The June 1st issue of The Signature

THE

SIGNATURE SIGONELLA, SICILY

VOL. 29 NO. 21

JUNE

1, 2012

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Remembering Torpedo Squadron 8

NEX electronic funds transfer for rent payments

BY MCSN CAMERON BRAMHAM NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

U.S. Navy photo illustration by U.S. artist William S. Phillips titled “They gave it their all.”

BY MCSN CAMERON BRAMHAM NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

T

here were many Sailors who were recognized for their actions during the historic Battle of Midway which turned World War II (WW II) in favor of the United States and its allies. Lost in recognition was Torpedo Squadron 8 (VT-8).

Assigned to the USS Hornet (CV-8), the Battle of Midway was VT-8’s first and best known mission. On June 4, 1942 (Ten months after being commissioned as a squadron), the young pilots boarded their planes and prepared for a battle without fighter support. They were led by Lt. Cmdr. John C. Waldron, who before the flight, told his men that if worst came to worst, to do their utmost to destroy the enemy.

Waldron and the rest of VT-8 made the ultimate sacrifice that day, losing all 15 planes and 29 of 30 pilots and radiomen during an unsupported torpedo attack on the Japanese carrier force.

However, VT-8’s contribution to the battle would not be in vain.

What many did not realize is that during the attack, Waldron and his men drew the Japanese fighter jets down from high altitude which ena-

bled the U.S. dive bombers to make their assaults and bombing runs on Japanese carriers almost unopposed.

The lone Sailor who survived the mission was Ens. George H. Gay who spent 30 hours floating in the ocean before being rescued. Waiting to be rescued and the famous battle taking place around him, Gay witnessed countless U.S. dive bombing attacks which destroyed three of the four Japanese carriers.

Gay’s photo would later be featured on the cover of LIFE magazine.

Gay died on October 21st, 1994. As part of his final request, Gay wanted his ashes scattered over the ocean site where he watched his friends die for their country and victory.

While thinking about the Battle of Midway and the victory that changed WW II, take time to remember the Sailors who made the sacrifices which made victory possible.

For more information on VT-8, visit navy.mil/midway or http://www.torpedoeight.com.

QUOTE

The Navy Exchange (NEX) Sigonella now offers Electronic Fund Transfers (EFT) within Europe. Tenants living out in the economy can now pay rent via bank transfers at the NEX Sigonella.

“When the new Italian law was announced earlier this year that requires all payments of 1,000 Euro or more to be conducted electronically, it changed the way U.S. and NATO service members must pay their rent,” said Ron Dahl, NEX Sigonella General Manager. “The NEX looked for a solution for customers to be able to have the added convenience of paying their rent electronically at the NEX and also have the flexibility of using different types of tender to conduct the transaction.”

Individuals can go to the Customer Service Desk at the Main Store on NAS I and pay rent in cash using dollars or euro. Service members may also pay by check, credit card, or a debit card. “[EFT] also gives the tenant the capability of having a transaction report printed out for record keeping and easing the reconciliation process at the end of the year,” Dahl said. “Another benefit is that once the payment has been transmitted to the landlord's bank, an e-mail will be generated showing proof of transfer of funds and forwarded to the customer.”

To make the payment transfer, the NEX requires the recipient's account number, the name of the person on the account, and the International Bank Account Number (IBAN) code. The NEX has a customer application that details all the needed information for a transfer.

For more information, visit the NEX Customer Service Desk or call 624-4363/4244.

OF THE WEEK

“And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.”

- Lee Greenwood Gravina honors Saint Anthony

A trip to Siracusa

New Petty Officers

Read about the celebration.

Discover the history and beauty of Siracusa.

New Petty Officers

Page 8

Page 10

Page 6

Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 2

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

CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627

JUNE

1, 2012

NAS Sigonella Acting Command Master Chief Juancho Lucero This weekend, June 3rd, marks the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway.

Regarded by many as the turning point in the Pacific, this battle showcased U.S. naval and air power in defending the Pacific island of Midway while regaining naval superiority over Japan during World War II. I’d like to take this opportunity to share with you the legacy that is the Battle of Midway.

Recognizing that the U.S. naval presence in the Pacific was a constant threat to Japanese imperialism, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, commander in chief of the Combined Fleet, believed that the U.S. Pacific Fleet had to be completely destroyed or Japan would lose the war.

So on June 3, 1942, the Battle of Midway commenced. Aircraft launched from Midway Atoll and from carriers of both navies and flew hundreds of miles, dropping torpedoes and bombs and fighting one another in the skies.

This battle for Midway occurred just six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, as Japan prepared to deal another decisive blow to the U.S. Naval forces in the Pacific by destroying U.S. aircraft carriers and occupying Midway Atoll -- a tiny island between Asia and North America, that was home to a U.S. Naval air station.

Midway Atoll was strategically important for two reasons: First, occupying Mid-

way would strengthen Japan's defensive line in the Pacific, and at the same time, provide a base of operations that would enable the Japanese armies to invade the Hawaiian Islands.

Interestingly enough, the battle that started on June 3, 1942 was not the first attack on Midway, but rather the third attack as the Japanese had already unsuccessfully attacked Midway in December 1941 and in January 1942. This time however, Americans were aware of the pending attack as code breakers intercepted and deciphered the Japanese plans, allowing the U.S. Navy to counter the attack with an ambush.

The Japanese planned attack on Midway was to begin on June 5 with carrier aircraft destroying the island's ground defenses and aircraft. Then on the next day, Japanese troops would take Kure Island, nearly 60 miles northwest of Midway, and create a base for seaplanes to support the Midway invasion. In addition, a fleet of Japanese submarines was dispersed to intercept U.S. ships sent to Midway and the Aleutians from Pearl Harbor.

The Commander-in-Chief Pacific, Admiral Chester Nimitz, being aware of the entire Japanese battle order was able to effectively plan out a counter attack that would cripple the Japanese fleet. In the end, the Japanese Navy had lost four air-

craft carriers and nearly 250 aircraft and suffered more than 3,000 deaths. In contrast, U.S. losses amounted to a single carrier and 307 deaths.

