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Palermo Missed Out On A Great Player - Oddo

2009-01-27T22:22:00.000-05:00

Bayern Munich full back Massimo Oddo talked to Mediagol about his team-mate Ernesto Sosa, who had been close to joining Palermo, until problems with his passport halted the move. According to the World Cup winner, the Rosanero have missed out on a major player.

"Sosa is a player of absolute value," he said," he showed his talent when he played in Argentina, where he allowed his team to make a jump in quality with excellent performances, obtaining great results, and then he arrived here, in a great team like ours. Source

Fiat Cuts Profit Forecasts; No 2008 Dividend Planned

2009-01-22T18:54:00.002-05:00

Jan. 22 (Bloomberg) -- Fiat SpA, poised to take a 35 percent stake in Chrysler LLC, cut its earnings forecast and said it won’t pay a dividend after fourth-quarter profit plunged as the recession hurt sales of its Punto cars and Iveco trucks.

Fiat, Italy’s biggest manufacturer, dropped 15 percent in Milan trading, a record decline, on concern the company may have to raise capital after debt rose. Net income fell to 163 million euros ($212 million) in the quarter from 570 million euros a year earlier, the Turin-based company said in a statement. Source

Italy tries to streamline bureaucracy

2009-01-21T23:22:00.002-05:00

ROME: Italy, known for its unwieldy bureaucracy, is announcing ambitious plans to digitize government, school and law enforcement services over the next three years.

Premier Silvio Berlusconi unveiled the "E-Government 2012" measures Wednesday.

He said Italy is lagging far behind its European counterparts in reducing paperwork and bureaucracy by going online. As a result, public administration continues to run inefficiently. Continued

On Facebook, Sicilian Mafia Is a Hot Topic

2009-01-21T01:25:00.003-05:00

ROME — Your college roommate is on Facebook. So are your cousins and colleagues and friends. But guess who else may find Facebook a great way to stay in touch?

Some people in Sicily who know a few things about networking.

In recent weeks, the Italian authorities have begun investigating Facebook discussion groups devoted to convicted Mafiosi, concerned that some members might be more than fans.

At the same time, a campaign calling on Facebook to remove pro-Mafia pages has been gaining momentum, while thousands of Facebook members have joined new anti-Mafia groups. Continued

Giusy Ferreri - Novembre Video

2009-01-19T18:36:00.005-05:00

New video by Giusy Ferreri - Novembre

Giusy Ferreri is an Italian singer and songwriter. She originates from Palermo, Italy. In 2008, she came second place in the first Italian edition of the talent show X Factor

Bad Weather in Sicily and Calabria, Italy

2009-01-19T14:40:00.004-05:00

Bad weather in Sicily and Calabria, Southern Italy has resulted in damages to the agriculture, which will be a loss of tens of million euros. Consequences will be serious for the citrus sector, on cereals, greenhouse cultivations and on olive groves. More on This

Murder Trial Begins in Perugia, Italy

2009-01-18T10:00:00.003-05:00

The trial in Perugia, Italy has opened for the American college student, Amanda Knox, 21 and her former Italian boyfriend, Rafaelle Sollecito, 24. They are accused of murdering and sexually assaulting Ms. Knox's housemate, Meredith Kercher. Prosecutors contend that the pair, and a third defendant who has already been convicted, killed Ms. Kercher in 2007 when a drug-fueled sex game went bad. Contined

Sardinia, Italy

2009-01-13T21:55:00.007-05:00

The Bear's Stone. This is a beach near Palau, Sardinia in Italy.

Explore Sardinia

Hotels in Sardinia- Compare Prices

Holiday in Sardinia - Discovering the Capital CityBy [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Luca_Frau]Luca Frau
The island of Sardinia thanks to its rich and ancient past, ancestral cultures, pristine traditions, high quality food and wines and of course to its hospitable people, is a good destination for a culture holiday.
Every year a lot of tourists decide to plan an holiday in Sardinia considering only its wonderful coasts that make it one of the more suggestive islands of the Mediterranean sea. When they are spending their beach holidays there, they discover there are other features that deserve to be known.
Cagliari, the capital city, is one of the more interesting places of the whole southern Sardinia. The richness of its history, testified by several archaeological sites of the Roman era, the historical districts in the city center of the Medieval age, the seafront with its unique limestone cliff called La Sella del Diavolo (The saddle of the devil), the salt ponds with their spectacular flamingo population and declared protected areas, create an unique and fascinating ensemble.
The popular and religious traditions reach their top with the festival to honour Sant'Efisio, the Patron Saint, and every 1st May the Saint effigy is carried in procession through the streets of the city center respecting a very ancient vote.
The food tradition is based on simple recipes mostly inspired by the sea. The restaurants and taverns of the Marina district, close to the harbour, preserve and offer still today the old fishermen recipes such as "la minestra di fregola con arselle" (a soup made with a typical Sardinian pasta and clams), "la burrida" (made with local fresh fishes marinated in a nuts sauce), "lo scabecciu" (made with fried mullets marinated with tomato sauce and vinegar).
During the winter months is particularly appreciated the tasting of the sea urchins, served raw in the small taverns of the seafront with fresh white wine and home-made bread. It is a pleasant interlude during the winter walks on the sea shore.
Cagliari mostly offers to its visitors small accommodations such as mini-hotels on the seafront or nice Bed & Breakfasts in the historic districts of the city center. This kind of accommodations have a good quality, budget rates and a warm atmosphere.
Discover the capital city of Sardinia is the first step of an ideal culture tour. http://www.domus-tour.com/
Luca Frau
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Luca_Frau http://EzineArticles.com/?Holiday-in-Sardinia---Discovering-the-Capital-City&id=1779773

Air France-KLM buys stake in Alitalia

2009-01-13T21:47:00.001-05:00

ROME, Italy (CNN) -- The board of ailing Italian airline Alitalia has accepted an offer from Air France-KLM to buy 25 percent of the company and become its international partner, Alitalia announced Monday evening.
Air France-KLM, which will pay €323 million ($431 million), will be the biggest shareholder in Alitalia and will have three seats the 19-member board of directors, Alitalia said in a news conference in Rome.
Alitalia will keep its name, logo and uniforms. The airline will fly 22 fewer jets, but its 148-unit fleet will consist of younger planes, mostly from Airbus.
Passengers will be able to fly to 70 Alitalia destinations: 23 in Italy, 34 elsewhere in Europe and 13 on other continents. Continued

Italian Mafia Suspect Escapes Through Sewer Pipes

2009-01-13T21:41:00.002-05:00

ROME, Italy (CNN) -- The suspected head of an Italian mafia murder squad eluded police for a third time, and may have escaped through the sewer pipes, according to Italian media reports.
Italian police examine a sewer that may have offered an escape route for a suspected mafia boss.
Giuseppe Setola, 38, is believed to have slipped into a tunnel built under his hideout near Naples, Italy on Monday, as police closed in on him, according to Italy's state-run ANSA news agency and reports in the La Repubblica and Corriere Della Sera newspapers.
That tunnel connects to the sewer system in the nearby town of Caserta, north of Naples. Corriere published photos of anti-mafia police searching through what was described as Setola's trash-strewn bunker and the tunnel.
Anti-mafia police have been searching for Setola for months, and have already arrested his wife and two suspected members of his crew, according to the reports. Monday was the third time he avoided arrest. Continued

Sightseeing Attractions in Italy

2009-01-08T17:02:00.001-05:00

Many places you may consider going

Italy govt okay with Alitalia-Air France deal-source

2009-01-08T01:44:00.001-05:00

ROME, Jan 7 (Reuters) - The heads of the Italian consortium which has bought Alitalia on Wednesday told the goverment they preferred Air France-KLM as their foreign partner and were told that the government had nothing against it, a CAI source said.

"The meeting went well," a source at the CAI consortium said after the executives met with Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Continued

David Beckham Plays in Rome

2009-01-06T22:58:00.003-05:00

The Roma Captain, Francesco Totti, is thrilled with the stay of David Beckham in Italy. Beckham is playing in Rome on a loan from US side LA Galaxy, to prove to them that he's still the best fit player and regain his spot in England. Continued

Nilmar Move To Palermo Back On?

2009-01-06T14:56:00.002-05:00

Reports in Italy suggest that Brazilian striker Nilmar Honorato da Silva may be close to a move to Palermo despite the club claiming to have lost interest in him.

Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has been in negotiations with the player all year in order to bring him to Sicily, but nothing had materialized until now.

A few months ago it was reported that the president had sent sporting director Walter Sabatini to International on official business, in order to negotiate for the young Brazilian striker’s contract.

Nothing had come of those rumors and on Monday the sporting director denied any further interest in the forward, but now it looks like a deal may soon be agreed upon, with the transfer window open and clubs more willing to agree to a deal.

The denial of interest in Nilmar may have been enough to put the player into a more agreeable mood in the hope that a deal can be made before the end of the month. Continued

The World Champions Still No. 1

2007-05-16T14:06:00.000-04:00

According to FIFA, Italy has managed to hold the # 1 spot in the rankings. There were a few matches in April that affected the monthly rankings from over a four year span.

It brought Italy, the soccer world champions, to stay at the # 1 spot.

More on this story

Mt Etna -More Lava

2007-05-10T23:58:00.000-04:00

The volcano in Mount Etna, continues to register seismic tremors and lava continues to flow down the mountain. So far there aren't any threats for the residents in Catania, Sicily.

