Vol. 27 No. 24
June 18, 2010
The Signature Online - www.cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
Active Reserves Offers Flexibility and Benefits Story By MCSN Palmer NPASE East Det.
SIGONELLA, Sicily – Active duty is not for everyone. Long deployments can be mentally and physically challenging and can cause strain on personal relationships and marriages. Many Sailors and service members simply don’t want to pack up their lives and move to a new locale every few years. Besides the personal satisfaction that comes from serving one’s country, many people are drawn to the military for the wide range of benefits that the military offers, from medical benefits to tuition assistance. Others enjoy the camaraderie that military life seems to build. The Active Reserve offers present active duty service members whose enlistment is ending to continue serving their country and retain some of the other benefits granted to them while giving them the opportunity to form some stability and
Photo by MCSN Palmer
balance in their lives and relationships. New recruits often forgo active duty altogether and pursue their military career through the Active Reserve. Another reason a Sailor might choose the reserves is the dreaded high year tenure. Certain rates are simply backed up and advancement is difficult. Time catches up and eventually some Sailors who want to stay in the Navy save their careers by entering the Reserves.
Logistics Support 2nd Class Jarman Kilgore, a former Marine, re-enlisted in the Navy in 2003 after leaving the Marine Corps. He completed two tours of duty and faced a similar situation “I had a lot of opportunities in the Navy, but as a former Personnel Specialist I was unable to advance,” said Kilgore. “There were more personal goals I wanted to attain and the active Reserve offered me a way.”
Kilgore says that while on active duty; the demands on his time from being in a small command left him little chance to pursue his education and a personal life. “I was on duty a lot,” said Kilgore. “As a Reservist, I have time to go to school, I’m married, and there’s a baby on the way.” Kilgore, who holds a civilian job as a leads technician for Naval Recruitment District Michigan, like most reservists drills for a weekend each month and two weeks each year. “Drill time consists of a lot of training,” says Kilgore. “We do our general military training (GMT), basic military requirements and we get qualifications required for certification. Oh, and of course we PT (physical training)” There is also Active Duty for Special Work (ADSW), where servReserves, continued on page12
TOP STORIES PAGE 2
Sun Screen
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NavyNews
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Italian News:
Cherry festival in Sant’Alfio
NAS Sigonella Tests Emergency Response with Exercise Reliant Star Story By MCSN Palmer NPASE East Det.
SIGONELLA, Sicily – Commander Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia completed Exercise Reliant Star at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella last week.
“The purpose of the exercise was to integrate emergency services and to teach them to work as a unit in response to emergency situations,” said Rich Zbikowski, a Commander Navy Installations Command training observer for the exercise. The exercise involved an earthquake scenario with a parking
garage collapse, a bridge collapse, sinkholes both on and off base, along with multiple other scenarios. Commands from around the base participated including U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella, NAS Sigonella Security, and NAS Sigonella Fire and Emergency Services. “The training went smoothly,” said
Chief Gunner’s Mate (SW/AW) Jeremy Elmore, a training team leader for the exercise. “There is always room for improvement.” The exercise spanned three days and was also conducted at Naval Station Rota, Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, and Naval Support Activity Naples.
SECNAV Discusses Future of Alternative Energy Sources
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Stones Throw
When the moon hits your eye, like a big pizza pie, that’s amore!”
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Youth Splashn-Dash
Naval Air Station(NAS) Sigonella’s Fire and Rescue team prepare to raise a tele-squirt 65 from the back of a fire engine in order to perform a high angle rope rescue of simulated victims during operation Reliant Star.
During a base exercise, Naval Air Station(NAS) Sigonella’s Security Forces Department was forced to close the gates to the military housing compound, Marinae to prevent rioters from entering the compound.
Traffic Numbers
Keep Your BBQ From Going Boom By April Phillips, Naval Safety Center Public Affairs Summer is prime season for backyard barbeques. Warm weather, good friends, and grilled meat combine to form a perfect afternoon for many Sailors, Marines and their families. Unfortunately, every year casual afternoons are ruined by fires resulting from improper use of barbeque grills. The National Fire Protection Association reports that from 2003 – 2006, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbe-
Weather update
June 18 H:88F L:65F
ques per year. These fires cause an estimated $80 million in direct property damage. They also kill 10 people and seriously injure 120 every year. A third class petty officer found this out the hard way when he was preparing to cook on a propane grill. He tried to use the button that provides a spark to light the grill, but it didn’t work. He kept trying for about 30 seconds, which allowed 30 seconds worth of gas to flow. When he pulled out his cigarette lighter, he ignited the gas and ended up with burns to his hand and four days of light duty. The Naval Safety Center sees reports of similar June 19 H:82F L:62F
June 20 H:81F L:62 F
mishaps
each
summer.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says there are routine checks that can easily be performed on gas grills and significantly reduce the risk of a fire. Check the tubes that lead into the burner for blockage; check hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, or leaks. Use the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or any building. Don’t use it in a garage, breezeway, carport, or under any surface that could catch fire. While charcoal grills cause less fires annually than gas grills, the biggest June 21 H:81F L:63F
June 22 H:82F L:62F
safety concern is lighter fluid – or the various substitutes Sailors and Marines often use to try and light the grill. Only use lighter fluid that is meant for charcoal, never gasoline, kerosene or other volatile fluids, and, never add lighter fluid to coals that are already warm. No matter what type of grill is used, the most important thing is to keep an eye on it. Never leave it unattended and watch out for children. Ultimately, common sense is the secret ingredient that will keep cookouts from leaving a bad taste in your mouth. June 23 H:82F L:62F
June 24 H:83F L:65F
Jan. 10May 10 Accidents Injuries
Jan. 09May 09
122 15
102 8
DUIs
2
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Traffic Deaths
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Please, don’t become a statistic!
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June 18, 2010
Direct Line
NASSIG Commanding Officer Capt. Thomas J Quinn
accomplishment, and family success. I would like to highlight a few groups of people who I feel have made a lasting impact on not only me, but the base as a whole. One of my favorite groups is the wonderful team of Ombudsman that has served on NAS Sigonella throughout my tour. Working with them has been a privilege as they are a group of individuals who think of community over self and mission before individual. If you ever get an opportunity to join this group of people I would jump at the chance. The Sigonella Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society and all of their volunteers have really done some amazing things in the past three years. I couldn’t be prouder of them because as an organization of only two paid employees and the rest volunteers, they are truly Sailors helping Sailors. Additionally, the community support of NMCRS has absolutely thrilled me.
