THE
SIGNATURE SIGONELLA, SICILY
VOL. 29 NO. 23
JUNE
15, 2012
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
New CPPD Commanding Officer visits Sigonella
Capt. John Newcomer, commanding officer for the Center for Personal and Professional Development (CPPD), conducted a town hall meeting with Sailors at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella to discuss issues of training, career development and attending college. Newcomer assumed the duties as commanding officer of CPPD on March 28 and is touring various installations visiting with local CPPD offices and Navy College offices to discuss training programs and Tuition Assistance. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
BY MR1 GARY SPENCE NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Capt. John Newcomer, commanding officer for the Center for Personal and Professional Development (CPPD) headquartered in Virginia Beach, Va., conducted a town hall meeting with Sailors of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, June 8. Newcomer assumed command of CPPD on March 28, and is touring various installations, visiting with local CPPD offices and Navy College offices to discuss training programs and Tuition Assistance. CPPD is the Navy's learning center of excellence that equips Sailors to think critically, act responsibly, and lead proactively through its training courses and the Navy's voluntary education program. In addition to teaching Sailors about the benefits of furthering their education, Newcomer was also able to deliver the graduation address at the graduation recognition ceremony for the Class of 2012.
“This is my first graduation ceremony to attend," said Newcomer. "It’s a great opportunity to come out here and watch the Sailors graduate. Knowing first hand what they’ve done and gone through is impressive.” Thirty nine people graduated with degrees ranging from an Associate's to a Master's from one of the following: Ashford University, Bellevue University, Coastline Community College, Central Texas College, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, State University of New York, University of Phoenix and University of Maryland University College. For active duty Sailors, taking college classes and balancing work responsibilities can be an undertaking, but it is one that reaps high reward. "While getting my degree does help with my career now, it also provides better opportunities for me when I get out of the
QUOTE
Capt. John Newcomer delivers the graduation address to the Class of 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
Navy," said Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Christopher Delano who graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications. "I plan to continue my education and am working on obtaining my Master's degree."
OF THE WEEK
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden Square Dance Exhibition
St. John the Baptist Festival
Seeing Sicily’s sights
Sigonella Elementary students learn an American classic.
Acitrezza celebrates their patron saint.
HM2 Matthew Clutter writes about his experience.
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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella Capt. Scott Butler, Commanding Officer Cmdr. Eric Vosler, Executive Officer CMDCM David Graham, Command Master Chief
EDITORIAL Lt. Tim Page, Public Affairs Officer timothy.page@eu.navy.mil
Dott. Alberto Lunetta, Community Relations Officer alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil
Jackie Trembath, Editor jackie.trembath@eu.navy.mil
STAFF
Writers/Photographers MC1 Christopher Delano christopher.delano@eu.navy.mil MR1 Gary Spence gwspence2003@hotmail.com MM2 Johnnathan Archbold johnnathan.archbold@eu.navy.mil MC2 Gary Prill gary.prill@eu.navy.mil MCSN Cameron Bramham cameron.bramham@eu.navy.mil MCSN Brian Glunt brian.glunt@eu.navy.mil
CONTRIBUTING Writers/Photographers HM2 Matthew Clutter Emily Kellen Retna Shaw Robert Szostek
CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627
PUBLISHER
JUNE
15, 2012
NAS Sigonella Executive Officer, Cmdr. Eric Vosler I hope that everyone had the chance to tune in to the latest edition of Feedback Live. Capt. Butler, Cmdr. Krahl and Mr. Lancaster addressed many of the questions the community may have concerning the water situation here. I want to make sure that the community has the same information that your leadership has. The safety of this community is always our primary concern and we will continue to keep the community updated as information is available. Quickly, before I get to the questions, Sigonella's Summer Reading Program is starting off strong with many events to encourage reading. A Stuffed Animal Sleepover, a Photo Contest, and a Reading Nook in the Commissary are some of the summer opportunities. The program will wrap up at the end of August and prizes will be awarded for time spent reading. Check out the program on Facebook at Sigonella Reads or e-mail them at Sigonella.Reads@gmail.com for more information. Students who develop reading skills tend to succeed in other academic areas. Keep them active, keep them reading this summer! There were several questions that you sent in this week and we really appreciate the opportunity to get your questions answered. Your questions are very important to all of us, and I encourage you to keep sending them via email. We will use the next few Direct Line columns to answer your questions.