It was a decisive victory for the U.S. Navy, and is still hailed as the most important battle of the Pacific Campaign.

In closing, I encourage each of you to take some time out this weekend and learn more about this historic battle that made us the dominant sea power that we are today. Remember you are members representing the world’s most dominant fighting force – serve with pride.

Writers/Photographers Retna Shaw Flint Sibayan Jan Sibayan Mary Taylor Simeti

PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy 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

CONTRIBUTING

JUNE

1, 2012

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 3

Around NAS Sigonella ...

FLCSI volunteers clean up parking lot in the Catania Librino neighborhood Sigonella Fleet Logistic Center Sigonella (FLCSI) volunteers clean up a parking lot in Catania in the Librino neighborhood. The community relations project was carried out on Saturday, May 26. The U.S. volunteers' clean-up effort had a positive impact on the neighborhood and was covered by several Sicilian media which quoted FLCSI spokesman Lt. Rudy Mason as saying the Navy cares about being a good neighbor and protecting the environment of Sicily which is an island full of history and art.

City of Catania Alderman for Ecology and Environment, Claudio Torrisi, who hosted the event, was also quoted as being satisfied with the U.S. service members' praiseworthy initiative. (U.S. Navy photo by MM2 Johnnathan Archbold/ Released)

FFSC honors military spouses with special open house Fleet and Family Service Center (FFSC) held a Military Spouse Appreciation Open House giving anyone who could stop by a chance to say "thank you" for all the efforts of military spouses. Materials were provided so that people could write "thank you notes" to military spouses. The notes have since been placed on a bulletin board inside the FFSC for everyone to enjoy.

The month of May is designated as "Military Spouse Appreciation Month." It is a time to recognize all the support, sacrifices, and compromises that military spouses make to help their active duty partners. Military members need family support in order for them to effectively serve their commands. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)

Weapons requalifications

Writer on Deck: Jack W. London visits NAS Sigonella

Acclaimed author and attorney-at-law Jack W. London (left) talks to Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) Airman Christopher Robertson about his experiences in the United States Army and after during a tour to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. London visited NAS Sigonella May 21, to meet and greet Sailors and other NAS Sigonella community members at Jox Pub and the library. London's visit was part of the Writers on Deck tour. On Monday, June 11, author of "The Lady Gangster: A Sailor's Memoir" and three mysteries, Del Staecker will visit at Jox Pub at 11:30 a.m. and in The Chart Room at 5:30 p.m. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Cameron Bramham/Released)

Gunnersmate 2nd Class Kristoper Carmody observes Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Ronald Bugaski during two firing scenarios on a M240B 7.62mm medium machine gun during a crew served weapons requalification at the Drasi Range May 22-24.

This range is one of two ranges used for qualifications ensuring Sailors attached to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella maintain a 100% readiness status. (U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Gary Prill/Released)

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 4

JUNE

1, 2012

COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY

JUNE

1

4

TUESDAY 5

$1 Day Bowling

11

Family Fitness Center Grand Opening Fit District

Inner tube water polo Splashers pool 6 p.m.

Teen Job Fair

Texas Hold Em Jox Pub 6 p.m.

12

Writers on Deck Tour Del Staecker Jox Pub at 11:30 a.m. and The Chart Room at 5:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 6

13

$1 Day Bowling

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396

SUNDAY 3

Spring Craft Fair Midtown Atrium 9 a.m. - Noon Movies in the Park 9 p.m.

ITT Agrigento: Valley of the Temples & Bagliesi Winery Beach Shuttle Liberty

Cosmic bowling Karaoke Connections

THURSDAY 7 Bowling 2 for 1 Bingo Connections

8

10

9 Cosmic bowling

Writers on Deck Tour Mary Taylor Simeti and Maria Grammatico Midtown Atrium 4 p.m.

Karaoke Connections

Karaoke Jox Pub

14 Texas Hold Em Jox Pub 6 p.m.

2

ITT Swan Lake Ballet by Tchaikovsky Depart NAS 1 at 4 p.m.

2012

MONDAY

SATURDAY

15 Bowling 2 for 1

17

16 ITT Rome Express (June 16 and 17)

Bingo Connections Cosmic bowling Karaoke Jox Pub

Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248

Karaoke Connections

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

1, 2012

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 5

BY RETNA SHAW Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Sigonella

NMCRS Summer Youth Program Summer holidays are around the corner and if your teenager is looking for something rewarding to do during the break, why not volunteer with us? It is a great way for your teenagers to get involved in the community.

Teenagers who volunteer yield numerous benefits especially on their college applications. According to school counselors, colleges want to see a complete picture of the person applying, not just a list of organizations and dates of service. Colleges want to know the individuals interests, commitments, and dedications. Your teenager’s extracurricular activities reveal a great deal about him or her.

Another fact worth noting is that honor societies, community youth groups and schools require a certain amount of volunteer hours to be completed before graduating, while some other schools offer academic credit for volunteer work. This makes star-

ting a volunteer career early a step in the right direction.

Another benefit of volunteering is that it can give your teenager valuable life lessons and experiences.

Whether your teenager works in the office, thrift store, or helps out with various events within the community, he/she will gain hands-on experience.

This experience could aid in their major or career choice. Volunteering brings together a variety of people, which gives your teenager an opportunity to meet someone that already works in his/her desired field. This environment will also provide your child with a chance to learn to work with different personality types and to set and achieve goals.

Motivate your youth to start volunteering. If you are interested in having your teenager become a youth volunteer in our Youth Program, please contact NMCRS at 264-4212 to sign up for orientation.

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

“Survive & Thrive” Are you a spouse new to the island?