My tour in Sigonella is coming to an end and my relief Capt. Scott Butler will be taking the reigns on the 23rd. With the end so near, I am increasingly aware that the past three years I have spent in Sicily have been the highlight of my career. In looking back on this tour I realize that it is not about the operations, the exercises, or the day to day tasks that have made it great; it is simply the people at NAS Sigonella. At most installations the most common question heard by leadership is “what can the base do for me?” At NAS Sigonella I have been continually amazed and humbled by how often people say “what can I do for Sigonella?” This spirit of professionalism and giving is evident in every aspect of what we do here, from the volunteers that make NMCRS and Red Cross events and services possible to the tight knit Chiefs Mess who are involved in every facet of Sailor development, mission
This year, with hard economic times across the world, the base raised $90k in the NMCRS active duty fund drive; money which goes right back into the pockets or our own Sailors in times of need. The NASSIG Security department is the best trained and most courteous, most polite security force I have ever met in my life. These guys are the ones who brave the elements rain or shine and are never any less than true professionals. They really are second to none. If you get a chance, thank a security professional, because they are the ones who allow us to sleep safe every night, and day after day to conduct our missions. The final group I want to mention is the Chief Petty Officer community on NASSIG. They have been one of the keys to our success. I have had the incredible fortune to work with CMC Rosa Wilson and CMC Lee Moore; two incredible leaders, two incredible
Sun Screen By: LT Skinner US Naval Hospital Sigonella Jane could hardly wait to get to the beach and relax for the day. Not paying attention as the car horn sounded the arrival of her ride she grabbed one of the many bottles of sunscreen from her cabinet and ran off. The weather was perfect for enjoying the beach with hardly a cloud in the sky and a relaxing breeze that cooled the direct rays of the sun. Jane’s shipmate asked if she wanted to try her new sunscreen that she had picked up at the Nex stating it was the latest and greatest in sun protection with sweat and bug repellants. Jane said thank you but she wanted to finish this tube up and added. “You know I had five or six fall out of my cabinet this morning!” Her shipmate cautioned her about using old sunscreen. Jane snickered, “Right, they say that to get you to spend more money.” The young ladies lathered up and stretched out on their blankets. An hour later they decided to hit the surf to cool off. Returning to the beach blankets to dry off and eat lunch. Jane’s shipmate noted her skin was red and inquired again if she wanted to use her sun screen. Jane shrugged her shoulders and said, “No, salt water just irritated my skin, besides who wants oily sunscreen on your sandwich? “Jane, you can wash off your hands after you apply.” Jane answered her friend by saying. Commanding Officer Capt. Thomas J. Quinn Public Affairs Officer Lt. Matt Knight Deputy Public Affairs Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta Editor MC1 Christopher Delano Staff Writers/ Photographers MC1 Christopher Delano MC2 Gary Prill MCSN Whitfield Palmer The Signature editorial office is located at: Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627 Telephone: 095-86-5440: DSN 6245440 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for
Sailors, and lifelong friends of mine. They have taught me that it was never about me as the CO, it has always been about us. It has been a great pleasure for me to watch NASSIG Sailors grow and develop under the Chief community. One of my proudest days was April 2nd when I became an honorary CPO. I consider that honor as one of the highlights of not only my tour here, but of my life; greater than any individual medal I have ever received. I want every Chief out there to know that the fact you consider me a part of your community means a tremendous amount to me. There are so many others that I would like to recognize, but that space in this column just won’t allow for. MWR and their many amazing programs, the wardroom for three years of camaraderie, the galley for giving me the honor of having a Ney Award during my tour, and of course my family (Heather, Ryan, Heather, Kerry,
Shannon, Conor), who I could not have done all of this without. Thank you to all who made this tour such a success, and remember to stay safe, never drink and drive, always have a plan, and help Capt. Butler continue the tradition of excellence we currently maintain.
NASSIG Worship Services
“No, I am good.” After a full day of sun the girls were packing up their beach items and Jane said “I don’t feel so well, maybe I did not hydrate enough”. Her friend took off her sunglasses to get a better look at Jane’s face and was alarmed to see just how red she was. “Jane, you are redder than a lobster and I think I see blisters on your face. Let me take you to the ER.” “You are kidding right? Who goes to the ER for sunburn? I just need a cool shower and some skin lotion;”was Jane’s response to her friends concern. On the way home Jane felt like her skin was getting tight and she began feeling sick to her stomach so she conceded to the ER visit. Poor Jane, her day of fun ended up with a night in the ER being treated for sun poisoning which is a severe case of sunburn that can cause nausea, dizziness, rapid pulse, fever, rash or blisters. Don’t let this happen to you. Learn from Jane’s mistakes. Never keep or use sun screen that is a year old. Toss it out! Always look for the expiration date before you purchase and make sure you understand the products limitation. Do not assume it is sweat or water proof or what spectrum or rating it is; read the label carefully. Reapply after an hour or coming out of the water. Use hat, umbrella and clothing for additional protection from too much sun. For more information about safety in the sun please go to www.cdc.gov and be on the lookout for next article about summer safety. members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support
Chapel Offices: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049 ROMAN CATHOLIC Sunday 0830 1600
Catholic Mass (NAS I Chapel) Catholic Mass (NAS II Chapel)
PROTESTANT Sunday 1000 Traditional Protestant (NAS I) 1130 Contemporary Protestant (NAS I)
Monday – Thursday 1130 Catholic Mass (NAS II Chapel)
CHURCH OF CHRIST LAY SERVICE Sunday 1530 NAS I Chapel Rooms 3 & 4 Call 624-5128 or 335-841-8069 JEWISH SERVICES: Please call 624-1239 or email sigshalom@yahoo.com
OTHER SERVICES/ACTIVITIES POINTS OF CONTACT Latter-day Saints: Sunday 1300 Catania Chapel, GPS N37.538035 E015.115348 James Shefchik - shefchick@hotmail.com; 624-1393 AA Meetings: Monday, Wednesday, Friday - 1900, NAS II Chapel, 346-840-7745
Emergency Management Office Be prepared to be on your own for at least three days. Seven is better! The BASIC FIVE: Water, Food, Heat, Cash, Radio; Family Communications Plan: Phone Numbers & Rally Points; Public Protection Strategies: Evacuation and Shelter-in-Place; Web info: Ready.gov; Emergency info: AFN 106.0 FM; Questions? Call the EM Office at 624-2630, 8265 or 2621. Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy Tel. 081-568-7884, Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
Sig onellatude! Sigonellatude? That’s ugly. Why would I threaten this command’s quality of life by coining a term so offensive to the ears, eyes and mouth? The suffix, -tude, is normally used to make nouns out of adjectives. The purpose is to provide the idea of the quality, the state or the condition of the root to which it is applied. So, do we need a word to capture the idea of the quality, the state or the condition of time in Sigonella? I think it is worth our consideration. How do you handle long assignments far away from home? How do those closest to you intentionally manage your absence? We have all heard the briefs and seen the materials. The handbooks are filled with sound counsel that can be profitably revisited throughout a deployment or an assignment. In fact, the briefs have more good ideas than I could ever apply in any one tour. I enjoy watching people put such advice into action. In the midst of work schedules, they develop and
