FEBRUARY 10, 2012VOL. 29 NO. 5

Under Secretaryof the Navy visits

NAS Sigonella

Read about hisvisit.

Its carnival time inAcireale!

Learn how Sicilycelebrates!

Bullets tobruschetta

Guest writer, Matthew Clutter

talks about his career change.

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella

Page 3

QUOTEOF THE WEEK

SIGNATURETHE

SIGONELLA, SICILY

Page 6 Page 10

BY JACKIE TREMBATHNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

“Even if you're on the right track, you'll get runover if you just sit there.”

- Will Rogers

NAS Sigonella schools make learning fun

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonellaschools found a way make lear-ning writing and math fun for the

students by hosting a renowned children’sbook author and celebrating math with aMath Knight event.

Inspiring children to write creatively,Nicola Davies, a well-known children’sbook author and zoologist visited NASSigonella schools, Jan. 30 to Feb. 3. Shespoke to students about the importance ofwriting and its influence. She alsoconducted classroom workshops, givingstudents more personal training.

Throughout the week, Davies inspiredstudents with her work and her words.

"If you can put words in the right orderthat were in your head and in your heart,those words can be in someone else's headand heart," said Davies.

Students put her words into practice,writing group poems and developing a newfound love for prose. For more on theNicola Davies visit, read page 8.

Promoting math with activities forstudents from preschool to fifth grade, onFriday, Feb. 3, NAS Sigonella ElementarySchool held its sixth annual Math Knight.Teachers collaborated to plan activitiesbased on the Math Standards helpingstudents improve their ability to solve mathproblems.

Various activity tables were set up throu-ghout Knight’s Hall, including a means andmedians table where participants wereinstructed to roll a toy car three times,record the distance traveled on each roll,figure the median distance and then themean distance traveled.

“Math Knight provided a whole range ofactivities for students,” said Mary Perkins,math and reading specialist. “For theyounger students, there was a Star Lab,different sorting and counting games,measurement, estimation, and geometryactivities. For the older students there wasalgebra, graphing, long division, measure-ment, and multiplication activities.”

Math Knight proved to be a success for parents and studentsalike.

“We are so happy that the kids were so enthusiastic aboutMath,” added Perkins. “They were very intent as they sat downat the various workstations to tackle the different mathematicalscenarios.”

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Elementary School held its sixth annual Math Knight on Friday, Feb. 3 at Knights Hall. Students practiced their math skills with hands-on activities designed tomake learning math more fun. At one activity table students built three dimensional geometric figures with toothpicks and gum drops. (U.S. Navy photo by GM2 Kris Carmody/ Released)

TRAFFICNUMBERS

Jan. 12

Accidents 29

Injuries 3

DUIs 2

Traffic

Deaths 0

PLease,

DOn’t becOme

a statistic!

THE SIGNATUREPAGE 2 FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 2

THE SIGNATUREU.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella

Capt. Scott Butler, Commander

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, Deputy Public Affairs Officer

alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil

Jackie Trembath, Editor

jackie.trembath@eu.navy.mil

STAFFWriters/Photographers

MC1 Christopher Delano

christopher.delano@eu.navy.mil

MM2 Johnnathan Archbold

johnnathan.archbold@eu.navy.mil

GM2 Kris Carmody

kristopher.carmody@eu.navy.mil

MC2 Matthew C. Haws

Matthew.Haws@eu.navy.mil

MC2 Gary Prill

gary.prill@eu.navy.mil

MR2 Gary Spence

gary.spence@eu.navy.mil

MCSN Brian Glunt

brian.glunt@eu.navy.mil

CONTACT US

Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicilythesig@eu.navy.milDSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440

PSC 812 Box 3027, FPO, AE 09627

GUESTWriters/Photographers

HMS Matthew Clutter

MC1 (EXW/DV) Jack Georges

PUBLISHER

Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi,Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino(Naples), Italystampagenerale@tin.it

Tel. 081-568-7884

Fax 081-568-7887

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an autho-

rized 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 advertisingin this

newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not

constitute endorsement by the DoD orStampa Generale

S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything

advertised in this publications hall 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

factorof the purchaser, user or patron

A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal oppor-

tunity policyby an advertiser will result in the refusal to

print advertising from that source until the violationis

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 laterthan the

close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected

publication date. All articles submittedby non-staff

members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles.

All advertisements in this publication are

the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction

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cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Be prepared to be on your own for atleast three days. Seven is better!

The BASIC FIVE: � Water � Food � Heat � Cash

� Radio

Family Communications Plan: Phone Numbers &Rally Points; Public Protection Strategies:Evacuation and Shelter-in-Place; Web info:Ready.gov; Emergency info: AFN 106.0 FM;Questions? Call the EM Office at 624-2630, 8265or 2621.

emergency

management

Office

Assessing, developing, attaining andsustaining needed emergency prepa-redness, response and recovery

capabilities is a difficult task that requiressustained leadership, training, and the coor-dinated efforts of the entire SigonellaCommunity. There is a no silver bullet, noeasy formula. Training is ongoing, we workto perfect our plans, we work as a team andwe complete the mission. At NAS Sigonella,we involve the entire base in training scena-rios to test the reactions of our emergencycrews, security, Command and Controlteams and our community.

Many natural disasters occurred over thelast few years; the earthquake in Haiti in2010, the earthquake, tsunami and subse-quent nuclear crisis in Japan in 2011, and thetragedy at Ft. Hood in 2009. These shouldbe constant reminders of the importance ofbeing prepared. Something as simple as thetransportation strike a few weeks ago testedour preparedness plans and flexibility. As weprepare for future training scenarios, I encou-rage you to take a look at your personal plansand understand that these drills are preparedwith the intent of training the base andcommunity for real life events that couldimpact our everyday lives. We live in a politi-cally charged and fiscally challengedenvironment and we are very close to one ofthe world’s most active volcanoes!

I would like to use this forum to manageexpectations during our upcoming drills. Weare fortunate that many in our communityare able to live on base, and spend much of

their time using recreation facili-ties and base services on a dailybasis. Each community membermust realize that the minor andtemporary inconvenience of apreparedness drill may be thedifference between life and deathin an actual emergency. Successis dependent not only on firstresponder reactions during anemergency but to the actions andreactions of the community.Similarly to an actual emergency,certain services on base will beaffected and unavailable duringthe drills as in an actual emer-gency.

