This is the last day of orientation for us, and it's not just a celebration for everyone who is over the briefs, but it's a celebration for the Italians as well. August 15th is Ferragusto or Assumption Day. Many of the Italians head to the beach and are on vacation. We are suppose to have a culture class the next two days, but an Italian runs that class and he/she is off this week. With that said, my marito should be checking in to his new command tomorrow unless his sponsor gets word and says to come in on Monday (which would be awesome! Who doesn't love 96 hour liberty?)
Still, there were some interesting and vital briefs at today's orientation. The Fire Department came out, reminded me to get smoke detectors (not sure if the house we want has them or not- you can negotiate for these to be installed). Don't forget the ABC Fire Extinguisher and the emergency Escape Ladder if you have 2 stories or more. Watched the Christmas Tree Fire Video. If you watch the timer to the bottom left of the video, it can make you think twice about not having an escape ladder!
The NEX spoke about Ration Cards some. We can get 6 cartons of cigarettes a month, and 6 bottles of liquor that are 80 proof or higher a month. Our gas coupons are vital! We can purchase coupons, vouchers whatever you want to call them for about $4 a gallon. Italians are currently spending almost $10 a gallon! ::Insert "Joey WOAH" here::
Black Friday at the NEX is 3 days long! Hallelujah! Scratchers here go out about twice a year, and no you can't have mom and dad mail you your scratchers. They have special ones for Naples. The manager Joe said:
You're Not In Kansas Anymore!
That's an understatement!
Learned about AFN (the Military channel that you get on the boat and out in the Middle East). When I move into our new home, I won't automatically have AFN channels. In order to get them I need to go to Housing to get a Decoder (Base houses go to NEX). The first decoder is free! I don't know how much TV I am going to be watching, but if I want American TV this is the way to do it!
AFN has grown and they have a Naples Radio station- 106 and 107. Channel 107 is more sports and talk shows, whereas the other is American music that is updated weekly from Headquarters in Maryland. They also have an App!! AFN Europe! Download it, so if you go out of range in the car, or you have and American car, you can listen to it. American cars get odd radio numbers (94.9, 97.3 98.7, 106.1 you get the idea) but European Cars (Euro Specs) get even, so my brand new American car won't pick up the signal here, thank you Steve Jobs for the iPod/phone/pad and the car hook ups! Download the app, it's free and check out the website. AFN Naples they also have Live Radio you can stream!
My pride for this base is growing everyday. I am impressed at how much I am learning in such a short period of time.
A few more important facts and I promise I'm done!
A lot of people, including myself, bring over expensive appliances. Geez I brought a flat screen, a Kitchen Aid, a Roomba (automatic vacuum) and some other stuff. Please, PLEASE, PLEASE use a Surge Protector with your top dollar appliances. Also, if you are in doubt, use a transformer. For instance, on a trip to Athens earlier this year, I brought my Chi hair straightner, plugged it into a converter and it blew a fuse. I was NOT Happy. Don't let that happen to you!
Last, at the Support Site NEX strip, go to Residential Services to get your Internet (ADSL- not cable, but hey! It's not dial up!), Telepass which is the Naples EZ Pass for tolls, get your gas coupons there and bottled water services. When you get your bottled water, don't leave it outside in the sun and heat, it WILL TURN GREEN. The company will switch it out, but to avoid a hassle, keep it in the garage or basement.
Now time for my favorite quote of the day:
Naples is a very beautiful woman, with very dirty feet.
Look past the imperfections, and just enjoy the great things this town has to offer. Don't be afraid to try the local food, learn a few words or sentences of the language, get out of the hotel and walk to the supermarket. Yes, there is graffiti and trash along the roads, but be thankful for the opportunity that lies in front of you.
Girl, what you should do about American tv? You should have your dad get a Slingbox and install it to his tv and then send it via the internet to your TV. It's the best/cheapest way to get all the channels you're used to. Otherwise you'll get stuck watching AFN and all of their FABULOUS commercials (you'll understand that in about a month) for the rest of your stay overseas... but gosh am I ever excited for you, lovely! You seem like you're super happy. :)
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