Palermo

2007-05-06T21:10:00.000-04:00

The best city you may consider visiting while vacationing in Sicily would be Palermo. Palermo has many beautiful churches and museums that attracts tourists every year. Some churches that are popular are: The Cathedral of Palermo, San Cataldo, La Martorana. Museums: Teatro Massimo, Teatro Politeama.
A building that you may want to see is Palazzo dei Normanni. Tourists are always fascinated by the architecture of this building. Quattro Canti is a small place that lies at the crossing of very ancient streets that divide the town into its quarters.
Palermo is also known very well for their famous designer boutiques. Shopping in Palermo is quite an experience, it will remind you of being on 5th Avenue in New York City or Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Some of the stores they have there are Gucci, Versace, Valentino, Armani, as well as many other stores. They have many exquisite jewelry stores.

The Cathedral of Palermo

Teatro Massimo

Teatro Politeama

My Experience Visiting Sicily

2007-05-05T23:02:00.000-04:00

Sicily is one of the best places to visit in the summer time. The temperature can reach up to as high as 110 F and it is all dry air, no humidity. I'm going to tell you about the first day I went to Sicily. The moment my plane landed at the airport ( Falcone Borsellino), also known as Punta Raisi in Palermo, I was amazed by the beautiful mountains that surrounded me. As my father was driving me and my mother to our town in San Giuseppe Jato, we drove taking the road leading to Trapani. We drove through the country side. Everywhere I looked there was farm land that went on for miles. Farming is how some Sicilians make their money. The farms grow crops of grapes that are used for making wine, and they also grow olives, tomatoes, watermelons, fig trees, etc... Getting back to my ride from the airport going to my parents hometown... When we entered San Giuseppe Jato, I was stunned to see how diverse the town looked from my home town in New York. It looked like nothing I've ever seen. Pretty much all the houses in Italy are made of cemented stone. Some houses were built many. many years ago and are lucky to be still standing. The buildings lie close together and the streets are very narrow. On every other block you will find cafe's and pizzerias. They also have many small boutiques that sell clothes. shoes, and other necessities.

Monte Jato

2007-05-05T22:08:00.000-04:00

Monte Jato lies on a mountain top in Sicily. It was founded by the Elymians or by the Sicans by early 1st century BC. Monte jato was known as the city of Iaitas in 1st century BC. In Roman times it was known as Ietas and in the Middle ages, as Giato. In mid- 6th century BC this city had influences from the Greeks. Evidence from public buildings show that this city was rich from 4th century BC and on. The Arabs, in 13th Century BC, going against Frederick the II palisaded themselves in the town causing a long siege that lasted until 1246. The city Giato was destroyed in ruins, sending its people to Lucera in Puglia. In 1971 many people from various towns helped dig up the ruins of this city.

Learn more about Monte Jato

These Photos Were taken while visiting Monte Jato.

The Theater

Bathroom

Much More To Sicily than the Mafia

2007-04-17T22:57:00.000-04:00

There is Much More to Sicily than the Mafia
Greece and Mediterranean Travel Centre’s Private Touring in Sicily
Sicily is the large island just off the toe of the boot of Italy. Unfortunately its modern reputation is rather unfairly based on its association with the Mafia rather than with the reality of an island with some of Italy’s most beautiful towns and cities, stunning scenery and unique history. If you have watched the SBS show Inspector Montalbano you would have a chance to see a lot of Sicily’s charm.
Sicily is the only part of Italy which can boast a combination of Greek, Roman and Islamic influence. Mt Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano is usually growling but sometimes erupts in spectacular fury. http://www.etravelblackboard.com/index.asp?id=63601&nav=9

2007-01-25T22:35:00.000-05:00

I Love Italian Wine and Food - The Sicily Region
By Levi Reiss

If you are looking for fine Italian wine and food, consider the Sicily region of southern Italy. You may find a bargain, and I hope that you’ll have fun on this fact-filled wine education tour.

Sicily is the football kicked by the Italian boot. It is an island in the Mediterranean Sea located off the southwest tip of Italy. Sicily was first inhabited about ten thousand years ago. Agriculture and animal raising date back well over four thousand years. Its rulers have included the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Germans, and Spaniards, among others. This mountainous region is prone to volcanoes and earthquakes; in 1908 an earthquake and subsequent tidal wave killed eighty thousand people in the coastal city of Messina. Sicily’s population is about five million, with an additional ten million people of Sicilian descent around the world.

Agricultural products include wheat, barley, corn, olives, citrus fruit, almonds, and, of course, grapes. Tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers are prominent in local cuisine. Sicily is Italy’s second region for organic food. Many think that the Arabs introduced pasta to Sicily, which subsequently introduced it to the rest of Italy. Cattle, mules, donkeys, and sheep are raised. Sicily claims to have invented meatballs, The seas surrounding Sicily are bountiful, favorites include sardines, tuna, and swordfish. Sicily is famous for desserts, including frozen treats made with snow from Mount Etna.

Sicilian heavy industry includes petro-chemicals, chemicals, mining, and electronics. Tourism is a major factor in the Sicilian economy. Did you know that the Valle dei Templi in Agrigento on the Mediterranean Sea has some of the finest Greek ruins on earth?

Palermo, arguably the world’s most conquered city, is Sicily’s capital with a population of a little under seven hundred thousand. It is a definite tourist destination, with its numerous historical churches, museums, theaters, and Italy’s largest botanical garden. Another urban tourist destination is Syracuse, dating back to Ancient Greece. The Greek writer Cicero described it as “The greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all.” Both earthquakes and World War II caused heavy damage, but many of the most interesting sites have been reconstructed.

Sicily devotes about a third of a million acres to grapevines, it ranks first among the 20 Italian regions. Its total annual wine production is about 213 million gallons, also giving it first place. If Sicily were an independent country, it would rank seventh in the world for wine production. About 54% of its wine production is red or rosé (only a bit of rosé), leaving 46% for white. The region produces 19 DOC wines. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. Only a little more than 2% of Sicilian wine carries the DOC designation. Sicily is home to over three dozen major and secondary grape varieties, with more white than red varieties.

Widely grown international white grape varieties include Malvasia and to a lesser extent, Chardonnay. The best-known strictly Italian white varieties are Catarratto, Grecanico, Inzolia, and Grillo. The first three of these varieties are blended in the wine reviewed below.

Widely grown international red grape varieties include Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The best-known strictly Italian red varieties are Nero d’Avola, Frappato, and Nerello Mascalese.

Before reviewing the Sicilian wine and cheese that we were lucky enough to purchase at a local wine store and a local Italian food store, here are a few suggestions of what to eat with indigenous wines when touring this beautiful region.
Start with Insalata di Finocchi, Arance Sanguigne de Olive; Fennel, Blood Orange, and Olive Salad.
As a second course try Pollo con Prosciutto e Melanzane Fritte; Braised Chicken with Proscuitto and Fried Eggplants.
For dessert indulge yourself with Cassata; Candied Fruit and Chocolate on Sponge Cake.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY While we have communicated with well over a thousand Italian wine producers and merchants to help prepare these articles, our policy is clear. All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Tasca d’Almerita ‘Regaleali’ Blanco 2005 IGT Sicilia 12.5% alcohol about $13

We’ll start by quoting the marketing materials. “Made with the local grapes Inzolia, Greciano, and Catarratto, this wine is matured only in stainless steel and is not put through acid-softening malolactic fermentation. The producer chooses this approach to retain the bright fruitiness and racy crispness of the wine. Enjoy with steamed mussels, chicken or summer salads.” And now for my thoughts on the wine.

I first tasted this wine with broiled chicken burgers accompanied by a hot pepper relish, and red peppers. The wine was light, perhaps a bit intimidated by the relish. It was delicate, but not weak. When I finished my glass with the red peppers, the wine was quite fruity and sweet.

I next tried this wine with fillet of sole poached in an onion sauce, accompanied by brown rice and okra in a tomato sauce. The wine tasted light and citrusy in the presence of the fish, and was more powerful when facing the rice and the okra. I finished that meal with fresh pomegranate. The wine became sweet and acidic, but did not take on new flavors.

Isola is a Sicilian fresh cheese made from sheep’s milk. The Isola cheese was powerful, strong smelling and strong tasting, especially when you crunched into a peppercorn. Unfortunately, the cheese overpowered this relatively light wine. In contrast, when paired with an Asiago cheese from northern Italy, the wine became quite full bodied and fruity. Sometimes rules such as local wines with local cheeses are meant to be broken. I had a bit of wine left over and finished the bottle with out-of-season strawberries. They brought out the wine’s complexity and softness.

Final verdict, in spite of its low official rating, I found the wine pretty good. I would buy it again, but avoid pairing it with strong-tasting food.

Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet, but to be honest, he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. His wine website is http://www.theworldwidewine.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Reiss
http://EzineArticles.com/?I-Love-Italian-Wine-and-Food---The-Sicily-Region&id=356912

2007-01-22T20:54:00.000-05:00

Buying a Holiday Home in Italy
By Rhiannon Williamson

January is traditionally the time of year when we spend most time looking at holiday brochures and planning our summer break. It’s because the weather is cold, the mood at work is subdued and all the fun of the festive season has left us wanting more excitement.

Well, what could be more exciting that looking at prospectuses and websites for holiday homes for sale in one of the most romantic and stunningly beautiful parts of the world instead - namely Italy?