Please call 624-4291 to sign up for “Survive & Thrive,” a spouse orientation class, June 7 from 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 6

JUNE

1, 2012

Millions of dollars worth of cheese destroyed in Italy earthquake

Oriano Caretti looks at the overturned shelves of Parmesan wheels in his Parmesan cheese factory in San Giovanni in Persiceto, Italy May 21. A magnitude 6.0 earthquake shook northern Italy early Sunday, killing at least three people and toppling some buildings emergency services and news reports said. The quake struck at 4:04 a.m. Sunday between Modena and Mantova, about 35 kilometers (22 miles) north-northwest of Bologna at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), the U.S. Geological Survey said. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) (Story by New York Daily News)

Be sure not to miss the religious festival honoring Saint Anthony of Padua running in Gravina di Catania on June 12 – 13. The festival will feature religious processions, entertainment and arts and crafts. (Photo by www.criluge.it)

Gravina honors Saint Anthony On June 12 and 13, the town of Gravina di Catania will turn into a sanctuary to honor Sant’Antonio di Padova (Saint Anthony of Padua), the town’s patron saint who is nicknamed “Sant’Antuninu” by Sicilians to differentiate him from Sant’Antonio Abate (Saint Anthony the Abbot).

Saint Anthony spent some time in Sicily after being shipwrecked on the shores of Messina. The beauty of this ancient island fascinated him so much that he decided to return a few years later. Sicilia reminded him of Portugal, his native land. Tradition holds that the santo (saint) performed many miracles and founded several convents here such as the ones found in Cefalù, Patti, Vizzini, Noto, Taormina and Catania.

Saint Anthony is also the patron saint of Maletto and Nicolosi.

On his feast day, June 13, devotees perform a pilgrimage called “viaggio.” On the eve of the festival, groups of barefoot devotees (mostly women) are dressed in a Franciscan monk-like habit covered with embroideries. They visit the five churches of the historic center to fulfill a holy vow they had made or just to show their fervent devotion.

Until the 1980s, the festival used to be held once every three years during the last week of July to allow local farmers working in the fields to attend, as they were too busy with the harvest.

The statue depicting St. Anthony and a relic (a fragment of his hand placed inside an arm-shaped reliquary) are preserved inside the Gravina “Chiesa Madre” or cathedral, a beautiful Baroque church that showcases a majestic spiral bell-tower and several amazing 17th century paintings. In 2000, a new relic was added to the reliquary. It is a “certified” piece of the saint’s throat.

According to tradition, Gravina’s townspeople, who

!

T I Y SoAur Italian T S JUractice y P

Warm weather is perfect for enjoying gelato.

Learn how to say your favorite flavors in Italian!

are called Gravinesi or Pragaloti (from Plache the ancient city’s name that means territory located on a large plain), ask St. Anthony to intercede with God for the return of things lost or stolen or to help unmarried women find a husband. But the saint’s intercession is actually invoked for all sorts of help.

Sant’Antonio is depicted with a lily in his right hand and the child Jesus standing on a book the saint holds in his left arm.

On the festival’s eve ( June 12), celebrations kick off in the evening with a relic’s procession leaving from the main church at 8 p.m. and touring the historic center. Later, at 9:30 p.m., a spectacular illumination will light the streets as the town singers and city bands perform a cantata dating back to 1873. The cantata is repeated the following day. At the end of the procession, a fireworks show is held at the public gardens.

On the main day of the festival, June 13, the ringing of church bells and cannon shots wakes up the Gravina community at 6 a.m. At 7 a.m., the “Svelata”, or unveiling of the saint’s statue is performed at the main church.

Devotees and pilgrims from Gravina, the Catania province and from other parts of Sicily wave white handkerchiefs shouting “Viva Sant’Antuninu!” (Long live Saint Anthony!). Following the unveiling, a solemn Holy Mass is held at 11:30 a.m.

At 5 p.m., local bands walk along via Marconi performing symphonic marches.

The climax of the celebration is reached at 7:30 p.m. when the venerated statue of the saint is taken outside the cathedral to be carried in procession throughout the city until late at night. A spectacular fireworks show ends the festival at midnight.

For more information and festival schedule details, call the Gravina main church at 095-420982.

English: Vanilla ice cream with dark chocolate drops Italian: Stracciatella English: Sour black cherry Italian: Amarena English: Melon Italian: Melone

English: Coconut Italian: Cocco English: Nougat Italian: Torrone English: Mixed berries Italian: Frutti di bosco

Cheese producer Oriano Caretti woke up to the shaking earth, and then to the roar of some 86-pound wheels of Parmesan cheese crashing to the ground in the warehouse next to his home.

Last week’s 6.0-magnitude quake north of Bologna that killed seven people and toppled centuries old buildings also caused enormous damage to the region's world-renown cheese production. The Coldiretti Italian farm lobby said 400,000 wheels of Parmesan and

Grana Padano cheese were damaged when the racks where they are aged collapsed.

Total agriculture losses, including lost cheese, felled livestock and damaged machinery in an area spanning Bologna, Modena and Mantova in the agriculturally rich Po River Valley, are estimated at $254 million.

"Considering that what you see here represents the work of seven companies for two years, this means that the repercussions on the rural

JUNE

1, 2012

economy of these farms and this territory will feel it pretty badly," Caretti said Monday inside the cheese factory, where wooden shelves were still collapsed from the quake. Only one rack of 16 remained standing.

Many of the wheels looked unscathed, but workers were still trying to determine what could be salvaged before mold sets in. The quake struck 4:04 a.m. Sunday, when most residents in the quake zone north of Bologna were asleep – and residential buildings in an area unaccustomed to quakes largely withstood the temblor.

Four of the seven dead were workers on the overnight shift who were buried in rubble, including two at the Ceramica Sant'Agostino tile company. The other three victims – including a German tourist and an Italian centenarian – died of heart attacks or other health conditions brought on by fear.

Many of the region's landmarks also suffered considerable damage, including the city hall of Sant'Agostino and the 13th century clock tower, which was split vertically in half, of Finale Emilia.

