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VOL. 29 NO. 2
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cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
Bravo Zulu Patrol Squadron 47: Strike causes gas
Navy Aircrew assists in at-sea rescue
shortage in Sicily BY ALBERTO LUNETTA NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
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The crew of a U.S. Navy P3 maritime patrol aircraft assigned to Patrol Squadron 47, operating from Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, assisted approximately 68 Somali migrants off the Maltese coast. The P-C crew provided a "SAR kit"containing water, food, and flashlights; contacted Maltese Search and Rescue coordinators; and hailed nearby vessels to lend further assistance.The Panamanian-flagged, M/V Verona, rescued the 65 people, and then turned them over to a Maltese Patrol vessel. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)
BY GEOFF ZIEZULEWICZ Stars and Stripes
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Navy aircrew over the weekend helped rescue 68 people adrift on a raft in the Mediterranean Sea, more than 80 miles off the coast of Malta. The sailors, members of Hawaii-based Patrol Squadron 47 and working out of Sicily’s Naval Air Station Sigonella, received a distress call from Maltese authorities just before sunset on Saturday, according to a Navy release. The sailors, at Sigonella for a six-month rotation, boarded a P-3 Orion aircraft, scouring a 30-by-60-nautical-mile area. The crew spotted a drifting raft that was empty and continued the search, said the crew’s commander, Navy Lt. Nicholas Warack. “It was essential for us to get assistance
to those people,” Warack said Tuesday. Now flying in darkness, the crew spotted a rubber raft carrying 68 men, women and children of Somali origin, the release said. Warack said the crew dropped water,
them that help was on the way, Warack said. Just before 1 a.m. on Sunday, the M/V Verona arrived and got the passengers on board, according to the Navy, and they were later transferred to Maltese authorities. The P-3 was designed for longrange anti-submarine warfare, but its mission has evolved to include battle space surveillance over land or sea, according to the Navy. “The search-and-rescue mission is always something P-3s have been on the hook for,” Warack said.
“It was essential for us to get assistance to those people” food and flashlights to the raft and flagged a civilian vessel, the M/V Verona, 60 miles away. While waiting for the ship to arrive, the P-3 crew stayed in the area to reassure
QUOTE
OF THE WEEK
“A man should never be ashamed to own that he has been in the wrong, which is but saying that he is wiser today than he was yesterday.” - Alexander Pope (1688-1744) English Poet
s reported by local media and social networks, the regional strike called by Sicilian truck drivers, farmers, and fishermen has been paralyzing most of Sicily. "There are over 100,000 protesters all across the island and this is just the beginning,” protesters told local media earlier this week. “If the government ignores us, we will continue our strike action through the weekend." The strike and blockade action started Monday, Jan. 16 by the associations representing Sicilian truck drivers (Associazione Imprese Autotrasportatori Siciliani) whose main concern is the price of fuel. They believe fuel prices have reached “unsustainable levels", as the cost to transport goods is greater than the cost of the actual product. The strike and blockade initially began with 26 roadblocks on all the main island's highways. That number has quadrupled over the course of the week, due in part to better weather conditions and gained support among fishermen, farmers, builders, unemployed and others. The strike is now being referred to as "Operazione Vespri Siciliani" and is scheduled to end Friday, Jan. 20 at midnight. More strikes involving taxi drivers, truckers and other transport workers are planned for the upcoming weeks. Sicilian truck drivers have been blocking entrances and exits of the ports in Pozzallo, Palermo, Siracusa and Catania and roads and motorways in Palermo, other groups and citizens have occupied railways and started several parades on the island. The main asset blocked is the fuel traffic from the island refineries. Sicily produces 50% of Italian fuel. As a result of the blockades, fuel shortage is spreading, mostly in the islands larger towns. It is important that everyone conserves gas. Carpool when possible. Keep the car as lightweight as possible. Weighing it down with too much packed inside will cause it to use more gas. Check air pressure in the tires. A car will use more gasoline if the tires are not inflated to the recommended pressure for the car. Drive the shortest and most efficient path available. Take the road with the fewest stops and least traffic. Don't drive too fast on the highway. Gas mileage depletes after exceeding 60 miles per hour. Coast whenever possible. Let off of the gas pedal when driving downhill. As protest spreads, it is important to remember to remain calm and avoid confrontation. Be sure to keep up with the latest development of this and other strikes by visiting the NAS Sigonella facebook page (facebook.com/nassigonella).
Winter discount shopping season in Sicily
Ceramics in Sicily
Marriage isn’t easy
Read about what to expect and learn some Italian phrases to help you shop.
Sicily is known for its ceramics. Caleca and Caltagirone offer a wide variety to select from.
Guest writer, Chaplain C. Scott Cauble explains.
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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella
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NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler
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he CMC and I have been moving around the base conducting All Hands calls to members of the Sigonella community, and we continue to seek out your ideas on how we can make Sigonella better for the next generation. As helpful as the All Hands calls are for us, there are many ways where you can make sure that your opinions are heard. As we come around to your department, take advantage of the opportunity to get your questions answered. CMC and I want to make sure that we are doing everything we can to ensure that our servicemembers, civilians, and their family members have the tools they need to succeed at work while enjoying the highest possible quality of life. If there are issues we can improve on, let us know. If there are things we are doing right or something you would like to see more of, let us know. Remember, although we can’t promise to resolve every issue to everyone’s satisfaction, we can guarantee that if we don’t know of an issue at all, we won’t ever get involved. During the January Feedback Live, there were several questions we couldn’t get to during the show, but I wanted to address one in particular about motorcycle safety. Please keep the questions coming – they will get answered!! As a reminder, the next Feed-
back Live show will be held on the Thursday, March 1 from 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. on AFN Decoder Channel 20. To call in live on the show, please dial 624-4265 or 095-56-4265, or send it live via Facebook. No matter how you choose to do so, send those questions! Why is it that there are so many motorcycle riders that need to take the BRC course, yet there are very few courses scheduled? Many riders need to update their course and others would like to purchase a bike but cannot without completing the course. What can be done so that there is a regular schedule of motorcycle courses here in Sigonella like the other bases? Although some installations have a contractor in place to support motorcycle training, the NASSIG motorcycle safety program is highly-dependent on the ability – and availability – of volunteer instructors to conduct the courses. These instructors have recently had some issues with getting released from their command's schedule in order to teach the classes. NASSIG’s motorcycle safety coordinator has already sent out the schedule to ask our instructors to volunteer for Basic (BRC), Expert (ERC) and Sport Bike (MSRC) classes in
the coming months (there is already an MSRC class scheduled for Jan. 19) and we will set up the courses as soon as we have the instructors identified. Additionally, we’ve had to make recent arrangements to prep an appropriate training area as the previous location is used by the fire department for their training. The new area will be in front of Hangar 407 on NAS II and I am extremely grateful to ET2 Brockway, ABF1 Hood, and Mr. Marcus Ochoa who not only volunteer as instructors, but who completed the marking and painting of the course last Friday. Remember, completing the appropriate course is a requirement and, given road and riding conditions here in Sicily, it’s one that I feel important that we adhere to! Ride safely!!