Indeed, Italy has one of the top ten tourism based economies in the world according to the World Travel and Tourism Council and this fact comes as no surprise because the nation has just so much appeal. On the one hand it has 7,600 km of Mediterranean kissed coastline – that’s almost as much as Spain and France…put together! It has historic cities in abundance from Pisa to Venice, from Florence to Rome, it has a dramatically rolling rural interior, shopping, culture, art and fine cuisine in abundance…and what’s more, its property market in many areas of the country offers up affordable holiday home stock.

Sure – locations such as Umbria and Tuscany have become overpriced and overpopulated with British buyers of rural, rundown renovation projects turning these regions into highly desirable, very refined havens! But if that sort of atmosphere doesn’t take your fancy or the inflated price tags don’t fit your budget then fear not. Instead look to neighbouring regions and lesser explored areas, move a little further away from the airports serviced by cheap flight operators from across Europe and you’ll suddenly fund an abundance of diverse property stock, some of which will most certainly appeal to your tastes and finances!

Consider Abruzzo, Puglia and Molise for as much charm and beauty as Tuscany or look to the western coast especially the Amalfi coast for the most stunning locations in all of Europe. For accessible city break locations, all of the famous northern cities have good international airport links, a wealth of apartment stock and some of the best restaurants and historic sites, shopping haunts and cultural delights in the world!

If you’re worried about getting a return on your holiday home in Italy then get an apartment in a city, a coastal villa or a rural retreat offering seclusion but stunning views and you have a gold mine of an investment asset that you can let long or short term and then enjoy yourself whenever the mood takes you for a getaway in a romantic setting where the air is clear, the climate is kind, the views are stunning and the nature of the land is passionate and beautiful.

Rhiannon Williamson writes about buying property abroad and international investment property worldwide, to read more about property in Italy visit her site http://www.shelteroffshore.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rhiannon_Williamson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Buying-a-Holiday-Home-in-Italy&id=404003

Destination Italy

2006-10-09T11:50:00.000-04:00

Destination Italy
By Vivek Kuriyal

An Italian holiday destination is invariably something remarkable to look forward to. Tourists just keep getting attracted to the country which perhaps has the richest and fullest history. Many find it to be one of the most colorful and vibrant places where the food, the culture, the total ambiance and the surrounding scenery makes for an exciting and excellent holiday destination. You will feel spoiled for choice and have difficulty in picking out which one is a better tourist attraction from amongst the many attractions that Italy offers.

Apart from Rome, Florence in the centre of Italy is one place which a tourist will love to visit. People like to get a view of Brunelleschi’s dome on the Duomo but ensure that they do not miss seeing Michelangelo’s statue of David. Though Florence is an all year destination, the actual fun is to be there in summer, which is the height of the tourist season. It is considered a good idea to plan your sightseeing in Florence so as to get the most from your trip. A free town plan and a list of museum opening times and prices from the Tourist Information Office, opposite the station can be picked up to aid one in planning out his tour. Keep in mind that some museums and galleries open only in the morning, while others are closed one or two days a week.

A visitor is rarely disappointed on a tour to Italy. Every tourist is attracted to something in particular. Some like the pizza, some are taken in by the ruins, while others admire the great works of art, the hot beaches and handsome youths are a favorite with the ladies and of course, some come to taste the good wine. One point a tourist should keep in mind on Italy tours is to be open and receptive which will ensure that you will get more than you had dreamed of.

http://www.stayresitaly.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vivek_Kuriyal

Wandering Italy to consider making Rome their home

2006-10-09T11:48:00.000-04:00

By Simon Evans

MILAN, Oct 9 (Reuters) - Italian soccer officials are to consider making Rome's Olympic stadium the permanent home for their World Cup-winning team, ending the tradition of playing games around the country.

But the suggestion could cause a political row in Italy, where there are strong regional identities, while Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has already criticised the luke-warm support for the team in Rome.Click here for more on this story

Lost on Mt Etna: 17 Maltese rescued

2006-10-09T11:44:00.000-04:00

Seventeen Maltese tourists, whose age varies from 22 to 40 years, were yesterday rescued after having lost their way while on an excursion on Mount Etna, Sicily, La Repubblica reported in its on-line edition last night.

Earlier, the online edition of the daily newspaper La Sicilia reported that the Maltese nationals had themselves phoned for assistance after losing their way in the area known as Piano Vetore, 2,050 metres above sea level, on the southern side of the mountain.click here for more on this story

Marcello Lippi

2006-09-14T19:40:00.000-04:00

Marcello Lippi has denied suggestions he is to return to the Italy set-up in a supervisory capacity.

Lippi led Italy to World Cup glory this summer, but resigned from his position shortly afterwards.

However, his successor Roberto Donadoni has not had the best of starts, with two defeats and a draw in his first three games in charge.
Click here for more on this story

Travel To Italy And Experience Europe

2006-05-23T11:36:00.000-04:00

by Frank Johnson

If you want to experience Europe, you need to travel to Italy. No other country on earth offers the depth, breadth, and scope of Italy. For lovers of art, history, architecture, or music Italy is unsurpassable. From the Ancient Roman Empire to the Medieval Tuscan fortress towns and the Venetian Republic, Italy's incredible historical diversity has come together to produce a country so incredible, so remarkable, so beautiful as to leave the visitor with an unquenchable desire to return again and again. The legacy of the Renaissance and its masterpieces of art, music, and architecture have left such a tangible mark on the Italian soul one can barely help being swept along in the tide of culture. If you're a lover of nature, there are majestic mountains, crystal seas, rolling hills, fertile plains, sweeping cliffs, and magical lagoons, you need to travel to Italy. More on this story

Traveling in Italy: The Amalfi Coast

2006-05-21T19:46:00.000-04:00

Traveling in Italy: The Amalfi Coast
By Alice Flowers

If you were to make a list of the most beautiful places to visit in the world, then the Amalfi coast in Italy would have to be in the top ten category.

This is the coast which is famous for hairpin turns, breathtaking views, sweet lemons (I mean sweet) charming hotels and picturesque towns.

The Amalfi Coast is situated in the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula of Italy. The best way to visit the coast is to fly to Naples, rent a car and drive down to Sorrento. If you make Sorrento your base camp, you can spend several days visiting the jewel towns of the Amalfi Coast at your leisure.

Start in Sorrento and drive to Positano. It is best to carry a Michelin map with you to avoid getting lost.

Before you arrive in Positano, you might want to stop at Positano Belvedere; a vantage point on the road that allows you to see the town of Positano in the distance. The view is breathtaking.

When you arrive in Positano, stop and walk around town. Chances are you have seen it in commercials. Once a small fishing village, it is now popular with the international crowd and some celebrities who stay at Positano’s 4 and 5 star hotels.

Most houses look like small boxes painted white with bougainvilleas growing along the walls.

After Positano, continue to Vertica Maggiore, and then Furore del Valle, another gem of a town. Near by is the Emerald Grotto. An emerald color cave only reachable by boat. The water of the Tyrrhenian Sea, enters the cave and the sun takes care of the rest.

Continue to the town of Amalfi and Ravello. Ravello also has unforgettable views.
In Ravello, you will see white washed houses perched on the hills with gardens planted with vines, lemon and olive trees. It is a major tourist destination, the beauty of the city, and its charm, has inspired its inhabitants and guests for centuries.

Things to see:

Ravello:

Villa Rudolfo

Villa Cimbrone

Cathedral

Amalfi:

St Andrea Cathedral

Cloisters of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso)

Dining in the region:

Sorrento and the Amalfi coast are situated in the Campania region, and typical southern dishes are likely to appear on the menus. Among those are pizza, pasta, tomatoes, eggplant, mozzarella cheese, seafood and citrus fruits.

If you have ever had tomato and mozzarella salad, you will surely have it there. It is called “Insalata Caprese” named after the Island of Capri. The famous San Marzano plum tomatoes that grow in the region, together with silky soft buffalo mozzarella cheese, olive oil and basil, will surely make a delightful dish.

And let’s not forget the wines. The region is rich in volcanic soil, an ideal medium to grow grapevines, and although wines from this region are not well known internationally, they are just as good as more popular Italian varieties. Wine at lunch and dinner is usually served in small carafes, but you can also order wines by the bottle.

Don’t forget to finish your meal with a cup of dark espresso just as most Italians do.

Resources:

If you decide to go, arm yourself with a good map and a good guide book. My favorite travel guides are Frommers and Michelin. You can find them at any major bookstore.
Italians are a friendly people by nature and driving around the area should not be difficult even if you don’t speak Italian.

This article may be reproduced only in its entirety.

Alice Flowers is a former airline employee and now writes articles on travel.
Visit the author's website at: http://www.traveltips101.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Flowers

2006-05-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

A Memorable Sailing Itinerary
By Isabella DeRobertis

Life on board is relaxing and it provides unforgettable experiences since reaching some of Sicily’s most beautiful cities by yacht does not provide the same sensations as when landing in by aeroplane or driving in by car. The best way to begin a sailing tour around Sicily is from the historical centre on the Island of Ortigia, Syracuse. The base port in Syracuse is situated on the eastern coast of Sicily and is one of Sicily’s main attractions due to its archaeological zone and historical testimony and also being a centre of industry and commerce.

Moreover, the broad waterfront of the Island of Ortigia, is an ideal place from which to appreciate the unique panoramic view of Porto Grande that witnessed great battles and it is ideal for a point of departure for a sailing Sicily tour. Syracuse has two ports to yachting, the main one being Porto Grande and the other one being Porto Piccolo (otherwise known as Porto Marmoreo). The most profitable thing was that the Sleep in Sicily travel agency offered us a 50% discount the night before embarkation and the night of disembarkation for the chosen bed and breakfast in its franchising.