In terms of economic impact, the artisanal cheese sector appears to be the hardest hit. At least 10 percent of Parmesan production has been impacted, according to early estimates by the Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Consortium, which annually generates (EURO) 1.2 million in production revenues and (EURO) 1.9 billion in consumer sales.

Cirque du Soleil in Acireale

The classic acrobatic spectacle "Saltimbanco" by Cirque du Soleil will be performed in Acireale from June 5 through 17, 2012 at the Acireale Palasport. These will be the only performances in Italy for this year.

Saltimbanco -from the Italian "saltare in banco", which literally means "to jump on a bench"- explores the urban experience in all its myriad forms: the people who live there, their idiosyncrasies and likenesses, families and groups, the hustle and bustle of the street and the towering heights of skyscrapers. Between whirlwind and lull, prowess and poetry, Saltimbanco takes spectators on an allegorical and acrobatic journey into the heart of the city.

Saltimbanco is a Cirque du Soleil signature show inspired by the urban fabric of the metropolis and its colorful inhabitants. Decidedly baroque in its visual vocabulary, the show's eclectic cast of characters draws spectators into a fanciful, dreamlike world, an imaginary city where diversity is a cause for hope.

The concert is organized by New World Entertainment. Ticket can be purchased by visiting www.ticketone.it, www.ctbox.it, www.vivaticket.it, www.circuitoboxofficesicilia.it, www.go2.it and www.helloticket.it. For more information, call toll free number 800.277.315 or visit www.newworld.it.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 7

The grandfathers of gelato

BY MARY TAYLOR SIMETI Writers on Deck tour author

S

icilians adore ice-cream, so much so that in the summertime they even eat it for breakfast. A brioscia filled with a large scoop of coffee or hazelnut ice-cream and topped with a swirl of whipped cream will set a Sicilian up for the whole morning; a lighter version would be a glass of granita – coffee or lemon or, in eastern Sicily, almond – with the brioscia on the side.

The brioscia is, in name as well as in substance, the Sicilian reinterpretation of a French brioche, said to have been the work of the Swiss pastry chef Caviezel, who set up shop in Catania in the early 19th century.

Very similar in appearance to an American hamburger bun, a good brioscia should be soft, slightly sweet and capable of absorbing the melt without becoming gooey. The proper technique for eating one filled with rapidly melting ice-cream – a skilful sequencing of squeeze, lick and bite – is something that Sicilian children acquire very young. Foreigners initially tend to make a mess of it.

The foreigners who in the 18th and 19th centuries extended their Grand Tour as far as Sicily marveled at the passion with which the natives procured their supply of snow and consumed the ices produced thereby.

So great is this passion – and, it might be added, so delicious is Sicilian gelato – that the Sicilians are convinced that they themselves are the inventors of ice-cream, the guardians of a culinary secret brought here, according to current myth, by the 8th-century Arab invaders, who used the snows to cool their sarbat, fruit syrups diluted with water.

I confess that they convinced me as well. When I first started to write about the history of Sicilian food, I blithely stated that “the passage from sarbat and water, chilled in a container of ice, to granita was only a question of time”. Jeffrey Steingarten, the American food writer, took me sternly to task for this, and sent me abashed to Elizabeth David’s Harvest of the Cold Months to read up on the endothermic effect. One can chill a liquid by adding ice or snow but one can only freeze it thanks to the endothermic effect, that is, by adding salt to the surrounding ice, thus bringing down the temperature well below 0°C. The 8th-century Arabs knew this principle, indeed they imported it from the Chinese, but for centuries it

remained in the domain of science and medicine, at most a parlour trick.

Only in the 16th century did it migrate to the kitchen.

The first written description of this most welcome innovation is in a poem called “Il candiero”, written by a 17th-century gentleman of Florence, a sort of recipe in verse which ends by saying that this ice-cream, flavoured with jasmine and lemon, was first made to quench the thirst of the “Signor di Carbonagno” (sic).

What’s more, according to the poet, the candiero celebrated in the poem was made by “il Siciliano”. So the Sicilians are not all wrong. Too bad, says Elizabeth David, that we don’t know more about“ ... who that Sicilian candiero-maker was and who his master the Signor Carbognano...”.

But we do, and we might. In all likelihood the master was Giulio Cesare Colonna di Sciarra, Prince of Carbognano (1636-1681), whose domestic accounts, preserved as part of the Barberini Archives in the Vatican library, might well reveal to a qualified researcher the secret of “il Siciliano”.

Whether or not they invented ice-cream, the Sicilians certainly do know how to make a good one. Artisanal ice-cream is made in bars, cafés and gelaterias across the island and its quality is generally very high, although much depends on the quality of the prepared pastes and bases that are used. Then there are the upscale ice-cream makers who prepare most ingredients themselves and employ local products – Sicily’s famed almonds and pistachios and its delicious fruits – to flavour their products. In eastern Sicily the acknowledged master is Corrado Assenza of the Caffè Sicilia in Noto, who has long since acquired international fame thanks to his pastries, jams, and chocolates, and is now branching out from the traditional sweet flavours of dessert ice-cream to the new and fashionable savoury ices designed to accompany fish or meat dishes, or as a palate cleanser between courses.

Although there is plenty of good gelato available in Palermo, I chose to go to Cerda, a small town about 70km east of the city, where Antonio Cappadonia has acquired a reputation of being the best gelatiere in western Sicily. He acquired his trade by chance: he was studying law when his father decided to invest his life savings in a bar in the main square, an

activity that promised his son a more certain future than a law degree. A self-taught artisan, he met the great names of Italian gelato at trade fairs, took some courses and developed such a passion that he eventually stopped selling everything but gelato.

A singularly pleasant and modest young man, Cappadonia was extremely patient with my questions, and explained the difference between French ice-cream (lots of cream), Italian (heavy on the milk and eggs) and Sicilian (milk and a thickener/emulsifier). In centuries past Sicilians also used inexpensive wheat starch to thicken their gelato but for Cappadonia, as well as for Corrado Assenza, the absolute best emulsifier giving the absolutely creamiest product is flour milled from the carob bean. A totally natural product, it has a remarkable capacity for absorbing water, thus preventing the formation of ice crystals and ensuring a very smooth texture.

