THE
SIGNATURE SIGONELLA, SICILY
VOL. 29 NO. 42
NOVEMBER 9, 2012
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
U.S. President Barack Obama arrives on stage in Chicago after winning the 2012 U.S. presidential election. (Photo: ROBYN BECK/AFP/Getty Images)
Obama takes key battlegrounds to win re-election BY TOM COHEN CNN
W
ashington (CNN) -- President Barack Obama rode a wave of broad support from minorities, women and moderates to win re-election Tuesday by defeating Republican challenger Mitt Romney in Democratic strongholds and key battleground states. According to CNN projections, Obama surpassed the decisive 270-vote threshold in the Electoral College with victory in Ohio. That and a later projected victory in another swing state -- Virginia -- gave him 303 electoral votes to 206 for Romney, according to the CNN call based on unofficial returns. Joyful supporters danced and cheered at Obama's victory party in Chicago, and the president thanked them for ensuring the nation will continue to move forward while warning the battle for change they seek will continue to be difficult. "Tonight, in this election, you, the American people, re-
minded us that while our road has been hard, while our journey has been long, we have picked ourselves up, we have fought our way back, and we know in our hearts that for the United States of America, the best is yet to come," Obama said to prolonged cheers. He emphasized his main campaign theme of fighting for equal opportunity for all, saying the political arguments that come with democracy in America were a necessary part of the process. "We will disagree, sometimes fiercely," Obama said, noting that "progress will come in fits and starts" and the victory Tuesday night "won't end all the gridlock." Foreshadowing hard decisions ahead, the president said blind optimism and wishful idealism "can't substitute for the need to make difficult compromises to move forward."
QUOTE
When he finished, the first family and Vice President Joe Biden and his family joined him onstage in a celebration of waves, hugs amid a blizzard of confetti. In Boston, Romney supporters hugged and wept in a somber vigil while waiting for their candidate to concede. In a brief speech he delivered alone, Romney congratulated and said his prayers would be with the president at such a challenging time for the country. "At a time like this we can't risk partisan bickering and political posturing," Romney said, later adding that he wished he had "fulfilled your wishes to lead this great country in a different direction." Romney's wife, Ann, and most of his family, as well as running mate Rep. Paul Ryan and his family then came on the stage for a few minutes in what was a subdued farewell.
OF THE WEEK
”Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” John F. Kennedy
Hike Mt. Etna
ETD gives back
Make a difference with the CFC
Mt. Etna offers great hiking for outdoor enthusiasts.
Members of ETD beautify local school for disabled children.
Senior Chief Diego Reyes shares a personal story.
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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella
THE SIGNATURE
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 MR1 Gary Spence gary.spence@eu.navy.mil MCSN Cameron Bramham cameron.bramham@eu.navy.mil
CONTRIBUTING Writers/Photographers YNCS Diego Reyes Sarah Schaal
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 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
NOVEMBER
9, 2012
NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler As I write this, we are only one day away from a Presidential Election. I hope that each of you took advantage of one of our greatest freedoms – the freedom to choose our government – and voted. Regardless of who is ultimately inaurgurated in January of next year, all of us in uniform will continue to serve our great Nation and to support and defend the Constitution, as we have sworn to do. This tradition of service is one that we will honor this weekend, too, as we – and Americans around the world – pause to celebrate Veteran’s Day. I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on the servce and sacrifice of all those who have worn the cloth of this Nation, as well as those who have supported them. I, for one, am grateful for everything that their dedicated service made possible for my family and me. November marks the beginning of the holiday season, and it's the time of year when we traditionally conduct a Safety Stand Down. This winter season, the training will be conducted over the course of six sessions at the NAS 1 Base Theatre from 13-15 November,
with daily sessions at 0900-1100 and 1300-1500. The training is mandatory for all NAS Sigonella personnel; all tenant command personnel are welcome to attend, and I would encourage them to do so. We received so many questions for November’s Feedback Live that we couldn’t cover them all during the show, so I’ll use the next couple Direct Line columns to answer them. Your questions are very important to me, and I encourage you to keep sending them via email. Remember that Feedback Live is a LIVE call in show – if time permits, you can get your question answered on the spot. The show is held on the first Thursday of each month, from 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. To call in live on the show, please dial 6244265 or 095-56-4265. Why does hospital leadership ignore requests to have my FULL SSN removed from any and all appointment reminders that it issues? The responses are varied but the fix is simple: utilize the method that the dental department already has in place - small slips of paper that only require the date and time to be hand-writ-
Q
ten. It seems a lot to ask but isn't the security of our personal information worth it? Not to mention DODINST 1000.30 (01Aug12) Reduction of use of SSN's within DoD. A great point – and thanks for both your inquiry and the opportunity to help our incredible hospital serve you better. Hospital leadership examined their medical appointment scheduling system, CHCS, which is currently linked with a patient's SSN. During the review, they were able to develop a new reporting function in CHCS that will provide exactly the same appointment information, but without using a patient's SSN. Although implementation and training will take a few weeks, the Community should notice a change in the very near future. The hospital also uses medical appointment reminders in the form of an automated phone call. The automated phone appointment reminder system is used by General Surgery, Medical Home Port Clinic, OB/GYN, Occupational Health, Optometry, Or-
A
thopedic, and Physical Therapy. The system was implemented to help avoid patients forgetting, about, or simply missing, scheduled appointments. Remember, missed appointments cost our medical service real money and reduces the number of people in the community that can be served. Please make sure your contact information is current and do your best to make appointments! 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.
