNBA-style youth basketball game March 28at 1:30 p.m. at Metro State College (acrossthe street from the Pepsi Center in Denver).

The Fort Carson youth team will play agame coached by Denver Nuggets teammembers. Free tickets for the game areavailable now. For transportation to thegame and more information contact MarkBrowning at 576-3198.

The Directorate of Morale, Welfareand Recreation sports staff hasannounced the date for the time trials toselect the team that will represent thepost at the 24th Annual Army Ten-MilerCompetition scheduled to be held Oct. 5 inWashington, D.C.

Trials will be conducted March 24 at the post Special Events Center. Peopleinterested in participating in the trials mustregister with the Intramural Sports Officeby Monday. For more information and reg-istration call 526-1372.

The All-Army wrestling team hasbeen selected for this year’s ArmedForces championships.

Competing on this year’s team are:Jermaine Hodge, Faruk Sahin, AlfredoVarela, Joshua Habeck, Oscar Wood, Aaron Sieracki, Glenn Garrison, PhillipSimpson, Willie Parks, James Hollis,Dremiel Byers, Kevin Ahearn and DeonHicks. The team will be coached by ShonLewis and Keith Idleburg, with Ian Woodserving as team trainer.

The Colorado Parkinson Foundation will sponsor its first Race for Parkinson’s April 6 at America theBeautiful Park. The organizers of the event are looking for members of the Fort Carson community to take part in the race. Right now there are 400 peopleregistered for the race, 300 of whom areaffiliated with the Air Force installations in Colorado Springs.

With so many Air Force people involvedevent organizers are hoping to turn this into afriendly competition between the Army andAir Force. “It is my hope and desire to doubleor quadruple that number with representationfrom the Army and its dependents. With that,I would like to formally extend an invitationto the Fort Carson representatives of the U.S.

Photo by Walt Johnson

Army wrestlingWorld Class Athlete Program and All-Army Wrestling Team headcoach Shon Lewis, goes over wrestling moves with Willie Parks,left, and Kevin Ahearn Tuesday. The All-Army team is in New Orleansto compete in the Armed Forces tournament Saturday and Sunday,looking for its 13th championship in the past 14 years.

See Bench page 32

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Where We Meet731 North Iowa Ave, Colorado Springs, Co 80909

Sports 31March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

DefenseA member of the post youthbasketball league, right,plays defense against hisopponent, preventing himfrom advancing to the basket during youth basketball action Saturdayat the youth center. Theseason will continueSaturday with games beginning at 9 a.m.

Photo by Walt Johnson Photo by Walt Johnson

MountaineerMountaineer BaskBask ee tball Sportball Spor tsts

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Battalion, 12th InfantryRegiment’s Keith Wright,

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Support the wonderfulbusinesses & servicesthat adorn the pagesof the Mountaineer.

www.militaryfamilycamp.younglife.org

Ft. Carson contact:

Denise Haven (719) 526-5279

Email: denise.haven@us.army.mil

Military Family Camp

Space is limited, so apply now.

Does your family crave adventure, excitement,

laughter and fun or just a break from the daily

stresses of life? Be a part of military family camp

at Young Life’s beautiful Trail West! Active duty

soldiers and their families will enjoy one week of

fun and relaxation in the beautiful Rocky mountains.

Families with a deployed spouse and single parent

families are encouraged to attend as well.

Sports32 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008

Army to compete against the Air Force in this event,”said J. David Currin, event coordinator.

The Colorado Parkinson Foundation Inc. is thisState’s chapter of the National Parkinson Foundation, a Combined Federal Campaign, all-volunteerorganization dedicated to providing the financial needsof the Jeanne Taylor Parkinson’s support group andraising funds to promote research for neurological disorders. They fund transportation assistance for members who are unable to drive, respite care funds forcaregivers who need to have another caregiver fill inwhile they attend our programs, music and dance therapyclasses each week, an annual educational symposium,several monthly group meetings and other assistanceneeds for more than 200 families in our community.Approximately 60 percent of the active organization isveterans or Family members. Registration for the five-kilometer run, three kilometer for walkers, is $20 for therace that will begin at 10 a.m. An award ceremony isscheduled for noon. Register at www.parkies.org.

According to the Colorado Springs SportsCorporation online registration for Colorado amateur athletes is now open at www.stategamesofthewest.org for the inaugural State Games of theWest, July 24-27, in Colorado Springs.