The carob tree grows throughout the Mediterranean, and is making a comeback in Sicily, especially in the province of Ragusa, where Assenza operates. The sweetening power of the bean pod and the thickening power of the seed have been known since antiquity (the Egyptians apparently ate the pods and used a paste made from the seeds to glue the wrappings on their mummies).

Interviewing Cappadonia was a delightful experience. In between questions I got to taste his hazelnut ice-cream (made from the best hazelnuts, grown in the Langhe of Piedmont), his lemon sorbet (locally grown lemons), cantaloupe sorbet (melons from Licata), as well as icecreams made from pistachios (Bronte Reds from the slopes of Etna) and almonds (from the Val di Noto).

He makes a point of knowing where and by whom each ingredient is produced, and is particularly proud of an ice-cream of his own invention, made from manna, the sap harvested from ash trees growing in the nearby Madonie mountains.

It was not the right season to taste the creation for which he is most famous, an artichoke sorbet invented in homage to the principal crop of the farms around Cerda, which he makes of centrifuged artichokes, sugar and lemon juice. He calls it a gelato da meditazione, something to eat sitting down, with thoughtfulness. I can’t wait to meditate upon it next spring.

Mary Taylor Simeti is the author of “On Persephone’s Island: A Sicilian Journey” and co-author of “Bitter Almonds: Recollections and Recipes from a Sicilian Girlhood” with Maria Grammatico. She is an expert on Sicilian medieval and culinary history. Simeti will share stories and tastes of wine and olive oil from her farm, and Grammatico will demonstrate her marzipan creations at the next Writers on Deck tour at the Midtown Atrium on Friday, June 8 at 4 p.m.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 8

JUNE

1, 2012

JUNE

1, 2012

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 9

Siracusa: alive with history and beauty

As the Romans spread their empire south, they subsequently conquered Sicily. As Siracusa was a major city and port, the Romans left their legacy here as well. They constructed an amphitheater not far from the Greek theater to host gladiator games and other forms of entertainment.

(Left) The Altar of Heiron II, built in the third century B.C., is the largest surviving Greek altar. It measured approximately 630 by 75.5 feet, which, as legend has it, could accommodate the sacrifice of up to 450 bulls.

The channel connects the island of Ortygia with the rest of Siracusa and mainland Sicily. (U.S. Navy photos by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)

BY MR1 GARY SPENCE NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

F

or many that have been stationed in Sicily for a while, Siracusa has already been checked off the “to-do” list. But if you’re new to the island or just haven’t gotten around to it, now is the time to go. The weather is perfect this time of year for a day trip to the town described by Roman philosopher Cicero as the greatest of all the Greek cities.

Founded around 733 BC on the small island of Ortygia, which is accessible by bridge spanning a narrow channel, Siracusa quickly flourished into a major Greek city-state. It is also the birthplace of the Greek mathematician Archimedes.

On a recent ITT trip, I set out to see as many of the historical sites as I could in one day ...

A trip to any Italian city is not complete if you don’t stop and see the central cathedral. Siracusa’s main cathedral is constructed around the remains of an ancient Greek temple, whose columns can still be seen once inside. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Lucy, or Santa Lucia, who was martyred in 304. Inside the cathedral you will find one of Lucy’s relics, her left arm bone, which was returned in 1988 (left). A beautiful fresco decorates the ceiling of the chamber containing her remains (right).

Siracusa is a beautiful city and everyone was very friendly!

The large man-made cave in Siracusa, known as the Ear of Dionysius, served to house prisoners who worked in the nearby quarry. Legend states that the prisoners were kept here because due to the nature of how the cave is constructed, thy tyrant Dionysius could hear even the slightest whisper among the prisoners.

In Archimedes Square sits the beautiful Fontana di Diana sculpted by Giulio Moschetti Piceno which was dedicated in 1906. It depicts the legend of Arethusa, a water nymph, trying to escape from Alpheus, the river god who fell in love with her as she bathed in his stream. Arethusa fled to the island of Ortygia but Alpheus pursued her. There Arethusa appealed to Artemis, the goddess of the moon and the hunt and protector of women, for help. To protect Arethusa form Alpheus, Artemis changed her into an underground stream, emerging as a freshwater spring fountain on Ortygia. But Alpheus was not fooled. He rerouted his river’s flow underground and followed Arethusa. Both of their waters now mingle eternally in the Fountain of Arethusa in Ortygia.

PAGE 10

THE SIGNATURE

JUNE

1, 2012

AIMD commended for gardening project efforts

Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class (AW/SW) Jose Riveradavid stands with Naval Air Station Sigonella’s Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment’s (AIMD) chain of command as they receive a certificate from a Group Action Recuperation (GAR) representative at the grand garden reopening at the Church of San Francesco, May 12, for their volunteering efforts in a beautification project. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Brian Glunt/Rleased)

NAS Sigonella frocks new Petty Officers

BY MC2 GARY PRILL NPASE - East Detachment Sigonella

BY MCSN BRIAN GLUNT NPASE - East Detachment Sigonella

Sailors with the Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella were honored at a grand garden reopening at the Church of San Francesco, May 12, for their volunteering efforts in a beautification project.

The Church of San Francesco, an 18th century church, was the scene of the beautification project where volunteers pulled weeds, painted, landscaped and planted flowers throughout the garden.

The AIMD volunteers were welcomed in February to join the community relations (COMREL) project by Group Action Recuperation (GAR) volunteers in Catania’s Cibali neighborhood. The church is also undergoing renovations in order to provide plays, classes and activities for children and members of the local community.