NAS SIGONELLA CFC CAMPAIGN TRACKER WE E K 7 ToTal pledge card donors: 1,499 ToTal donaTions: $121,767
DRIVE SAFELY
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NOVEMBER
9, 2012
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Around NAS Sigonella ... U.S. Naval Hospital welcomes trick-or-treaters U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella opened their doors for trick-ortreaters on Halloween, October 31. There was no shortage of great costumes to go with the great candy. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella) Sicilian rock cover band Rev-enge performed on Halloween, October 31, for Sailors at Jox Pub on NAS II. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Cameron Bramham/Released)
Local Sicilian band rocks at Jox Storybook characters The local Sicilian rock cover band Rev-enge performed for service members at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella on Halloween night during a traditional costume party held at Jox Pub located on NAS II. “It was really cool and a pleasure for us to be here playing for the Americans,” said Rev-enge Lead Singer Sabrina Sampugnaro. “The show was perfect and we really enjoyed playing here!” Rev-enge covered a variety of 1980’s and 90’s rock and pop songs and played mega hits from artists and bands like Madonna, Garbage, No Doubt, Shania Twain and much more.
come to life
Students from Sigonella Elementary dress up as their favorite storybook characters during the annual storybook parade, October 31. Many of the teachers also got in costume to help promote and encourage reading in a fun and interactive way. Although rain forced the parade indoors, it did not dampen the spirits of the students or their parents. The parade kicked off in Knight’s Hall and made its way through the school hallways as parents lined up to take pictures along the route. (U.S. Navy Photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)
Members of the Tiger Cub Den along with Boy Scout Troop 53 visited the AFN studios, Thursday, November 1. (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) employees, Mildred Garcia from the Child Development Center (left), JamieAndrews from the Marketing Department (center) and Monica Long from the Fitness Department were on hand to answer questions and provide information about job openings through MWR during a Job Fair, November 2. (U.S. Navy Photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
MWR hosts job fair Sigonella's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) held a job fair outside the Commissary on NAS 1, Friday, November 2, giving job seekers the opportunity to learn about the many positions available in their facilities. For more information on MWR job openings, visit the MWR Admin building on NAS I between AFN and the Navy Lodge or call 624-0509.
Tiger Cub Den visits AFN BY SARAH SCHAAL Tiger Cub Den Leader
The Tiger Cub Den (First Graders) from Pack 53 Sigonella visited AFN studios for a "Go See It" as one of the achievements needed toward earning their Tiger Rank Badge, Thursday, November 1. The boys learned how their local community communicates information to a large audience by radio and television. They also were able to watch the production of Feedback Live, the monthly program featuring Sigonella’s Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Butler and Command Master Chief David Graham. These outings help to solidify the concepts that they learn in the home and in the den. Feedback Live airs the first Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. on AFN Prime Atlantic, satellite decoder channel 20 (for those that live on the economy) and simulcast on 105.9 FM.
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NOVEMBER
9, 2012
COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY
November
9 Parent Teacher Conference
2012
MONDAY
TUESDAY 13
12 Veteran’s Day Italian Rest Day
Suicide Prevention 10 - 11:30 a.m. FFSC
AA Meeting NAS I Chapel 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
19
20 AA Meeting NAS I Chapel 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
POC: Kevin, 347-495-6721
11 Vasari Vineyard Tour ITT
Take 5 Poker Night
THURSDAY 15 Job Search 101 9 - 10:30 a.m. FFSC
16
17
ITT Catania Shopping
18
“Turkey for Me, Turkey for You” 5K Run/Walk
ITT Alcantara Gorge & Russo Winery
ITT Palermo
Powderpuff Football
Outdoor Rec Simeto River Mountain Bike
Connections Bingo
Connections Ping Pong Tournament
ITT Circumetnea Antique Train Adventure
SUNDAY
Country Day in Mazzarone
Tobacco Cessation Class 2-3 p.m. Midtown Classroom
Tiny Tots Fitness 10:30 a.m. Family Fitness
POC: Kevin, 347-495-6721
Faces of Loss, Faces of Hope Meeting 6 p.m. NAS I Chapel
WEDNESDAY 14
SATURDAY 10
Jox Pub Texas Hold’em
21 Tobacco Cessation Class 2-3 p.m. Midtown Classroom
22
23 THANKSGIVING
ITT Taormina & Gambino Winery
ITT Principe di Corleone Winery & Novello Wine Tasting Take 5 Dominos Game Night
$1 Bowling
Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396
25
24
Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248
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.