NEX rewards students with its A-OK Student Reward Program
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he Navy Exchange wants to help its customers pay for their children’s college education through its A-OK Student Reward Program. Four times per school year, four students will be the recipients of a $5,000, $3,000 $2,000 or $1,000 U.S. savings bond, denominations at maturity. The next drawing will be held at the end of February 2012. Any eligible full-time student that has a B-grade point average equivalent or better, as determined by their school system, may
Traffic Numbers Jan. 12 Accidents
12
Injuries
2
DUIs Traffic Deaths
1 0
PLease, DON’T becOme a sTaTisTic!
enter the drawing. Eligible students include dependent children of active duty military members, reservists and military retirees enrolled in first through 12th grade. Dependent children without an individual Dependent Identification Card must be accompanied by their sponsor to submit their entry. Each student may enter only once each grading period and must re-enter with each qualifying report card. To enter the drawing, stop by any NEX with a current report card and have a NEX
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
associate verify the minimum grade average. Then fill out an entry card and obtain an AOK ID, which entitles the student to discount coupons for NEX products and services. The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) has been offering students a chance to win a savings bond through its AOK Student Reward Program since 1997. Since the program began, NEXCOM has awarded $504,000 in savings bonds with the help of its generous vendor partners.
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New law for transaction of 1,000 euro or more effective Feb. 1 BY JACKIE TREMBATH NAS Sigonella Navy Public Affairs ecently enacted Italian legislation requires transactions of 1,000 euro or more to be paid via electronic transfer or bank/postal check, not cash. Enforcement of the new 1,000 euro threshold will take effect February 1, 2012. This will affect some 400 Sigonella families in property rental alone. Take the time now to make other arrangements for large sum transactions. “NAS Sigonella is focused on ensuring that the Sigonella community is aware of the options available,” explains Lt. Tim Page, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs. “On NAS Sigonella, Community Bank is on option that can be used to make Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs) or euro checks which can ease the process.” Local banks and post offices are another resource to use as well. Ron Dahl, Navy Exchange (NEX) Sigonella General Manger says, “The NEX is working on setting up a program at our customer service desk in the main store that will enable the customer to make an Electronic Funds Transfer to the landlord. There will be a 2 euro fee for this service and our goal is to have the program implemented by the end of January, 2012.” If you are one of the 400 Sigonella families living on the economy, contact the Housing Service Center at 624-4311 for guidance on making lease payments of 1,000 euro or more per month. They can also provide letters for your landlord explaining this requirement. As guests of Italy, it is our responsibility to adhere to the laws Italian legislation, effective Feb. 1, makes cash transactions of 1,000 euro or more illegal. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Brian Glunt) of our host nation.
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fter a great week of divisional round playoffs and a couple upsets we are in the NFL playoff conference championships where the grand prize now is a spot in the Super Bowl. This week’s picks are the AFC Championship and NFC Championship games. Let’s see what our armchair quarterbacks have to say.
PAGE Well maybe I need to take some leave and head to Vegas after managing to correctly "Guess" who was going to score more points last week. I'd rather be lucky than good any day! GM2, I remember a conversation we had during a CFC Fundraiser. I do believe I am on top just like I had projected and Lt. McHenry is still on bottom! Its ok, you’re a heck of a GM from what I've heard, so there is a plus......Now on to picks. Baltimore @ New England I actually thought that both of these teams would be in the AFC Championship game, so I'll go along with my projections. The Ravens have a tough defense - no doubt! However, they have really no offense other than Ray Rice. The Pats have a great offense but a mediocre defense. Peyton Manning has proved for years that you can win with a mediocre, at BEST,
defense as long as you can simply outscore the opponent. This is what happens here, the Pats simply outscore the Ravens defense, because I don't think the Ravens offense will score much at all and I just really don't like the Ravens. GO PATRIOTS! NY Giants @ San Francisco No one is playing better than the Giants right now. They have all their people healthy at the right time, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Eli is the MVP of the Manning family this year, there's no arguing that fact and the 49ers giving up over 30 points again this week will result in a LOSS. The Giants continue the roll and end up in a rematch of Superbowl XLII between the Patriots and Giants. Giants by 6.
Baltimore @ New England The Baltimore Ravens are a force to be reckoned with. Their defense is amazing, and will give Mr. Brady a fight. This will be a battle, no doubt. I think the performance of the high-scoring New England Patriots, as such a welloiled machine, will give Baltimore a run for their money. I don't expect this to be an easy win for either team. Ultimately, I'm picking the New England Patriots superior passing game to overcome the Ravens mad house defense; moving on to the Super Bowl. NY Giants @ San Francisco I said earlier this year, that with Peyton out of the picture, Eli has his chance to step out of big brother's
shadow and shine in the NFL. And what do you know? He led the Giants to a post-season victory over the defending champs, while at Lambeau Field! Their offense is flowing, and their defense broke down the Aaron Rodger's show no problem. However, with that being said, I think they have gone as far as they will go. The 49ers are playing some serious defense, and cost the Saints 5 turnovers. Smith is rising up the ranks of NFL QBs and has some great go-to's in Davis and Crabtree. Couple that with their ability to keep the pressure on all 4 quarters and you have the makings of a championship-ready team. I think the 49ers are on top of the world right now, and I look for them to stay there. Look for the San
Francisco 49ers in the Championship match.
SILVERI Ladies and Gentlemen, not too much to say this week, it should be a good round of games. Baltimore @ New England Baltimore's D is not enough to stop Tom Brady and the Pats, and they went home empty handed yet again. NY Giants @ San Francisco This is an extremely tough pick, but I'm going to have to go with San Fran based strictly on home field advantage. The 49'ers send Eli and the boys home with their tail between their legs.
DEMBINSKI First, what a weekend we just had. Could those games have been more intense, and to the last minute? Which makes these two games all the more difficult to pick.