One of the most importantinstructions that need to befollowed is “Sheltering in Place.”The simplest definition of this isto take immediate shelter whereyou are; at home, work, school orin between. NAS Sigonella uses this proce-dure to protect the base from a variety ofdifferent threats and to keep the communityout of harm’s way during an emergency.

Shelter in place, if activated, will beannounced over the loudspeaker system, AllHands email, AFN TV & radio, the officialcommand Facebook page and through chainof command notification. Once you havebeen notified that you should be sheltering,go indoors until told otherwise and don’tleave children or pets outside. In a real emer-gency it may be required to shut all doors and

windows, turn off heating/cooling systemsto slow air movement, find an interior roomand seal the doors if possible.

Sheltering in place may seem like aninconvenience, but it is the quickest andmost effective method to protect ourcommunity during an emergency. Takingthe time to follow instructions during thedrill and sheltering in place helps not onlyour emergency responders do their job, butalso makes it more likely that in a real emer-gency you will make the right choice whichcould ultimately save your life. Our mostimportant asset is YOU!

NAS Sigonella Executive Officer, Capt. Eric Vosler

OMNIDOTT.STELLA

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 3

The Honorable Robert O. Work, Under Secretary of the Navy, concluded a three-day four-stop trip through Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia Feb. 3.

Work's trip included stops at Naval Support Activity Bahrain; Naval Air Station Sigonella,Sicily, Italy; Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy; and Naval Station Rota, Spain. At each stop, Workmet with senior leadership and held all-hands calls with service members to answer their questionsand discuss upcoming changes affecting Sailors and Marines.

“The future is very, very bright. The reason why I know it will be bright is because of people likeyou... who are our secret weapon of the Navy-Marine Corps team,” said Work.

Beginning in Bahrain, Work met with Sailors and Marines for breakfast and thanked them for theirhard work. He also had breakfast with Sailors and Marines in Sigonella and toured the flight line,barracks, fitness center and community piazza.

Following an area brief at U.S. 6th Fleet in Naples, Work emphasized the Navy-Marine Corpsteam's critical role in the nation's defense strategy during an all-hands call with service members.

“Our new strategy requires us to maintain the global sea lines of communication. We have to beable to maintain access. We need to be able to conduct low cost, high payoff deployments. The Navy-Marine Corps team does all of these things best,” said Work.

Work stressed that the Navy's program produces a Navy-Marine Corps team built for war, capableof operating forward, responding to crisis and protecting U.S. and allied interests.

Work made his final stop in Rota where he received a command brief and toured Rota's facilities.During an all-hands call, he noted Rota's key role in preparing to host four forward deployed destro-yers as announced last October by Secretary of Defense Panetta.

“When you have a great base like this, or like Sigonella or Rota, you're going to find ways to use it.The Navy-Marine Corps team has an important mission here in Europe and around the globe,” saidWork.

Throughout the trip, Work underlined the importance of the Navy and Marine Corps mission andacknowledged the challenges facing Sailors and Marines who execute that mission, given the histo-

rically unprecedented ratio of one year at war for every year at peace the military has operated undersince 1989.

“I want you to know Secretary Mabus and I, and every person in the department, understands thesacrifices you are making,” said Work.

He assured service members that current plans under discussion to change the military retirementprogram would not affect those presently serving, and military pay would not be reduced as thePentagon identifies areas of the defense budget to be cut.

Work is a retired Marine Corps colonel and is the principal assistant to the Secretary of the Navy,acting with full authority of the secretary in day-to-day management of the Department of the Navy.

Under Secretary of the Navy visits Sailorsand Marines in Europe and Southwest AsiaBY MC1 (EXW/DV) JACK GEORGESNavy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia Public Affairs

Under Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Honorable Robert Work speaks to the crew aboard NavalAir Station Sigonella (NAS) during an all-hands call. NAS Sigonella provides logistical supportfor Commander, U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets and NATO forces in the Mediterranean area. (U.S. Navyphoto by MC1 Chris Delano/Released)

The Lunch and Learn class is an extension of the InterculturalRelations Program by Fleet and Family Services. Designed andfocused towards giving participants a working knowledge of Italian

for everyday activities, the course is led by Intercultural Relations SpecialistAndrea Carobene.

According to Carobene, the one basic goal for all participants is to be ableto learn simple phrases in Italian.

“It’s an open door class, so anyone is always welcome to come in anytime,”said Carobene. “The class does not follow a rigid structure, which allows parti-cipants to attend any class that fits into their schedule.”

Those that attended the most recent session have different goals set forthemselves. Some want to simply broaden their Italian vocabulary; others arelooking to be more conversational when traveling out in town.

Participant Iris Baum said, “I live in Catania right now, so I’m always in the

city and confronted with daily situations where speaking Italian is crucial.” The Lunch and Learn class provides opportunities for new residents of Sicily

who are trying to transition into the Italian culture.“It will make it possible for us to go into the Commissary and buy items

and talk to people. It will make it easier to communicate instead of makinghand gestures,” said class participant Charles Schmidt. “I think these classesare wonderful because they give us the opportunity to learn with the Italiansas well. I just think it’s great that the base offers it to us.”

Carobene is continuing to work on expanding the Lunch and Learn classand wants everyone to come by and expand their horizons by learning simpleItalian phrases.

“I highly encourage anyone that would like to learn a few words or sentenceswhile they’re here to stop by,” said Carobene.

Lunch and learn ItalianBY MC2 Matthew C. Haws NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Fleet and Family Support Center offers Italian classes

Iris Baum learns to speak Italian duringthe Lunch and Learn course. The Lunchand Learn course is sponsored by Fleet andFamily Support Center's InterculturalRelations Program. (U.S. Navy photo byMC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)

Feedback live airs Thursday, March 1 at 6:30 p.m. on AFN Atlantic or satellite decoder channel 20 for those wholive on the economy. If you have any questions, visit sigonella.afneurope.net and click the feedback live link. Youcan also comment on the NAS Sigonella Facebook page or call in live during the show at 624-4265.

Feedback is a live call-in show provided by AFN Sigonella to get your questions directly to community leaders. Feedbackairs the first Thursday of every month with additional shows airing in association with upcoming events or with need toget out important information.

Due to time constraints, The CO doesn't always have time to answer every question. However, he will answer them usinghis 'Direct Line' in the Signature.