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PAGE 5 Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Bldg. Bldg. 319 (NAS I)
Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. DSN 624-4291 Commercial 095-56-4291
The Resume Place and FFSC: Offering FREE Federal Resume Writing Services for Separating & Retiring Military Members Are you planning on separating or retiring from your military service in the near future? Have you attended TAP class and are interested in applying for a federal job? NAS Sigonella has an amazing opportunity available to help you write a federal-format resume and get ready to apply for employment with USAJOBS! NAS Sigonella has a contract with The Resume Place, a company that provides professional federal resume writing services to individuals interested in federal employment. You have probably heard of the company’s president and founder, Kathryn Troutman, whose books the Fleet and Family Support Center utilizes on a regular basis to assist both service members and their families with applying for federal employment. This unprecedented program allows individuals separating or retiring from the military to receive FREE training on how to apply for a federal job and a FREE professionally-written federal application package. These services normally cost over $1,200 but are being offered free of charge to members who qualify – it’s an amazing opportunity you don’t want to pass up! Sailors who participate in the program receive a Federal Resume Report with recommendations for the correct occupational series and grade for their federal resume. In addition, each service member will have a resume writer help them draft a federal resume
targeted toward the occupational series and have it copied and pasted into the USAJOBS online resume builder. Finally, lessons from scheduled webinars will be available for participants to learn how to apply for federal jobs via USAJOBS from the Certified Federal Resume Writers at The Resume Place, Inc. Participating members will explore how to target and manage their job search, learn more about Keywords, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities, One Year Specialized Experience and how to match their past work experience to desired target positions. If you are interested in taking advantage of this program and would like to enroll, please contact Sarah Conlan at the Fleet and Family Support Center. The only pre-requisites are that you are separating and/or retiring from the Navy and have attended TAP class in addition to the 10 Steps to a Federal Job class. Does your schedule conflict with the monthly 10 Steps to a Federal Job class at the FFSC? No problem – contact Sarah Conlan at 642-4291 or sarah.conlan@eu.navy.mil in order to schedule a one-on-one appointment instead of attending the class. It’s that easy and it works – sailors who have separated are already being rated Best Qualified and getting interviewed as a result of this program. Don’t hesitate – the program ends in May, 2013 and is only available to 50 sailors, so call or email the FFSC today and get started on planning your future!
Sexual Assault Prevention Hotlines Sigonella SAPR VA Hotline:335-642-8312 Or:26020 (toll-free access code) 1-877-995-5247 (From DSN lines) DoD SAFE Helpline: 001-877-995-5247 (From cell phones and off-base telephones)
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NOVEMBER
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Rosario Crocetta, the newly elected governor of Sicily, is congratulated as the results of the election are announced. Crocetta had about 30.48 percent of the vote, ahead of the center-right candidate’s Nello Musumeci who had 25.73 percent. (Photo by AFP)
Center-left candidate wins key vote in Sicily, anti-mafia campaigner Crocetta elected governor of the island (Stories by News.silobreaker.com/The Guardian/BBC News/the Economist/NYT)
On Monday, October 29, Rosario Crocetta, a center-left candidate won the regional election in Sicily seen as a key testing ground for the national polls scheduled next year to replace the emergency government of Prime Minister Mario Monti. Crocetta, an anti-mafia and openly gay candidate backed by the coalition of center-left Democratic Party (PD) and centrist Union of the Center (UDC) party, garnered some 31 percent of support, leading the ballot sheet of 10 candidates. Nello Musumeci, supported by a coalition including former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's center-right People of Freedom (PdL) party, ranked the second with around 25 percent of support, followed by Giancarlo Cancelleri of the antiestablishment Five Star Movement. Since the regional electoral law only envisages a meager majority bonus of eight seats in the Sicilian regional assembly, Crocetta will not enjoy a majority. However, only 47.4 percent of the eligible voters among the more than 5 million residents in Sicily went to the polls, compared with 67 percent in the 2008 regional elections. The southern semi-autonomous island, one of Italy's most important regions and a traditional stronghold of the centerright, has accumulated a debt of some 6 billion Euros (7.7 billion U.S. dollars) and is close to bankruptcy this year. Often referred as "Italy's Greece" with an unemployment rate of nearly 20 percent, Sicily is tainted by wasteful administration and the ever-present corruption and organized crimes. The elections were called after former President of Sicily Raffaele Lombardo was forced to resign in July following allegations of Mafia collaboration, while his predecessor Salvatore Cuffaro is serving a seven-year prison sentence for aiding the mafia. The vote was seen as a barometer for national elections, being a key test of the displeased public opinions after an escalation of corruption scandals which went through the entire political spectrum in the Mediterranean country. The PdL, recently hit by two big scandals in the regions of Lazio and Lombardy, is reportedly in turmoil after Berlusconi
recently said he would stay in politics, though not run for the prime minister in 2013, and threatened to bring down Monti's technocratic cabinet. The PD, which will hold primary elections soon, is also struggling amid inner fights about possible alliances with minor political forces. As mayor of Gela, The Guardian reports, “Crocetta persuaded local businesses not to pay protection money to the mafia and claimed that coming out gave him a sense of liberation that allowed him to understand how suffocated Sicily had become under the mafia's yoke.” As reported by BBC: "It's the first time that a candidate for the left is elected as regional governor, it's the first time that an anti-mafia candidate wins," declared Mr. Crocetta, who has campaigned against organized crime and lives under police protection after threats to his life. "Today is more than an election result; it is a date with history." The Economist highlighted that: "any analysis of the results from Sicily should come with at least two health warnings: less than half the electorate turned out to cast their ballots and the island is anyhow one of a kind. It is close to default on its debts, thanks to reckless profligacy in the regional administration, and its last governor resigned amid claims of corruption and links to the Mafia. Even so, the success of Mr. Grillo’s Five Star Movement will send an icy wind through the "salotti buoni," (the elegant salons) where, in popular and media legend, Italy’s mainstream politicians while away their evenings in Rome with bankers and industrialists. Hundreds of thousands of Sicilians responded to the comic’s vigorous campaign and his inflammatory rhetoric. His core message is that all Italy’s traditional
parties are so hopelessly corrupt and degenerate that they should be consigned to history." NYT columnist Elisabetta Povoledo commented that “the low turnout and success of a protest movement suggested that public tolerance of Italy’s political class had drastically dwindled in the wake of a series of corruption scandals that brought down regional leaders in Lazio and Lombardy.”