faithfully practice disciplines that, though maybe not pleasurable at the time, are good habits for a healthy rhythm during that season of life – physically, mentally, relationally, and spiritually. It’s just . . . life is so dynamic; even in the fairly predictable cycles of sunny Sigonella, a static brief may not capture every nuance of our experience. How does one cultivate a positive ‘Sigonellatude’ beyond simply employing all the tips? Occasionally, I find I need to make an intentional adjustment in my approach to shaping the quality and condition of my current assignment. This is not necessarily the result of ‘feeling down’ nor does it stem from failing to execute a regimen of order and discipline. I simply recall a quote from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a man who suffered and died a prisoner in a Nazi death camp. In his book, Life Together, he wrote, “Let him who cannot be alone beware of community; let him who is not in community beware of being alone.” Bonhoeffer was writing about the proper observance of solitude. (Yes, that’s where I began to consider the suffix, –tude.) Serving in Sicily, I reflected on this statement and wondered if a corollary could be drawn regarding our presence here. Let him who does not cope and adapt well in an overseas billet beware of the appearance of the quality of life while serving in the States. Conversely, let him who does not display health in his closest relationships in his home environment consider carefully the risks of life deployed or attitude, continued on page 12
June 18, 2010
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SECNAV Discusses Future of Alternative Energy Sources By MC1 Doug Kimsey Naval War College Public Affairs NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- The secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) shared his vision of a greener Navy and Marine Corps team, one that is more energy independent, but still remaining the greatest maritime force in the world, during a keynote address at the Naval War College's 61st Current Strategy Forum in Newport, R.I., June 9. "It's a matter of energy independence, it's a matter of our security," said SECNAV Ray Mabus of the need for the Navy and Marine Corps to reduce dependence on foreign fossil fuels. Attended by more than 1,200 participants, the 2010 conference explored the theme of "The Global System in Transition" by examining U.S. foreign policy in the emerging global order, the strategic leadership opportunities for the United States and the
role of the maritime services in supporting the nation's key objectives. The two-day forum is hosted annually by SECNAV. "It's a matter of making sure that when we need those ships at sea, when we need those aircraft in the air, when we need the Marines on the ground, we have the energy produced right here in the United States to do that," said Mabus. Mabus, a former governor of Mississippi, U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and surface warfare officer, gave examples of efforts to become less dependent on foreign fossil fuels. "In April (2010), we flew the Green Hornet, an F-18 Hornet. The Green Hornet, a regular off-the-shelf F-18, supersonic, flew on a mixture of regular gasoline and biofuel, biofuel made from camelina," said Mabus. Camelina is a small mustard seed that has the potential to be grown in rotation with wheat in every state.
Becoming greener serves tremendous tactical imperatives as well, said Mabus. "The example that I like to use is getting a gallon of gasoline to a Marine front line unit in Afghanistan," said Mabus. "You have to put that gallon of gasoline on a tanker. You've got to take it across the Pacific. You have to put it into a truck, and truck it over the Hindu Kush and down through Afghanistan. Now, as you do this, you've got to guard it." Mabus explained that convoy duty for that gasoline takes, "Marines away from what Marines should be doing; fighting, engaging, helping to rebuild that country." Mabus also talked about the Navy's first hybrid ship, the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), which sailed from Pascagoula, Miss., to its homeport in San Diego, saving almost $2 million in fuel costs by using an electric
drive for speeds of 10 knots or less. "Over the lifetime of that ship, if fuel prices remain absolutely the same, we will save about a quarter of a billion dollars in fuel. We're prototyping that engine to be retrofitted onto our guided-missile destroyers so that we can begin to move that further out into the fleet," said Mabus. SECNAV said that great change is almost always met with great resistance. "We changed from sail to coal in the 1850s. We changed from coal to oil in the early part of the 20th century. We went to nuclear for our subs and our aircraft carriers in the 1950s," said Mabus. "Every single time that we made one of those changes, there were people that said you are abandoning one source of proven energy for one that you do not know whether it will work, and by the way, it's too expensive," said Mabus.
Mabus is confident that results will show that progress in adopting alternative energy sources will prove yet again to be vital for the Navy's future. "The Navy and Marine Corps fulfill every mission given to them, including helping us become energy independent," said Mabus. Mabus also spoke directly to Naval War College students, challenging them to fulfill their leadership duties as they continue their careers. "The legacy of the Navy and Marine Corps is a legacy of leadership," said Mabus. "It is up to you students of the War College to maintain that legacy. You follow in some amazing footsteps. It's your turn to write the next chapter for our military services and our country. Write them well." For more news from Naval War College, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwc/.
Photo from the fleet Photo from the fleet Check in weekly to find out what our fellow shipmates are doing around the fleet.
Check in weekly to find out what our fellow shipmates are doing around the fleet.
NAS SIG's Fire and Rescue team prepares the rigging needed to lower a dummy Sigonella’s Fire and Rescue Assistant Fire Chief John Burgess climbs a that represents the first victim of a simulated building collapse. During an emer- Tele-Squirt 65 to access the top floor of a simulated building collapse. gency all of the victims will be put into similar riggings and lowered via the high Photo by MC2 Gary Prill angle rope rescue. Photo by MC2 Gary Prill
New Hope
Tatoo
Muscle
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June 18, 2010
Nearly New Shop OPEN
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Chiechio Do you have a passion for writing or are you looking for a little experience in journalism? The Signature is seeking volunteers to help cover base wide events as well as feature stories. If this sounds like an opportunity for you please call the Public Affairs Office at 624-5440
Waxy
Magnolia
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response SAPR offers a Sexual Assault Hotline staffed with trained advocates who man the SAPR Hotlines 24/7. The number is 335-642-8312 or 335-606-6146.
Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Building Bldg. 319 (NAS I)
Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.4 p.m. DSN 624-4291 Commercial 095-56-4291
SUMMER IN SICILY Story by FFSC Summer is upon us. Kids are out of school and vacations are being planned. Did you know that some of the hot vacation spots in Europe are right here in Sicily? The Island of Sicily offers a vacation spot for everyone, all within a few hours drive.