“When we first looked at this area it was a little scary. You couldn’t tell there was a garden there,” said Aviation Electronics Technician

Sixty three Sailors from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella were frocked to their next respective pay grades during a ceremony May 30. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Gary Prill/Released)

1st Class (AW/SW) Jose Riveradavid, AIMD COMREL coordinator. “With the collaboration with the local volunteers, it turned out to be a great project and it was a very rewarding experience.”

During the reception, GAR volunteers and members of the community enjoyed the garden as they gave the AIMD volunteers and chain of command a certificate for their participation.

“The project was always for the members of this community, but I am honored the community presented us with a certificate for our participation,” said Riveradavid. “The community is already teaching yoga classes and we have agreed to teach some English courses.”

“GAR is a group made up of volunteer citizens who give a reawakening to an area in the community,” said Elisabewta Lanza, GAR volunteer. “This was an area totally destroyed and we would like to thank the volunteers from Sigonella for their help in revitalizing this place.”

Naval Air Station Sigonella’s Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Butler frocked 63 Sailors to their next respective pay grades during a ceremony May 30.

“I am extremely proud of each and every one of you,” said Butler.

Each sailor received a certificate granting the authority to assume the title and wear the uniform for the next pay grade, along with an understanding of their obligation to exercise increased authority and willingness to accept greater responsibility.

“It’s great to put on first class here,” said newly frocked Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) William Garcia. Every one

says its harder to make it on shore duty, BMs tend to work outside their rate, so I very proud that I made it here where it’s more dificult and makes me feel like I really accomplished something.”

The term frocking dates back to the age of sail. As departing officers created vacancies on the ship, captains would often forward a recommendation for promotion for one of the remaining officers to the Department of the Navy.

Officers recommended for promotion were awarded the authority of their new rank and presented with the senior departing officer’s “frock” coat, but would not receive pay as it was not yet official.

Friday, 01 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters. *Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Fried/Baked Pollok Fish, Pasta al Forno , Mushroom Gravy, Steamed Rice, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Fried Cauliflower, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.

Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Farfalle w/scallops, Sandwich, Pork Fried Rice, Steamed Whole Corn, Seasoned Spinach, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.

Tuesday, 05 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Blueberry Muffins. *Lunch: Cream of Asparagus Soup, BBQ Spareribs, Linguine w/Scallops, Chicken Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Hopping John, Corn on the Cob, Southern Style Greens, Jalapeno Corn Bread, German Chocolate Cake, Cherry Pie. *Speed line: Chicken Wings, Onion Rings.

Dinner: Beef Rice Soup, Spaghetti w/ Garlic & Oil, Ribeye Roll Steak, Lyonnaise Rice, Vegetable Stir Fry, Steamed Asparagus, Brown Gravy, German Chocolate Cake, Cherry Pie .

Saturday, 02 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterhorns. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Beef Vegetable Soup, Chicken Nuggets, French Fries, Mixed Vegetables, Broccoli, Sweet & Sour Sauce, Chocolate Drop Cookies, Apple Crisp. *Dinner: Manhattan Clam Chowder, El Rancho Stew, Spaghetti Garlic & Oil ,Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Steamed Rice, Green Kale, Peas & Mushroom, Chocolate Drop Cookies, Apple Crisp

Wednesday, 06 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Bear Claw. *Lunch: Beef Vegetable Soup, Breaded Pork Steaks, Savory Baked Chicken, Potatoes Au Gratin, Oriental Rice, Eggplant Parmesan, Tangy Spinach, Cherry Cheese Cake, Chewy Nut Bars, Cream Puffs. *Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Salisbury Steak, Lasagna, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Wax Beans, Cherry Cheese Cake, Chewy Nut Bars, Cream Puffs.

Sunday, 03 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, French Toast Puff, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Asstd Doughnuts, Kolaches. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Bean & Bacon Soup, Grilled Chicken Breast, Italian Roasted Potatoes, Seasoned Green Beans, Glazed Carrots, Yellow Cake w/ Frosting, Hermits. *Dinner: Split Pea Soup, Roast Turkey, Aztec Rice, Black-eye Peas, Fried Cauliflower, Yellow Cake w/ Frosting, Hermits.

Monday, 04 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Minced Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Streusel Coffee Cake. *Lunch: Chicken Noodle Soup, Rosemary Roast Turkey, Pasta Chef, Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Seasoned Summer Squash, Steamed Peas, Turkey Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Banana Cake, Dutch Apple Pie. *Speed line: Baked Italian Sausage W/Pepper & Onion. *Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Steak w/ Onions, Baked Chicken Quartered ,Pasta Carbonara, Baked Potatoes, Collard Greens, Calico Cabbage, Brown Gravy, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Banana Cake, Dutch Apple Pie.

Thursday, 07 JUN 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Asst Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Raisin Muffin. *Lunch: Onion Soup, Asian Barbecue Turkey, Farfalle w/ Lobster, Mashed Potatoes, Boiled Pasta, Chicken Gravy, Mix Vegetables, Simmered Cauliflower, Vanilla Cookies, Devil’s Food Cake.

Speedline: Assorted Pizza .

Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Cheeseburger, Veal Parmesan, Oven Browned Potatoes, Corn O’ Brien, Simmered Carrots, Vanilla Cookies, Devil’s Food Cake.

Friday, 08 JUN 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, Linguine w/Scallops, Rice Pilaf, Southern Green Beans, Savory Squash, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin.

JUNE

THE SIGNATURE

1, 2012

PAGE 11

Splashers Pool is open for weekend recreation swim!

Splashers Pool Summer Hours Beginning Friday, June 15 Monday – Friday 5:30 a.m. – 8 a.m.: Adult Lap Swim 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Adult Lap Swim (only 2 lanes available) 12:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Recreation Swim Saturday – Sunday 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Recreation Swim Only (no lap swim) Season Passes and Splash Cards are on sale now at the NAS I Fit District. Reservations can also be made for command functions or birthday parties!

Splashers is NAS I’s family hangout in the summer! The pool is equipped with two waterslides, one twisty and one straight chute. There’s also a kiddie pool with an interactive play area.