Syracuse and its Province attract tourists for the high quality tourist services, beautiful coasts and historical remains; moreover the area’s scenery and architecture provide a spectacular backdrop. Amongst the most famous marine localities are Noto, Avola, Capo Passero, Fontane Bianche, Arenella, Marzamemi, Brucolii e Angone Bagni.

On the sailing yacht heading south from Syracuse and surpassing Cape Murro di Porco, one will arrive to the outstanding protected marine nature reserve of Plemmirio (Maddalena Peninsula). Plemmirio faces Ortigia and apart from nesting Greek remains, it boasts enchanting caves and a seabed rich in fauna typical of the Mediterranean hence making it ideal for divers. Moreover its landscape is marked by typical Mediterranean vegetation, especially by the dwarf palm tree. Proceeding coastwise, one reaches the beautiful sandy beach of Arenella, then Fonatne Bianche bay, to then proceed to Avola coast, which is the extension of the town Avola where typical prehistoric Sicilian tombs are found. The itinerary continued to Marina di Noto, which is the seaside extension of Noto, otherwise known as the Baroque City and is also listed in UNESCO world heritage. Along the coast south of Siracusa is the superb Vendicari nature reserve, which is southernmost of all Italian reserves made up of marshy areas and various sea outlets; hence it is an area rich in flora and fauna.

Proceeding along the coast, one reaches the charming and quiet seafaring village of Marzamemi (from Arab meaning harbour of doves) equipped with berthing facilities, to then proceed to visit the nearby Pachino with the Cave of Calafarina amongst its natural attractions and to taste the Mediterranean cuisine decorated with the famous Pachino tomatoes. From Pachino one can proceed to the Southeastern end of Sicily, Capo Passero that is a paradise for divers, ideal for a relaxing holiday and excellent for historical sightseeing. In front of Portopalo there is the little Island of Capo Passero and right between the isle and Sicily is the strategic point for tunny fishing and an attraction for bird watching. Furthermore, for those who wish to sail farther, at a distance of 90 km there is the beautiful Island of Malta with its archipelago to wonder about the Islands' prehistory remains, go back over the footsteps of St Paul and find out where the Knights of St John defended Christendom.

This is only a page of our onboard diary and cannot wait to embark again!

For more details on SICILY CHARTER, SAILING AROUND SICILY, SAILING YACHTS here: http://www.sicilycharter.blogspot.com/

For more details on SICILY TOUR, SICILY HOTELS, SICILY TRAVEL here: http://www.sleepinsicily.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Isabella_DeRobertis

2006-05-12T11:41:00.000-04:00

Oil workers freed in Nigeria

ROME (AP) - Three oil workers kidnapped in Nigeria have been released, the Italian energy company Eni SPA said Friday.

Eni spokesman Gianni Di Giovanni told private TV Sky Italia that the three were...

Click here for more

Conquering Sicily: Welcome to an island for everyone

2006-04-25T21:38:00.000-04:00

BY ALAN SOLOMON / Chicago Tribune

PALERMO, Sicily — “Palermo’s the most-conquered city in history. First the Phoenicians, the Romans, Carthaginians, Byzantines, then came the Arabs, the Spaniards and the Neopolitans. Now comes ... the American Army!” — George C. Scott, from a Jeep, in “Patton.” The Normans. Don’t forget the Normans. Or the Greeks, Vandals, Goths, Swabians, Aragonese, Savoyans, Austrians (in a trade for Sardinia and future considerations) and, finally, the Italians, through annexation via a referendum that was probably rigged.

Story Continued

Italian Delicious Food

2006-03-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

Italian Food-Buon Appetito!
By Juliana De Angelis

The pleasures and love of Italian cuisine are known the world over. Italian cookery and recipes vary from region to region, and on the whole it is very healthy and nutritious, using natural ingredients that are in season.

Most traditonal and 'speciality' dishes as we know today, are on the whole derived from simple peasant cookery, for example the Pizza, which could be found a couple of centuries ago on the streets of Naples being sold by street vendors to those that had no cooking facilities of their own at home.

Although there are essential ingredients that every Italian kitchen should have, (including basil, garlic and olive oil!), the most important ingredients are passion and creativity.

Italians take great pride and pleasure in their food, and cooking and eating habits can vary from region to region, even from village to village. Each place has their own unique dishes and ingredients, and even the traditional dishes that are so popular all over Italy are cooked in different ways depending which region you go to. For example, if you eat a lasagne from Naples, it doesn't have the bechamel sauce as you would expect in the more traditional lasagne. It also has small meatballs (or polpette)as oppposed to mince, and also salami and eggs.

The different regional cooking depends on a number of factors, not only as to what ingredients are most abundant each region, but also historical factors. Naples, for example, was founded by the Greeks, and this had some influence on the Neapolitan way of life. Not only in the language and music, but also in the cookery.

Traditional Italian Menu

Antipasto (Appetizer) e.g. salami, or bruschetta

Primo Piatto (First Course) usually pasta or gnocchi

Secondo Piatto (Second Course) usually meat or fish

Contorno (Side Dish) vegetables or salad to accompany the meat

Dolci (Sweet) Fresh fruit is usually eaten as the preferred option

Bread is also usually always eaten alongside the meal.

North of Italy

Some original and unique types of ingredients and cooking originated from the north; Balsamic vinegar (Modena), pesto (Liguria), and tortellini (Bologna) to name but a few! Other food characteristically eaten in the North is Polenta, that can be eaten in many different ways, e.g fried and even in a polenta cake. Dishes in the North tend to be a bit 'heavier' than that in the South, (think the ingredients used for Spaghetti Carbonara compared to the classic healthier and lighter tomato sauces of the South!)

Central Italy

Central Italy is very diverse, and such regions as Rome, Florence and have little in common. Some examples to be found all around central Italy are Porchetta (pig stuffed with rosemary and fennel), pork, lamb, black truffles and porcini mushrooms.

South Italy

Characterized by the abundance use of fish, aubergines, peppers, olives, the spicy ingredient pepperoncino, and first and foremost the tomato, which has a huge industry in Naples. In the Naples and Campania regions, there is some Spanish and French influence to be found in the cookery. Pizza and pasta are especially popular and traditional, the Pizza Margherita having been born in Naples. In Apulia, they have a diet rich in fish (mussels and oysters being a speciality)and vegetables. The orecchiette (little ears)pasta is also from Apulia.

Buon Appetito!

Juliana de Angelis is a travel writer about Italy...read more articles, travel guides and information about Italy, its people and culture at her website:

http://www.madaboutitaly.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Juliana_De_Angelis

Discount Lodging in Rome - Choose the Right One

2006-03-02T11:56:00.000-05:00

How to Choose Discount Lodging in Rome
By Abhinav Sharma

In order to find discount lodging in Rome, one needs to first become familiar with the term pension. A pension is like a hotel, only it tends to be smaller. In addition, the price of the room at a pension includes the price of meals.

Some tourists who seek discount lodging have chosen to request mezza pension, which means half-pension. This means that the tourist will pay for eating at the pension for only one meal a day (in addition to breakfast). Whichever arrangement the tourist selects, she or he is guaranteed a comfortable accommodation with an informal atmosphere.

Once the visitor to Rome has located good, discount lodging, then she or he will want to take-in the City’s many sights. Plan any sightseeing with an eye to the discovery of Rome’s many churches and museums. Moreover, do not forget to include a trip to the Colosseum.

The visitor to Rome might want to spend some time within the discount lodging reading-up on one or more of the places that could be part of a sightseeing expedition. One way to get a feel for ancient Rome is by reading Emperors and Gladiators by Thomas Wiedemann. This book offers a very positive picture of early Roman civilization. Anyone who has read this book will realize that the Colesseum did more than just pandering to the masses.

Rome has so much to see that one is foolish not to obtain a map. The visitor to Rome should then study that map, most likely within the confines of some discount lodging.
The map should show where the tourist’s accommodation sits, in relation to Rome’s monuments, churches, museums and other places of interest (such as the catacombs).

Once the tourist has chosen the places of interest that she or he wants to visit during a tour of Rome, then that tourist should consult with the operators of the discount lodging regarding the best mode of transportation. A tourist can view Rome on foot, by autobus, by underground or by taxi.

As the tourist departs from his or her discount lodging, that traveler will probably be unprepared for the true wonder of Rome. That first exposure to Rome has left an impression on many travelers. Fenimore Cooper wrote that when he first saw Rome he felt like a compatriot who first visits town, perplexed with the whirl of sensations and the multiplicity of the objects.

A tour through Rome is like paying a visit to another time. It is a way to have a close-hand look at the magnificent skills of the ancient architects, sculptors, and painters. It forces the tourist to re-examine his or her perception of Rome. It will leave that tourist with the desire to return and to plan for a longer stay at some sort of discount lodging.