W o r l d RIVERSIDE, Calif. (NNS) -Through the cooperation of a host of international television licensees, the American Forces Network Broadcast Center (AFN-BC) has been granted permission by the Federation International de Football Association (FIFA) to distribute the full complement of matches of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. The U.S. armed forces stationed outside the United States and aboard Navy ships at sea will have access to AFN-BC's schedule of live and tape-
Walk along the sandy beaches of Catania, where both public (spiaggia libera) and private (lido) installations are located; hike Mt. Etna and see real lava flow; camp Porto Palo, Marina di Ragusa; go fishing and dine on fresh fish caught daily in Siracusa; Archeological sightseeing is plentiful in Cefalu’, Palermo, Monreale, Acicastello, Noto, Modica, Agrigento, Selinunte, Segesta,
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delayed coverage of the entire calendar of 64 matches from June 11 to July 11. Through the combined broadcast feeds of ABC and ESPN, AFN's welldeserving audience will have the opportunity to follow all the action down on the pitch, from group play to the knockout rounds, from the semifinals to the Championship match. "Having the most-watched sports event on the planet play out on AFN is a real feather in our cap," noted Jeff White, executive director of AFN-BC, "but more importantly, we'll be able to
Erice. Explore the fourteen paradises of untouched beauty. The Aeolian islands, in the province of Messina, water meets fire in Stromboli, Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Filicudi, Alicudi and Panarea. Some have an African charm, such as the Pelagie, in the province of Agrigento, and Pantelleria in the province of Trapani. Others, the uncontested mistresses of the sea and its secrets, Levanzo, Favignana, and Marettimo, form the archipela-
go of the Egadi in the sea off Trapani. Further north, in splendid isolation, is Ustica, the island of Circe, with its unspoilt marine reserve. Other great opportunities include great cooking classes, kayaking, making Caleca pottery, sailing and deep sea diving.
made, natural, and historical sights in Sicily. As you can see there are many adventures and sights awaiting you. For additional travel information contact the FFSC, ICR at 624-4291.
It’s our intention to just wet your traveling appetite and encourage you to consider some of the man-
Don’t miss out on Intercultural relations (ICR) classes which ares offered every other Friday. It includes a field trip downtown Catania and a visit of the Medieval Motta Castle.
The long-awaited approval from FIFA, provided to AFN-BC on a gratis basis, was released today. The entire clearance process spanned over twoand-a-half years and involved the participation of 34 international television licensees and sub-licensees in 28 territories, who waived their territorial exclusivity over to FIFA so that FIFA could accommodate AFN-BC's request to distribute the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa. "I thought we were going to have to go into injury time to get this done,"
commented Tom Weber, AFN-BC's director of industry liaison, "but the complicated and lengthy clearance process finally ended on a high note." Weber, who spearheaded AFN-BC's long march with FIFA and its international licensees, added, "We can't thank enough FIFA and its many, many international television licensees for collectively granting the permission we sought, and for the joint ABC and ESPN approval to access their combined U.S. domestic feeds of the Cup."
A F N deliver the entire compliment of matches to the side that means the most -our brave men and women in uniform serving their country overseas and in harm's way. It doesn't get any better than this." The permission granted to AFN-BC to distribute the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa is limited to closed circuit transmission means only, and will be showcased exclusively on AFNsports and AFNxtra. For AFNBC's complete schedule, just logon to w w w . m y a f n . n e t .
Marchi
Atahotels
Orange Park
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June 18, 2010 Alberto Lunetta The Signature Staff
St. John the Baptist Festival returns to Acitrezza This Catholic festa or festival is a major religious event in the Catania province. Trizzoti (Acitrezza townspeople) have been celebrating it for over 300 years. Acitrezza fishermen have a special relationship with this festival. Due to the risky nature of their job, fishermen invoke St. John the Baptist for protection when they are at sea. During the festival, they decorate their boats and stage the spectacular pantomime named “U pisci a mari” (The fish in the sea). Sicilian folklore historian Monsignor Giovanni Lanzafame described with vivid words the meaning of this dramatic performance: “Some say that the pantomime that is staged in Acitrezza is actually an ancient propitiatory rite aimed at bringing good luck to the fishermen during the swordfish fishing activity. Despite the jubilation displayed during the festival, I believe that the life of the fishermen is somehow imbued with a sense of melancholy. Even though they work hard, they don’t always bring fish home.” The festival takes place from June 23 through 25. Highlights include religious processions that will be held throughout the historic center and along the seaside. Spectacular performances such as the above mentioned “U pisci a mari” pantomime and the “Calata dell’Angelo” (Descent of the Angel) would also be staged. The festival revolves around the
“Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista” (St. John the Baptist Parish) in which the wooden statue depicting San Giovanni Battista and the saint’s relics are kept.
served up to today. The statue is over 300 years old but it is still in excellent conditions, a detail that has contributed to the mystique surrounding this amazing piece of art.
“Origins of the Festival” “Festival Schedule” Prince Stefano Riggio, the founder of Acitrezza, built the Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista in 1693 to replace another church erected in 1678 and dedicated to San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph), which was had been destroyed by a violent earthquake. Shortly after the construction of that church, the people of Acitrezza made a statue depicting San Giovanni Battista to honor their beloved saint. Today, historians are still debating on who carved this beautiful sculpture. Some stories say that the sculptor was a trizzoto named Castorina or Lo Faro. Legend has it that the artist locked himself up inside the Palazzo del Principe di Acitrezza (Palace of the Prince of Acitrezza) for three months and carved the statue, taking as a model a member of the Giletti family from Acitrezza. Other legends say that the eccentric sculptor would accept food only if it was lowered from the palace’s roof whose tiles were temporary removed. For that reason, nobody saw the statua (statue) until it was finished. When the sculpture was ready, it was placed in small niche above the main altar named “Cammaredda” where it is still pre-
On June 23, the eve of the main festival day, Holy Mass is celebrated at 7 p.m. In the evening, the saint relics are brought in procession, (around 8 p.m.) escorted by the city band, through the historic center. June 24 is the climax of the celebrations. Festival starts at 10 a.m. with the moving unveiling of the statue. Later at 10:30, the archbishop of Acireale celebrates a solemn Holy Mass at the St. John the Baptist Parish. In the afternoon, U pisci a mari is staged in the Urnazza district at 5 p.m. and begins with a group of fishermen in castoff clothing (a straw hat, a red shirt, tattered shorts, and a yellow sash; yellow and red are the colors of the saint) tied together by a rope walking towards the pier while dancing and singing among a large crowd. Three performers jump on a boat that is decorated with flowers, and yellow and red ribbons. The fourth actor a skilled swimmer, who plays the swordfish, dives into the water. The fifth performer plays the Raisi or crew leader. He places himself on the highest point of the pier giving directions to capture the fish. Once the
Cherry festival in Sant’Alfio offers sweet weekend fun Bring the entire family and be prepared to indulge in cherries and other Sicilian specialties this weekend (June 19/20) at the second edition of “Ciliegia…Gioiello dell’Etna” (Cherry….Jewel of Etna), a mouthwatering cherry festival, traditionally held in mid- June in Sant’Alfio, a small town in the Catania province, nestled on a hill located between Etna and the seaside near Giarre. This exciting two-day family event celebrating the local cherry production kicks off tomorrow afternoon (June 19) in piazza Duomo (main square) at 6:30 p. m., with food, arts and crafts, food information seminars cherrybased specialties and entertainment. Make sure you go to the Cherry Jam tasting that will be held from 7:15 p.m. to midnight. On the second festival’s day (June 20), festival booths will open at 9:30 a.m. Later, guided tours of local fresh cherry wholesalers and distributors will be offered from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Cherry Jam and cherry-based specialties tastings will follow throughout the afternoon. Sicilian folklore shows will be held at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.). A music show featuring Antetna will be performed at 9 p.m. in the historic center. What to see in town As reported by Prolocosantalfio.it,
The second edition of the Sant’Alfio Cherry Festival will be held this weekend (June 19 and 20) featuring lots of activities including tastings of various cherry-containing delicacies, arts and crafts, food seminars, folklore parades and entertainment.