Q
I was just looking at Catania Airport's website for some departure info and noticed that the military flights departing from there are listed in their departures on the website. It gave me an uneasy feeling. Is this safe to have that information on an unsecured site?
A
Thank you for bringing that to our attention and we have looked into it. I can see your concern and understand the uneasiness. We addressed the future flights concerns to the Airport and to the Contract Rep from TransCom and those are now removed. It is important that all military members help in force protection matters and this is just one example of one individual making a difference.
Q A
Is any size pool allowed in the front or backyard in housing?
Swimming pools are allowed in Marinai as long as the guidelines are followed (located in the Resident Handbook). Those guidelines are as follows: Pools with a length/diameter greater than 10 feet and water fill depth greater than 24 inches are prohibited. Hot tubs of any kind are not permitted. Any lawn damage caused by a pool must be restored prior to va-
cating quarters to avoid being charged restoration costs. Pools may be kept in front yards or under the carport, provided there is adult supervision. As a safety precaution, empty unattended pools after each use. Pools may be kept in back yards and may remain filled and unattended if they are secured in your fenced area. The questions, comments and concerns stated in this column do not constitute the official position of the U.S. Navy and are submitted by members of the community.
Sexual Assault Prevention Hotlines DoD SAFE Helpline: 001-877-995-5247 (From cell phones and off-base telephones) Sigonella SAPR VA Hotline:335-642-8312 Or:19020 (toll-free access code) 877-995-5247 (From DSN lines)
stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 – Fax 081-568-7887
This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for 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 non-merit 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 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.
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
DRIVE SAFELY
Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy
JUNE
15, 2012
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Around NAS Sigonella ...
Students from Sigonella Elementary School performed during a square dance exhibition, June 8. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
Sigonella elementary students perform square dance exhibition BY MR1 GARY SPENCE NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Third and fourth grade students from Sigonella Elementary School performed a square dance exhibition at Knight’s Hall June 8. Organized by Music Instructor Lynn Soeby, approximately 100 students filled the "dance" floor of Knight’s Hall. “It’s a great team building experience," said Soeby. "It’s an American folk culture that students don’t really learn anymore. I’m very passionate about it and my goal is to get the kids excited about square dancing, too." This was the twelfth year the school has showcased the square dancing talents of its students. Students and their families enjoyed a potluck picnic immediately following the exhibition.
Students from Galileo Galilei in Acireale visit with members of the Sigonella Fire Department. (U.S. Navy photo by MM2 Johnnathan Archbold/Released)
European exchange students visit NAS Sigonella BY DOTT. ALBERTO LUNETTA NAS Sigonella Public Affairs On June 6, students from the Acireale Galileo Galilei Middle School visited Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. The group also included students from Germany, Netherlands and Poland as part of a special European project titled "The Second World War through the eyes of a child" focusing on the causes and course of WWII. Students witnessed a military working dog (MWD)
demonstration by NASSIG K9 handlers. They also visited the Sigonella Fire Department and saw the Global Hawk aircraft static display. Their visit ended with an Americanstyled lunch. "The students were impressed by what they saw," said Ms. Raciti, the lead student teaching coordinator for the project.
Author Maria Grammatico teaches how to prepare marzipan as part of Writers on Deck Series, presented by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
Author Mary Taylor Simeti hosted a wine and olive oil tasting for service members and their families at the Midtown Atrium on NAS I June 8. (U.S. Navy photos by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
Students from Naval Air Station Sigonella's Middle school participate in a talent show at Knight’s Hall. Four acts were selected for above average performance with a letter of recognition and a Navy Exchange gift card. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Gary Prill/Released)
DoDDS Sigonella hosts talent show BY MC2 GARY PRILL NPASE - East Detachment Sigonella Middle School hosted a talent show for students June 8. The show featured eight acts ranging from singing and dancing to the playing of different musical instruments. “The kids have been practicing for a long time, some have been playing for years,” said Mark Gillett, middle school student council advisor. “The kids have been so excited. Seeing how they have evolved and how they developed the confidence on stage and with their music has been great.” DoDDS schools hold these kind of events to give students an opportunity to showcase talents not only for their fellow students but also their parents and the local community “We practiced a long time for this,” said Deja Alexis, part of a three-girl song and dance team. “We wanted to do our best, and we wanted to be really good so when we go onstage people would know how good we are.”