About the Author – Rome Hotels Italy is an online hotel booking website for Rome hotels that provides high discounted rates for online booking. You can also search for all available hotels in Rome as per your dates of travel
http://www.rome-hotels-italy.co.uk
http://www.rome-hotels-italy.co.uk/search-your-hotel.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Abhinav_Sharma

Fall Of The Roman Empire

2006-03-02T11:52:00.000-05:00

Why Rome Fell
By Lloyd Johns

Unfortunately, nowadays we have only one opportunity to get to know the information about historical events of certain period of the past. This opportunity is to read the encyclopedias and historical books. But who knows for sure what really was the reason of the fall of the Rome?
History is very fascinating subject. We should be very much obliged to those people, who decided to write down about all events, which had happened and to those people, who started publishing historical books. So, we have another great opportunity – to study the theory and to think over it.

Let us focus our attention on the last period or “The End of Roman Empire”. We know that the long reign of Valentinian III was marked by two events of first-rate importance – the conquest of Africa by the Vandals and the invasion of Gaul and Italy by Attila. Attila invaded Gaul in 451. Nearly a century had passed since the Huns first appeared in Europe and drove the Goths to seek shelter within Roman lines. Attila was now the ruler of a great empire in central and northern Europe and, in addition to his own Huns, the German Tribes along the Rhine and Danube and far away to the north owned him as king. He confronted the roman power as an equal; and, unlike the Gothic and Vandal chieftains, he treated with the emperors of East and West as an independent sovereign. His advance on Gaul and Italy threatened, not the establishment of one more barbaric chieftain on Roman soil, but the subjugation of the civilized and Christian West to the rule of a heathen and semi-barbarous conqueror.

But the Visigoths in Gaul, Christian and already half Romanized, rallied to the aid of the Empire against a common foe. Attila, defeated at Chalons by Aetius, withdrew into Pannonia. In the next year he overran Lombardy, but penetrated no father south, and in 453 year died. With the murder of Valentinian III the western branch of the house of Theodosius came to an end, and the next 20 years witnessed the accession and deposition of nine emperors. After Valentinian III was Maximus. Under the three months’ rule of Maximus, the Vandals under Gaiseric invaded Italy and sacked Rome. From 456-472 the actual ruler of Italy was Ricimer, the Suebe. Of the four emperors whom he placed on the throne, Majorian (457-461) alone played any imperial part outside Italy. Ricimer died in 472, and two years later a Pannonian, Orestes, attempted to fill his place. He deposed Julius Nepos and proclaimed as Augustus his own son Romulus.

But the barbarian mercenaries in Italy determined to secure for themselves a position there such as this: which their kinsfolk had won in Gaul and Spain and Africa. Their demand for a third of the lands of Italy was refused by Orestes, and they instantly rose in revolt. On the defeat and death of Orestes they proclaimed their leader, Odoacer the Rugian, king of Italy. Romulus Augustulus laid down his imperial dignity, and the court at Constantinople was informed that there was no longer an emperor of the West.

It is evident, that a lot of events were reasons for the crash of the Rome and its downfall was inevitable, but it is the law of the history: some places, towns, cities, countries are ruined and destroyed and some are founded.

Lloyd Johns was a professional freelance writer for 13 years.
Now he is a technical writer, advertising copywriter, & website copywriter for Custom Written Essays Network

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lloyd_Johns

Italy continued

2006-03-02T11:48:00.000-05:00

Italy - I Truly Always Love You
By Sardool Sikandar

Italy or Repubblica Italiana or Italia is a country in Southern Europe. Italy is nicknamed as “Boot” because of its boot like geographical shape. Italy is a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia.

The independent countries of San Marino and the Vatican City are located within the Italian territory. Italy shares its northern alpine boundary with France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia.

Italian is the official language, and the Eternal City-Rome is the capital and the largest city of Italy.

Italy is one of the top tourist spots in the world. Tourism is one of the corner stones of Italian economy. The tourism trade is also flourishing in Northern Italy on the Italian Riviera, in the Alps (including the Dolomites), on the shores of its beautiful lakes (Lago Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Garda), and in Venice. Gran Paradiso that rises in Valle d'Aosta, is the highest peak wholly situated within Italy.

The country has exquisite scenic beauty—the majestic Alps in the north, the soft and undulating hills of Umbria and Tuscany, and the romantically rugged landscape of the S Apennines. The Bay of Naples, dominated by Mt. Vesuvius, is one of the world's most famous sights.

Monument to king Vittorio Emanuele II, Rome, Villa Badoer by Andrea Palladio, Trulli houses in Alberobello, Boboli Gardens, Florence, Ponte Fabricio, Isola Tiberina, Rome, Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Rifugio Laghi Gemelli are the main attractions of Italy.

The italy vacation, golf vacation italy and italy vacation packages are hotly pursued all over the globe. The hotels in italy are one of the known ones in the world. The majority of hotels are located at the best places in Italy.

If you are planning for italy vacation, italyhotelbookings.info can help you find best hotels in italy. The website offers tons of info italy hotel, rome italy hotel, florence italy hotel, venice italy hotel and italy hotel reservation. It also carries info on vacation rental italy and vacation home italy.

About Author: The author is the owner of website Italy Hotel Bookings, a comprehensive guide on hotels in italy, offering tons of info and tips to take italy hotel, rome italy hotel, florence italy hotel, venice italy hotel etc. You can get useful information about italy hotels from his site.

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Travel Italy - Italian Art and Architecture

2006-02-28T11:44:00.000-05:00

Travel Italy - Highlights of Italian Art and Architecture
By Michelle Linden

Every year millions of visitors trek through Italy in search of ancient culture, great food, art, architecture, and more. The allure is immediate even to those who have never been.

There is more art and architecture to see in Italy than one person could possibly
experience in a lifetime. Rome, Florence, and Venice alone offer an unending array
of design excursions. Highlighted here are some of the must see designs of both
ancient and modern Italy. Talk a trip, bring a sketch book, and see the gorgeous art
and design that is synonymous with Italian life.

The Coliseum - An architectural marvel, the coliseum was built beginning
in 72 A.M. Originally used as a source of entertainment (usually forced barbaric
combat) the Coliseum is still an amazing site. Strangely, although it could be
considered a source of embarrassment of the past, it has been come to known as
one of the ultimate icons of ancient Roman greatness. Location: the Piazza del
Colosseo, Via dei Fori Imperiali, Rome

Vatican City - This tiny country is perhaps one of the most remarkable
aspects of Rome. Vatican City is the heart of Catholicism, both spiritually and
politically. St. Peter himself was crucified on this spot, and St. Peter's basilica was
built directly above the ancient hill. Both the Basilica and St. Peter's square are still
studied today in architecture and art history classes. You can wander the Vatican
Museums for days, including a visit to the Sistine Chapel, to see some of the true
masterpieces of Roman art. Location: Entry through Saint Peter's Square, Rome

Il Duomo (The Cathedral of Santa Maria Dei Fiori) - Il Duomo is considered
by many to be the grandest achievement in Renaissance architecture. The octagonal
dome, originally designed by Brunelleschi was the largest in the world when built.
Since then, Il Duomo , which took nearly six centuries to complete, has become
Florence's symbol. Climb the 414 steps of the bell tower, and Renaissance Florence
will be laid before you. Location: Piazza del Duomo, Florence.

Piazza San Marco - Piazza San Marco is still studied today by architects
and urban planners as one of the most beautiful and successful public squares. The
square is surrounded by cafes, shops, and of course the Campanile and St. Peter's
Basilica. Visitors and locals alike sip espresso in its cafes, meet to talk, and climb
the Campanile to see an amazing view of Venice. Location: Piazza San Marco, with
the Basilica at the wider end, Venice.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection - In a city world reknown for its
ancient art and architecture, the Guggenheim Collection houses one of the greatest
collections of modern art. her collection includes works by Pollack, Picasso, Klee,
Rothko, Chagall, Mondrian, and more. There is also a gorgeous sculpture garden
housing even more works. Location: Calle Venice dei Leoni, Dorsoduro, Venice.

The Brion Vega Cemetery - The Brion Vega is considered one of Carlo
Scarpa’s masterpieces. Scarpa was and still is often considered the premier modern
Italian architect. The memorial is a great concrete and landscaped form if rectilinear,
stepping, and sculptural concrete elements. It is an amazing pilgrimage for the
architecture buff. Location: San Vito d’Altivole.

You can wander Italy for ages and never take in all of the art and architecture. Still,
the sites listed above are some of the must sees for lovers of art, architecture, and
travel. Open your eyes and see the Italian design that has been around for centuries,
and that which continues to flourish today.

Michelle is a travel buff who has recently moved away from Hawaii, but is
anxiously awaiting the day when she can return. In the meantime, she occupies her
time by helping others compare and select vacation options.

Your Life Passion - Specialty Travel, Guided Tours, Vacation Rentals, Spa Resorts and More!

Also read Travel Oahu - Experience Hawaii Like a Local

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Linden

14 Sicilian Mobsters Caught By FBI

2006-02-28T11:37:00.000-05:00

14 Major Mobsters Caught By FBI
By Lance Winslow

Fourteen major mobsters have been arrested by the Chicago FBI. All are considered devout Catholics and had been extremely active in the Catholic Church. Some believe that the huge amounts of money they had donated in their lifetimes helped them go without prosecution or arrest for most of their lives. The group arrested in many states has alleged to have killed 18 people, but had also been pillars to the community and church donating millions to the Catholic causes. Of those arrested were; Joey "the Clown" Lombardo, Frank "the German" Schweihs, Frank "Gumba" Saladino. Many of the 18 mob murders that stretch back over four decades; had gone unsolved almost forgotten.