driving through Macchia di Giarre and San Giovanni Montebello). If you love the countryside, but you can’t do without the seaside, Sant’Alfio is an ideal destination: in just 20 minutes by car you can easily reach Fondachello and Marina di Cottone beaches, and you need about 30 minutes to reach Giardini Naxos and Taormina. Mountain lovers, instead, can get to Rifugio Citelli in more or less 30 minutes. The origins of the village date back to the end of the XVII century, when some owners from Acireale and Catania got considerable holdings in emphyteusis from the bishop of Catania. On these lands, on the southeast side of Etna, until then property
Sant’Alfio is reachable in few minutes from the tollbooth of Giarre (8 km following the indicated deviation,
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Oxidiana
Through the spectacular pantomime “U pisci a mari” (The fish in the sea), Acitrezza fishermen celebrate their ancient seafaring and fishing heritage during the John the Baptist Festival running from June 23 through 25 and featuring religious processions, entertainment, arts and crafts, decorated streets and houses, Holy Masses and fireworks. swordfish is sighted, the Raisi shouts phrases in ancient Sicilian inciting the fishermen to catch it. After several attempts, the fish is eventually caught. The fishermen hoist it aboard
and try to butcher it. But the swordfish manages to escape twice. The fishing goes on and the fishermen St.John continued on page 12
Sig Inn
ORSO SCURO
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Congratulation 2010 Seniors Days Inn
Photo by Tracie Barnthouse
Motta
Dott Stella
Alphio
Critical Days of Summer: Be Aware
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June 18, 2010
“When the moon hits your eye, like a big pizza pie, that’s amore!” - Dean Martin Article and photos by MCSN Whifield Palmer, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Detachment Sigonella
Fleet and Family Support Center cooking class headed west of Naval Air Station Sigonella to the town of Ramacca to learn the secrets
of making a great pizza. Turns out, the secret is in the dough and for best results the pizza should be cooked in a wood burning pizza oven. Since most of us don't have kitchens equipped with a wood burning pizza oven much less the time to chop wood, here is a great recipe for pizza dough and a recipe for a rich sauce to put on top.
Step 2: Make a hole on top of the mound of flour and the water you mixed together earier (do not add the yeast water just yet. This will be done later.)
Ingredients: For dough (yields approximately four 10-inch pizzas) 1 kilo grano duro ramincinato Sicilian flour (found at Carrefour) sugar, yeast, sea salt, olive oil, water.
Preparation: Combine two tablespoons of salt and one tablespoon of sugar with one liter of water that’s at room temperature. Mix a 1/2 cube of yeast in about a cup of water that’s at room temperature. Set aside.
Step 3: With your hands, mix the flour together with the water, until the water is blended in well with the flour.
Step 1: Divide the flour into four parts and place one part onto a plate.
Moroboshi
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Page 9 Step 4: Reform the dough again so it is somewhat cone shapped. Add enough yeast water to fill the opening (no more than one or two tablespoons).
June 18, 2010
Step 7: After dough has risen, on a floured counter top, flatten into a round shape.
Ingredients and Method For tomato sauce: Blend two cans of whole peeled tomatoes in a blender until chunky. Add olive oil, salt, and a bit of sugar to taste. The reason for the sugar is that it cuts out any bitterness the tomatoes may have. Add basil or oregano as desired. Step 8: Cover the pizza with the tomato sauce and your favorite topping: salami, artichokes, mushrooms, proscuitto, olives, etc. Step 9: Bake in a very hot oven until crust is golden, usually about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Mix the dough and yeast water thoroughly. Continue kneading the dough to ensure the yeast is properly distributed. If the dough is too dry, add more water from the yeast water mixture. If the dough is too wet, feel free to add more flour. Proper consistency of the dough is achieved when there is no crumbling or there is no dough sticking to your hands.
For more information about monthly cooking classes or other trips offered by Fleet and Family Support Center, contact them at 624-4291. The next cooking class is June 25th from 9 am to 3 pm.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Step 6: Allow the dough to rise for at least 40 minutes. While dough is rising, make tomato sauce.
mai
Calipso
Gelso bianco
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June 18, 2010
Fireworks Safety Tips On average over 10,000 Americans are injured each year by fireworks during the July 4th festivities. Careful following of these tips will help keep you from becoming a fireworks accident victim. 1. Always use fireworks outside. Even small fireworks, such as sparklers and firecrackers, can cause a house fire if used indoors. 2. Fireworks should only be handled by adults. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), over half of all fireworks related injuries are suffered by a child under the age of fifteen. Fireworks should be lit by responsible adults. 3. Have water nearby. If a firework is working improperly it is important that you douse it with water and soak it, so keep a bucket of water and a hose close by. 4. Wear safety goggles. It is recommended that you should wear safety goggles or glasses when lighting fireworks. Remember, many fireworks are projectiles and "emit a shower of sparks." A premature firing could cause this shower of sparks to be directed into
your eyes. 5. Never alter fireworks or light multiple fireworks. Altering a firework is incredibly dangerous and may cause personal injury. Likewise with lighting multiple fireworks at once, it limits the time you have to get away and increases the risk of injury. 6. Treat "duds" with caution. Never attempt to relight a "dud" firework. It just isn't safe. Just soak them with water and dispose. 7. Spectators should remain a safe distance away. This one is common sense and depends on the type of firework being lit. Just use good judgment and keep spectators (especially children) from getting too close. 8. Obey the law. Nothing can spoil your Fourth of July more than getting arrested. Make sure to obey your Local Laws. Remember the NAVSIGINST 11320.2H clearly states that; the possession, use, storage, transport, sale or distribution of any type of fireworks aboard Station or leased housing is prohibited.
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Do you have a passion for writing or are you looking for a little experience in journalism? Do you ever read the stories here and think you’d like to add to our growing archive of travel articles? Does your command have something special going on that you think deserves to be in the paper? If so, The Signature is looking for you! We are seeking volunteers to help cover base-wide events as well as feature stories. If this sounds like an opportunity you would be interested in please call the Public Affairs Office at 624-5440.