Writer’s on Deck presents Maria Grammatico and Mary Taylor Simeti BY MR1 GARY SPENCE NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Authors Maria Grammatico and Mary Taylor Simeti came to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella June 8 to share a little taste of Sicily with service members and their families. Grammatico is famous throughout Italy for her marzipan recipes, while Simeti bottles her own wine and olive oil grown on her farm outside Palermo. After World War II, Grammatico was sent to live in a convent when she was a child. To help generate income, the nuns produced and sold sweets derived from almonds. After years of practice,
Grammatico left the convent in 1964 and opened her own shop outside Trapani. Simeti came to Sicily with the intention of staying just one year. During her work in Palermo she met her future husband and never left. Simeti and her husband produce their own brand of wine and olive oil on their farm outside Palermo. Simeti met Grammatico while conducting an interview about her methods for making marzipan. They have been friends ever since.
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JUNE
15, 2012
COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY
June
15
2012
MONDAY 18
TUESDAY
Bowling $1 Day
ITT Scicli
Youth Complex Teen Party
Outdoor Rec Kayak Fontane Bianche
ITT Borgo Antico
Liberty Beach Shuttle
Library Story Time
Family Fitness Center Water Wars
Youth Complex Etna Lava Tubing
Take 5 Comedy Movies
Jox Pub Texas Hold’em
Bowling 2 for 1
Midtown 2 Movie in the Park
Jox Pub Karaoke
Connections Battle of the Bands
27 Library Story Time
28
22
23 Midtown 2 Matinee
29
17 FATHER’S DAY Bowling Father’s Day ITT Palermo
24
Beach Day @ Fontane Bianche Youth Complex
Texas Hold’em Jox Pub
Bowling 2 for 1
Midtown 2 Matinee
Karaoke Jox Pub
Empty Wallet Lunch Take 5
Liberty Beach Shuttle
1
Independence Day Cele- Independence Day Celebration bration Midtown Midtown
Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248
Outdoor Rec Kayak Aci Trezza
ITT Taormina/ Sicily Outlet Village
30
Vegas Poker and Movie Marathon Take 5
Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396
SUNDAY
Outdoor Rec Marzamemi Boating
THURSDAY 21
26
25
Midtown 2 Matinee
WEDNESDAY 20
19 Bowling $1 Day
SATURDAY 16
ITT Cefalu
Outdoor Rec Hike Cava Grande Cassibile Liberty Beach Shuttle
FFSC: x4291 American Red Cross: 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!
Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624CARE (2273) or commercial 095-56-2273, M-F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, a holiday or after office hours, please call 335578-8077 if you are normally seen at the hospital or 335578-8150 if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.
JUNE
15, 2012
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A bagful of bargains BY RETNA SHAW Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Sigonella
W
ant to find some awesome stuff on the cheap? Visit the NavyMarine Corps Relief Society’s Nearly New Store and uncover some hidden gems. From clothes, linen, appliances and other odds and ends, you would be surprised to see what you can find. Here are some tips to make your thrift store shopping even more fun. Look at it as a treasure hunt. Make a list of items you are looking for. Bring that list with you whenever you go “thrift-ing”! Be sure to keep an eye open for an unexpected find! Be Diligent. Visit the store each week to find what you are looking for. You might come out empty handed one week but suddenly have 5 items the next week. Don’t give up! Check out all the different sections in the store. Don’t just go in your favorite
section and leave. You never know what you can find unless you look! I wondered into the bric-a brac section on one visit and I came home with a dozen intricate ballerina ornaments for my Christmas tree. They were new too!!! Total cost, $4! Those ornaments would have easily set me back $8 - $12 a piece! SCORE!!!!
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Don’t wait if you really want an item. If you really like it, buy it. Chances are if you like it that much, somebody else will too. Think Gifts. You can find baskets for gift items, vases for flowers and accessories for your gift closet. With some imagination, you can save big!
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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
"Lunch & Learn" Survival Italian Language Skills June 8, 12, 22, 26 from 12:30 - 2 p.m.