The Chicago Cardinal of the Catholic Church Francis George was not picked up as part of the investigation and arrests. He returned to Chicago after visiting the new Pope, but was not arrested. There are many FBI agents in Chicago who are in the Catholic Church and some feel this may have been the reason that once again the Catholic Church squeaked by without arrests of the Cardinal. If you will recall, Cardinal Law of Boston, fled prosecution and went to Vatican as a fugitive and was re-assigned similar to how he re-assigned Child Molesting Priests from parish to parish so they could repeat their molesting of parishioners children.

The mobsters were careful to align themselves with the Catholic Church and many mobsters although quite corrupt in their business dealings helped contribute to the Catholic Church through custom and culture. Many of these families were have roots all the way back to Sicily and have rich Italian backgrounds. The Catholic Church allowed for anonymity and offered forgiveness in exchange for the dirty cash donations to run the expensive costs of the church.

Many are quick to point out that even though much of the Catholic Church’s mob money donations came from the exploitation of people, black mail, drugs and protection extortion monies that were there by laundered into a more legitimate stream ended up doing good for the communities and downtrodden. Others believe the hypocrisy of the Catholic Church in taking mob monies is typical and similar to their blind eye and turning a their heads to the known child molestation of two-thousand plus years. As for the victims, well many are dead, murdered or paid to shut up. This includes police, politicians and businessmen.

Did the Catholic Church help the FBI and turn in the old mobsters, many of whom are now over 60 years old? Some may not even be able to stand trial or live to serve their sentences, if in fact they are actually convicted. Can the mobsters trust the Catholic Church after all these years of accepting blood money for silence? Will the new mob families go after these Priests, Clergy and Cardinals for their help with the FBI? Will the FBI keep their testimonies in secrecy? Does this mean the Catholic Church is turning a new leaf over their acceptance of dirty money, which has caused so much hardship and pain for the City of Chicago? If the Catholic Church is ridding themselves of their dirty deeds and crime links? Does this mean they will now oust the child molesters, which are still in their ranks, pulling down the pants of our children and having their way with them?

We shall see if in fact the help of the Catholic Church and secret tips to the FBI are a new pattern of truth and leadership under the new Pope Benedict who is now in charge of the a Church which has betrayed their parishioners trust. Obviously at this point we cannot elaborate more on the links between the Catholic Church and the old time mobsters caught this week by the FBI or participation and helpful information given by the church leading to the arrests. The case is still going and interference in a Federal Investigation is illegal. We ask you; should the Cardinal in Chicago be forced to resign or arrested for his ongoing association with the Mob in the windy city? Think about it.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

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Evil Eye Began in Sicily

2006-02-28T11:32:00.000-05:00

What is the Evil Eye?
By Samantha Stevens

The Evil Eye has been around since the beginning of time. It simply means sending someone a thought that seems intrusive or invasive or has the power to hurt him or her. The bad fortune that results is considered to have been caused by envy. The evil eye is not necessarily considered to be intentional or associated with witchcraft or sorcery. Oddly enough, this thought form could actually be complimentary in nature. The origins of the Evil Eye are Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean. The concept was introduced into the Americas, South Pacific Islands, Asia, Africa and Australia by European explorers.

Sending someone the evil eye comes from the concept that we all have a Third Eye, located in the center of our forehead. Blinding, fogging or obscuring the third eye is often the intent of the energy’s sender. Most of us have experienced the weird power of the phenomenon. All it takes is a gaze that seems to be unfriendly, indifferent or blank and seems to a couple of seconds too long. We think about it for a few minutes afterwards or perhaps an image of the person staring at us preoccupies our thoughts occasionally for the rest of the day. Perhaps that is why the British and Scottish term for the “evil eye” is “overlooking.” It implies that a gaze has remained too long upon the coveted object, person or animal.

The evil eye is also known as the envious or invidious eye. In Italian it is called the malocchio and in Spanish the malojo (loosely translated as the bad eye) The evil eye is known as ayin horeh in Hebrew; ayin harsha in Arabic, droch shuil in Scotland, mauvais oeil in France, bösen Blick in Germany, and was known as oculus malus among the classical Romans.

The original belief is that any person can harm your children, livestock, fruit trees or any other evidence of prosperity just by looking at the spoils of all your good will and hard work with envy. Ironically, the curse of the evil eye is thought to be provoked by inappropriate displays of spiritual pride or excessive beauty. There is a theory that very famous people and celebrities suffer more personal misfortune than others simply because they are subjected to more “overlooking” and envy than others.

This superstition might have some grounding in evolutionary psychology as usually one animal is thought to dominate or be aggressive to another simply by staring at it for too long. Psychologically speaking, staring or glaring at someone is officially considered an intrusion into your affairs. Apparently, there is a fine line between casting a glance to casting a spell. In these post Celestine Prophecy times, this kind of stare could be compared to a kind of etheric laser beam or amoebic arm that rips open your aura. Others would describe the infliction of the evil eye as the projection of an image (such as the image of the person you have offended or hurt) so that you see only that to the exclusion of all other sight. In other words, you see that person wherever you go or feel that your life’s events are always colored by your dealing with that person. Another symptom is the inability to proceed with ordinary, daily events without feeling somehow compelled to make things right with the person you have often unknowingly offended with your grandiosity.

It is common folklore that the evil eye has a dehydrating effect on its victim. It is thought to cause vomiting, diarrhea, the drying up of the milk of nursing mothers and livestock, problems with the blood, eyesight lack of rain, the drying up of wells, the withering of fruit and impotence in men. Clumsiness, stomachaches, dry coughs, diarrhea, itching, hair loss, dry skin are all thought to be physical symptoms of an evil eye attack e. On the astral level it is thought to cause the drying up of prana, chi, life force and the easy flow of prosperity in life. Part of this image might derive from the idea also, of muddy, murky or poisoned vision that is somehow attached to the victim’s third eye.

Almost everywhere that the evil eye belief exists, it is said to be caused accidentally by envy or praise. Thus the phrase “Pride Goeth Before a Fall” In certain Mediterranean and eastern cultures, one is careful not to praise a child too much, lest it invite the subconscious balancing effect of the evil eye. A classic situation would be the barren woman who praises the newborn baby of a new child. Such praise would be considered inappropriate and thought to bring the evil child. One of the remedies for this would be for the mother to spit, to symbolically “rehydrate” the situation. Also, she may speak ill of the child OT counteract the effects of the praise, which might have malefic effects on the child later.

The belief that individuals have the power to cast the evil eye on purpose is more idiosyncratic to Sicily and Southern Italy, although the belief has certainly spread elsewhere – to the Southern United States and the Latin Americas. Such people are known as jettatore (projectors). They are not necessarily considered evil or envious, just born with an unfortunate embarrassing talent that causes others to avoid them. In ancient cultures, if you were thought to be the possessor of an evil eye, you were often negated by the rest of society and went unrecognized on the street without meeting anyone’s eyes.

Perhaps one of the most familiar preventative measures against the evil eye is the hand gesture. The Mano Cornufo or “Horned Hand” involves extending the first and index fingers from a fist. The Mano Fico or “Fig hand” involves placing the thumb in between first and second fingers.
Historically there have been many cures for the evil eye:

In Italy, the evil eye is diagnosed by dripping olive oil into a vessel filled with water. If the oil conglomerates into the shape of an eye than the victim is considered officially cursed. Prayers are recited until the droplets of oil no longer create an eye shape.

In Eastern Europe charcoal, coal or burnt match heads are dropped into a pan of water/. If the items float then the person is considered to be the victim of a curse.

In the Ukraine, a form of ceromancy or candle reading is used to diagnose the curse. Melted wax is dripped from a candle into a pan of water. If the wax spits, splatters, or sticks to the side of the bowl then the “patient” is considered to be under the influence of the malefic eye. Usually the patient is cleansed with Holy Water. He or she is pronounced cured when the dripped wax sinks the bottom of the bowl in a round ball.

In Greece Mexico and other places, the official cure is to invite the culprit responsible for the evil eye to spit in a vessel of the holy water that is consumed by the victim.

In Mexico, rolling a raw egg over the body of the victim is the antidote. Afterwards, it is cracked open and if the metaphysician or healer divines the shape of an eye in the yolks then the person is considered to be cursed. Several eggs may be repeatedly rolled over the person’s body until an egg without an eye if found. Sometimes the egg is placed underneath the person’s bed overnight and cracked open in the morning.

In China the remedy for the evil eye is the Pa Kua mirror, a six-sided mirror that is hung on the front door or placed in the front window to reverse bad energy back to the sender. Some of these mirrors are convex to reflect back the bad “poison darts” or “arrows” of multiple ill wishers and some are concave to reflect energy in a definite direction back at, for instance, a nosy neighbor, whose gaze may have lingered on your garden of tulips for too long. In Feng Shui, mirrors are often used as a cure all to reflect negative energy back at all kinds of things – people, bad architecture, traffic, neighbors, physical obstructions such as trees or rocks or anything else that might considered to be a conductor of Har Shui (negative vibrations).

In India the mirroring back of the evil eye takes the form of small mirrors that are sewn, braided or crocheted into clothing. This mirroring back of bad energy is also familiar to practitioners of Wicca and Lukumi or Santeria. In India, the human eye is also considered to be a mirror of the soul. Indian women wear kohl or heavy black makeup to emphasize their eyes not only to shield themselves from evil eye but also to prevent themselves from accidentally inflicting it on others. In India cords strung with blue beads are placed on newborn babies. When the cord breaks and the beads are lost the child is considered to have a strong enough aura to protect him or herself from the evil eye. Red cords worn upon the wrist or neck are thought to have a powerful effect against ocular malevolence. A silver charm called Eye of Buddha which references the Gautama Buddha is also worn against astral attack.