The event is expected to attract more than 8,000 competitors of all ages and skill levels from 13 western states in 31 sports, and is open to all StateGames athletes from Alaska, Arizona, California,Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, NewMexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. All participants are eligible by competing in their local State Games in 2008. The new games will alsoserve as a qualifying event for the 2009 State Gamesof America in Colorado Springs.

Photo by Walt Johnson

High School marathonersPeter Babeu, Fountain-Fort Carson Parent Liaison/School Social Worker, center, discusses the highschool marathon program with students from Fountain-Fort Carson High School who will compete in theevent in late August.

See Bench from page 30

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Ticket Information: 719-495-2583

Sports 33March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEER

LaDonna ReedSports Position: Youth Track coach/Sub Masters competitor

How did you get involved with the post youth track team?

I met coach (John) Smith a year ago in the summer and I asked him if I could help him with the strength and conditioningtraining for the team. He brought me on to help train the kids. I am a personal trainer and I wanted to give the kids another way to train, instead of just running strength, body conditioning, calisthenics and back to basics workout, which is what they neededto improve the way they perform on the track.Do you still compete in track and field?

Yes. I have done a number of events in the local area and I have competed in the State Games in Colorado for the past fewyears. Last year I finished first in the long jump, first in the 100 metersin my age group. I had a hamstring injury this year and I have only done the long jump to get back into the swing of things.Why is track such an important part of your life?

Track and field gives you that push you need and helps you stay focused and that also helps you in life.What was your best moment in track and field?

My former track coach in college was Benjamin Brown (a 1976Olympic gold medalist) and he did not want me to do the heptathlon.He wanted me to sprint and be the “four-by-four star”. Finally, to prove to him I was a heptathlete I entered a race and tripped on a hurdle and separated my shoulder. I had to prove that I was a heptathlete and fought back. It was a big challenge that season toovercome that roadblock but I was able to do it. It was tough because I had a coach I truly loved who wanted me to go in onedirection while my heart was telling me to pursue what I wanted.

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OOnce a warehouse, the brightlypainted building is now filled with rides, games and

activities. Mr. Biggs entertainmentestablishment is 152,000 square feet offun. The Nightrider Speedway electriccars and laser tag are popular attractionsfor the older crowd; there’s an old-fashioned carousel for the youngones. A miniature golf course, 10 BattleTech: Firestorm pods, more than adozen party rooms, four lanes of AMFThunder Bowl, a room of inflatablesand games, lots of games in the arcade.Arcade games include several newgames, such as “Deal or No Deal,”

“Dance, Dance Revolution” with thelatest songs and “Time Crisis.”

The Black Light Maze is beingreplaced by Bumper Cars.

And there’s Little Bigg Town,which includes several rooms for theunder 10 set to put their imagination toplay. The “edu-tainment” includes afire station, bakery, hair salon, giganticsand box, ship, school and others. Theshops are supplied with appropriatetools and equipment suitable to each.An adult must accompany childrenunder 10 in Little Bigg Town. There arebenches for parents to oversee childrenplaying and a nearby shop, Chez Biggs,to purchase soft drinks and snacks.

If that’s not enough, there are 16 bowling lanes. Bigg City Lanesare not included on the two-hourpass or all day pass, which are used for the “rides.” Arcade gamesare also priced separately.

The bowlinglanes have a sepa-rate entrance, ifyour group choosesonly to bowl, but itcan also be enteredfrom the gamesarea. If you’ve purchased a pass,you’re entitled to a $1 discount onbowling. Use upyour pass then head for the lanes.

Bowling is $3per game and $3 for shoe rentalFridays, Saturdaysand Sundays. It’s$1 per game all

day Mondays-Thursdays (except during Spring Break), and $3 forshoe rental.

Mr. Biggs is a large space, andfirst-time guests may wander around a bit. Pick up a guide at the entrancedesk to find your way.

Everything at Mr. Biggs is indoors,making it an ideal place to take thefamily during inclement or hot weather.

With Colorado Springs schoolsobserving Spring Break later thismonth, Mr. Biggs will have extendedhours the week of March 24-28, whenit’s open at 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondaythrough Thursday, and from 10 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. Sunday,it’s open noon-9 p.m. Sunday.

During the school year, Mr. Biggs opens at noon.