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*Breakfast: Hot Oatmeal, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Cream of Potato Soup, Beef with Broccoli, Baked Fish, Tempura Fish, Tossed Green Rice, Seasoned Mix Vegetables, Summer Squash, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Pudding. Speed Line: Grilled Hamburger/ Cheeseburger, French Fried Potatoes, Baked Beans, RIKPAK. *Dinner: French Onion Soup, Oriental Pepper Steak, Grilled Chicken Breast, Steamed Rice, Spinach, Cauliflower Polonaise, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Pudding, RIKPAK. *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Crumb Cake. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Beef Barley Soup, Chicken Caesar Roll Up, Buttered Pasta, Brown Gravy, Sprouts Superba, Fried Cabbage w/ Bacon, Snickerdoodle Cookies, Apple Crisp. *Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Baked Parmesan Fish, El Rancho Stew, Mediterranean Brown Rice, O’Brien Potatoes, Peas w/ Celery, Okra Melange, Snickerdoodle Cookies, Apple Crisp. *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast Puff, Asstd Doughnuts, Italian Croissant. *Brunch: Breakfast items, Chicken Gumbo Soup, Chili Macaroni, Stir Fry Vegetable, Lima Beans, Peach Cobbler, White Cake w/ Frosting. *Dinner: Manhattan Clam Chowder Soup, Teriyaki Chicken, Ginger Pot Roast, Paprika Buttered Potatoes, Pork Fried Rice, Normandy Carrots, Cream Style Corn, Peach Cobbler, White Cake w/ Frosting. *Breakfast: Hot Grits, Minced Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls. *Lunch: Creole Soup, Turkey Curry, Baked Fish Fillet, Steamed Rice, Savory Style Beans, Cauliflower, Crisp Drop Cookies, Cherry Crumble Pie, Strawberry Gelatin. *Speed line: Assorted Pizza, RIKPAK. *Dinner: Tomato Bouillon Soup, Baked Stuffed Pork Chops, Grilled Chicken Breast, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Green Beans Nicoise, Carrot Slices, Crisp Drop Cookies, Cherry Crumble Pie, Strawberry Gelatin, RIKPAK. *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Baked Sausage Patties, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Bran Muffins. *Lunch: Spanish Soup, Beef and Fish Tacos, Burritos, Chicken Fajita, Mexican Rice, Refried Beans, Calico Corn, Herbed Broccoli, Jalapeno Cornbread, Raspberry Filled Cake, Pecan Pie. *Speed line: Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich, Onion Rings, Macaroni and Cheese, RIKPAK. *Dinner: Navy Bean Soup, Barbecued Beef Cubes, Roast Turkey, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Seasoned Asparagus, Honey Dijon Vegetables, Raspberry Filled Cake, Pecan Pie, RIKPAK. *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds. *Lunch: NEY MEAL SPECIAL Puree Mongole Soup, Lobster Farfalle, Grilled Steak, Baked Potatoes, Steamed Rice, Corn on the Cob, Steamed Brocolli, Cheese cakes, Chocolate Cookies. *Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans, RIKPAK. *Dinner: Beef Barley Soup, Chicken Curry, Veal Parmesan, Steamed Rice, Savory Squash, Club Spinach, Vanilla Cookies, Strawberry Shortcake, Tapioca Pudding, RIKPAK. *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds. *Lunch: Velvet Corn Soup, Orange Chicken, Braised Beef and Onions, Oriental Rice, Oven Browned Potatoes, Steamed Cabbage, Cauliflower AuGratin, Easy Chocolate Cake, Crisp Drop Cookies. *Speed line: Assorted Pizza, RIKPAK. *Dinner: Cream of Asparagus Soup, Chicken Tetrazzini, Baked Italian Sausage, Ratatouille Eggplant, Lyonnaise Rice, Mustard Greens, Easy Chocolate, Crisp Drop Cookies, RIKPAK. *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters. *Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Lemon Pepper Catfish, Grilled Pork Chops, Steamed Rice, Garlic Roasted Potatoes, Asparagus, Creole Green Beans, Sugar Cookies, Cheese Cake, Vanilla Cream Pudding. Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans, RIKPAK. *Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Italian Rice and Beef, Teriyaki Chicken Breast, Oven Browned Potatoes, Spinach, Stir Fry Vegetables, Sugar Cookies, Cheesecake, Vanilla Cream Pudding, RIKPAK.
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Stampa
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On the Go with MWR Crafting with Amy Make a fun braided necklace with colored beading wire and gemstone beads and matching earrings. All tools are provided and an assortment of beads will be on hand to choose from. Instructor Amy Marshall has over six years of jewelry making experience. Two class options available on Tuesday, June 22: Marinai Community Center from 10 a.m. to Noon or Connections from 6 to 8 p.m. Classes are limited to the first 10 people to sign up at ITT Gear-n-Go. Call for the cost of the class per person. Payment is due at time of registration. For more information call ITT Gear-n-Go at 624-4777. If interested in teaching a skill, contact the Community Activities Office at 624-4941. Start now on your holiday gifts with our professional Leisure classes.
Midtown Movie Theaters Schedule & Descriptions
WHY DID I GET MARRIED TOO- Tyler Perry, Sharon Leal, Janet Jackson, Malik Yoba, Jill Scott Gathered together in the Bahamas for their annual one-week reunion, four close couples eagerly reconnect, sharing news about their lives and relationships. (121 min.)
Friday, June 18 5:00pm The Back Up Plan PG-13 5:30pm Date Night PG-13 PREMIERE PARTY! 6:00 – 8:00 8:00pm Sex and the City 2 R PREMIERE Saturday, June 19 2:00pm Furry Vengeance PG PREMIERE 2:30pm Prince of Persia: Sands of Time PG-13 4:30pm The Losers PG-13 5:00pm Sex and the City 2 R 6:30pm Kick-Ass R Sunday, June 20 Happy Fathers Day! 2:00pm Shrek Forever After PG 2:30pm Furry Vengeance PG 4:00pm The Back Up Plan PG-13 4:30pm Sex and the City 2 R 6:30pm Nightmare on Elm Street R Tuesday, June 22 5:00pm Prince of Persia: Sands of Time PG-13 5:30pm Date Night PG-13 7:30pm Kick-Ass R 8:00pm Nightmare on Elm Street R Wednesday, June 23 1:00pm Shrek 2 PG FREE 1:30pm Diary of a Wimpy Kid PG FREE 3:00pm Furry Vengeance PG 5:00pm Shrek Forever After PG 5:30pm Clash of the Titans PG-13 LAST SHOWING 7:30pm Sex and the City 2 R Thursday, June 24 5:00pm Shrek Forever After PG 5:30pm The A-Team PG-13 PREMIERE 7:30pm Kick-Ass R 8:00pm Death at a Funeral R Friday, June 25 1:00pm Princess and the Frog G FREE 1:30pm Planet 51 PG FREE 3:00pm Furry Vengeance PG 5:00pm The A-team PG-13 5:30pm Iron Man 2 PG-13 7:30pm MacGruber R PREMIERE
For more information on MWR’s programs and services, call 624-3968.