Feedback live airs March 1Get your questions answered

FEUDO DELIZIA

OXIDIANA

FFSC can be reached at x4291American Red Cross at x4900

Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!

MAGNOLIA

PALERMO

THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 4

10 11 12

13 14 15 16

17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

C O M M U N I T Y C A L E N D A RFRIDAYFRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

TUESDAY WEDNESDAYMONDAY THURSDAY

FEBRUARY

2012

Tobacco Cessation

NAS II SARP 2 - 3

p.m.

Saving and Investing

FFSC/MWR

6 - 7 p.m.

Acoustic Night at

Connections

6 - 10 p.m.

Bingo

at Connections

6 p.m.

ERC Course

Contact the Safety

Office at 624-5630

Heart Healthy

Cooking

Catania call FFSC

Live Band

“REV-ENGE”

at Jox Pub

10 p.m.

Karaoke

at Jox Pub

8 p.m.

Weekend Dance

Party at Jox Pub

10 p.m.

Jaguars Basketball

Game

7 p.m.

Weekend Dance

Party at Jox Pub

10 p.m.

Stupid Cupid 5k

Run/Walk

7:30 a.m. NAS I

Basketball Match

9 a.m.Sweetheart

Bowl

Mid-Town Mayhem

1 p.m.

Abraham Lincoln’s

Birthday

Valentines Day

Home Buying

Strategies Training

FFSC 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Volunteer Orientation

10 - 11:30 a.m.

NMCRS on NAS I

Budget for Baby

11 a.m. NMCRS

Tobacco Cessation

NAS II SARP

Conference Room

2 - 3 p.m.

Acoustic Night at

Connections

6 - 10 p.m.

Great American Spit

Out call 624-4710 for

information

Karaoke

at Jox Pub

8 p.m.

Bowling

Dollar Day

Bowling

Dollar Day

PENTAGON

Fleet and FamilySupport CenterAdministrationBuilding Bldg. 319 (NAS I)

Monday–Friday7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. DSN 624-4291 Commercial095-56-4291

Creating a strong family as you prepare for deployment

HAPPY WOK

MOTTA

GAMBINO

Advance planning and open communication,along with a big dose of reassurance, can helpeveryone get through the difficult time leading

up to a service member's departure. Here are some ideasto get you started:Prepare and plan together• Let the important people in your life, especially thoseinvolved in your child's care, know that a parent will beleaving. Establish a support network you can count onfor help when you need it. (It's okay to seek counselingif you feel overwhelmed–you can even do so anony-mously if you prefer.) • Help older children build their own extended supportsystems, which might include school counselors,teachers, and trusted peers.• Talk to your child about the coming deployment andencourage him to ask questions. Without discussion, achild may imagine the worst. A young child may evenfret about his parent's basic needs being met. To thefullest extent possible, describe what the deployed mom

or dad's everyday life will be like–what she'll eat, whereshe'll sleep, etc. No matter what your child's age, remindhim that his parent is highly trained. Tell him: "Yourmom knows how to do her job well, and she's not alone.She's working with others who also do their jobs well."Be aware of different reactions from your children• If you have more than one child, don't be surprised ifeach reacts differently to the upcoming deployment.Remind older children that they should share theirworries and concerns with you too. Keep family connec-tions strong.• Assure your child that regular family activities, such asbedtime stories, game nights, or family dinners, willcontinue.• Create a "thinking of you" item, like a "hug-me" pillow.Stuff one of the deploying parent's T-shirts and sew itclosed. When your child feels the need, he or she canwrap him or herself in a hug!

Please come and see our Deployment SupportSpecialist at FFSC Bldg 319 (NAS 1) or call 624-4291.

CHIECHIO

MARCHI

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 5

Members of Commander Task Force (CTF) 67 paint a room at the SanGiuseppe Institute "Casa Madre". (U.S. Navy photo by MR2 GarySpence/ Released)

Commander Task Force 67 paints local prayer room

On Wednesday, Feb. 1,members of CommanderTask Force (CTF) 67

conducted a beautification project,painting a room at the SanGiuseppe Institute also known as"Casa Madre." The institute offersshelter to single mothers in need,and children in foster care. It alsoprovides schooling for the chil-dren. This is an ongoing project forCTF 67.

“We’re going to help out withwhatever we can here,” said AWO2Perez. “Volunteering to help outstrengthens ties between the mili-tary and the local community.”

BY MR2 GARY SPENCENAS Sigonella Public Affairs

THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 6

JUST SAY IT!

Practice your Italian

The Italian proverb says,"A Carnevale ogni scherzovale!" (At Carnival time, every prank is fair). TheCarnival season is about having fun! The three-

week-long festivities of Acireale, which kicked off lastweek, promise fun for the whole family! Amazing allegoricand flower float parades, masks, costumes and live musicenthrall the thousands of spectators who attend the festivalevery year.

Acireale’s Carnival tradition dates back to the 17thcentury. At that time, Sicilians used to celebrate"Carnalivari" through dance festivals named "SlaveDances." Dancers, who were disguised as slaves, performedshows throughout the streets. Drums and trumpetsaccompanied performers.

Masked revelers from different social classes usedCarnival as an excuse to mingle. The "Jardinara,"(Gardeners), "Briganti"(Bandits), "Baruni"(Barons) and"Abbati" (Abbots) were among the most popular masks.During the festival, aristocrats and politicians were publicly

mocked. Revelers also staged "battles," throwing rotteneggs, citrus and vegetables at one another. This practicewas popular in 17th century Acireale. However, in 1612,local authorities forbade it because it caused damages toproperty and injured people.

By the 18th century, celebrations became less "violent"and turned into comedy plays that were performed bycomedians named "Abbatazzi." Under the authorization ofthe bishop, they made fun of nobles or priests pretendingto read jokes from a big book and taking part in prankcompetitions. In the 19th century, celebrations includedthe "Cassariata," a parade of flower-decorated carriages,named "landò," that toured the historic center. Localnobles, paraded on the carriages wearing masks and threwcolored sugar coated almonds and coins at the crowd.

Today, people throw the "lighter" confetti (coriandoli).Spraying shaving foam and "gently" hitting people on thehead with toy hammers is also popular during carnival. Sodon't get mad if you get hit, it's just a prank!