Lt. Tim Page NAS Sigonella PAO
Ashley Dembinski WIC office admin. assistant
LSSN Nathaniel Squall
LSC Sigonella
GM2 Bryan Silveri CMAA Office
Lt. Chris McHenry NAS Sigonella Admin Officer
Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots
New England Patriots
New England Patriots
Baltimore Ravens
New England Patriots
Baltimore Ravens
NY Giants @ San Francisco 49ers
NY Giants
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers
Overall Record: 70-38 NFL: 37-14 NCAA: 33-24
Overall Record: 69-39 NFL: 34-17 NCAA: 35-22
Overall Record: 67-41 NFL: 29-22 NCAA: 38-19
Overall Record: 65-43 NFL: 29-22 NCAA: 36-21
Overall Record: 58-50 NFL: 28-23 NCAA: 30-27
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
JANUARY 2012 MONDAY 23 NMCRS Birthday Event at NAS I Food Court Free Cake 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
TUESDAY 24 Call of Duty MW3 Tournament at Take 5
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THURSDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
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21
22
27
28
29
26
Budget for Baby Class at NAS I Library Classroom 11 a.m.
Cooking Class
That’s So ‘80’s Party at Connections 8 p.m.
Acoustic Night at Connections 6 - 10 p.m.
Magician Craig Karges at NAS I Theater 7 p.m.
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WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY
31
FEB 1 Acoustic Night at Connections 6 - 10 p.m.
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3
4
5
Math Knight at Knights Hall 4 - 6 p.m.
FFSC can be reached at x4291 American Red Cross at x4900 Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!
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PAGE 5 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
New Year resolutions for your personal finances
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here's nothing like the New Year to let you wipe the slate clean, forget about past mistakes and make a new start. That's how the tradition of New Year's Resolutions got started and people make them every year. They resolve to lose weight, eat healthier and treat their loved ones better. Granted, most people don't stick to all their resolutions for the whole year. But it's still a great way to achieve self-improvement because it focuses your thoughts on the areas that need help. And even if you only achieve half of what you set out for, you're still farther along than you were on December 31. With that in mind, here are some New Year's Resolutions for your personal finances. If you try to adopt these into your everyday life, your financial situation will be vastly improved for the new year. I will consider the difference between what I want and what I need before every purchase. Too often we base our buying decision on emotions instead of facts. Spend money only on what you need and you'll significantly reduce your expenses. I will not let advertising control my purchasing decisions.
By definition, an advertisement is designed to benefit the advertiser, by persuading you to purchase their product instead of someone else's, without consideration for your best interests. I will take care of my finances today by making a spending plan to map out my income and expenses. Planning is the key to success in practically all aspects of life. Personal finance is no exception. I will take care of my finances tomorrow by saving for goals, emergencies, and my future. A healthy savings account prevents you from having to borrow money when emergencies happen. I will meet the credit obligations I have made on time and as agreed. If you've had problems in this area, you'll be amazed at how much stress you can eliminate by getting caught up on your bills and debt payments. Also, your credit rating will improve dramatically if you stay on top of your obligations long term. I will continue my personal education about financial health, budgeting, credit, and personal debt. As they say, knowledge is power. The more you understand your finances, the
more you'll be able to manage them effectively. I will plan, beginning today, for the next holiday season, and will not include credit cards in those plans. By starting early, you'll avoid getting caught up in the shopping frenzy at Christmas time. And by using cash, you'll avoid digging yourself deeply into debt. I will teach my children the importance of budgeting, saving, and practicing smart credit habits. They depend on you for guidance, and this is one area that is woefully ignored in our schools. Start by setting a good example. As they get older, let them gradually take on responsibility for making their own spending decisions. If I am over-obligated, I will seek professional credit counseling assistance. There's no shame in getting a little help from the experts when you're in over your head. And you'll be amazed at how much it reduces the stress in your life. For more information on how to p prepare your own financial spending plan contact you Command Financial Specialist or the Fleet and Family Support center at 624-4291.
The Fleet & Family Support Center oers a series of workshops to help ease your transition: Intercultural Relations (ICR) Survive & Thrive History of Sicily Seminar Customs and Traditions Seminar
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This year’s winter clearance sales season has begun in Italy. Sigonella shoppers, get ready to bargain hunt!
More time to buy in Italy, but is that a good thing? (Story by the New York Times)
ROME — The first days of the new year have heralded a subtle revolution in Italy: the deregulation of operating hours for commercial venues like shops, bars and restaurants. And as revolutions tend to go, the measure has aroused praise in some corners and howls of protest in others. Introduced in December as part of Prime Minister Mario Monti’s crisis-averting package, known as Save Italy, the measure permits shopkeepers everywhere to set their own hours and sharply reduces the norms that once regulated entrepreneurs trying to set up shop. Although many consumers cheered, thrilled at the prospect of buying milk, bread or whatever after hours, small-enterprise associations — as well as number of regional government leaders — have denounced the new rules, calling
them the death knell for mom-andpop stores already struggling in Italy’s recessionary economy. “People don’t buy in a moment of recession. If your buying power is limited, that isn’t going to change if a store stays open later,” said Valter Giammaria, president of the Rome chapter of Confesercenti, an organization for small and midsize businesses. His organization, he said, is considering shutting down stores in protest. Mr. Giammaria said that small retailers in Italy were already being squeezed by competition with supermarkets, not to mention the slumping economy, and that in Rome alone 10,000 small shops had closed in the past three years, putting about 35,000 people out of work. “The government has to rethink this whole thing. Otherwise it is only going to help large chain sto-
res,” he said. “We’re on the side of small retailers.” By that he means people like Angelo Salis, who operates a tiny bar in central Rome with his grown children and fears having to work longer hours — and Sundays — to stay in the game. “It’s fine if you own a large business, with lots of employees, but when it’s all in the