Youth Splash-n-Dash
KICK-ASS- Aaron Johnson, Christopher Plasse, Mark Strong, Chloe Moretz, Nicolas Cage Dave Lizewski, a comic-book fanboy, decides to take his obsession as inspiration to become a real-life superhero. As any good superhero would, he chooses a new name -- Kick-Ass -- assembles a suit and mask to wear, and gets to work fighting crime. There's only one problem standing in his way: Kick-Ass has absolutely no superpowers. His life is forever changed as he inspires a subculture of copy cats, is hunted by assorted violent and unpleasant characters, and meets up with a pair of crazed vigilantes, including an 11-year-old swordwielding dynamo, Hit Girl and her father, Big Daddy. (117 min.) SEX AND THE CITY 2- Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kirsten Davis, Cynthia Nixon, Chris North The fun, the fashion, the friendship: "Sex and the City 2" brings it all back and more as Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda take another bite out of The Big Apple--and beyond--carrying on with their busy lives and loves. What happens after you say "I do"? Life is everything the ladies ever wished it to be, but it wouldn't be "Sex and the City" if life didn't hold a few more surprises-this time in the form of a glamorous, sun-drenched adventure that whisks the women away from New York to one of the most luxurious, exotic and vivid places on earth, where the party never ends and there's something mysterious around every corner. It's an escape that comes exactly at the right moment for the four friends, who are finding themselves in--and fighting against--the traditional roles of marriage, motherhood and more. After all, sometimes you just have to get away with the girls. (147 min.) HOT TUB TIME MACHINE- John Cusack, Rob Corddy, Craig Robinson, Clark Duke, Chevy Chase A group of best friends have become bored with their adult lives: Adam has been dumped by his girlfriend; Lou is a party guy who can't find the party; Nick's wife controls his every move; and video game-obsessed Jacob won't leave his basement. After a crazy night of drinking in a ski resort hot tub, the men wake up, heads pounding, in the year 1986. This is their chance to kick some past and change their futures - one will find a new love life, one will learn to stand up for himself with the ladies, one will find his mojo, and one will make sure he still exists! (99 min.) ROBIN HOOD- Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, William Hurt, Mark Strong, Mark Addy In 13th century England, Robin and his band of marauders confront corruption in a local village and lead an uprising against the crown that will forever alter the balance of world power. (148 min.) CLASH OF THE TITANS- Sam Worthington, Gemma Arterton, Mads Mikkelsen, Alexa Davalos, Jason Flemyng Born of a god but raised as a man, Perseus volunteers to lead a dangerous mission to defeat Hades before he can seize power from Zeus and unleash hell on earth. (110 min.)DATE NIGHT- Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mark Wahlberg, Taraji p Henson, Jimmi Simpson Phil and Claire are a loving couple with two kids and a house in New Jersey. They have their weekly date night an attempt at re-experiencing the spice of yesteryear, involving the same weekly night out at the local Teaneck Tavern. Forced on the run before they’ve even finished their risotto, Phil and Claire soon realize that their play-date-for-parents has gone awry, as they embark on a wild and dangerous series of crazy adventures to save their lives--and their marriage. (88 min.)
Youth enjoy the traditional MWR fitness Splash-n-Dash events in Sigonella. Ages 5 to 18 can challenge themselves and enjoy some free splashin’ fitness fun with the youth Splash-n-Dash on Saturday, June 26. Start time is 9 a.m. at Splashers Pool on NAS I. Ages 5 to 8: 50 meter swim and .5k run; Ages 9 to 11: 100-meter swim and 1k run; Ages 12 to 14: 150-meter swim and 1.5k run; Ages 15 to 18 and challenge distance for all ages: 200-meter swim and 2k run. Register at Fit District. For more information on this family-friendly event or to volunteer, contact Monica at 624-4945.
Orange fitness towels have the blues Each month, over 150 towels disappear leaving fitness center users hanging out to dry. Orange towels have a habit of hiding in gym lockers, gym bags, cars, on shelves, in drawers, in the pet bin, outdoor shed, dog bed, under the sink, near cleaning supplies and more! Protect the privilege and keep costs down. Find and return today to Fit District or Flight Line Fitness Center with no questions asked.
Earn your freedom with fitness Freedom Biathlon Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fitness Division offers the first Freedom Biathlon on Saturday, July 3. This run-bike-run event (5k20k-5k) at 7:30 a.m. sharp at Flight Line Fitness Center on NAS II. Pre-registration is required and is available at Fit District or Flight Line Fitness
Center from now through Wednesday, June 30. Participants can run this event Iron Man or as a team. Awards for top finishers. For those without a bike, rent one from ITT Gear-n-Go. For bike rentals call 624-4777. For event information call 6245243.
Schedule is subject to change, please call to confirm movie showings. Movie Hotline: 624-4248 For more information on MWR’s
programs and services, call 624-3968.
Leave the goggles at home for the run-bike-run event.
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June 18, 2010 mand is deployed, sometimes more than a year. Still, Kilgore says he doesn’t mind facing these. “I’m still in the military,” added Kilgore. “Sometimes we are going to have to be away from home. I still have more flexibility with my life as a reservist and I like travel anyways.” Kilgore, whose currently spending his two weeks of drill working at
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s public affairs office, says that he’s traveled quite a bit as a Reservist. “My unit I am attached to is out of Sigonella, so I am going to be coming over here,” he says. “If you like to travel and your unit is attached to an overseas command, you’re in luck.” For information, contact a command career counselor or www.navyreserve .com
formed; flowers are offered to the saint), Magrì, Gibuti, Gondar, Guarnaccia, Grasso, Tunisi, Capparelli, Piazza delle Scuole, Largo Medusa and back to the Parrocchia di San Giovanni. At 10:30 p.m., the Calata dell’Angelo (Descent of the Angel) is staged in piazza delle Scuole. This performance features the descent of an angel that pays homage to the touring statue of the saint on behalf of the city districts. At the end of the tour (around 11:30 p.m.), devotees perform the Cussa (the run) that consists of covering the last route of the procession (via Provinciale) running while carrying the statue. A spectacular firework show ends the festivities while the statue is placed back into the Parrocchia di San Giovanni. On the last day of the festival, June
25, holy mass is celebrated at 11:30 a.m. at the St John Parish. In the evening at 7 p.m., a procession leaves from piazza Giovanni Verga. The saint is paraded through the following roads: Provinciale, Ricca, Muscarà, Ferretti, Spagnola, Livorno, Scalazza (stopping at the Church of S. Maria la Nova), Dusmet, Calabretta, Marina, Vico Musumeci until late at night. During the procession at 8 p.m., the Calata dell’Angelo show is replicated in via Provinciale. At midnight amazing fireworks will be staged. The festival will then end with the Cussa performance. For more information call 095276003 (Italian speaking only) or click the following websites: www.parrocchiaacitrezza.it/festasangiovanni; www.festasangiovanni.it
attitude, continued from page2 overseas. In other words, we would do well to pay careful attention to our Sigonellatude. It speaks volumes about our character – who we are regardless of our current location. I do not write this as some warning against utter carelessness and foolishness. The end of indiscretions is obvious enough; I needn’t waste the
time in addressing such issues. I crafted these words as an appeal to your very highest aspirations, that you might grow more and more in knowledge and depth of insight in learning to live life to the fullest irrespective of the current demands of the day. The great dynamic of our challenge here is that we do not serve based only on conclusions drawn after thoughtful introspection; we serve under orders. There is a job to do, a
mission to complete. It is the matter of readiness that prompted me to write this reflection. Beyond personal preferences, we have a role in pursuing objectives of vital national interest. Thus, we ought not diminish the importance of regularly examining integrity of life; rather, the coming Sicilian summer days demand intentional discernment to monitor the quality of our . . . sorry . . . Sigonellatude.