NOVEMBER
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Father of suicide student takes legal action vs minister, Fornero slammed for saying young should not be 'choosy'
The annual Enoetna wine Festival will be held November 9 - 11 in piazza Roma, the main square of Santa Venerina. The event features wine seminars, food and crafts booths, unique vino tasting, games, activities and special events at the local wineries as well as art exhibits and entertainment. For more information and detailed schedules call the festival organizers at 095-7001156 or visit www.enoetna.comune.santavenerina.ct.it.
! T I Y A S ur Italian T S U J actice yo Pr
Have fun practicing your Italian! Buona Fortuna
English: beautiful Italian: bello
English: big Italian: grande
English: ugly Italian: brutto
English: little Italian: piccolo
English: pleasant Italian: piacèvole
Mickey Mouse celebrates 80th birthday in Italy, exhibit, book and calendar mark 80 years since Italian debut
(ANSA)
(ANSA)
Palermo - The father of a doctoral student who committed suicide to protest the lack of job opportunities in Italy started legal action Wednesday against Labor Minister Elsa Fornero for telling students ''not to be choosy'' when looking for work in the current economic environment. Earlier this month Fornero told students not to be too "choosy," using the English word, as ''one cannot expect to find the ideal position.'. Claudio Zarcone, the father of doctoral student Norman Zarcone, filed a complaint to Palermo prosecutors, initiating a legal suit against Fornero for her choice of words. Norman Zarcone was a language student who took his life to protest the Italian university 'baron' system that blocks the paths of the majority of young researchers. ''It's inconceivable that government representatives continue to use such terms when referring to our young, as it is offensive to the individuals, to their professionalism and to the humanity of an entire generation of talents that do not benefit from guarantees or from a particular surname,'' said Zarcone. ''This way, my son keeps getting killed over and over again. 'His whole generation, and not only that one, is delegitimized, frustrated and mortified."
Rome - The Walt Disney Company and Lucca Comics and Gamers will launch celebrations for the 80th anniversary of Mickey Mouse's Italian editorial debut, November 1-4. The white-gloved mouse with saucer-like ears was introduced into comic-book form in Italy 80 years ago in December 1932 - just four years after Walt Disney conceived the character in Los Angeles, California. The Florentine editor Giuseppe Nerbini printed the first number of the Italian Mickey Mouse comic book, which filled just eight pages. Nerbini called the character "Topo Lino" - a play on the Italian word "topolino" which means "little mouse" and later became known and beloved by generations of Italians. "Topolino" is now in its 2973th edition, and has become an integral part of Italian childhood with its spoofs on authority figures, winners, losers, avarice and other peccadilloes of everyday life. The Italian publisher is issuing a special volume to celebrate Mickey's 80th birthday with emblematic comic strips from each decade, and tales of curiosities and events that made the history and marked the rise of "Topolino". Twelve representative covers marking the evolution of Mickey Mouse over time have been gathered in a Disney 2013 "Topolino Anniversary" calendar. On December 26, with edition number 2979 of the comic book, a special celebratory edition will be released with Mickey Mouse as hero in a tale about the history of comic books. There will also be a celebratory exhibit at the WOW Spazio Fumetti comic museum in Milan called "History of a story", which runs from November 15 to January 20, 2013, and traces Mickey Mouse's passage from the early days to the iPad.
Road fatalities drop in Italy, although high by EU standards, overall accidents down 21% over last 10 years
English: good Italian: buono
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(ANSA)
Rome - The number of people killed or injured in accidents on Italy's roads is in decline, but still not on target with EU-set standards, according to an annual report published last Wednesday. In 2011, an average of 563 accidents were registered daily, 11 of which fatal, said the national statistics institute Istat and the Italian automobile association ACI. Even with a significant reduction in the number of deaths, half in comparison to a decade ago, the report said that Italy was still over the EU average. In 2011, 292,019 were injured in road accidents and 3,860 killed. Compared to 2010 there was a decrease in the number of accidents down 2.7%, injuries dropped 3.5% and a more substantial decline in the number of deaths down 5.6%. Over the last 10 years, deaths on Italian roads dropped from 7,096 to 4,237 (-45.6%), accidents fell from 263,100 to 215,405 (-21.8%) and injuries from 373,286 to 307,258 (-21.8 %). In comparison, over the last decade road fatalities in Spain dropped 62.7%, in Ireland 54.7% and France 51.4%.