Splashers Pool is now open for weekend rec swim on Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 6 p.m. Full summer hours will start Friday, June 15.

Swimming lessons are available!

Each session consists of eight classes (45minutes each) held Monday through Thursday

at 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. A Red Cross Learn to Swim Card or an MWR Swim Lesson Level Card is required to register.

Registration for classes will be held the Thursday prior to the start of the session at Splashers Pool, starting at 8 a.m. Sign-ups are on a first-come, first-served basis. You may only register your children, no registering for other families. Class size is limited. No pre-registration.

Swim level assessments will be conducted on June 19 – 20 from 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Session 1 – June 26: Registration June 21 starting at 8 a.m.

Session 2 – July 10: Registration July 5 starting at 8 a.m.

Session 3 – July 24: Registration July 19 starting at 8 a.m.

Session 4 – August 7: Registration August 2 starting at 8 a.m.

For more information about Splashers Pool and prices, call the NAS I Fit District at 6244483 or visit www.sigmwr.com.

Midtown Movie theaterS SCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS Thursday, June 7 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

John Carter Lockout Cabin In The Woods American Reunion

PG-13 PG-13 R R

AMERICAN REUNION……………R STARRING: Jason Biggs, Alyson Hannigan and Seann William Scott

The American Pie series comes full circle as the characters from the 1999 comedy classic return to East Great Falls for their ten-year high-school reunion and experience a weekend they will never forget. (1 hr. 53 min.)

Friday, June 8 Friday, June 1 5:00 PM Men In Black 3 5:30 PM Dark Shadow 7:30 PM Lockout 8:00 PM American Reunion MIDNIGHT Battleship

PG-13 PG-13 PG-13 R PG-13

Tuesday, June 5 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Battleship Wrath of the Titans 21 Jump Street Cabin In The Woods

PG-13 PG-13 R R

Wednesday, June 6 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Men In Black 3 Mirror Mirror Avengers Dark Shadows

PG-13 PG PG-13 PG-13

5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Men In Black 3 The Lucky One Lockout American Reunion

PG-13 PG-13 PG-13 R

BATTLESHIP………………….PG-13 STARRING:Alexander Skarsgård, Brooklyn Decker and Liam Neeson

A fleet of ships is forced to do battle with an armada of unknown origins in order to discover and thwart their destructive goals. (2 hrs. 11 min.)

Saturday, June 9 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

The Three Stooges Mirror Mirror Battleship Dark Shadows Cabin In The Woods

PG PG PG-13 PG-13 R

DARK SHADOWS……….…PG-13 STARRING: Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer and Eva Green

An imprisoned vampire, Barnabas Collins, is set free and returns to his ancestral home, where his dysfunctional descendants are in need of his protection. (1 hr. 43 min.)

Sunday, June 10 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

Men In Black 3 Dark Shadows Lockout American Reunion Battleship

PG-13 PG-13 PG-13 R PG-13

Coming Soon ...

Pirates! Band of Misfits, 5 Year Engagement, Friends With Kids, Bullet to the Head, Think Like A Man, What To Expect When Expecting, Safe, The Dictator, Piranha 3DD, Snow White & The Huntsman

MEN IN BLACK 3………….PG-13 STARRING: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin

Agent J travels in time to MIB's early years in the 1960s, to stop an alien from assassinating his friend Agent K and changing history. (1 hr. 43 min.)

Movie schedule is subject to change.

Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 12

JUNE

1, 2012

GAME Find the words!

Famous actresses ANDREWS ANISTON BERRY BULLOCK CAPSHAW CATTRALL CLAYBURGH CRAWFORD DAVIS FOSTER GARBO GARDNER GOLDBERG GRABLE GRIFFITH HAWN HEPBURN

Find the way!

KIDMAN LANGE LANSBURY LAURIE LAWRENCE LEIGH LOCKLEAR MONROE ROBERTS SARANDON SEYMOUR SHIELDS SILVERSTONE SORVINO STREEP SWANK TAYLOR

JUNE

1, 2012

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 13

Sudoku !

Did you know?

The average person falls asleep in seven minutes.

The Hawaiian alphabet has 12 letters.

'Topolino' is the name for Mickey Mouse Italy.

A lobsters blood is colorless but when exposed to oxygen it turns blue.

8% of people have an extra rib.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 14

√

AUTOMOBILES

1990 VW GOLF maroon 4 door, 4 cyc eng, great on gas, island car. Asking $500 OBO. Call Marv at 3312636442 or email marv.aviles@lmco.com.

2001 Mercedes Slk 200 Kompressor, Convertible, 125k Km, 6 Speed Manual, Electric Blue, Beige Leather Interior, Abs, Esb, Airbags, Ac, Radio/Cd Plaier, In Good Condition. Asking 7,000 Euro. Fore More Info Contact Major Acanfora 3396505125 Or Mail At Agafunky@Hotmail.Com 2007 Ford Focus, Zx3 Se, 50,000 Miles, U.S. Specs, Automatic Transmission, 4 Cylinder, 2.0 L, Anti-Lock Brakes, Power Brakes, Steering, Windows, Mirrors, Air Conditioning, 16” Aluminum Wheels, Cd/Mp3, New Front Tires, Brakes, Battery. Factory Warranty Good Until May 2014, Excellent Condition. $8,500 Obo. Cell 340-789-1417 Email: Kyeager258@Yahoo.Com 2005 Renault Megane 134,000 km 6 speed manual. 4 door. Dark blue.

Diesel, A/C & heat. Radio/CD player.

Asking $7,500 OBO. Pat: 624-1201 or patcouncilor@yahoo.com.

1994 Mercedes C200. New clutch, motor mounts, complete exhaust and much more. Asking $2,000.

Contact Dave at 3470 599-676.

airbags,17" wheels, alarm system. asking 4k euro (price negotiable) call tommy at 331-954-4486.