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15, 2012
Gondar, Guarnaccia, Grasso, Tunisi, Capparelli, Piazza delle Scuole, Largo Medusa and back to the Parrocchia di San Giovanni. The Giarre town band will perform a concert in the main square at 9 p.m. 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 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. 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 095-276003 (Italian speaking only) or visit www.parrocchiaacitrezza.it
ITa! n Y A S ur Itali T S U J ractice yo P
On June 23 - 24 the community of Acitrezza honors Saint John the Baptist, its beloved celestial patron, through a festival featuring religious processions, arts and crafts, fireworks and entertainment. (Photo by Salvatore Cavalli/Released)
Acitrezza honors St. John the Baptist After three days of preparation, on June 24, the Catholic community of Acitrezza, an enchanting fishermen’s village, will celebrate Saint John the Baptist (San Giovanni Battista), their beloved celestial patron. 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. 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 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 temporarily removed. For that reason, nobody saw the statue until it was finished. When the sculpture was ready, it was placed in a small niche above the main altar named “Cammaredda” where it is still preserved today. The statue is over 300 years old but it is still in excellent condition, a feature that has contributed to the mystique surrounding this amazing piece of art.
Festival Schedule On June 23, the eve of the main festival day, Holy Mass is celebrated at 8 a.m. At 6 p.m., the town band will perform throughout the historic center. Later, a holy mass will be celebrated at the St. John the Baptist Parish. At the end of the holy mass, the saint’s relics are brought in by a procession (around 8 p.m.), escorted by the city band, through the historic center. June 24 is the climax of the celebration. The festival starts at 10 a.m. with the moving unveiling of the statue. At 10:30, the bishop of Noto 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 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 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. 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 performed; flowers are offered to the saint), Magrì, Gibuti,
English: Spiral-shaped pasta Italian:Fusilli
English: butterfly-shaped pasta Italian: farfalle English: shell-shaped pasta Italian: conchiglie English: narrow flat pasta Italian: linguine
English: pasta in the form of narrow ribbons Italian: fettuccine
English: pasta in the form of wide ribbons Italian: pappardelle
English: pasta cases containing a savory filling Italian: ravioli
English: bowl- or ear-shaped pasta Italian: orecchiette
JUNE
15, 2012
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Catania Soroptimist Club visits NAS Sigonella
Members of the Catania Soroptimist Club join crewmen and pilots from VP-9 for a group photo at the end of a tour of the PATRON SIG Squadron. The group toured Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella on June 2, visiting Midtown as well as the P-3, Global Hawk and Predator hangars. (Photo courtesy of Soroptimist press oďŹƒcer)
8,000 agro jobs at risk due to Italy quakes (IANS)
Rome: Around 8,000 jobs in Italy's agriculture sector may be lost following two deadly earthquakes in the northern part of the country last month, an agriculture trade group has said. Damaged harvesting equipment and irrigation infrastructure may severely hurt the farming industry in the Emilia-Romagna region, where 10 percent of the agriculture industry is located, said the Coldiretti trade group. Jobs may have to be cut from agro-businesses while livestock are being sold because of damage caused to animal stalls, Coldiretti said. Damage to fruit production may also hit Italy's July harvest. Around 80 percent of the country's pears come from the area aected by the May 20 and 29 quakes that killed 25 people, left thousands homeless and caused losses worth billions of euros. Following the first quake, Coldiretti said farmers lost around 200 million euros, partly due to 400,000 damaged wheels of parmesan cheese.
'Maradona-autographed' Smart car causes stir in Naples (AKI)
Naples: A beige Smart car with the distinctive autograph of Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona on its driver door has been spotted in Naples. Although the authenticity of the autograph has yet to be verified, Neapolitans are reportedly vying to buy the Smart car, which is causing a stir in the southern Italian city. Maradona led Naples to league titles in 1987 and 1990, a feat it has not been able to repeat, and his only rival for veneration there is the city's patron saint, San Gennaro. Considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time, the 51-year-old is currently coach for United Arab Emirates side Al Wasl in Dubai.