It’s carnival time in Acireale!

In the 1930s, Acireale craftsmen created majestic allegorical floats with papier-mâché depicting animated figures of politicians,animals and other fantastic subjects mounted on a mobile platform and driven in parades. Since then, Carnival Carri (floats) havebecome much more elaborate and spectacular. According to Acesi (Acireale residents) Acireale boasts the "Carnevale più bello diSicilia!" (The most beautiful Carnival in Sicily!). Don’t miss all the breathtaking Carnival floats and fun shows through Feb. 21.(Photo by Salvatore Fichera)

Float Parades• Sunday, Feb. 12, Noon and 4 p.m.• Thursday, Feb. 16, 4 p.m.• Saturday, Feb. 18, 4 p.m.• Sunday, Feb. 19, 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.• Monday, Feb. 20, 4 p.m.• Tuesday, Feb. 21, Noon. Grand finale at 4 p.m. Fireworks and "King ofCarnival" puppet's bonfire or Rogo del reCarnevale at 11:30 p.m.

Float Route:The floats parades begin at the Piazza Duomo(main square) and continue through corsoSavoia, corso Italia and corso Umberto.

Float Performance Locations:• Piazza Duomo• Porta Gusmana• Incrocio corso Savoia - corso Italia• Villa Belvedere (public gardens) • Piazza Garibaldi

For more information and detailedschedules, call Acireale Touristoffice at 095-895111 or visithttp://www.comune.acireale.ct.it/

Acireale's Carnival ScheduleLive music will be performed almost every night at 9 p.m.

Don’t forget to taste the scrumptious Carnival food that is sure to please yourpalate! The “maccarruni setti puttusa co' ragù ri sasizza” (tubular pasta withseven holes dressed with a savory pork ragù) is a specialty that everyone lovesto sample.

If you want to indulge in some typical Sicilian treats, Carnival is the best timefor doing so. Sicilian ethnographer, Giuseppe Pitrè, an expert in Sicilian populartraditions wrote that cannolo (fried pastry filled with creamy fillings) is the“crown of the carnival lunch.” The “frittelle,” the delicious Carnival fritters arealso sure to whet your appetite.

Tempt your taste buds with the chiacchere (gossip) also known as nastrini(ribbons) or bugie (lies) and cenci (rags). These delicious stripe-shaped frittersdeep-fried in lard and covered with powdered sugar dates back to the Romantimes when they were called frictilia, These sweets are named “lies or gossip”to remind everyone of the carnival motto that during carnival every prank orjoke is accepted.

Pignolata or Pignoccata is another traditional must-eat carnival dessert fromMessina that you should try. It is light egg dough fried and half covered in achocolate glaze and half in a lemon glaze that is served in mounds.

Try one – or try them all! Buon Appetito!

How sweet it is!Carnival season in Acireale bringstreats sure to tempt your taste buds

Among the many delightful confections during Carnival season, Chiacchere(gossip) also known as nastrini (ribbons) or bugie (lies) and cenci (rags) is adelicious stripe-shaped fritter deep-fried in lard and covered with powderedsugar. It’s origin dates back to the Roman times when it was called frictilia.(Photo courtesy of http://annaincasa.blogspot.com)

English: Where is the Cathedral of Acireale? Italian: Dov'è la Cattedrale di Acireale?

English: The Cathedral is in the main square.Italian: La Cattedrale è nella piazza centrale.

English: Can I walk there? Italian: Posso arrivarci a piedi?

English: Is it open today?Italian: È aperta oggi?

English: How much does this confetti cost? Italian: Quanto costano questi coriandoli?

English: What time does the Carnival float parade start? Italian: A che ora iniziano le sfilate dei carri di Carnevale?

English: Where can I buy Carnival pastries?Italian: Dove posso comprare i dolci di Carnevale?

Learn these usefulItalian phrases to helpmake your experience atthe Acireale Carnivaleven better!

ANGELA

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 7

Franco Gabrielli, the head of the Civil Protection Authority,was addressing concerns on the island of Giglio that the sightof the stricken ship could adversely affect tourism this

summer. Islanders have expressed concerns that their picturesque tiny portwill become a working shipyard for the entire summer, deterringyachtsmen, divers, snorkellers and tourists.

Mr Gabrielli said the removal of the ship would be carried outwith the utmost respect for the environment, amid concern that anoil spill would devastate Giglio's crystal clear waters and marine life.

Costa Cruises the Italian company that owns the crippled liner,will invite 10 of the world's best known salvage firms to bid for thecontract to recover the vessel. Bids must be in by early March, withthe contract to be awarded by the end of that month and work tostart shortly afterwards. By that time it is hoped that a Dutchcompany, Smit, will have been able to extract the 500,000 gallonsof diesel and heavy oil in the liner's fuel tanks.

The salvage operation is expected to take up to 10 months,meaning that the ship will spend at least a year wedged on rocks inclear sight of Giglio's port and main settlement.

"This timeline represents the best possible outcome in a situationof this kind, although it cannot be excluded that there will be delaysgiven the complexity of the operation," Genoa-based Costa Cruisessaid in a statement.

The Costa Concordia's 4,200 passengers and crew had to be evacuated after it rammed into a rockyshoal and grounded on Giglio's shore on Jan 13. The death toll so far is 17, but 15 other people arestill missing and presumed to be dead, either trapped inside the hull or in the open sea.

The ship's captain, Francesco Schettino, 52, is under house arrest at his home near Naples andfaces charges of abandoning ship as well as multiple counts of manslaughter. He denies the allega-tions.

An Italian firefighter helicopter lifts up a passenger from the luxury cruise ship Costa Concordia which ran aground off the tiny Tuscan islandof Giglio on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012. (AP photo by Gregorio Borgia)

Costa Concordia 'will be refloated and removed whole' (BY WWW.TELEGRAPH.CO.UK/NEWS)

Rome - The majority of young people in Italy areready to go abroad to work and create their futureand an even greater number say they are 'discou-

raged' over the situation in Italy today, according to a newreport from the social research group Eurispes released onThursday.

The 2012 Italy Report found that 59.8% of Italiansbetween the ages of 18 and 34 would, given the opportu-nity, leave Italy, a percentage which dipped to 57.1%among those between the ages of 25 and 34 and fell below50%, to 45.2%, among Italians between 35 and 44, whileonly 35% of Italians between 45 and 64 would leave thecountry and only 20.% over the age of 65.