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sleepless nights. Mr. Monti’s fledgling government has earmarked several ways in which to encourage growth in the Italian economy, which has been at a near standstill for the past decade. These include opening up closed occupations and measures to promote competition. But judging by the protests against deregulation of business hours these days and the failed attempts last month to loosen up access to professions like taxi operators and pharmacists, Mr. Monti is facing an uphill battle. Presidents of several Italian regions, which have traditionally overseen laws regulating some aspects of retail commerce, complain that the legislation is encroaching on their territory and have pledged to fight the changes in court. “Consumerism is not the right response to the crisis,” Enrico Rossi, president of the Tuscany region, told ANSA, a news agency. “It is an insult to our cultural identity, out traditions and our history.” “We expect the church will make its voice known,” he added. The Vatican has so far kept quiet on the issue. Some economists who study the retail sector acknowledge that keeping stores open longer is unlikely to increase spending, especially at a time when Italians are paying higher taxes and tightening their belts. But the effort to encourage competition is a welcome signal in a country with a corporate mentality that dates to the guilds of the Middle Ages and is averse to change. “Economically, this won’t change anything,” predicted Roberto Ravazzoni at the Center for
Save Italy ... permits shopkeepers everywhere to set their own hours and sharply reduces the norms that once regulated entrepreneurs trying to set up shop. family, I just don’t know,” Mr. Salis said, shaking his head. Local residents’ groups are also on the warpath, fearful that giving bars carte blanche will make for
Winter discount shopping season provides great deals magine a “Black Friday” weekend that would last three months! A dream? No, it’s reality. Italy’s winter “stagione di saldi” or discount season has recently kicked off. This is the first of the two yearly government-regulated periods for such a special sale and it lasts until the beginning of March. The other discount season starts at the end of the summer. Since this is the third week of discounts, you won’t find anymore long lines at checkout counters and excited shoppers pushing and shoving their way into stores like it usually happens during the first days of the post-holiday season sale. So get ready to buy high quality Italian stylish items at bargain prices, but watch out for retailers who trumpet big discounts. Here are some good rules of thumb provided by Italy Consumer Associations. Try to listen to these tips so you will avoid rip-offs and disputes with merchants that
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are difficult to handle if you don’t speak Italian. First of all, do not trust discounts higher than 50 per cent from the initial price. A “sensational” 80 or 90 per cent discount sounds like a tempting offer but it is probably a rip-off. Remember that, during the discount season, defective merchandise can be exchanged or returned as usual. There is no “special return policy” when you shop at sales. Therefore, always keep your scontrino or receipt and distrust the shops that display signs saying: “la merce venduta non si cambia “ (purchased merchandise cannot be returned) or “all sales are final.” By, law, you have the right to change any defective clothing or shoe that is not up to sample within two months. Retailers can either refund you or give you a coupon that should be spent in the same shop. But always remember to double check with them about that. Make
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sure they know who you are and what you bought. Some storeowners are sometimes reluctant already after a week, to change defective merchandise. Be sure to look an item over carefully before you buy it. Check different shops to compare prices. If you have already visited a store you might be able to evaluate if a product was overpriced and then marked down. Stores must display on the tags the initial prezzo (price) and the reduced price, both in ciphers and in percentage. Finally, remember that you can use any way of payment. Mistrust shop owners who display signs saying “non si accettano carte di credito e bancomat” (credit cards and ATM cards are not accepted). If you don’t see any signs around and the sales clerk tells you about it upon paying, tell them you know they have to accept your credit card.
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Research on Marketing and Services at Bocconi University in Milan. What counts is the spirit of the reform, he said, “because it is moving towards greater competition. The government’s just started with something easy.” The issue has “made a lot of noise,” he added, “because it touches on so many aspects of society, like work, labor, family, as well as religion. It’s way beyond economics.” Still, though the economic impact might be limited, the social consequences will not be, Mr. Ravazzoni predicted, “giving options to people crushed by time.” As salaries are unlikely to grow in the current climate, “giving them the option of when to buy, we can at least simplify the life of consumers,” he said. The new opening hours could also be a challenge to entrepreneurial creativity, which is also expected to benefit from the loosening of regulations in opening a business. Mr. Ravazzoni said the development of block or neighborhood associations to create a nucleus of commercial activity had been successful in other countries. Many retailers complain that their sector has been unfairly singled out. Giuseppe Roscioli, president of the Rome chapter of Confcommercio, another retailers’ association fighting the new hours, said that opening up competition “might not be so bad,” but, he added, “it should apply to everything,” including taxis and pharmacies. Many people agree and are urging the government to open other protected sectors, like banking and insurance, as well as public utilities and gasoline stations. “That’s where Italy can really recover money and efficiency and offer lower prices of consumers,” Mr. Ravazzoni said. There is no Europe-wide legislation regulating commerce, and opening hours can vary vastly among countries and among cities within those countries. According to RegioData, a research institute in Vienna, Germany and Austria are among the most regulated countries in terms of opening hours, while
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things are looser in France, Spain and Britain. In Italy, state, regional and municipal legislation have coexisted for decades, and the current changes further muddle the issue. “It is a bit perplexing to have regional laws that go against federal legislation,” said Davide Bordoni, municipal counselor for commerce in Rome, one of the first cities to adhere to the new law. “Thirty percent of Rome residents live off commerce, so we didn’t want to be unprepared,” he said. Like other tourist cities in Italy, Rome already enjoyed more flexible hours under a previous law. Regional governments have 90 days to adopt the national legislation. Some retailers are skeptical about whether the new regulations will make much difference. “Rome isn’t New York City,” said Marina Moltedo, who works at Edo City, a clothing shop in Rome founded by the designer Alessandra Giannetti. “Italians don’t have the right mentality” to shop after hours. Ms. Moltedo said that on the few occasions when City Hall permitted stores to stay open late at night, people browsed more than bought.
“If you’re going to stay open just to be a museum, then why not just open up galleries instead,” she said. But amid all the grumbling, consumer groups have welcomed the change. “A more open market is good for consumers, offering a wider variety of products at lower prices,” said Carlo Pileri, the president of Adoc, an Italian consumers’ rights group. “Italian commerce has too long been run by a lobby averse to modernization.” And in any case, the new rules are an option, “not an obligation,” he said. After dismal pre-Christmas activity, anticipation was high for Italy’s traditional winter sale period, which started Thursday. Whether the new hours will make a difference remains to be seen, but some merchants were optimistic. “We’re in the center of Rome surrounded by bars,” and business has been good said Noemi Verzilli, a salesclerk at Taba, an ethnic clothing and knickknack store in Rome’s Campo de’ Fiori that had taken advantage of past legislation to stretch opening hours. “We’re so central, it would be stupid to stay closed.”
