FLORENCE (08/20/02) - After an early breakfast, the group visits the Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo's David. Immediately afterward, the four hour bus ride to Venice commences. Following a boat ride to the hotel, the group gets a guided walking tour of the Piazetta, the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Square. In the evening the team heads to the town of Mirano for a game against the Como/Milan All-Stars. The Hawks post an easy 83-35 victory. **************************************************************** Today was the last and longest day of the trip. We woke up early to see Michelangelo's David. The detail of his face was incredible. Then we began our journey to Venice - about a four hour drive. Once in Venice, we had to leave the bus and take a boat to our hotel. As soon as we arrived at the hotel, we began a walking tour of St. Mark's Square and Basilica, as well as the Doge's Palace. We got back to the hotel, which is right on the water andpretty much had to immediately leave for our game. The game went well, we won 83-35. It is hard to defend the European shuffle (What we like to call their third andfourth step without a dribble). They were also very slap-happy, but it was still a good time. Tash and Ray-Ray we missed you! And a special hello to Amy and Sue the seniors that couldn't make it. All in all, the trip was an awesome experience. We have seen so many things that we had previously only read about. It was a great bonding experience for our team, especially off the court. You know things are good when you have about 15 girls together for 10 days, about 17 hours a day, and not one fight. We will be leaving early tomorrow to come home, therefore we came up with the saying "No sleep in Venice!" See everybody soon! - Stephanie Graff