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made of lava stone surmounted by a steeple. Inside, the marble altars are embellished with precious altarpieces, one of them representing the three Saint Patrons. From this church begins the procession of the three Patron Saints, Alfio, Filadelfo and Cirino, that are celebrated every year, on the first Sunday of May. It’s the most important festival of the village that joins religious and folkloric components. The Church guards also a monumental organ of a great artistic value. Another noteworthy monument is the Chiesa del Calvario (Church of the Calvary) dating back to the end of 1800 and situated on the top of a hill, from where you can enjoy a beautiful landscape. An imposing staircase made of lava stone leads to the entrance. The interior of the church is characterized by wood altars, which give evidence of the old-time craftsmen’s fine art. In the quarter of Nucifori, the Chiesa di Nucifori guards a bust of Our Lady of Tindari, whom the inhabitants are particularly devoted. The Chiesa di Magazzeni, 6 km far from the town centre, was built in 1958 near the place where thirty years earlier an impressive lava flow, which was about to run over Sant’Alfio, stopped just in front of the relics of the Saints during the procession. Besides the tour of the historic centre, there are several naturalistic and landscape itineraries to discover within the Etna Park, among which: the Grotta dei Ladri (Thieves Cave), at an altitude of 1540 m in Piano delle Donne area; the Etna silver birch (Betulla Aetnensis), a typically northern plant present at this latitude following a far-off glaciation, of a notable naturalistic interest in
the territory surrounding the Rifugio Citelli and Sartorius Mounts; the Cernita Wood near the lava flow of 1865. An itinerary that you can’t miss is the gastronomic route. Sant’Alfio offers the chance of trying a lot of Sicilian gastronomic specialities such as the Paste di mandorla, di pistacchio, di nocciola e di noce (sweets made of an almond, pistachio, hazelnut or nut paste) as well as the Etna apples, the honey and the wine. Since its origins, in fact, the village has flourished thanks to, above all, the production of wine, which has made of it one of the major producer and exporter centres of the Etna area. And, because of the picturesque vineyards which surround its territory, Sant’Alfio is also known as City of Wine. As reported by Etnatracking.com, the Sant’Alfio "Castagno dei Cento Cavalli" (Chestnut Tree of One Hundred Horses) is undoubtedly the most famous trees on Etna. It is thought to be between 2000 and 4000 years old and it is considered to be one of the biggest and more ancient trees of the world. Its name comes from a legend: it is said that Giovanna I from Aragona and her 100 chevaliers found shelter under the branches of the chestnut during a storm. The chestnut’s trunk has a diameter of 22 metres, while the diameter of the branches is over 100 metres. Unfortunately in the latest decades the Chestnut has been damaged by humans and by nature, although it is still a colossal fascination, especially during the blossoming period. For more information and directions call the Sant’Alfio Tourist Office at 095-968772.
Reserves, continued from page 1 ice members can apply for jobs ranging from three months to one year. This gives service members who are facing today’s tough job market a chance to work more. There is also mobilization, and Reserve unit attached to a command that deploys faces mobilization. These can last as long as the comSt John, continued From page 6 capture the swordfish again (this time it is a real one, usually a dead shark or tuna fish). But once again, while the fishermen are about to praise the tastiness of the fish, it escapes disappearing into the sea. The fishermen give up in despair, argue and overturn the boat. The pantomime is over. Later at 7 p.m., a solemn procession starts from piazza Giovanni Verga. Devotees screaming: Viva San Giovanni (Long live St. John) escort the statue depicting the saint through the following roads: Provinciale, Leopolda, Litteri, Calamenzana, Dietro Chiesa, Cappello, Fontana Vecchia, Lungomare Ciclopi, Porto Nuovo (a stop at the pier, where the Stele of S. Giovanni Battista is placed, is per-
of Mascali, were built the first hamlets. The historic centre of the village, instead, was built around the present-day Mother Church at the beginnings of the XVIII century. In 1815 Giarre got its autonomy from Mascali, bringing Sant’Alfio with it, which had been one of the seven towers of Mascali County. Sant’Alfio became independent only in 1923, including in its territory also the hamlets of Milo and Fornazzo, which detached in 1955 becoming together a separated municipality. The name of the village has its origins in an ancient religious tradition: three brothers, Alfio, Filadelfo and Cirino, of a noble Spanish family, were deported to Sicily in 253 A.D., and martyred because of their Christian religious faith. According to the tradition, the three Saint Brothers during their journey from Taormina to Lentini walked through the land that then has taken the name of Sant’Alfio; here the “beam miracle” took place: a raging wind suddenly broke out unburdening the three brothers of the enormous heavy beam they had been barbarously loaded with, to harden their journey. The historic centre of the village hasn’t undergone significant changes: you can still walk through its ancient narrow streets on which stand the most important buildings, and enjoy from Piazza Duomo, the main square, the breathtaking view of the Ionian coast, from Taormina to the Augusta gulf; while the opposite side is dominated by the Mother Church, dedicated to the three martyrs, whose peculiarity is its front
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June 18, 2010 Page 13
BRAIN TEASERS
Camping
Soduku Rules
Rows
2
4 8
7
9
9 2
Every row must contain the numbers 1,-9. There may not be any
Columns Every column must also contain the numbers 1- 9. Again, there
6 4
may not be any duplicate num-
Jass and Blues
will be unique as a result.
regions in a traditional Sudoku puzzle. Every region must also contain the numbers 1-9. Duplicate numbers are not permitted in any region. Each region will differ from the other regions.
Stampa
8 6
4 9
Regions A region is a 3x3. There are 9
7 1
3 6
duplicate numbers in any row.
bers in any column. Each column
8
2
2
1 2 7
9 9 4
1 3 5 6 7
3 1 7 4 2
8 1 2 9 3 5 1 7 4 6 9 8
Stampa