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JUNE
Sperlinga
15, 2012
Agrigen to
Mother’s daze
A visit from family prompts a whirlwind tour of some of Sicily’s best sights BY HM2 MATTHEW CLUTTER Guest Writer
My mother arrived on a Tuesday. In addition to four bags and a husband, she brought with her all the gusto a 65-year-old woman could muster after a day chocked full of air travel. She had a simple, albeit vague, request before we even left the airport. "I want to see everything!" she told me. "I want to see all Sicily has to offer!" We had two weeks. But no pressure. The wife and I had been preparing for such a visit from family members since we arrived. It's hard to live in such a beautiful place and not expect visitors at some point. But how do you do it all? How do you give a couple with only two good legs between them the vacation of a lifetime? And how do you do that while still working a portion of the time? I hadn't a clue but was determined to try. What made matters interesting was the tour guide book my mother brought, which of course was read and re-read on the long flight over, which prompted her announcement of "The Top Five Places to See in Sicily." Fortunately, four of the five were offered as ITT trips. But I started them out slow -- a wine tasting at the Ex-
change was the perfect beginning . It gave my mother a chance to practice the Italian she tried to learn from the Rosetta Stone CDs she purchased before coming. However, inserting the disc is a key step in actually learning the language, thus "grazie" became the extent of her conversation. And, in what would become a theme for her trip, she tried to unload two pennies on the Italian cashiers before leaving with the six bottles of wine I purchased for the occasion. She was met with a smile as I explained to her the uselessness of pennies in Europe. She was not deterred. Dinner at Valentino's in Motta Sant'Anastasia occupied our second evening. I had the pasta alla norma, The wife had quattro formaggi rigatoni, and my mother had the very Italian meal of roasted chicken and spinach. But she loved it and that's all I wanted. What she loved even more were the ITT trips we took -three in all. All told, we visited Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, Sperlinga Castle, Nicosia, Siracusa, and the Tatarata Festival in Casteltermini. And we did it all in the comfort of a base tour bus and some of the best tour guides around.
In between ITT trips, we visited the island on our own. Remembering an ITT trip we took to Taormina, The wife and I guided our way back there for a visit. And my mother and stepfather were in awe. Taormina is the must-see spot in Sicily, with a view you can’t find on a postcard. You also can't find pennies there, despite my mother's attempts to rid herself of them in various shops. We also visited Catania, had panini at a bar for lunch, and bought meat and cheese at the market. We rounded out their two-week stay by heading back to Valentino's for our final dinner, a fitting way to end their visit. And we paid with a credit card so those two blasted pennies were still jingling in my mother's purse, despite another attempt to unload them, this time on the waiter as part of a tip. For me, the best way to give someone the Sicily experience is to combine all the base has to offer with the knowledge we've gained since living here. But there are probably a thousand different ways to do it. I'm just giving you my two cents. For two more cents, see my mother.
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Taormina
Siracusa Photos by Emily Kellen. Clockwise from left: Sperlinga: Sperlinga Castle; Agrigento: Temple of Concordia at Agrigento's Valley of the Temples; Taormina: Sidewalk cafe; Siracusa: Cathedral of Santa Lucia; Catania: Entry staircase to Bellini Gardens; Taormina: Teatro Greco
Catania
Teatro Greco, Taormina
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CLASS OF 2012 Congratulations, graduates!
Thirty nine people graduated with degrees ranging from an Associate's to a Master's from one of the following: Ashford University, Bellevue University, Coastline Community College, Central Texas College, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, State University of New York, University of Phoenix and University of Maryland University College. A graduation recognition ceremony was held in their honor on June 7. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
Fourteen students graduated from Sigonella High School on June 12. Sigonella High School belongs to the Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS), Mediterranean District and the Europe Area. Their mission is to serve the children of U.S. active duty personnel and civilian contractors station at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Gary Prill/Released)
Friday, 15 JUN 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, BBQ Spareribs, Paprika Buttered Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies. Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Chicken Fillet Parmesan, Farfalle w/Scallops, Tossed Green Rice, Corn O’Brien, Lima Beans, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies.
Tuesday, 19 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Hot Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Grilled Sausage Patties, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Blueberry Muffins. * Lunch: Chicken Vegetable Soup, Roast Turkey, Pasta al Forno, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Turkey Gravy, Carrots and Orange Amandine, Club Spinach, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Oatmeal Cookies. *Speed Line: Roast Beef Sandwich, French Fried Potatoes. Dinner: Zesty Bean Soup, Ribeye Roll Steak, Orange Rice, Vegetarian Lasagna, Baked Potatoes, Southern Greens, Seasoned Mixed Vegetables, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Oatmeal Cookies.
Saturday, 16 JUN 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, Creole Soup, Chicken Nuggets, Fried Rice, Asparagus, Calico Corn, Cherry Pie, Abracadabra Bars. *Dinner: Vegetable Soup, Baked Lasagna, Steamed Rice, Deep Fried Fish Portion, Seasoned Asparagus, Steamed Cauliflower, Garlic Bread, Cherry Pie, and Abracadabra Bars.
Wednesday, 20 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Bear Claws. *Lunch: Beef Rice Soup, Chicken Cacciatore, Baked Fish, Garlic Cheese Potatoes, Rice Pilaf, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts Polonaise, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Pudding. *Speed Line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Cream of Chicken Soup, St. Louis BBQ Pork Ribs, Spaghetti Garlic & Oil, Steamed Rice, Greens Beans Nicoise, Steamed Peas, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Pudding.