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IT! Y A S ian JUSTe your Ital tic Prac
Attention Shoppers! Take advantage of the sales' season with these useful Italian phrases! English: How much does it cost? Italian: Quanto costa? Rinat Shaham sings the title role of Carmen. (Photo by http://www.stageclick.com )
Carmen shows at Bellini Opera until Jan. 25 Israeli born mezzo-soprano Rinat Shaham sings the title role of Carmen of Bizet's opera which made its debut Sunday, Jan 15 at the Catania Opera in Catania before a large and enthusiastic audience. This new production from Bellini Opera is directed by Sicilian actor and theatre director Vincenzo Pirrotta. Catania Opera Music Director Will Humburg conducts the Bellini Opera Orchestra. Chorus is directed by Tiziana Carlini.
Georges Bizet's opera Carmen premiered in Paris on March 3, 1875, three months before the composer's death. The libretto, written by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halevy, was based on a novella by Prosper Merimee. Sung in French with Italian supertitles, Carmen performances continue through Wednesday, Jan. 25. For further information and tickets visit http://www.teatromassimobellini.it/
English: Are these on sale? Italian: Sono in saldo? English: Can I try it on? Italian: Posso provarlo? English: Can I pay with credit card? Italian: Posso pagare con la carta di credito? English: It's a little expensive, is it possible to get a discount? Italian: E' un po'caro, è possibile avere uno sconto? English:I'll take it! Italian: Lo prendo! English: What time do you close? Italian: A che ora chiudete? English: May I have the receipt? Italian: Posso avere lo scontrino? English: Can I exchange it? I have a receipt. Italian: Posso cambiarlo? Ho lo scontrino.
Monti cracks down on tax evaders: Cash transactions of more than 1,000 euro illegal (Story by Bloomberg)
Floriana d'Andrea, a Naples musician, carries rolls of euro notes when she buys instruments and audio gear, a practice she'll have to change as Italy sets new limits on cash payments in a bid to curb tax evasion. "I bought some expensive sound equipment and the shop owner jacked up the price when I asked for a receipt," said d'Andrea, 41, who paid 1,600 euros ($2,093) in cash in the transaction. She has a credit card, but rarely uses it, she said. Prime Minister Mario Monti, in
office just over a month, wants landlords, plumbers, electricians and small businesses to stop conducting large transactions in cash, which critics say helps them evade taxes. The government on Dec. 4 reduced the maximum allowed cash payment to 1,000 euros from 2,500 euros. "If they force us to use credit cards, prices will go up," said d'Andrea, noting that many retailers offer discounts to customers who pay in cash and don't demand a receipt, in effect splitting with them the savings from evading the country's 21 percent sales tax. She may curtail future purchases if she's unable to use cash,
d'Andrea said. Italy loses more than 120 billion euros in unpaid taxes every year, according to the Equitalia tax collection agency. The country spends another 10 billion euros annually on security and labor for processing cash transactions, according to banking association ABI. Debt Crisis Monti is focusing on curtailing evasion as one way to reduce Italy's 1.9 trillion-euro debt, which is bigger than Spain, Greece, Ireland and Portugal's combined. Investor concern that Italy remains at risk of being overwhelmed by the region's debt crisis pushed the country's borrowing costs to euro-era records last month. Italian consumer confidence fell in December to the lowest in 16 years as the crisis forced austerity measures and intensified households' concerns about a probable recession. The sentiment index declined to 91.6, the lowest since January 1996, from a revised 96.1 in November, national statistics office Istat said in Rome today. "Tracking cash payments won't automatically ensure lower evasion, which often involves transactions smaller than 1,000 euros," said Luca Mezzomo, head of economic research at Intesa Sanpaolo SpA in Milan. The new measures "could, however, be a good instrument for the tax authorities to identify people who spend more than they've officially earned." Wedding Receptions, Renovations The reform pits the government against some Italians who prefer to pay for everything from wedding receptions to home renovations with cash, allowing merchants to underreport or not declare the revenue, and gaining a discount in exchange.
Many small companies pay salaries in cash, allowing employees to report less income, the Finance Ministry said last year. "Businesses make us accomplices, because nobody wants to pay extra on a large transaction," said Adele Costantini, a professor of medicine in the southern region of Abruzzo, who had to argue to get a receipt from a house painter. "I want them to pay the tax, not unload it on me." Italians are the euro region's leastindebted consumers and among its biggest savers, according to data from the European Union's statistics office, Eurostat. Their frugality may be at least partly linked to a distrust of paying with anything other than cash. Italian credit-card holders use their cards on average only 26 times per year, or five times less than in the U.K., according to the Bank of Italy. 'Culture of Cash' "The culture of cash is strongly ingrained in Italians, even those that don't evade," Deputy Finance Minister Vittorio Grilli said at a Dec. 5 press conference in Rome. The government initially wanted to set a 300-euro or 500-euro cash limit but decided against it, Grilli said, reasoning that citizens needed time to adapt to new rules. Italian banks, which charge businesses up to 2 percent for credit-card transactions, could end up being the main beneficiaries of the new rules, according to Rome-based consumer group Adusbef. "Unless banks cut fees on credit cards and current accounts, they'll just make more money from the new law," said Mauro Novelli, the general secretary of the organization, which represents banking and insurance customers. Consumer advocates say the new
law also discriminates against older Italians, many of whom don't use credit cards. As many as 7.5 million Italians have never had a bank account, according to Adusbef. "The law cannot force old people to use plastic or open bank accounts," Novelli said. Bank Fees The government is negotiating with the banks to get them to cut fees on credit cards and lower costs for bank accounts to encourage the move away from cash, Grilli said Dec. 5. Banks are willing to consider zero-cost current accounts for lowincome retirees and discuss creditcard costs "in light of the government's new measures," Giuseppe Mussari, head of Rome-based ABI, said Dec. 11. However, lenders won't "give away" services that carry a cost for them, he said. Italy's tradition of saving won't be at risk from the new measures, said Nicola Borri, an economics professor at Rome's LUISS University. "Italians mainly use debit or credit cards with stringent limits," he said. "Financial instruments that allow you to pile up debt are very limited in this country." Politicians have seized on the cash issue as a way to build support among a public reluctant to change. "There's a real danger of crossing over into a fiscal police state," former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said at a political convention on Nov. 27 in Verona, about two weeks after the debt crisis toppled his government. "What we need is a revolution in Italians' thinking and that takes time," Monti told reporters on Dec. 5. "This is meant to be a first step."