March 14, 2008

Places to see in thePikes Peak area.

Mr. Biggs’ pizza, pasta and salad buffet is“all you can eat.”

Bigg City Lanes is the newest bowling lanes in Colorado Springs. The lanes are colorful andbright, and all 16 lanes were in use Saturday.

Elizabeth Rodriguez, 4, makes a pretend cakein the Bakery at Little Bigg Town.

Children enjoy playing in the School House at Little Bigg Town, an areafor children under 10 years old.

Indoor fun, games

MMrr.. BBiiggggss ffaammiillyy eenntteerrttaaiinnmmeenntt

cceenntteerr

See Mr. Biggs on page 36

A two-hour pass is $17, and an all day pass is $19.95, and includes all ridesand golf. The pass does not include thearcade and bowling in the Bigg City Lanes.Visitors can put money on their card to be used in the arcade. Check out specialdeals at the entrance desk.

Visitors can pick up a “passport to fun”at the entrance desk, which has couponsfor “buy one, get one” specials.

Refreshments are readily available inMr. Biggs. Chez Biggs, near theentrance to Little Bigg Town,has snacks as does Bagg’s DoggHouse, near Battletech and the arcade. Vending machinesare throughout the facility.

An all-you-can-eat pizza,pasta and salad buffet is in thefront corner of the warehouse,left of the entrance desk. Thebuffet costs $4.99, for those 8and older; pay 99 cents extra for a soft drink. Children under8 are charged 50 cents timestheir age, with free drinks.

The pasta is cooked for youon the spot at the pasta bar; help yourself to sauces. Dessertpizzas are also available.

Healthier food choices willsoon be added to the buffet.

There’s still another place to eat: thePubb and Grubb, inside the full service bar next to Bigg City Lanes. The menuincludes appetizers, such as wings, mozzarella sticks and fried mushrooms orzucchini, salads, burgers, chicken or delisandwiches as well as whole pizzas andpasta plates. Or, when you’re in Mr. Biggs,call 685-7560 to place an order and it will be delivered to whichever locationinside Mr. Biggs you choose.

Mr. Biggs is the place to book a party.Choose one of the 12 party rooms, such as a deli or fishing shack; or choose athemed or bowling party. No outside fooddrinks allowed; choose the party packagethat suits you and make a deposit.

There’s even a place for business conferences, meetings, or unit parties orteam building.

Call 955-7220 to book a child’s birthday party or a meeting or conference.

Families can join Little Bigg Town for daytime playtime on a monthly basis.Those children can play Monday-Friday,from 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., for $25 a month per child or $30 for a family. It’s open regular hours Saturday and Sunday. Somecollege-student parents bring their booksand study while children play.

According to Brannon Jones, regionalmanager for Mr. Biggs, the company isexpanding. Mr. Biggs of Littleton is atCoal Mine and Kipling, at the former“Fat City.” The Littleton Facility has 40 lanes of bowling, bigger go-cart cars, a foam factory, laser tag and similargames and pricing. It’s a 144,000-square-foot facility. A Little Bigg Town will be built there.

Under construction is a new ColoradoSprings site for the under 10 set, whichwill include a Little Bigg Town and food. It’s a 10,000 square foot facility near Powers and Stetson Hills, and willalso include inflatables.

The exterior of the warehouse is brightly painted in yellow, purple, red andturquoise, so the original Mr. Biggs is hard to miss. It’s west of Interstate 25, at5825 Mark Dabling Blvd., take exit 147.

Mr. Biggs has a military discount. With military identification, passes are 50 percent off on Mondays.

Go online at www.mrbiggsffc.com, or call 955-7220 for information.

36 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008 Happenings

Just the Facts• TRAVEL TIME — half an hour

• FOR AGES — families

• TYPE — games, rides, fun

• FUN FACTOR — ★★★★1/2

(Out of 5 stars)

• WALLET DAMAGE — $$$$ PLUS FOOD

$ = Less than $20$ $ = $ 21 t o $ 4 0

$ $ $ = $ 41 t o $ 6 0$ $ $ $ = $ 61 t o $ 8 0

(BASED ON A FAMILY OF FOUR)

See Mr. Biggs from page 35

The inflatables room at Mr. Biggs is very popular with families.

One of the 12 party rooms is set up for a birthday party. Mr.Biggs can handle parties of all sizes.