Sunday, 17 JUN 12 *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, Puree Mongole Soup, Pork Roast, Carrots, Southwestern Rice, Club Spinach, Almond Cake, Crisp Toffee Bars. *Dinner: Chicken Vegetable Soup, Sauerbraten, Spring Garden Rice, Spaghetti Garlic & Oil, Mashed Potatoes, Natural Pan Gravy, Steamed Cut Green Beans, Seasoned Carrots, Almond Cake, Crisp Toffee Bars. Monday, 18 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Hot Hominy Grits, Minced Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Streusel Coffee Cake. *Lunch: Creamed of Broccoli Soup, Roast Beef, Steamed Rice, Mixed Vegetables, Chicken Adobo, Squash, Brownies, Yellow Cake w/ Icing, Fruit Ambrosia. *Speed Line: Sloppy Joe. *Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Meatloaf, Rice Pilaf, Brown Gravy, Linguine Carbonara, Peas & Onions, Corn on the Cob, Brownies, Yellow Cake w/ Icing, Fruit Ambrosia.
Thursday, 21 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Raisin Muffins. *Lunch: Corn Chowder Soup, Roast Pork, Fettuccine w/Lobster, Mashed Potatoes, Brown Gravy, Steamed Rice, Seasoned Carrots, Asparagus, Peanut Butter Cookies, Cherry Pie. *Speed Line: Assorted Pizza. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Baked Fish, Grilled Cheese Burger, Ginger Rice, Mexican Corn, Steamed Broccoli, Cherry Pie, Peanut Butter Cookies. Friday, 22 JUN 12 *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, Breaded Pork Chop, Baked Fish Pollok, Oven Glo Potatoes, 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. *Dinner: French Onion Soup, Chicken Cacciatore, Steamed Rice, Farfalle w/Tomato Sauce, Spinach, Cauliflower Polonaise, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Pudding.
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Summertime family fun Family Fitness Center Hours Monday - Friday: 7:30 - 7:30 p.m. Weekend and Holidays: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Family Fitness The Family Fitness center is now open for business in Midtown. With fitness equipment for ages six and up and a play area for kids under six, the new center is the perfect place for families to spend time together and get fit! But the center is not the only thing the new Family Fitness program has to offer. There’s a new series of Family Fitness events happening in Sigonella! These events will encourage parents and kids to get active and play together. The series begins this month with Water Wars on June 20 from noon until 3 p.m. on NAS I in the field by Connections. Put on some bathing suits, grab sunscreen and some towels and come out for an afternoon of soaking wet fun! There will be slip-nslides, a dunk tank, water balloon fights and wet & wild relays. All ages are welcome. The best part is it’s free! For more information on Family Fitness contact the Fit District at 624-4483 or visit www.sigmwr.com. Keep an eye out for Family Fitness Youth Olympics, where you will compete in some of the classic Olympic events with a twist, coming next month!
Movies in the Park Sigonella’s summer movie tradition is back! We’ll be showing family friendly movies on select Saturday nights at the Marinai soccer field for you to enjoy, and they’re free! Here’s the summer lineup! ~June 23: Tangled ... PG ~July 14: Adventures of TinTin ... PG ~July 28: Princess and the Frog ... G ~Aug 11: Chronicles of Narnia ... PG ~Aug 25: Madagascar 2: Escape 2 Africa ... PG Each movie will start at 9 p.m. when the sun goes down. Snacks and drinks will be for sale. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and get the whole family together for a great night of entertainment!