The possibility of finding employment was the greatestmotive for emigrating, for 22.9% of those interviewed,followed by miscellaneous reasons for 14.1% and a lowercost if living for 11.8%.Italy's unemployment rate is currently running at 8.6%with 30.1% of young people between 15 and 24 unable tofind work.

The readiness to emigrate appeared to coincide with thefindings in the Eurispes study which showed that 63.2% ofItalians were discouraged by the general situation in Italy,while 57.7% felt there was little if anything they could do

about it.In fact, 59.6% of Italians quizzed in the poll had little or

no desire to personally contribute to any recovery in Italyor work for the country's general interest, compared to38.3% who said they were ready to do what they can.

However, in regard to making sacrifices to help the Italyout of its current situation, more than half of Italians,53.1%, said these were necessary and beneficial, comparedto some 45% who were skeptical over the possibility ofsacrifices having any positive effect.

The most 'discouraged' group in Italy were young peoplebetween 25 and 34, over 75% seeing only gloom in Italy'sfuture, followed by those between 45-64 (63.8%) and 35-44 (60.5%), while among young people between 18 and24 58.9% said they were discouraged and 56.6% of thoseover 65 felt the same.

The Eurispes report also found that 73.2% of Italians didnot feel they were politically represented and 68.1% didnot classify themselves in any particular political forma-tion.

Two out of three Italians, 67%, agreed that the situationin Italy got worse in 2011, the highest percentage since2004 and 15.2 percentage points higher than a similarreport a year earlier.

Italy's young people 'discouraged': Majority ready to emigrate(BY ANSA)

PIETRO GELSO BIANCO NEW PLACE

THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 8

Last week, zoologist and author, Nicola Davies made a special visit to all the grade levels ofSigonella. She spoke during two assemblies, one for elementary and one for middle and highschool in which she shared experiences throughout her life.

Davies has written many picture books including One Tiny Turtle, Ice Bear, White Owl, Barn Owl,and Bat Loves Night. She plans to write other picture books and novels this year. Her love for animalsis shared through her books so that readers can enjoy information about the many spectacular crea-tures on Earth in a sensational and thrilling way.

During the assembly, Davies expressed what she was thinking of when writing her books, like whenshe felt a tiny Brookesia chameleon resting on the palm of her hand. She shared with students aboutthe time that she specifically told everyone on her tour not to bring any food because of the bearsaround Alaska and yet somebody carried a chocolate bar with them, risking everything by doingthat. Other than being proficient in the field of zoology and very skilled at writing, she is also anexpert at making jokes. After almost every experience that she shared, the room was filled by fits oflaughter from the entertained audience.

The assemblies were great, but that was just the beginning. Next was the writer’s workshop withindividual groups. Students experienced a writer’s workshop with Davies in which they learned that

a little mental image can stretch to a whole, magical fantasy. Throughout the workshop, Ms. Davies talked about her books like, A Girl Called Dog and the way

she wrote and what she thought of it.“I thought of reading as a wonderful escape,” said Davies. “When I found out I was good at writing,

I wanted to make books that people wanted to read.”Davies showed students how to think of a small image, anything, and make it as powerful as possible. “When you put little details in your writing, they can carry so much meaning,” said Davies.With those inspiring words, the students did an outstanding job to make a small mental image

become huge in their mind.Through meeting with Davies, student writers learned many techniques and skills to help them

improve their writing. Learning and working with a published author is definitely a good step towardsbecoming a better writer. The importance of detailed writing was really well-defined during thisauthor visit.

As Davies taught,“Imagining details can be hard work, but making the imagination work is at leasthalf of the job of a writer.”

Nicola Davies visits NAS Sigonella

BY JUNAJOY V. FRIANEZANAS Sigonella Student and Guest Writer

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella students learned from visiting author and zoologist, Nicola Davies. She shared with them her love for animals and how they influence her writing. (U.S. Navyphoto by MR2 Gary Spence/ Released)

During Nicola Davies’ visit to Naval Air Station (NAS)Sigonella, The Signature sat down with her to know herbetter.

TS I know you have travelled extensively, but have you beento Sicily before?ND No, it's my first time. I've been to other parts of Italy.I've been to Genoa and Rome, and lots of different places inItaly.

TS Is this your first visit to a U.S. military base school?ND Yes, it is. And it's wonderful! I'm so impressed with it.It's a lovely school. I do lots and lots of schools and you knowwhat the school is like actually the moment you walk in thefront door and the atmosphere of this school is so positive,so warm, so welcoming. And the kids are just fabulous.

TS You have a degree in Zoology, so what prompted you towrite children's books?ND I've always really liked children and always got on reallywell with them and I think really I'm not very grown up. Ithink I'm really 8 inside. So when I'm in a classroom with chil-dren I stop seeing the grown- ups really. I really only see thechildren.

TSAre you still active in the field of Zoology?ND I have a very old friend, who is now a professor ofZoology at a University. I met him when he was a post-gradstudent, and so I do occasionally go and work on his boat andhelp with his studies. In May, I'm going back to Dominica tohelp with a long-term study of sperm whales off the coast.

TSWhat do you like best about children’s workshops?ND I like when I get a response from a child in the classwhose teacher has said, "Actually he never talks", and thischild comes out with some fantastic suggestions and fantasticcontributions for a class poem. That's happened to me a lotof times. There was also a school in Plymouth where a littleboy who had never read a book before read one of my books,and two months later I saw his teacher and she said he'sreading everything. He's read all the Harry Potter books now.He just reads everything that comes his way. So that's fanta-stically satisfying. But this morning in the playground withyour kids here, so many of them have read my books, and I'vegot little kids coming up and hugging me because they lovemy books. Who wouldn't love that!

TS What is the main goal of your school visit?NDI'm motivated by two things when I'm doing schoolvisits. First of all, I want children to be interested in naturalhistory. I want to share my passion for the natural world withyoung children. Secondly, I want them to become keenreaders. If you're a keen reader it has an enormous impact onyour education performance across every subject. It alsoopens up a whole world to you as a human being. You can

NEW PLACE MOJITO ?

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 9

Sixth grade students from Reading/LanguageArts 6 period 1/7 participated in a groupwriting exercise. Davies selected a scenario and

asked students to share their imaginative ideas andturned them into a poem titled “Hedgehog Hunter.”