Works stolen from Sicilian church recovered near Trapani, police say robbers were most likely 'amateur' (ANSA)
Trapani - Works of art stolen from the historic Sicilian church of San Nicola in Trapani were recovered by police in an abandoned farmhouse near the city Wednesday. The one dozen statues and canvasses were part of the 15 reported stolen from the church earlier this month. The robbery was most likely carried out by amateur thieves, police said. "The paintings were cut from their frame with a paper cutter, damaging the works," said police captain Giuseppe Marseglia.
Unemployment in Italy reaches 10.8%, highest since 2004, rise of 2% compared to September 2011 (ANSA)
Rome - Unemployment in recession-hit Italy reached 10.8% in September, its highest level since January 2004, according to provisional, seasonally adjusted data released by Istat on Wednesday. September's unemployment rate was 0.2% higher than August's and 2% up compared to the same month in 2011.
Italian scientists suspend resignation over quake ruling, major risks president points to 'encouraging signals' from government (ANSA)
Rome - Italy's principal natural disaster risk-assessment body suspended its resignation Tuesday after members stepped down in protest against last week's conviction of former group members for manslaughter in connection with the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake that killed more than 300 people. The president of the Major Risks Commission Luciano Maiani, credited the move to "a very important and encouraging signal" from the office of Premier Mario Monti. Last Monday a court sentenced seven former members of the commission to six years in jail and barred them from public office for allegedly providing "superficial and ineffective" assessment of seismic risk and of disclosing "inaccurate, incomplete and contradictory" information regarding earthquake danger. The ruling, which spurred disbelief and dismay across the global scientific community, also raised concern among the government. Environment Minister Corrado Clini told Italian television Monday he "hoped the verdict is overturned on appeal because it's impossible to make timely and precise earthquake predictions, and it is not right to ask that of scientists". Sources had told ANSA that Clini had asked to scrap their resignations as a sign of "solidarity with the scientific community on the part of the government". The trial focused on one event in particular, in which the commission met on March 31, 2009 in L'Aquila to examine rumblings that had frightened residents for months. In a memo, the experts concluded that it was "unlikely" that there would be a major quake, though it stressed that the possibility could not be ruled out. In one interview, the then deputy director of the civil protection agency, Bernardo de Bernardinis, told local media that seismic activity in the area posed "no danger" and advised residents to relax with a glass of wine. One week later a 6.3-magnitude tremor hit, toppling buildings, killing 309 people and displacing 65,000 more in and around the city.
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9, 2012
BY MCSN CAMERON BRAMHAM NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Many service members and their families stationed at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella have witnessed the beauty of Mt. Etna erupting time and time again. As Europe’s tallest and most active volcano, rising 10,924 ft. (3,329.6 m) above sea level, Mt. Etna has towered over Sicilian cities like Catania, Messina and Taormina for centuries and has been growing for more than 500,000 years. What makes this volcano one of a kind is not only the recent activity it creates with every spectacular pop of its cap, but also the activities offered year around for anyone on the island who enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking. Chief Personnel Specialist Jesus Chavez has hiked up Etna ten times since arriving to Sicily and says it can be a challenging, but rewarding experience. “You get a good work out,” said Chavez. “Once you get to the top and look out over the country,
it’s a beautiful sight and it’s really breathtaking and inspiring.” From base, it is approximately a 45 minute to an hour drive up the mountain to Rifugio Sapienza, where the bottom of the ski lift is and the hiking trails begin. Depending on level of experience and intensity, it can take up to two hours to hike up to the top of the ski lift. For those less inclined to endure the hike, there are four wheel drive vehicles available with the ski lift being an option as well. Once there, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can refill water, enjoy a meal, use the lavatory, or check out a small museum and gift shop dedicated to the long history of Mt. Etna. When hikers are ready to complete the climb, they can either continue on foot or stay with an off-road vehicle. For those who choose to complete the monstrous scale to the summit, it can take around two and a half hours before reaching the tip-top.
“There’s two wa said. “You can take tual roads that twis tain or you could go is more vertical and Once at the top look out into the v Catania as if it wer pieces, the shore l eyes can see and cl nature herself was “Hello!” Chavez added t around, but anyone lenging climb shou For more inform other outdoor even contact the Inform Outdoor Recreatio
NOVEMBER
9, 2012
ays to go about it really,” Chavez e the switchbacks which are acsts and turns around the mouno underneath the [ski] lift which d challenging.” p and on any clear day, one can vast Sicilian landscape and see re constructed out of tiny Lego ine is visible as far as the best louds roll forward as if mother s reaching a hand out to say,
that hiking can be done year e wanting to accept Etna’s chaluld be prepared seasonally. mation on trips to Mt. Etna or nts NAS Sigonella has to offer, mation Tours and Travel or the on offices at 624-4777/4396.