MIdTOwN MOVIE THEATERS SCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS Thursday, June 21 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM
The Hunger Games Pirates! Band of Misfits Lockout Men In Black III
PG-13 PG PG-13 PG-13
Friday, June 22 Friday, June 15 – School’s Out for Summer! 2:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM
Pirates! Band of Misfits Lockout The Lucky One Five-Year Engagement American Reunion
PG PG-13 PG-13 R R
Tuesday, June 19 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM
Battleship Three Stooges Five-Year Engagement Cabin In The Woods
PG-13 PG R R
2:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM
Madagascar 3 Think Like A Man Lockout Five-Year Engagement The Raven
PG PG-13 PG-13 R R
Saturday, June 23 2:00 PM Madagascar 3 PG 2:30 PM Pirates! Band of Misfits PG 4:30 PM Think Like A Man PG-13 5:00 PM Snow W. & Hunstman PG-13 7:30 PM Prometheus R Movie In the Park – Marinai Soccer Field 9:00 PM Tangled PG FREE
Sunday, June 24 Wednesday, June 20 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM
Snow W. & Huntsman The Lucky One Men In Black III American Reunion
PG-13 PG-13 PG-13 R
2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM
Pirates! Band of Misfits Three Stooges Snow W. & Hunstman Five-Year Engagement The Raven
PG PG PG-13 R R
FREE MOVIE IN THE PARK Saturday, June 23, come out to the Marinai Soccer Field and enjoy the movie Tangled after the sun goes down. Bring blankets or chairs and bug spray. Some concessions will be available for purchase.
COMING SOON: What To Expect When Expecting, Safe, Dictator, Piranha 3DD, Chernobyl Diaries
CABIN IN THE WOODS……………………………..…..R STARRING: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth and Anna Hutchison
Five friends go for a break at a remote cabin in the woods, where they get more than they bargained for. Together, they must discover the truth behind the cabin in the woods. (1 hr. 25 m.)
THE FIVE-YEAR ENGAGEMENT...........................R STARRING: Jason Segel, Emily Blunt and Chris Pratt
One year after meeting, Tom proposes to his girlfriend, Violet, but unexpected events keep tripping them up as they look to walk down the aisle together. (2 hrs. 4 m.)
PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS……………….….…..PG STARRING: Hugh Grant, Salma Hayek and Jeremy Piven
Pirate Captain sets out on a mission to defeat his rivals Black Bellamy and Cutlass Liz for the Pirate of the year Award. The quest takes Captain and his crew from the shores of Blood Island to the foggy streets of Victorian London. (1 hr. 28 m.)
SNOW WHITE & THE HUNTSMAN………..…..PG-13 STARRING: Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth and Charlize Theron
In a twist to the fairy tale, the Huntsman ordered to take Snow White into the woods to be killed winds up becoming her protector and mentor in a quest to vanquish the Evil Queen. (2 hrs. 7 m.)
Movie schedule is subject to change. Please call to confirm. Movie Hotline: 624-4248
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Find the words!
GAME RACCOON RADIO RAILROAD RAINBOW RANDOMIZE REALTY RECEIVER RECESS RECTANGLE REGISTER REINDEER RESCUE RESPONSE RESPONSIBILITY RESUME RETRIEVER RETROACTIVE REVERSE RICOCHET RICOTTA RIDDANCE RIDICULOUS ROASTED ROMANTIC ROOSTER ROSEMARY ROTTEN ROULETTE RUBBISH RUNAROUND
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Did you know?
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Sudoku!
315 entries in Webster's Dictionary will be misspelled. A giraffe can clean its ears with its 21-inch tongue. A giraffe can go without water longer than a camel can. A goldfish has a memory span of three seconds. Chewing gum while peeling onions will keep you from crying. Dolphins sleep with one eye open.
Find the way!
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AUTOMOBILES
1993 Alfa 155, 1700 cc, green, (139.000 km) 5K euro, OBO, call Elsa at eringgenberg@ austin.rr.com. 1994 BMW 318i; Good Condition; Manual; A/C. $2,000 or reasonable offer. Call 335-599-8553. 1996 Alfa Romeo 155. 4-door, 5speed, 31 mpg. Dependable island car. New tires, front shocks, timing belt; water pump and head rebuilt. Available middle-end of June. $1,650 OBO. Call Kevin at 345-0755762. 1996 Honda Civic Sedan; blue; 5spd manual; runs great; A/C. 144,000 miles; Blue Book value is more than $2,000, but will sell for less. Make an offer. 346-494-6866. 1997 Suzuki Marauder, custom 8000 cc, black, (14.000 km) 5K euro, OBO, Elsa at eringgenberg@ austin.rr.com. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider GTV 2000 cc, grey, (139.999 km), 5K euro, OBO, Elsa at eringgenberg@ austin.rr.com. 2007 Ford Focus ZX3 SE; 50,000 mi; U.S. specs; automatic; 4-cyl, 2.0l; ABS; power brakes, steering, win-