The Found Poems were another writing exercisewhere every student from Reading/Language Arts 6period 2/6 participated. The poems were then revisedand worked on by Ross Bernardo and Leo Saucedo asstudent editors.

Hedgehog Hunter

The rotten smell of wet leaves, and the hopefularoma of soil

I’m sniffing and searching for cluesEvidence of wiggling, of slime, of worms

The miniature footprints, miniscule legs, ofbeetles.

That mean that dinner is served.

6th Grade Found Poem, part 1

Radiating face staring At the dark overcast sky

The light pitter patter Of the rain on my window

The dark clouds Swallowing the bright sun.

Buckets of rain plummeting From the dark, midnight sky.

A black cat talking to the night.The white round clock ticking

Black suited man hurrying to the stop.Small pebbles flow swiftly into the drain.

The wheels spinning over the speed bumps.Millions of pin-needles hitting the windscreen.

6th Grade Found Poem part 2

Fairy dust gleaming on a rainbow.Blue butterflies swoop through the trees.

Green leaves brushing in the wind.Blue water swaying against the soothing beach.

Tiny water droplets shower on the colourful flowers

A giant rainbow jumping across the earth.

The brave girl in the book I’m readingBeautiful warm sun shining.

Melting ice cream soothing me.The sweet sun-taste of an orange

Invisible sweat pouring into the water.Magical power gleaming from my body.

furnish your mind with things that nobody can take away from you. That's what Ihope my visits help to do for children.

TS For any aspiring writers, what advice would you give to them?ND Read! Read, read, and read. Think about what you're reading. Read withpassion. Don't be afraid of a blank page and don't think that if you have to re-draftthings a million times it means you can't do it.

TS Do you have any updates to your top ten list of favorite animals on yourwebsite?ND (Laughing) I think giant ant-eaters are almost pretty consistently on there.But actually, I've just seen a kind of bat that I'd only read about before when I wasin India. I was in northern India before Christmas and we were driving. We couldn'tstay out in the hills at night because of the insurgency. We're driving back into townas it was getting dark. There was this bat, which is called Megadermatidae. I haveno idea what its English name is, but it's a big bat with big ears and big wings. Icould see the shape of it flying along the side of the road. That was really, truly exci-ting. So that's probably one of my current favorites.

TSWhat do you think it is about animals that kids love so much? ND Children are closer to the reality of our existence. That's what I believe. Andbecause they are closer to the reality, because they haven't been so cluttered withall the things that clutter our human world, they feel a fellowship with all livingthings. They know it in a way that grown-ups sometimes need to be reminded of.But kids know it. To put it in a really kind of "Disney-ish" sort of a way, they knowthat animals and plants are their brothers and sisters. They're interested in theirbrothers and sisters. I think it's that simple. I really do. That makes my job as a writereasy because I'm writing about something that they are already intrinsically inte-rested in. One of the questions I very often ask a class of children when I go into aschool is "hands up, who likes animals"? I have never been in a school anywhere inthe world where all the hands do not go up. Until they get to be about 15-years-old, and then they don't. But that's fine. If they've got that interest and it's fosteredwhen they're young, even if they leave it for 20 years, they'll come back to it.

TSThank you for your visit! I know the kids are really happy to have you here. ND It's just been completely delightful. There are such gorgeous children, beau-tifully behaved, and full of the best parts of the American ethos of welcome andwarmth, which is just such a privilege, such a treat to be on the receiving end of.

Conversation w ith Nicola Dav ies

Nicola Davies, zoologist and author. (Photo courtesy of www.nicola-davies.com)

Friday,10 FEB 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, Steamed Rice, Asparagus, Creole Green Beans,Sugar Cookies, Cheese Cake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans.*Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Italian Sausage, spaghetti w/ Tuna Fish, Oven Browned Potatoes, Spinach,Oriental Stir Fry, Sugar Cookies, Cheesecake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.

Saturday, 11 FEB 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes,Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterhorns.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Cream of Mushroom Soup, Roast Turkey, Pork Fried Rice, Cajun Oven Fries,Steamed Broccoli, Glazed Carrots, Almond Cookies, Blueberry Pie.*Dinner: Logging Soup, Beef Stir Fry, Spaghetti Garlic & Oil, Steamed Rice, Peas, Corn Whole Kernel, AlmondCookies, Blueberry Pie.

Sunday, 12 FEB 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, RoastedPotatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Kolaches.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Bean & Bacon Soup, Cheddar and Chicken Broccoli, Rosemary Potato Wedges,Steamed Brussels Sprouts, Glazed Carrots, Hermits, Velvet Pound Cake.*Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Veal Parmesan, Rice Pilaf, Cauliflower Polonaise, Seasoned Succotash, GarlicBread, Hermits, Velvet Pound Cake.

Monday, 13 FEB 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Minced Beef w/ Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, RoastedPotatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls.*Lunch: Cream of potato Soup, Pasta Carbonara, Yankee Pot Roast, Southwestern Rice, Parsley ButteredPotatoes, Calico Cabbage, Sprouts Superba, Almond Cake, Peach Crunch, Butterscotch Pudding.*Speed line: Assorted Pizza.*Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Spaghetti Meat Sauce, Brown Rice w/ Tomatoes, Collard Greens, Lyonnaise WaxBeans, Almond Cake, Peach Crunch, Butterscotch Pudding.

Tuesday, 14 FEB 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Baked Sausage Patties, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Omelets, Eggs toOrder, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls. *Lunch: Arroz Caldo Soup, Chicken Adobo, Beef Caldereta, Steamed Rice, Cut Green Beans, Steamed Carrots,Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies.Speed line: Italian Sausage W/ Pepper & Onion, Oven Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Manhattan Clam Chowder, Lasagna, Cream Style Corn, Baked Hubbard Squash, Fruit CocktailUpside Down Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Wednesday, 15 FEB 12*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, RoastedPotatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds.*Lunch: Mulligatawny Soup, Roast Turkey, Pasta al Forno, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy,Peas & Carrots, Steamed Cauliflower, Sweet Potato Pie, Shortbread Cookies, Peach Gelatin.*Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Chicken noodles soup, Fish Breaded, Steamed Rice, Lima Beans, Vegetable Stir Fry, Sweet PotatoPie, Shortbread Cookies.