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NOVEMBER
9, 2012
Members of Executive Transport Detachment bring cheer to local school for disabled children in Aci Catena (U.S. Navy photos by Jackie Trembath/Released)
BY JACKIE TREMBATH NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
ACI CATENA, Sicily - Members of Executive Transport Detachment (ETD) donated their time and artistic talents to beautify a small room at Il Bambino Della Speranza (The Child of Hope) school for disabled children, November 1 and 2. "It's a great opportunity to get out and do something for the local community," said YN2 Michael Corrales. "Especially as a father, getting the chance to do something for the kids makes it even better." The team of volunteers began by preparing the room used as a physical fitness area. Using spackle, they repaired holes in the drywall and painted the
Friday, 09 Nov 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, Sweet & Sour pork, Baked Fish, Tempura Fish, 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, Fish Portion, Steamed Rice, Spinach, Cauliflower Polonaise, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Pudding. Saturday, 10 Nov 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, Beef Barley Soup, Swedish meat balls, Buttered Pasta, Brown Gravy, Sprouts Superba, Fried Cabbage w/ Bacon, Snickerdoodle Cookies, Apple Crisp. *Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Spaghetti w/meat sauce, Italian Sausage, Rice Pilaf, O’Brien Potatoes, Peas w/ Celery, Okra Melange, Snickerdoodle Cookies, Apple Crisp.
walls with fresh coats of white paint. Command liaison, PS1 Louis Piraino was excited about the transformation of the room and the benefit it will have on the children. "It's always the best when you're not just helping someone out, you're affecting their future," said Piraino. Resident artist, PS2 Joe Faber drew outlines of popular cartoon characters on the walls for the team to color in, selecting calm and happy paint colors to brighten the mood in the room. An artist since the age of 8, Faber worked for various film studios in Southern California prior to joining the military. "I hope the kids will walk in this
room and feel happy and inspired," said Faber. "It feels good creating something they'll remember when they grow up." The team of ETD volunteers were joined by local nationals including Lucia Pulvirenti, a physical therapist and volunteer at the school. "I'm so happy that American volunteers have come here. They have a big heart," Pulvirenti said. " I can't wait to see the babies faces when they see this new room and the beautiful characters." The two-day community relations (COMREL) project is just the beginning for ETD, who is planning future projects at the school.
Tuesday, 13 Nov 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, Grilled Sausage Patties, Asstd Doughnuts, Bran Muffins. *Lunch: Spanish Soup, Beef Tacos, Burritos, Chicken Fajita, Mexican Rice, Refried Beans, Calico Corn, Carrots, Jalapeno Cornbread, Raspberry Filled Cake, Pecan Pie. *Speed line: Chicken Fillet Sand., F. Fries Potatoes . *Dinner: Navy Bean Soup, Roast Turkey, Fishwich, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Seasoned Asparagus, Honey Dijon Vegetables, Raspberry Filled Cake, Pecan Pie. Wednesday, 14 Nov 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds. *Lunch: Puree Mongole Soup, Baked Fish, Country Style Steak, Brown Gravy, Potatoes Au Gratin, Steamed Rice, Spinach, Peas w/Carrots, Vanilla Cookies, Strawberry Shortcake, Tapioca Pudding. *Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans. *Dinner: Beef Rice Soup, Baked Chicken, Ham Cheese Sandwich, Steamed Rice, Savory Squash, Steamed Broccoli, Vanilla Cookies, Strawberry Shortcake, Tapioca Pudding.
Sunday, 11 Nov 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Italian Croissant. *Brunch: Breakfast items, Chicken Gumbo Soup, Chili Macaroni, Chicken Nuggets, Oriental Stir Fry, Lima Beans, Peach Cobbler, White Cake w/ Frosting. *Dinner: Manhattan Clam Chowder Soup, Teriyaki Chicken, Spaghetti Carbonara, Paprika Buttered Potatoes, Pork Fried Rice, Carrots, Whole kernel Corn, Peach Cobbler, White Cake w/ Frosting.
Thursday, 15 Nov 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds. *Lunch: Velvet Corn Soup, Sauerbraten, Lasagna, Oriental Rice, Oven Brown Potatoes, Steamed Cabbage, Cauliflower Au Gratin, Easy Chocolate Cake, Crisp Drop Cookies. *Speed line: Pizza. *Dinner: Cream of Asparagus Soup, Pork Adobo, Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce, Ratatouille Eggplant, Lyonnaise Rice, Mustard Greens, Easy Chocolate, Crisp Drop Cookies.
Monday, 12 Nov 12 *Breakfast: Hot Grits, Minced Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls. *Lunch: Creole Soup, Turkey Curry, Baked Fish Fillet, Steamed Rice, Savory Style Beans, Cauliflower, Crisp Drop Cookies, Cherry Crumble Pie, Strawberry Gelatin. *Speed line: Roast Beef Sandwich, French Fries Potatoes. *Dinner: Tomato Bouillon Soup, Baked Breaded Pork Chops, Chicken Tetrazzini, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Green Beans Nicoise, Carrot Slices, Crisp Drop Cookies, Cherry Crumble Pie, Strawberry Gelatin.