In Italy, gold, silver or gems carved or cast into the shape of the Mano Fica or Mano Cornufa are used to repel the evil. The most coveted ones are made of red coral, but many versions exist today made of gemstones and plastic. They are worn by men to protect against the withering of the genitals thought to be caused by the bad eye. Also Italian in origin is the Corno or horn or devil’s horn amulet that is thought to protect against the same dysfunction. The women’s version is made from a twig of red coral.

In Arab cultures, superstitious types wear an eye in the form of a stone cast in the center of a hand shaped bone or metal charm A common Egyptian charm is the Buckle of Isis which represents the menstrual pad of the Goddess Isis who was the Mother of all living things. Stuffing a little prayer or spell inside a locket that is hung around the neck is the common European custom for protecting oneself against deadly gazes.

A light worker such as myself might advise you to protect yourself in the following contemporary ways

Always maintain the belief that nobody has the power to hurt you with a look. This in itself is a very powerful thought form

Before you go out, imagine that your third eye is actually covered by something that looks like a small pocket mirror. If you are a psychic or a healer then simply close your third eye and don’t open it unless you want to look.

If you are feeling haunted or upset as the result of a “look”, press your thumb hard into the center of your forehead and imagine your third eye quickly flipping. Flick the energy away with your thumb and snap your fingers.

Always remember that what you resist often persists. The phrase “Oh, so what!” is one of the most powerful chemicals in the universe that you can use to dissolve negative energy.

Samantha Steven's articles have been published in many high-standing newspapers and she has published several books. If you wish to buy Samantha's books about metaphysics click here
http://www.insomniacpress.com/author.php?id=110
You can meet Samantha Stevens at http://www.psychicrealm.com where she works as a professional psychic. You can also read more of her articles at http://www.newagenotebook.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samantha_Stevens

Milan & Pisa Information

2006-02-28T11:22:00.000-05:00

Italy - Milan and Pisa
By Richard Chapo

When visiting Italy, it seems every destination has enough historical sites to keep you busy for a month. Oddly, Milan and Pisa don’t fall into this category.

Milan

Milan is a thoroughly modern city and I would hazard to guess a wealthy one. This is not really the place for a budget traveler, but then again budget travelers seem to survive anywhere.

Milan is a good city to stroll around in. One can see a lot of interesting little shops and neighborhoods, but there isn’t the “monument to…” you find in most Italian cities. Don’t worry, the Cathedral makes up for it all.

In a city with a very modern feel, an old structure dominates. If you have interest in churches, you must visit Milan. The “Duomo” is simply staggering in appearance. From the outside, it is all gothic spires and frescos. I don’t know why, but the place is just radiates intensity and power. The inside of the structure is world unto itself. Marble is everywhere and you can’t help but stand around with your mouth open.

I hate to say it, but Milan can be a bit boring once you’ve had your fill of the Cathedral. The nightlife can be vibrant, but there is a definite dress to be seen feel to the place.

Pisa

Who hasn’t heard of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. When you visit, you will indeed find the tower is leaning. Unfortunately, you will not find much else. The tower is impressive as are the buildings immediately surrounding it. Nonetheless, the rest of Pisa is more interested in getting on with things. A nice place to visit, but don’t plan on spending more than a day or two.

There is nothing inherently wrong with Milan or Pisa if you know what to expect. If you’re expecting destinations similar to Rome, you’ll be disappointed.

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of travel journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more articles about Italy Travel and Adventure Travel.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Chapo

Vacation Rental Italy Information

2006-01-30T17:46:00.000-05:00

Vacation Rental in Italy – Will It Work for You?
By Pat Byrne

Vacation rentals in Italy, whether an apartment in central Rome, a villa in Tuscany, a lovely apartment in historic Florence, or a palace overlooking a canal in Venice, are so appealing and romantic. The photos are beautiful; you can picture yourself sipping Chianti Classico as the sun sets behind the Tuscan hills. But vacation rentals are not for everyone. Our experience with sending vacationers to Italy for a number of years has resulted in this set of questions which you can use to help determine whether you would enjoy a rental vacation in Italy.

Are you staying less than five nights?

Most vacation rental apartments in Italy require a one week stay, a few will accept less. Typically, you need to stock your kitchen and buy essentials such as toilet paper. If you will be spending just a few nights in one place, stay in a hotel and spend your time enjoying your destination rather than buying supplies. Short stays may make sense if you are renting in several spots because you’ll be able to carry your supplies from one to the next.

Do you like experiencing the local lifestyle?

You can gain new perspectives on the daily lives led by Italians because you will shop where they shop, experience the same views, and walk the same streets. If you consider it interesting to experience Italian culture while learning to make your own telephone calls and choosing your own fresh bread at the bakery, then a vacation apartment or villa in Italy may be for you.

Are you traveling with children?

When traveling with children, your pace needs adapt to theirs. If the children aren't happy, no one is happy! They need their meals according to their own clocks, not restaurants'. With a vacation rental in Italy, they can breakfast in their pajamas, and, evenings, they don't have to wait till restaurants open around 7:30pm to have their evening meal. You can prepare meals for them according to their tastes; a quiet plate of "pasta al burro" (pasta with butter) and a glass of milk may be just the thing.

In an apartment or villa, children can nap in one room and you can be in another, no tip toeing around a confining hotel room. Small children, in my experience, never really shift time zones, so may be awake at odd hours. When you are in an apartment or villa, you can close the door to the bedroom and take care of them in the living room without waking the whole family.

If you choose a vacation rental with an outdoor area, kids can get their “ya yas” out in the garden rather than in a hotel lobby. Even a small vacation rental can give you several spaces for people to hang out; the children can color on one table, while parents spread guidebooks and maps out on another -- not usually possible in a hotel room.

When two or more families travel together, one set of adults can go out sightseeing, shopping, or for a nice meal while the children stay at "home" with the other adults, totally happy and able to play, swim, eat, and nap with rather than going stir crazy in a hotel room. Or bring a nanny with you and find a vacation rental that will accommodate your whole crew.

Are you independent?

The owner or manager of your vacation rental may not be close at hand to help you. Once they have walked you through your apartment, you are on your own, except for emergencies, to apply their instructions to operate the washer or the heat or the phone. Nor is there a front desk or concierge to help you with reservations or directions.

Are you resourceful?

Will you enjoy shopping in local markets for your food and supplies? Things may be packaged differently and you may have to puzzle out labels. You may find no familiar brands. If you need something at the pharmacy, will you be able to communicate the ailment in sign language? The television set controls and the coffee pot will be unfamiliar, so will you be able to experiment with them without frustration? If you don’t mind coping with unfamiliar processes and locations; if you can adapt when you can’t find just what you have in mind, then you will do well in a vacation rental in Italy.

Can you do it better?

Italy is an especially challenging country for "Type A", hard driving personalities. Ancient bureaucracies rule the country with inefficiencies evident at every turn. Italian drivers can be maddening. And there is no such thing as a line or queue for anything; it's all push and shove. For transactions at places such as post offices, you may have to stand in a mob only to be directed to the end of another mob. You probably could devise a system to do many things more efficiently, but it doesn't work to try to reorganize Italy! If you can cope with evident inefficiencies with humor and grace even, perhaps, with the help of a little glass of wine, then you will do just fine in a holiday apartment or villa in Italy.

Will you want to cook?

A real advantage of a vacation rental is the ability to prepare your own meals. You can eat when you want and what you want. There is nothing like having your coffee on the terrace of your villa in Tuscany as the sun rises over the vineyards! And if you have dietary restrictions, you can really take advantage of your own kitchen.

You can also save money. Eating all meals in restaurants can become expensive as well as time consuming. Buying and preparing beautiful fresh foods from the countryside can be a joyful experience and a highpoint in the day.

But, someone has to cook! A typical vacation rental may have all the cooking essentials, but not the labor saving appliances you are used to. No food processor, no mixer, or electric can opener, so more complex meal preparation may take longer than you are used to. It is sometimes fun to experience how grandma used to do it, but whipping egg whites by hand may be more than your arm can stand. So, consider whether that is how your cook wants to spend his or her time.

There are strategies to reduce the effort, of course. You will find pre-prepared entrees in the freezers and take out counters of larger grocery stores, and Italy has a wonderful type of restaurant, the tavola calda (hot table) which has take out meals elements, and the rosticceria which will sell you a roasted chicken or other piece of nicely prepared meat to take home. The classic meal of pasta, a veal cutlet, and a salad is not a lot of effort, so keeping it simple may be important. When we have rented places with a larger group, we have taken a student-chef with us to prepare meals and do dishes (did I mention that dishwashers are not common), giving everyone a break. Some rentals properties have a cook who will come to you to prepare a lovely meal while you relax.

Do you need a daily housekeeper?

Most vacation rentals change sheets and towels weekly. Some offer a washing machine, but almost never a dryer for you to wash your own clothes and linens. If you need a daily change of towels and housekeeping services you should make sure they are available (at an extra charge) from your rental or consider a hotel.

Do you have time to prepare?

A little additional travel preparation may be required for a vacation rental. For example, there is no front desk where you may leave a wakeup call, so you should bring a portable alarm clock. No taxi queue out front, so you may need to think ahead to make arrangements for airport transportation.