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Ceramics in Sicily
Siciliy is known for its ceramics. The Caleca outlet warehouse (left) in Patti, Sicily offers shoppers discount prices. Small towns like Caltagirone are home to hundreds of tiny shops, like the one pictured at right, where shoppers can select from unique items like key chain holders and lamps. (U.S. Navy Photos by Jackie Trembath) BY JACKIE TREMBATH NAS Sigonella Navy Public Affairs
I
f there were a club for dishware fanatics, I would be president. Limited cabinet space prevents me from buying even more plates and cups than I already own. My husband thinks I am crazy. Me? I think food looks better and drinks taste better when presented in beautiful dishware. If you are like me, you too may want to drop a few plates so you can replace them with some of the lovely ceramics available in Sicily. There are many places to acquire ceramics in Sicily. One only has to go as far as the NEX on NAS I. But if you want to get out in town, you may want to add Patti and Caltagirone to your list of dishware seeking destinations. On a recent ITT tour I was able to take advantage of the wholesale prices offered at the Caleca outlet store in Patti, Sicily. About a two hour drive from Sigonella, the Caleca warehouse produces beautiful hand-painted ceramics. Walking into the Caleca outlet warehouse was like arriving in shopper’s heaven. Shelves lined with beckoning plates,
mugs, sugar bowls, pitchers, etc., almost caused sensory overload. There were so many colors and patterns to choose from. Our ITT tour group got a behind-thescenes look at how the dishware is made. We even got to see the artists at work as
they meticulously painted the ceramics by hand. After items are painted and fired and ready for display they are taken out to the show room or shipped out to other retail locations. In the outlet warehouse, the most perfect pieces are offered in the “1st Quality” section. Items that may have a minor blemish or a slip of a brush stroke are placed in the “2nd Quality” section and are marked at a discount. Either section you select from offers great gift items for yourself of others. If you prefer the more “mom-and-
pop” shopping experience, travel to the small town of Caltagirone (KAHL-tuhgee-RO-nee), the most famous "city of ceramics" in Sicily. It is about 45 minutes from Sigonella and ITT also offers tours there. In Caltagirone there are hundreds of little studios and shops. All the ceramics there are also handpainted and all are very unique. You will find everything from tiles, figurines, pots, plates, lamps, mirrors, jewelry and so much more. You may even get to watch artists at work, often in the back room of their tiny shops. I could have spent a whole day in Caltagirone just appreciating the town itself, meandering around at all it has to offer. The Baroque architecture is divine as are the amazing views of the surrounding countryside and Etna. Caltagirone is also home to the famous 142-step monument known as the Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, built in 1608. Each riser of the 142 steps is decorated with hand-painted ceramics by artists of the town, both old and new. That alone is worth a visit.
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Ceramics await to be painted by the skillful hands of artists.
At the Caleca outlet warehouse there are thousands of ceramics to select from. Pictured above, the behind-the-scenes view of the outlet warehouse.
Caltagirone is the most famous "city of ceramics" in Sicily.
In Caltagirone there are hundreds of little ceramic shops. An artists work studio is often in the back room of their tiny shops as pictured above.
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FFSC conducts E-4 financial classes
Fred Cole (right), personal finance manager for Fleet and Family Service Center (FFSC) Sigonella, teaches E-4 Sailors stationed at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella during a command financial specialist E-4 program here, Jan. 10, on NAS Sigonella's support base. This FFSC program is geared to selected E-4s who have done exceptionally well with their personal finances and teaches them to assist their peers by sharing financial experiences. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Brian Glunt)
BY MCSN Brian Glunt NPSE-East Detachment Europe
E
-4 service members stationed at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella attended the Fleet and Family Service Center (FFSC) Sigonella’s command financial specialist E-4 program here, Jan. 10, on NAS Sigonella’s support base. This FFSC E-4 program is geared toward E-4s who have done exceptionally well with their personal fi-
nances. These E-4s are selected to assist their command financial specialists by sharing their experiences and setbacks with their peers. “I think this is a great opportunity to identify those Sailors who have had some success developing their finances at an early age and they get to tell others how they did it,” said Fred Cole, personal financial manager for FFSC Sigonella. “Those Sailors who have experienced some difficulty and were able to resolve that difficulty,
they get to share those experiences with their peers and maybe those peers won’t have to go through the same problems.” The command financial specialist E-4 course also offers tips on home-buying, car-buying and strategies on saving and investing money. “This program is a great opportunity for people to learn that they do need to be saving money,” said Cole. “You’re not going to always
Friday, 20 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Lasagna, Tempura Fish, Baked Fish, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Herbed Broccoli, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin. Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Cacciatore, Rice Pilaf, Southern Green Beans, Savory Squash, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin. Saturday, 21 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Crumb Cake. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Chicken Gumbo Soup, Roast Pork, Cottage Fried Potatoes, Tossed Green Rice, Peas w/ Carrots, Cauliflower Au Gratin, Brown Gravy, Velvet Pound Cake, Vanilla Cream Pie. *Dinner: Zesty Bean Soup, Veal Steak W/Mushroom Gravy, Steamed Rice, Home Fried Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Savory Style Beans, Chicken Gravy, Velvet Pound Cake, Vanilla Cream Pie. Sunday, 22 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Italian Croissant. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Knickerbockers Soup, Steamed Rice, Grilled Chicken Breast, Corn O’Brien, Green Beans, Marble Cake, Sugar Cookies. *Dinner: Nutty Split Pea Soup, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Rice, Mixed Vegetables, Steamed Asparagus, Natural Pan Gravy, Marble Cake, Sugar Cookies. Monday, 23 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Chicken Gumbo Soup, Beef Yakisoba, Veal Parmesan, Steamed Rice, Oven Browned Potatoes, Green Peas, Seasoned Summer Squash, Spice Cake w/ Frosting, Vanilla Cookies, Fruit Gelatin.. *Speed line: Pizza Ass. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Savory Baked Chicken, Pork Fried Rice, Lima Beans, Broccoli Parmesan, Spice Sake w/ Frosting, Vanilla Cookies, Fruit Gelatin.
be that young Sailor. There is going to come a time when you are looking at retirement. You want to have it set up so you can retire comfortably and live within the standards that you are accustomed to.” The second command financial specialist E-4 course is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 2. For more information on Fleet and Family Service Center-Sigonella, visit NAS Sigonella’s website at www.cnic.navy.mil/sigonella.