Guests play a game ofminiature golf on thelinks at Mr. Biggs.

The electric cars are easily the most popular attraction at Mr. Biggs.

Once a warehouse, Mr. Biggs is 152,000square feet of fun, food and entertainment.

37March 14, 2008 — MOUNTAINEERGet Out

St. Patrick’s Day paradesDuring Irish-American Heritage Month,

celebrate by attending a St. Patrick’s Day paradeSaturday:

Colorado Springs’ parade begins at noon.The parade is in downtown Colorado Springsand runs from St. Vrain, south along Tejon toVermijo. The day begins with a five-kilometerrace at 10 a.m., and a Children’s Fun Run at 11 a.m. Parking is available in city parkinggarages — there will be a parking fee.

In Denver, the parade steps off at 10 a.m. at the Coors Field parking lot, 27th and Blake.The parade goes to 21st, to Wynkoop, to 19th,to Wewata and returns to Coors parking lot.Parking is prohibited on the parade route, but commercial parking lots are in the area.

The Denver Zoo has a St. Patrick’s DaySerpent Festival, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. In keeping with the legend of St. Patrick driving all snakes out of Ireland, thefestival showcases several species of snakesduring the festival. Learn facts about snakes andget a souvenir token for good luck. The DenverZoo is in Denver City Park, near ColoradoBoulevard at Steel Street; www.denverzoo.org.

Pueblo theaterSangre de Cristo Arts Center’s Center Stage’supcoming events are “April 2, and “Chanticleer” May 4. All shows are in the theater, 210 N. SantaFe in downtown Pueblo; call (719) 295-7222.

Children’s Theater performances at the

same address includes “The Velveteen Rabbit” April 2 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Ticketsare $6; call (719) 295-7222.

Ski tripsOutdoor Recreation has rental ski equipmentas well as day trips to Copper Mountain,Monarch, Winter Park and Loveland. Buy discounted ski passes at Information, Ticketsand Registration office. Rent ski equipment at the Outdoor Recreation Center and buy lift tickets while there; call 526-5366.

Pikes Peak Center The Broadway Series at the Pikes Peak Center,190 S. Cascade Ave., in downtown ColoradoSprings features “Cirque Dreams JungleFantasy,” March 21. Call 520-SHOW for tickets.

Free days at Denver attractionsThe Scientific and Cultural Facilities District in Denver sponsors free days for Colorado residents at some Denver attractions.Visitors may be asked to show a Colorado driver’s license.

Denver Botanic Gardens, 1005 York St., has free admission March 17 and April 22.

Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave.Parkway is free for Colorado residents the first Saturday of the month.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science has free admission for Soldiers. Themuseum is in City Park. Take Interstate 25

north to Denver, and take the Colorado Exit to City Park.

Future showsUpcoming shows in the Pikes Peak Center:

Art Garfunkel performs March 29 at 7:30 p.m.“Annie” is in the theater April 2 and 3,

at 7 p.m. B.B. King, presents a show at 8 p.m. April

9. Tickets start at $46.75.Glenn Miller Orchestra performs a concert

April 11 at 7 p.m. “Scheduled for the World Arena:Harlem Globetrotters perform March 29

at 7:30 p.m.Call 520-SHOW or go online at

www.ticketswest.com, www.pikespeakcenter.comand www.worldarena.com.

Disney on Ice“Finding Nemo,” performed by Disney on Ice,is in the Colorado Springs World Arena April19 at 11:30 a.m. and April 20 at 1 and 5 p.m.Tickets are available at Information, Tickets and Registration; call 526-5366.

Denver theater“When Elmo Grows up,” a Sesame Street Liveproduction is April 17-20 at the University of Denver Magness Arena. Tickets are atTicketmaster, 520-9090 or the Ritchie Center BoxOffice (303) 871-2336, or sesamestreetlive.com.

— Compiled by Nel Lampe

All Military,Fireman, and

Police are in for Free with ID.

38 MOUNTAINEER — March 14, 2008 Happenings

Photo courtesy Bennett School of Irish Dance

DDaannccee ooff tthhee IIrriisshhIrish dancers participate in a previous Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’sparade is Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m. near Coors Field. A St. Patrick Day Paradeis also in downtown Colorado Springs, beginning at noon. It’s along Tejon Street.

Pvt. Hazardby James Boroch

719-389-49421313 Motor City Drive