Thursday, 16 FEB 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast,Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds.*Lunch: Velvet Corn Soup, Baked Chicken, Lasagna, Oriental Rice, Oven Brown Potatoes, Spinach,Cauliflower Au Gratin, Easy Chocolate Cake, Crisp Drop Cookies.*Speed line: Pizza.*Dinner: Cream of Asparagus Soup, Chicken Tetrazzini, Corn on the Cob, Lyonnaise Rice, Collard Greens,Easy Chocolate, Crisp Drop Cookies.

Friday, 17 FEB 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, RoastedPotatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Fried/Baked Pollok Fish, Pasta al Forno , Mushroom Gravy, SteamedRice, 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, Sandwich, Pork Fried Rice, Steamed Whole Corn,Seasoned Spinach, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.

THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 10

BY HM3 (FMF) MATTHEW CLUTTERGuest Writer

There is a sense of relief. I will admit that. Upon enlisting in the Navy in 2007, my recruiter told me I’dget to travel. Join the Navy! See the world! That’s how he put it, with all the gusto of Uncle Sam himselfstaring back at me from a poster with that blasted finger. Perhaps I was in awe of the uniform. Perhaps

fascinations of island hopping on an aircraft carrier dotted my imagination. Or maybe I thought I’d be the subjectof a Toby Keith song one day. Whatever it was, he sold me.

I guess he didn’t technically lie to me. After all, Iraq and Afghanistan are part of this world. It was to be expectedafter volunteering as a Corpsman, then subsequently volunteering for the Fleet Marine Force. Then furtherputting “INFANTRY” on the top of my wish list coming out of Field Medical School. I got what I deserved,and that was an all-expense-paid trip to war. So, yes, there is some relief to be here in Italy.

I made the decision on top of an observation post in Afghanistan while clinging for dear life to a satellite signaland one pathetic little bar. It came down to Italy and Jacksonville, Florida. Looking back, I don’t remember whythere was even an internal discussion. Italy has history. Good food. Exoticism. Travel opportunities. Churches(lots of churches). The list goes on.

Jacksonville has the Jaguars. And they stink.It didn’t take long to notice the difference between the Marine Corps and the Navy. I’ve yet to be yelled at here. I took a verbal licking before sun-up on my first

day with Marines. Just because I was new. This was a world where words like “Oorah” and “Er” could be used to answer anything or anyone. I’ve actually witnessedthe following conversation:

“Good morning, Gunnery Sergeant.”“Er.”Coming from the green side will require a lot of

unlearning. And a lot of relearning. Where I onceyanked out ingrown toenails and slapped tourni-quets on legs, I’m now treating six-year-olds withstrep throat and taking fetal heart rates.

I got a lot of advice before I left. Things like visitParis, see the Louvre, and try the veal. And the tips included all manner of things in between. My father, after three years of telling me to watch my back and keepmy head down, has now resorted to more mundane advice like “save money” and “travel.” Thanks to a lengthy yet informative indoctrination process, I’ve disco-vered that both are encouraged here. And my mother, bless her, had plane reservations before we hit Rota, Spain. She was more excited about the travelopportunities than my wife and I were.

Still, we’ve already utilized the base’s ITT office. It didn’t take us long to realize that what ITT does here is quite special. Of course, they have a lot to work with. We dared the mountain roads of Forza d’Agro in a tour bus, which is a lot like steering a frigate up the Mississippi. When we made it to the top, we were treated

to a view like nothing I’ve ever seen before – the coastline of Sant’Alessio Siculo sat like a living postcard. That’s when it sunk in. I’m living in a place that peoplepay thousands of dollars to visit, and I get to see it all with one phone call to ITT and fifty bucks (plus Euro for food).

I’ve been here for three months now, but I’m still trying to process all the advice that’s been given to me. How do you figure out what’s important and what’snot? And then prioritize it? It’s not a bad problem to have. Until I figure it out, I’ll just keep seeing all I can of this country and its neighbors.

Then I’ll post exotic pictures on Facebook to make all my friends and family jealous. Because, really, that’s what’s most mportant.

I made the decision on top of an observation post in Afghanistan whileclinging for dear life to a satellite signal and one pathetic little bar ...Where I once yanked out ingrown toenails and slapped tourniquets on legs,I’m now treating six-year-olds with strep throat and taking fetal heart rates.

Bullets to bruschettaNew command is a welcome change

HM3 Matthew Clutter

MIdtOwN MOvIe theaterSSCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS

Tuesday, Feb. 14 – Valentine’s Day5:00 PM Hugo PG5:30 PM The Proposal* PG-13 7:30 PM Nights in Rodanthe* PG-13 8:00 PM MI: Ghost Protocol PG-13

Wednesday, Feb. 15 – Last Shows 5:00 PM The Muppets PG5:30 PM Arthur Christmas PG7:30 PM Red Tails PG-13 8:00 PM New Year’s Eve R

Thursday, Feb. 16 - Sig’s Choice Winner5:00 PM Sherlock Holmes 2 PG-135:30 PM Extremely Loud PG-13 7:30 PM Avatar PG-138:00 PM Sitter R

Friday, Feb. 17 -- No School2:00 PM Journey to the Center* PG 5:00 PM Journey 2 PG5:30 PM Sherlock Holmes 2 PG-137:30 PM War Horse PG-13 8:00 PM Sitter R

Saturday, Feb. 18 2:00 PM Adventures of Tintin PG2:30 PM Alvin & Chipmunks 3 G4:30 PM We Bought A Zoo PG 5:00 PM MI: Ghost Protocol PG-137:30 PM Safe House R

Sunday, Feb. 192:00 PM Journey 2 PG2:30 PM Adventures of Tintin PG4:30 PM Extremely Loud PG-135:00 PM War Horse PG-137:30 PM Safe House R

Movie schedule is subject tochange.

Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 11

JOURNEY 2……………………PGSTARRING: Josh Hutcherson, Dwayne Johnson and Michael Caine

Young Sean Anderson receives a coded distress signal from a mysterious islandwhere no island should exist. It's a place of strange life forms, mountains of gold,deadly volcanoes, and more than one astonishing secret.

Unable to stop him from going, Sean's new stepfather, Hank, joins the quest.Together with a helicopter pilot and his beautiful, strong-willed daughter, they setout to find the island, rescue its lone inhabitant and escape before seismic shock-waves force the island under the sea and bury its treasures forever. (1 hrs. 34 min.)