Friday, 16 Nov 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters. *Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Lemon Baked Fish, Grilled Pork Chops w/ Mushroom Gravy, Steamed Rice, Garlic Roasted Potatoes, Asparagus, Creole Green Beans, Sugar Cookies, Cheese Cake, Vanilla Cream Pudding. *Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans. *Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Teriyaki Chicken, Pizza, Oven Browned Potatoes, Spinach, Oriental Stir Fry, Sugar Cookies, Cheesecake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.
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ON THE GO WITH MWR
Turkey Bowling Become a lifeguard The American Red Cross and MWR are giving you the opportunity to become a certified lifeguard with a Lifeguard Certification Course next week. The course will be held at Splashers Pool on NAS I from Monday, November 12 - Saturday, November 17. Sessions will run from 4:30 - 9 p.m. weekdays and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The fee covers the cost of books and instruction, but the fee will be waived for anyone who applies to become a lifeguard for MWR. Call 624-4301 to sign up or for more information.
Have you ever won prizes based on your skill and accuracy when throwing a frozen fowl? Family Fitness is giving you the chance next week with Turkey Bowling! Knock down as many bowling pins as you can with our "turkeys" (Cornish game hens) and rubber chickens. Families and kids of all ages are welcome. There will be a special "Tiny Turkey" category for kids 8 and under. You do not need to pre-register for the event, just show up. Best of all, it's free! Turkey Bowling will happen on Wednesday, November 14 at 5 p.m. at the NAS I Gym. For more information, call 624-4483 or visit www.sigmwr.com.
Midtown Movie theaters SCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS Tuesday, November 13 No School 2:00 PM Brave 5:00 PM Frankenweenie 3D 5:30 PM House at the End 7:30 PM Skyfall 8:00 PM Expendables 2
PG PG PG-13 PG-13 R
Wednesday, November 14 Friday, November 9 Elementary: No School 2:00 PM Finding Nemo 3D 5:00 PM Skyfall 5:30 PM The Possession 7:30 PM Lawless 8:00 PM Resident Evil 5 3D
G PG-13 PG-13 R R
Saturday, November 10 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM
Finding Nemo 3D Wreck-It Ralph House at the End Skyfall Resident Evil 5 3D
G PG PG-13 PG-13 R
Sunday, November 11 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM
Finding Nemo 3D ParaNorman Resident Evil 5 3D Argo Skyfall
G PG R R PG-13
Monday, November 12 Veteran’s Day 3:00 PM Finding Nemo 3D 3:30 PM Skyfall 6:00 PM Resident Evil 3D 6:30 PM House at the End
G PG-13 R PG-13
5:00 PM ParaNorman 3D 5:30 PM Wreck-It Ralph 7:30 PM Resident Evil 5 3D 8:00 PM Lawless
PG PG R R
Thursday, November 15 School Early Release 2:00 PM The Goonies 5:00 PM Finding Nemo 3D 5:30 PM The Possession 7:30 PM Argo 8:00 PM Lawless
PG G PG-13 R R
Friday, November 16 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM
Twilight 4, Pt. 2 PG-13 Trouble with the CurvePG-13 Dredd 3D R Resident Evil 5 R
Saturday, November 17 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM
Wreck-It Ralph 3D Frankenweenie 3D Pitch Perfect End of Watch Twilight 4, Pt. 2
GREEN RED BLUE
PG PG PG-13 R PG-13
PREMIER LAST SHOW FREE MOVIE
Coming soon ... Won't Back Down, Taken 2, Here Comes the Boom, Sinister, Alex Cross, Paranormal Activity 4
DREDD 2D & 3D………….…….R STARRING:Karl Urban and Olivia Thirlby In a violent, futuristic city where the police have the authority to act as judge, jury and executioner, a cop teams with a trainee to take down a gang (95 m.). END OF WATCH………..……....…..R STARRING:Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Peña and Anna Kendrick Two young officers are marked for death after confiscating a small cache of money and firearms from the members of a notorious cartel, during a routine traffic stop (109 m.). PITCH PERFECT…….…….….PG-13 STARRING:Anna Kendrick and Brittany Snow Beca, a freshman at Barden University, is cajoled into joining The Bellas, her school's all-girls singing group (112 m.). SKYFALL.........................................PG-13 STARRING: Daniel Craig, Helen McCrory and Javier Bardem Bond's loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost. (143 m.) TWILIGHT: BREAKING DAWN PT. 2…………PG-13 STARRING: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner After the birth of Renesmee, the Cullens gather other vampire clans in order to protect the child (116 m.).
Movie schedule is subject to change. Please call to confirm. Movie Hotline: 624-4248
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GAME Find the words! AFTERBURN ALPENGEIST BALDER BIZARRO COLOSSOS COMET CYCLONE DESPERADO DIAMONDBACK EL TORO GHOSTRIDER GOLIATH GRIFFON HADES INTIMIDATOR JUPITER KATUN LEVIATHAN MANTA MAVERICK
MIND BENDER MONTU NEMESIS NITRO PHOENIX PROWLER RAGING BULL RAPTOR RENEGADE ROAR SHEIKRA TATSU THUNDERBOLT TITAN TREMORS TROY TWISTER VIPER XCELERATOR
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Sudoku!