dows, mirrors; A/C; 16" aluminum wheels; CD/mp3; new front tires, brakes, battery. Factory warranty good until May 2014; excellent condition. $7,500 OBO. Cell 340-7891417 email: kyeager258@ yahoo.com 2000 silver BMW 318i; 4-dr; xenon front lights; new brakes; A/C; airbags; 17" wheels; alarm system; needs nothing at all; runs great. Asking 4000 euro (price negotiable) call Tommy at 331-954-4486 2007 Toyota Rav4, 4x4, V6, automatic, standard options, new tires; extended warranty until OCT 2014; 71,403 Mi.; silver; Asking for $15,900 will negotiate; available July 13; call Jaime at 335-578-8074 in evening only, email: jamersklee@gmail.com. 1991 white BMW 316i; 5-SPD; runs great;$1,000 or OBO. For more info, contact Tyrone Brown @ 3401200593 or e-mail: pm7tbrown@ hotmail.com. Serious offers only please. FOR SALE
Brown leather-like sofa; still has manufacturer’s tags. Need $500. Call Jody btwn 3pm - 9pm @ 345273- 4045
NOTICE
FREE summer camp opportunities through the Navy Child and Youth Programs. Applications are now being accepted for the 2012 Navy Teen Summer Camp Scholarship Program. ALL-EXPENSE PAID (YES, FREE) summer camp opportunities for Navy teens worldwide include airline/ground transportation, camp registration, meals, and miscella- neous camp insurance. Eligibility requirements and details are posted on the NAS Sigonella Facebook page. Deadline to apply is June 15. If a family is PCSing, sponsors can select a different return airport. Notification of selections will be made no later than June 22, 2012. FISC Sigonella, Contracting Office, is soliciting for the following persona- lized healthcare contract po-
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sition at the U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella: two full-time Registered Nurse, one full- time Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse and one fulltime Certified Medical Assistant. Sources must be eligible for US employment and US citizens. Closing date is June 22, 2012. Contact Mr. Aldo LaColla (624- 5727) or Ms. Agostina Randazzo (624-3792) SAWS ANIMALS
Fidel & Phillipo, 4 months, male, black & white and black & brown puppies. Lloves children, people, and other dogs. Will be visiting the vet soon. Damon, 2 months, brown and tan, male puppy. Really calm personality that does well with other animals including cats. Timid with new people but will warm up. Visiting the vet mid-June.
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Romulus, 8 weeks, gray and black stripes, male kitten. Loves people, children, and other cats but hisses at dogs but is young enough where he could learn that dogs are okay. Visits the vet in midJune. Chomper, 3 months, black and white, male puppy. Loves people, children, and other dogs. Should be fine in any home. Current on shots. Microchipped. To volunteer, adopt or foster, visit facebook.com/Sigonella.Animals or http://sigonellaanimalwelfaresociety.we bs.com/
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Know Before You Go This Summer Limitless possibilities: taking advantage of an unwritten future BY ROBERT SZOSTEK USEUCOM Customs PAO
People moving to the States this summer should start preparing now by finding new homes for the things that are banned from import. It is also a good idea to apply early for import permits on restricted items, customs officials advise. “Prohibited items include meat and meat products such as sausage, pâté and salami, as well as plants and destructive devices,” said Tim Sellman, acting director of the U.S. European Command’s Customs and Border Clearance Agency. “If you’re planning on shipping firearms, ensure you have proof that you owned them in the States or have an import permit,” Sellman added. He also explained that other important points to remember are: Owners of vehicles not made to U.S. standards have to ship them through commercial importers registered with the Department of Transportation and Environ-
mental Protection Agency. However, vehicles more than 25 years old are exempt from this rule. Most mopeds and motorcycles must also meet U.S. safety and pollution standards and all vehicles must be free of dirt, insects and vegetation. Wine collections can only be shipped with advance approval. Endangered species items such as ivory and some furs may only be shipped if owners can prove they were previously owned in the U.S. or are antiques over 100 years old. State attorneys general must approve imports of gambling devices. These devices must be registered with the Justice Department in Washington D.C. Need more details? Get many informative pamphlets from the NAS Sigonella Personal Property Office in building 720 or call DSN 624-9443
Wondering why there are no plastic bags in the Commissary? In January 2011, the Italian government banned the use of plastic bags. The Defense Commissary Agency Europe is not exempt from this law. Commissaries in Italy and Sicily were given authorization to use the plastic bags they had on hand, but when that stock was depleted plastic bags would no longer be used. Your commissary will continue to provide paper bags for your shopping convenience. Also, you can choose to purchase reusable bags or bring your own bags from home.
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