SAFE HOUSE……………………..………..RSTARRING:Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds and Robert Patrick

For the past year, Matt Weston has been frustrated by his inactive, backwaterpost in Cape Town. A "housekeeper" who aspires to be a full-fledged agent, theloyal company man has been waiting for an opportunity to prove himself.When the first and only occupant he's had proves to be the most dangerousman he's ever met, Weston readies for duty.

Tobin Frost has eluded capture for almost a decade. One of the best ops menthat the CIA's known, the ex-intelligence officer has given up assets and soldmilitary intel to anyone with cash since he turned. From trading secrets toNorth Korea to aiding splinter cells, the damage he's done to the U.S. isimmeasurable. And he's now back on the reservation with a secret.

As soon as Frost is brought in for debriefing, mercenaries come and tear apartWeston's safe house. Barely escaping, the unlikely partners must discover iftheir attackers have been sent by terrorists or someone on the inside who willkill anyone standing in the way. Now it's up to Weston to figure out who he cantrust before they're both eliminated from the game.(1 hr. 55 min.)

ExTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE…………….…PG-13STARRING: Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock

Oskar is convinced that his father, who died in the 9/11 attacks on the WorldTrade Center, has left a final message for him hidden somewhere in the city.Feeling disconnected from his grieving mother and driven by a relentlesslyactive mind that refuses to believe in things that can't be observed, Oskarbegins searching New York City for the lock that fits a mysterious key he foundin his father's closet. His journey through the five boroughs takes him beyondhis own loss to a greater understanding of the observable world around him. (2hrs. 9 min.)

The Base 2 Base is coming up March 17 - just over a monthaway! Take the time to pre-register now at one of thefitness centers and save yourself the trouble the day of theevent. There is a discounted rate for those who register byFeb. 29 at 4 p.m. The registration cost includes an officialBase 2 Base t-shirt, shuttle service and live entertainment.Lunch will be available for purchase after the run.Participants may also pay for lunch at the time of racepacket pick up. Runners and walkers who completed 4 outof 6 of the preliminary runs will also receive a limitededition, Base 2 Base Shamrock Series hoodie.

Shuttle service will be available the day of the event.Shuttles will run from NAS I to NAS II 8 – 9:15 a.m. andagain from 11:45 a.m. until 2 p.m. Feel free to leave yourcar on NAS I or NAS II and take the shuttle in themorning or afternoon! There will also be a place to dropoff personal items before the race and they will be tran-sported to NAS I and available for you when you arrive.Same day registration starts at 8:30 a.m. The walk starts at10 a.m. and run begins at 10:30 a.m. Water stations willbe set up along the route. Lunch, live music, entertain-ment, and award ceremony will take place in the ChartRoom at The Commons. Awards will be given to 1st, 2ndand 3rd place in all age categories (runners only): MilitaryMale, Military Female and Overall Runner.

Participants should know that this is a non-T.A.C. certi-fied course. The event will happen rain or shine, so pleasedress appropriately for the weather. Strollers are welcome,but no dogs or bikes, please. For more information contacteither fitness center at x4483 or x5243.

Countdown to The Base 2 Base: March 17 is near!

COMING SOON

- The Darkest Hour - The Devil Inside - Contraband

* FREE MOVIE

THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 12

GAME

Fun Facts

On average, the life span of an American dollar bill

is eighteen months.

The most dangerous job in the United States is that of an Alaskan Crab Fisherman.

A cow gives nearly 200,000 glasses of milk in her lifetime.

STAMPA

1. Soft surface texture4. Small viper7. Stop11. Cuban currency12. Singing voice13. Assumed name15. Egg-laying17. Paris transport system18. Guided19. Promptly21. Tool used to cut gears22. Metal-bearing mineral23. Delicate24. Desperate27. Elfin28. Niche30. Region33. Seep36. Call forth38. Adjacent39. Sign of assent40. Portent

41. Luxury watercraft43. Weaving machine45. Salacious46. Permissible difference48. Astern50. Bow51. Champion53. Append56. Apposite58. Rough shelter60. Charge for professionalservices61. Water nymph64. Marked by care andpersistent effort66. Rhetorical device67. Stupefy68. Item of footwear69. Was cognizant or aware70. Golf peg71. Consumed

1. Not at any time2. Stage whisper3. Fizzy soft drink4. Distant in manner5. Feat to attract attention6. Assigned position7. Amateur radio operator8. Beer9. Supple10. Tropical starchytuberous root11. Field sport12. Stream or brook14. Weep16. Part of a church20. Poem25. Frozen water26. Rebellion27. Sire28. Remake29. Turn or place atan angle30. One, some, every

or all31. Actual32. Deliberate act ofomission34. Merely35. Menagerie37. Conclude42. Number in abrace44. Swallow49. Nutrition51. Hurry52. Result53. Currently in progress54. Tie in tennis55. Writing table56. Colony insect57. Open land forrecreational use59. Compass direction62. Simian63. Condensation65. Country, initially

Across

Down

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 13

Sudoku!

AMEERICAN MUSCLE

CALVARY

Classified

CALVARY

SPAGHETTI

THE SIGNATURETHE SIGNATUREFEBRUARY 10, 2012 PAGE 15

LCDR Daniel W. Elsass assumed duties as the Officer InCharge (OIC) of Commander U.S. Naval ForcesEurope Detachment, Maritime Ashore Support Team

(CNE DET MAST) from CDR Richard O. Callesen Jr. at aChange of Charge ceremony Jan. 20.

CNE DET MAST provides Commander, U.S. Naval ForcesEurope, Africa and U.S. SIXTH FLEET an expeditionaryscalable command and control capability ashore. It providesJoint Task Force enabled Component Commanders, deployedComponents, and other military commanders a rapidly deplo-yable headquarters with Command, Control,Communications, and Computers capability.

Callesen, a Michigan native, will be joining the MissileDefense Agency National test Facility in Colorado Springs,Colorado.

Elsass, a Canton, Ohio native, reported from the ForceProtection and Current Operations Directorate at CNE-CNA-C6F in Naples, Italy.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe DetachmentMaritime Ashore Support Terminal Change of Charge

STAMPA

THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012THE SIGNATURE FEBRUARY 10, 2012PAGE 16