Tuesday, 24 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Blueberry Muffins. *Lunch: Egg Drop Soup, Sweet & Sour Pork, Chicken Chop suey , Egg Foo Young, Chinese Fried Rice, Chow Mein Noodles, Oriental Fried Cabbage, Corn Kernel, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Blueberry Pie. *Speed line: Frankfurter on rolls, Onion Rings. Dinner: Cream of Broccoli Soup, Beef Stew, Seasoned Boiled Pasta, Spanish Style Beans, Carrots Slices, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Blueberry Pie. Wednesday, 25 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Biscuits, Asstd Doughnuts, Bear Claw. *Lunch: Beef Noodle Soup, Lasagna, Fish w/ Cherry Tomato Sauce, Steamed Rice, Franconia Potatoes, Cream Style Corn, Mix Vegetable, Almond Cookies, Carrot Cake, Chocolate Pudding. *Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: French Onion Soup, Baked Chicken, Steamed Rice, Potatoes Au Gratin, Club Spinach, Steamed Peas & Carrots, Almond Cookies, Carrot Cake, Chocolate Pudding. Thursday, 26 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Raisin Muffin. *Lunch: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Roast Pork loin, Baked Chicken, Steamed Rice, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Seasoned Mix Vegetables, Club Spinach, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Cherry Cobbler. Speedline: Italian Sausage w/ Onion and Pepper. *Dinner: Tomato Bouillon Soup, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Rice Pilaf, Natural Pan Gravy, Green Beans, Corn Kernel, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Cherry Cobbler. Friday, 27 JAN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Chicken Corn Chowder, Baked Fish, Meat Loaf, Paprika Buttered Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Fried Okra, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies. Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Baked Fish W. Cherry Tomato Sauce, Tossed Green Rice, Corn O’Brien, Lima Beans, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies.
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year right with two in February! Don’t worry about transportation or where you will stay. ITT has it covered! Sign up now for one of these amazing trips:
Valentine’s Spa Weekend February 10th – 12th Treat someone special to an enchanting spa weekend at the Grand Hotel delle Terme near Palermo. Price includes full board, Turkish bath, 30-minute massage body peel and more. Additional treatments can be booked through ITT.
Calabria Ski Trip
ITT Gear N Go Extended Trips
D
o you ever feel like you need a vacation after your vacation? MWR has the solution! Travel is fun and exciting, especially in Europe! Many want to see as much as possible while stationed in Italy, but let’s face it, planning
a vacation can be a lot of work. Families often return worn out, not ready to get back to work. Go on one of ITT’s extended trips and let them do all the work! ITT has got some great extended trips coming up in 2012, and they’re starting the
February 17th – 20th Price includes 4 nights hotel stay, 4 breakfasts and dinners, round trip transportation, and an ITT escort for the entire trip. For prices or more information, call ITT at 624-4777. Keep an eye out for more upcoming extended trips the new February Preview coming soon!
Midtown Movie theaterS Schedule & deScriptionS
WE BOUGHT A ZOO……………………PG STARRING: Matt Damon, Colin Ford, Thomas Haden Church
Based on a true story, Benjamin Mee is a recently-widowed father who moves his family to a beautiful estate miles outside the city. The only catch is that the estate is also a dilapidated zoo replete with 200 animals, and the purchase of the home is conditional on the new owner keeping the zoo and its entire staff. The Mee family subsequently sets out to rebuild and refurbish the zoo to its former glory, making new friends along the way (126 m.) Friday, January 20 th 5:00 PM Arthur Christmas 5:30 PM Twilight: BD 7:30 PM J. Edgar 8:00 PM The Rum Diary
PG PG-13 R R
Saturday, January 21th 2:00 PM The Muppets 2:30 PM We Bought A Zoo 4:30 PM Joyful Noise 5:00 PM MI: Ghost Protocol 7:30 PM J. Edgar
PG PG PG-13 PG-13 R
Sunday, January 22th 2:00 PM Happy Feet 2 2:30 PM Jack & Jill 4:30 PM Joyful Noise 5:00 PM War Horse 7:30 PM Immortal
PG PG PG-13 PG-13 R
Tiring of the noise and madness of New York, journalist Paul Kemp travels to the pristine island of Puerto Rico to write for a local newspaper. Adopting the rum-soaked life of the island, Paul soon becomes obsessed with Chenault, the wildly attractive Connecticut-born fiancé of a businessman involved in shady property deals that Kemp is writing about (122 m.)
Monday, January 23rd – Special Performance! 7:00 PM Craig Karges Live
FREE
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL……………….…PG-13 STARRING: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton
Tuesday, January 24th – Last Shows PG-13 5:00 PM MI: Ghost Protocol PG 5:30 PM Adventures of Tintin R 7:30 PM Girl Dragon Tattoo R 8:00 PM Rum Diary, The Wednesday, January 25th 5:00 PM Muppets, The 5:30 PM Joyful Noise 7:30 PM J. Edgar 8:00 PM Immortals
PG PG-13 R R
Thursday, January 26th 5:00 PM We Bought A Zoo 5:30 PM Muppets, The 7:30 PM War Horse 8:00 PM Immortals
PG PG PG-13 R
Friday, January 27th 2:00 PM Water Horse 5:00 PM Arthur Christmas 5:30 PM Twilight: BD 7:30 PM J. Edgar 8:00 PM Sitter
PG PG PG-13 R R
SITTER…………………….………….…….R STARRING: Jonah Hill, Ari Graynor, Sam Rockwell
A comedy about a college student on suspension who is coaxed into babysitting the kids next door, though he is fully unprepared for the wild night ahead of him (81 m.) RUM DIARY……………………..………..R STARRING: Johnny Depp, Aaron Eckhart, Michael Rispoli, Amber Heard
Blamed for the terrorist bombing of the Kremlin, IMF operative Ethan Hunt must clear his agency's name and prevent another attack (133 m)
continued ... Saturday, January 28th 2:00 PM We Bought A Zoo 2:30 PM Jack & Jill 4:30 PM Red Tails 5:00 PM Joyful Noise 7:30 PM Extremely Loud
PG PG PG-13 PG-13 PG-13
Sunday, January 29th 2:00 PM Happy Feet 2 2:30 PM Jack & Jill 4:30 PM Joyful Noise 5:00 PM War Horse 7:30 PM Sitter
PG PG PG-13 PG-13 R
Movie schedule is subject to change. Please call to confirm. Movie Hotline: 624-4248
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Welcome to Sicily, SPMAGTF 12
SPMAGTF 12 is on temporary assignment in Sicily until spring 2012. They arrived in Sigonella in October. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Cameron Bramham)
BY HM2 IAN ANDERSON SPMAGTF 12
B
eing in a foreign country, it’s easy to feel intimidated by the unknown. One might not want to go out because he or she doesn’t speak the language or know the way around. Just remember, friendship is a universal language. Since October, SPMAGTF 12 is on temporary assignment to Sigonella. We are going to be here until the spring. When we came here we didn’t know what to expect. We were putting together something brand new in a place where we had no direct support from the outset. We had no knowledge of the community, the culture, or even the local culture of the Americans stationed here. But Sigonella has welcomed us with open arms. Everyone, from PSD to the Seabees to the Hospital, has been exceptionally helpful, providing us with everything we have asked for and more. Upon our arrival, we were given a “Welcome to Italy” package which included information that would have taken us months to learn on our own. And the Italian na-
tionals on base have been ever so gracious in making us feel welcome in their country. Since we don’t “live” here and are just visiting, we don’t have our own transportation like the majority of Americans stationed at Sigonella. Learning the mass transit schedule is paramount in getting between the bases and housing. We have had to learn the time the buses come, then schedule ourselves accordingly. We have also had the opportunity to travel and meet new people. Mass transit goes to and from Catania which is ideal for trips out on the town. A ticket costs only a dollar - far cheaper than a taxi fare. Once in Catania, we literally have access to all of Europe. Other great options for travel are the MWR trips and ITT trips offered on base. They have allowed us to go to places that we never would have gone to, or thought of, during our time here. These trips are also great for making new friends. The MWR also hosts great events on base to help everyone feel engaged.