Did you know? A porpoise swims slowly in a circle as it sleeps. A full-grown pumpkin has about 15 miles of roots. A male kangaroo is called a boomer, and a female is called a flyer. Cinderella's slippers were originally made out of fur. The story was changed in the 1600s by a translator. Armadillos can be housebroken.
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AUTOMOBILES
Ford Windstar SE 1999, Blue, 197,000 miles, V6, 3.8L, power steering, windows, sliding doors, A/C, CD player, automatic, US specs. Available November 21. Asking $1,995 OBO. mail santino.rizza@hotmail.com, or call 0956140448, or cell 3355788541. NOTICE
Join us, Wednesday, November 14 at Noon at the Sigonella Elementary School, Rm. 106. Lunch provided. The Sigonella Elementary School’s Continuous School Improvement process engages the entire school community in an
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ongoing process of self-evaluation and improvement. We need your support to lend a parent’s perspective! For more information, please contact the KISA Parent Representative, Angela Dooney, at angela.dooney@eu.navy.mil SAWS ANIMALS
Six puppies, male and female, brown, 8 weeks old, est. medium-sized. Achilles (a.k.a. Lucky), male, 3month-old puppy, black and brown, est. medium-sized, German Shepherd mix, still recovering from surgery on his back leg so he requires a family that can
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be gentle with him until he is recovered.
PA I D A D S
Jax, female, small cat, black and orange, loves people and other cats, shy at first but warms up quickly, current on shots, microchipped, and spayed.
You can adopt while posted overseas. International & fostercare adoptions, homestudies. www.adoptabroad.com
Malibu & Harper, female, small, kittens, 5-months, shy at first but enjoy to be petted, needs a 2nd shot. Mario & Luigi, male, est. medium, 5-months, puppies, will do well with any family, current on shots, microchipped. To volunteer, adopt or foster, visit facebook.com/Sigonella. Animals or http://sigonellaanimalwelfaresociety.webs.com/
For rent in Motta, 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + garage. For info call Salvo at 345-351-2135 or e-mail: francesca_grease@hotmail.com renting apartMents in residence in Motta: 2/4 bedrooms, 2/4 baths, 110/220 power, A/C, city gas, Satellite TV, covered car parking, playground. Cell.: +39 347 1630 672 e-mail: leone.cate@alice.it apartMent For rent (110 sq. Meters) in Motta s. anastasia downtown: open large dining room & kitchen area (New furnished kitchen), 2 bedrooms, family bathroom with shower over bath. Garage and parking, large balcony from where a nice view on the castle and countryside can be enjoyed. For info Cell. (+39) 348-515-1384 (Claudia), romclad@yahoo.it
The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Navy (or Marine Corps), (name of command) or (name of publisher) of the products and services advertised. "Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Published by Stampa, a private firm in no way connected with DoD, the U.S. Navy (or Marine Corps), under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy (or Marine Corps).
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Open your hearts BY YNCS DIEGO REYES Combined Federal Campaign Area Project Officer
Being the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) Area Project Officer for the local area has been an enlightening and rewarding experience. Being involved in and giving to the CFC is about making a difference in someone's life. I am a great proponent of giving because I know what it means to be without. When I was a kid, my family couldn't afford many things. Food and clothing were not always available, and holidays like the ones that will occur in the next two months were good and bad. Thanksgiving was a treat, especially for a Mexican-American boy who survived on beans and rice, with the bonus of having a meat item at week's end. That big turkey leg was my bag of candy! Christmas was tough, especially when as a child I looked under the Christmas tree and there were no gifts. I guess that is why I treasure these upcoming holidays, not for myself, but for my children. Though none of my children enjoy chomping on that turkey leg, they know my story behind the turkey leg, and, well, Christmas. I hope and pray that God will continue to allow me to have a steady income to
give them gifts, because I know the emptiness and sadness I felt when I did not receive anything at all. I told my wife I never want our children to feel that way. That is why this CFC Campaign is important to me. I do not share my personal life to guilt anyone or feel sorry for me, I just want everyone to know that you can make a difference by donating to the CFC. Many will be without during the holidays, because they can't afford it or because of the recent event like Hurricane Sandy that has displaced many families. What treasure it would be to give to the organizations that can give that little boy the treat of chomping on a turkey leg, or the opening of a gift at Christmas. This year's motto for CFC is "Serve To Honor Your Country, Give Because Your Care." How awesome it would be to give hope to the many who need help. There is still time to give. Thank you to all who have and will participate in the CFC. A special thanks to the local area unit coordinators for all of their hard work.
Around the world Helping in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy
121103-M-BS001-259 HOBOKEN, N.J. (Nov. 3, 2012) U.S. Navy Seabees repair pier facilities in Hobobken, N.J. The U.S. Navy has positioned forces in the area to assist U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) in support of FEMA and local civil authorities following the destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard/Released)
121031-N-DU438-162 NORFOLK (Oct. 31, 2012) Sailors handle lines as the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) departs Naval Station Norfolk. San Antonio is getting underway to better position Navy assets if required to provide Navy relief to areas affected by Hurricane Sandy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Betsy Knapper/Released)
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