1997 Suzuki Marauder, custom 800 cc, black, (14.000 km) 5K euro, OBO, Elsa at eringgenberg@austin.rr.com.

1999 BMW 318, 118 CV, 1800 cc engine, metallic grey, manual transmission, all powered, ABS, airbags, AC, immobilizer. Very good condition. Asking 3, 000 euro. For more info call Dante at 6245043

1997 Alfa Romeo Spider GTV 2000 cc, grey, (139.999 km), 5K euro, OBO, Elsa at eringgenberg@austin.rr.com.

2008 Ford Escape XLT. Excellent Cond, 76K Miles, Pwr windows, mirrors, and locks. 6 disc cd changer, New Tires (March ‘12)$10k (Below KBB) Will negotiate! Available mid late June. Call Jim Fultz: 3383372960.

Integra, $4,500. Like new. 107,000 miles, good tires. V-4, A/C, automatic, power steering/windows/ locks, cruise control, 2 door hatchback, sun roof. Available June 1. Call Don at 3386523780. Can show Friday after 5 p.m. or Saturday.

2007 Honda VTX1300 Motorcycle.

12K miles, original owner, new windscreen, new back tire, and several spare parts. Garage kept and covered. $5K OBO. Contact Don at 339-289-8823.

1993 Alfa 155, 1700 cc, green, (139.000 km) 5K euro, OBO, call Elsa at eringgenberg@ austin.rr.com.

2000 silver BMW 318i,4 doors, xenon front lights, new brakes, a/c,

FOR SALE

Brown leather-like sofa, manufacture's tickets, $500. Wooden dining table and four chairs (counter height), $400. Call Jody between 3 and 9 p.m. at 345-273-4045.

SAWS ANIMALS

Romulus, 8 weeks, striped, male, kitten, does well with all people and other cats but still a little defensive with dogs; him and his brother will be at the vet in early June.

JUNE

Miss Piggy, 6 weeks, gray and white, female, kitten, would be happy with any family, visiting the vet with brother in early June.

1, 2012

To volunteer, adopt or foster, visit facebook.com/Sigonella.Animals or http://sigonellaanimalwelfaresociety.webs.com/

Chomper, 6 weeks, black, puppy, loves to play with people and other pets, current on shots, microchipped.

Fidel & Phillipo, 3 months, tan and brown, black & white, dog, loves people and other dogs, will be visiting the vet very soon.

Join SAWS at the Craft Fair in Midtown on the June 2. There will be baked treats for humans and dogs alike, and kittens available for adoption.

PA I D A D S Sign up today! Your Local Classified Site. www.sigonellatreasures.com Handyman Service. Screen doors, lights, ceiling fans installation, painting. Moving Service, house cleaning for PCS moves and much more. Call Felix @320-250-6059. you can adopt wHile poSted overSeaS. International & fostercare adoptions, homestudies. www.adopt-abroad.com

JUNE

THE SIGNATURE

1, 2012

54th International Military Pilgrimage

SPA NIGHT June 2 Sigonella Spouses Club is hosting a Spa Night, June 2 from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Chart Room at Connections.

For information, email sigonellacsc@gmail.com or visit the SSC on facebook.com/pages/ Sigonella-CommunitySpouses-Club.

NAS Sigonella SAPR Victim Advocate Hotline: 335-642-8312 Military members from 34 countries around the world met in the small Pyrenees town of Lourdes, France, for the 54th International Military Pilgrimage (IMP), May 11-13. (Photo by Jan Sibayan)

BY FLINT SIBAYAN Guest writer

Military members from 34 countries around the world met in the small Pyrenees town of Lourdes, France, for the 54th International Military Pilgrimage (IMP) held May 11-13. The Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, archbishop for the military services, led the United States delegation. The theme of the Pilgrimage was “Ave Maria, Queen of Peace.”

Two Sigonellans, Cmdr. Stephanie Butler (CTF-67) and Lt. Cmdr. Cecilia Pairo from U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella participated in the opening Mass for the U. S. contingent at the Chapelle Notre Dame, the solemn Procession of the Blessed Sacrament, and the War Memorial Ceremony where visiting dignitaries pay their respects to the war dead of all nations.

Other Sigonella parishioners volunteered with “Our Lady of Lourdes North American Volunteers,” which is a public association of the Christian faithful founded in the Syracuse Diocese. They enabled U. S. Wounded Warriors and others to visit and bathe in the healing waters of Lourdes. Many of these volunteers from the U.S. and across Europe have returned to Lourdes during the annual IMP to provide medical assistance, counseling, housekeeping, food service and protection for visiting Wounded Warriors attempting to rebuild

their lives following their combat deployments.

Lourdes has been a place of pilgrimage ever since a poor, young girl named Bernadette Soubirous, her sister, and a friend were gathering firewood on February 11, 1858. A “beautiful lady” appeared to Bernadette-the first of eighteen times-with messages calling for prayer, for repentance, and for pilgrimage. The “beautiful lady” eventually revealed herself to be the Immaculate Conception. During one visit, she pointed to an area for Bernadette to dig. A spring that began as a trickle now gives up to 17,000 gallons of water per day.

Three days after the appearance of the water, a mother plunged her sick child into it, and the child was cured. Since then it has become a custom for pilgrims, especially the sick, to bathe in these waters.

The history of the IMP began during World War II (1942-1944) when members of the French military came to Lourdes to give thanks to the Blessed Mother for answered prayers and to pray for peace. Other countries joined in 1944. The official IMP started in 1958, the year of the 100th anniversary of the apparitions. In 2011, 12,000 military service members were a part of the 6 million annual visitors to Lourdes.

The 2013 International Military Pilgrimage will be May 24, 25, and 26. All faiths are welcome!

From left to right: Lt. Cmdr. Pairo, Archbishop Broglio and Cmdr. Butler. (Photo

by Jan Sibayan)

DoD SAFE Hotline: 001-877-995-5247 (from cell phones and off-base telephones) 19020 (toll-free access code) 877-995-5247 (From DSN lines)

PAGE 15