GAME
How many words can you find? APPLICATION BACKUP BINARY BLUETOOTH BOOT BYTE CHAT CLICK COOKIE CURSOR DATA DEFRAGMENT DIRECTORY DISK DRIVE DOS DRAG EMAIL ENCRYPTION
FILE FIREWALL FOLDER GIF GOOGLE HTML ICON INTERNET JAVASCRIPT KERNAL LCD LOGIN MEMORY MONITOR MOUSE NANOSECOND NETWORK PARTITION
PASTE PDF PIXEL POWER SUPPLY PROGRAMMER ROUTER SAVE AS SCANNER SECURITY SHAREWARE SOFTWARE SPAM TASKBAR THUMBNAIL UNIX WALLPAPER WIRELESS
I have really enjoyed my time in Sicily. The Sicilian people are incredibly hospitable. As an example of Sicilian hospitality, let me share an experience. Not too long ago, I injured my leg and have been getting around on crutches. Recently, I was trying to take a train. I had already purchased my ticket, but found out the train was cancelled. It had been replaced by a bus. A very nice attendant told me exactly where the bus would be, and so I waited. The attendant realized he had given me the wrong location, so he came to find me to point me in the right direction. He then proceeded to call the bus driver to hold the bus. The attendant even stopped traffic to help me cross the street and then assisted me with getting on the bus and making sure the bus driver accepted my train ticket. I am from the South of the United States and we often talk about Southern Hospitality. Let me tell you, Sicilian Hospitality is something I will write home about.
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10 ways to ruin a marriage BY LCDR C. SCOTT CAUBLE NAS Sigonella Command Chaplain
The NASSIG Religious Ministry Department provides marriage counseling and training through individual counseling sessions and enrichment seminars. Several significant marriage enrichment events are scheduled in February. On Feb. 11 there is a Valentine's Celebration Concert and Dinner at the NAS 1 Chapel. Later in the month a Marriage Enrichment Weekend is scheduled at an offsite location. Please contact the chapel at 624-3975 for additional information or to schedule an appointment. The rock cover group Supernova, made up of five local nationals from Catania performed at Jox Pub on NAS II, January 13. Supernova bassist Fabio Puglia said that they fuse Italian interpretations into the American and International songs they play. The group played classic rock songs such as “The Final Countdown" by Europe, “Otherside” by Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Summer of 69” by Bryan Adams, “We are the Champions” by Queen and “Jump” by Van Halen. Supernova began playing at 10:00 p.m. and played until Jox closed. “We enjoyed playing for the American’s tonight,” Puglia said. “I hope they enjoyed it too.” (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Cameron Bramham)
W
hether you said “I do” last week or three decades ago, there was enthusiasm for that fantastic person you married. That magical day is now history and you now live in the sphere called “real life” where there are no tuxedoes, white dresses, or honeymoons. Instead, there are deployments, disappointments, frustrations, financial problems, crying children, and arguments thrown into the mix. The easy relationship you once enjoyed is now hard work. If you don’t want your relationship to last, here are ten easy ways to ruin your marriage.
Have an escape route. When you
by talking to each other – not by telling it to others who will take your side of the argument.
Ask your unmarried peers for advice about how to get your spouse to stop being angry with you. Going to your unmarried friends is certainly not the best place to solicit advice since a typical response is, “Just get rid of her (or him).” Please refer to #1 above if you are not clear on this.
Fail to act like a grown up. Spending all your off-duty time playing X Box and computer games when you come home from work is akin to ignoring the person to whom you are committed. Spend less time in front of the “tube” and more time together talking and getting to know one another.
got married, you always expected that if it didn’t work out you could just get a divorce. Couples who stay married deliberately refuse to consider divorce. Once you get married – stay married. Marriage is a commitment to stay together no matter what. Don’t give yourself any Spend too much time with your escape route. Marriages work out because the huhobbies, your old buddies, and your sband and wife do not give up when the going sports. Now that you are married, and gets tough. This is also the reason you should not especially after you have children, you cannot get married in a hurry. Never threaten to divorce spend as much time on your personal pleasures your mate. Don’t even say the “D” word. and recreation. Find a way to recreate with your family.
Create a Facebook account so your spouse cannot see your secret relationships. Marriage is a “members only” club designed for one man with one woman. No intruders are welcome. You once promised to “forsake all others.” That means stop talking to others except in open conversations in public places when your spouse is right beside you.
Watch porn. Yes, gentlemen, there is a problem with this. Just ask your wife.
Pout
because your spouse does not agree with everything you want to do. You married a human being with a mind and will of their own. All husbands and wives have to Have the intention of flirting learn how to cooperate. They do not automatiwith the opposite sex when you go out. cally agree on everything. Just because you have Regardless of whether “everyone else is different opinions and preferences does not doing it” it does not make it right for you. Save mean that you married the wrong person. your affection for the one you say you love. Be a one-woman-man, or vice versa. Think marriage is easy. Marriage is work! When two individuals get Complain to your mother married they have to learn how to become about your spouse. Yes, every husband and one. Remember lighting that unity candle at wife has complaints and disappointments your wedding service? Two can become one. with the one they married, but you solve those Don’t give up. It’s worth it!
Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are back in Sigonella. For information on Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, please call 340-608-2140.
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