Importantly, you also need to allow the time for some advance reading. For example, you need to carefully read instructions on how to meet the owner, where to go, when to call.

In summary, if you need the services of a hotel at all hours to help you interact with Italy, to figure out where to go and how to get there, a hotel may be best for you. If you are interested in experiencing Italian culture up close, look forward to slowing down and experiencing a new take on daily life, or if you are traveling with children, a vacation rental in Italy will be a wonderful experience. On a budget, have special food requirements, or love to cook? The kitchen is a real boon. Whatever you decide, enjoy your vacation in Italy!

Pat Byrne is the president of Excellent Europe (http://www.ExcellentEurope.com) a company that selects exceptional vacation rentals in Italy. She is also the author of the Kids Europe Italy Discovery Journal (http://www.KidsEurope.com) a resource book, journal, and guide just for kids traveling in Italy that has over 500 ideas for free and fun activities in Italy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pat_Byrne

Italian Recipe- Prosciutto & Cantaloupe

2006-01-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

Italian Prosciutto and Cantaloupe Appetizer
By Shauna Hanus

Italian prosciutto and cantaloupe appetizer is an easy and delightful beginning to any meal. The delicate salty flavor of prosciutto balances the sweet and juicy cantaloupe to create a taste pleasing appetizer.

This traditional Italian antipasto often appears on the menu in fine Italian restaurants. Italian prosciutto and cantaloupe can even be found in cafes around Rome and other hot spots in Italy.

Try serving Italian prosciutto and cantaloupe attractively arranged the next time you have a dinner party and then sit back and relax. You will be delightfully surprised at all the compliments that will follow your presentation.

Ripe cantaloupe

Prosciutto sliced very thin

Black pepper

Chill the melon, cut it into halves and remove the seeds. Slice the melon into ¾ inch wide slices. Run your knife along the bottom of the flesh close to the rind, being careful not to remove the rind. Leave a small amount of the rind at the end of the slice attached to the flesh. This will allow for an appealing presentation.

Drape 2 wide, very thin slices of prosciutto at an angle over each slice of melon. Allow some of the melon to show through the prosciutto. Grind a small amount of black pepper over top and serve chilled.

Shauna Hanus is a gourmet cook who specializes in creating gourmet recipes. She has extensive experience cooking with easy to find grocery items to create delightful gourmet meals. She is also the publisher of a no cost bi-monthly gourmet newsletter. Her newsletter is always fun and informational packed with tips and trivia you can use everyday. http://www.gourmayeats.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shauna_Hanus

Italian Recipe - Pasta e Fagioli

2006-01-26T19:32:00.000-05:00

Pasta & Bean Soup aka Pasta e Fagioli
By Peggy Bloodworth

Don't you just love bean soup in the winter? This is an Italian version that we think is very good. Use any dried white bean you have. I particularly like the white kidney beans, but any of them will do. I also like the little tubular pasta that isn't much bigger than the beans. It holds some of the thick liquid and the size seems just right. Also, have lots of extra parmesan cheese at the table for stirring in at the last minute. Add some crusty bread and a salad and you've got a perfect winter supper.

2 T olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 carrots, diced

1 large stalk celery, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 1/2 cups canned tomatoes

2 cups white beans, cooked

3 cups chicken broth

1/2 lb small pasta

1/4 cup chopped parsley

1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

salt and pepper to taste

I prefer to pressure cook the beans which only takes about 45 minutes. You can cook beans in 3 times water to beans until tender, covered over medium heat, until done. If not using a pressure cooker, simmer over low heat until the beans are tender. If not using a pressure cooker, it should take at least an hour and a half.

Sauté the onions, carrots and celery in olive oil until tender, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute. Add tomatoes and simmer 5 minutes. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Add beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add parsley. Adjust seasoning. Serve with generous portions of parmesan cheese and crusty bread.

Enjoy!

Peggy Bloodworth, formerly a well traveled sales executive, left the corprate world to cook for others. Her passion for creative cooking is an obsession that she uses to entertain and create menus and recipes that are sure to please. You can find more information, recipes and food pictures at http://www.swankcatering.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peggy_Bloodworth

Sicily Travel Guide

2006-01-16T22:17:00.000-05:00

Sicily Travel Guide
By Mansi Aggarwal

Sicily has made an indelible mark on the European traveling scene. Is it because of the Volcano that is still burning, or is it because of the rich cultural heritage that the city carries? The European experience has been adorned by the Italian influence. The Greek domination has left such marks on the settlements around Rome and rest of Italy including Greece and Sicily that it has become next to impossible to miss it. The roman leftovers are grand enough to attract the historians as well as the tourists.

Sicily is one of the most sought after destinations in Italy. The tourism advantage that Sicily can give is just an added feature. The reason for this is that it is essentially a culturally charged city. The city has in itself treasured the exploits of the second Great War as well as the ancient historical facts that a significant part of world history. The city holds a distinct aura as differentiable as its language, which is a mixture of many nearby languages. The Mediterranean influence on the place can be felt by the cuisine that is served in its lavishly decorated restaurants.

Sicily holds a unique history that is flanked by the exploits and rule of many dynasties. The geographical location of the place gives a very wrong picture of it being part of the Italian rule. Though it is now a part of Italy but its origin and history is different from that of Italy. The main land of Sicily is separated from the Italian land and thus it finds many indigenous people living in it. How ever it has been a favorite of almost all the empires. The Carthage, the Greeks and the Normans fought over the land too much and it saw the changing the hands. Rome was finally the victor and they ruled it for a long time. Then in the late 19th century Italy took over the control. However the impact of mafia on the island is too much and large part of the land is still under its influence. The city also has the honor of perpetrating the mafia concept.

The Greek and the roman influence on the city can be seen by the architecture that is seen around the city. The enormous size of the cathedrals and platforms dazzles the mind of the visitors. The Sicilian backdrop has been used by many film makers and performers. The sheer grandeur of the roman and Greek constructions makes it one of the most sought after destination in southern Europe.

Mount Etna is one of the volcanoes that is still active apart from being the tallest in Europe. The rich thick forest cover around the Etna region is an added attraction to the tourists. Apart from the seldom traffic problems and delays in flights and trains, the city offers a vista of traveling experiences.

The city is easy to approach, as it is a part of most of eastern and southern European tours. The individual visit can also be a good idea. From romanticism of the mafia to the raw power of nature Sicily has it all.

Mansi aggarwal writes about Sicily travel. Learn more at http://www.destinationsicily.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mansi_Aggarwal

Venice

2006-01-13T13:44:00.000-05:00

Italy Lesson: Venice
By Marc Gunn

Two weeks ago, I went to Italy to visit family and see the country. I was a military brat, so I've been there plenty of times before, but nevertheless, it was a magnificent and learning experience, both artistically and as a guerrilla marketer. So for the next few weeks, I'm gonna take you on a brief tour of Italy, and show you what I learned from my trips. I'll take you from Venice to Florence, Pisa and Rome, plus few places thrown in. The travel industry is an outstanding resource for learning about marketing, so let's get started.
Italy Lesson: Venice

Of all the cities in Italy, Venice is my favorite. There's some sort of deep connection between me and Venice. Perhaps it is the old, rustic look to the city? Perhaps it is the enchanting waterways? The exquisite food? Or the beautiful and friendly people? Or maybe it's just a town that truly has a sense of itself. IT is one of Italy's greatest former city-states, and it currently is one of the most-visited vacation spots in the world. Yes, to many it is just a tourist town that sometimes smells bad in the summer, but the people there know marketing. They know how to get tourists into their shop, or drop a tip.

Let's take, for example, Rondo' Veneziano. This band has gained a small degree of fame in Italy, particulary in Venice. I suspect part of the notoriety is due to their name which alludes to Venice, and also their musical style. They play Classical music to upbeat electronic drums. After years of listening to copies of their tape, I was surprised to find that there was a five-piece band behind the music. Five women playing their violins with such incredible timing and skill you'd think there was a DJ.

Well, I was thrilled to find they would be playing Venice that night we arrived. And I found out in a fairly unusual manner. Among the hordes of street merchants, a man dressed in Victorian garb approached us and spoke in Italian, then English to tell us about this band. He was selling tickets...in the streets. Sure you find Hawkers doing this all the time, here, but it struck me as interesting... Even more so when we came across the second and third groups of Hawkers. It was a coordinated effort.

You see, what this lesson is about is getting people to your shows. It takes work, but think about it for a minute. What if they next time you had a gig, you went down there a week in advance, handed out flyers, sold tickets, gave out discount coupons that many clubs are so fond of? What if you had a mailing list with you telling them you could send them more info? Could you bring in twenty, thirty, fifty extra people to see you play, even though they've never heard of you before? Maybe. What if you add a theme to it? Dress to impress your selected audience. Or a theme that would inspire people of all ages. Think you could bring out a helluva lot of load of people out to see you. Do you think the club owner would consider booking you again? On a better night? Opening for one of the top local acts or maybe even a national act?

I'll tell you what. If you show that you're willing to put in that much effort, then hell yes! They'll book you. If you can pack a place, particularly on a bad night, then you are an asset to the club that they don't want to lose. They'll book you and treat you right. Plus, you will entertain countless people and gain some new fans, sell some CDs, and get people talking about you.

It just takes a little effort to learn from the Venice Lesson and that of Rondo' Veneziano. Organize your friends and bandmates, ask them, convince them, even bribe them if you have to (just weigh the costs), to help you hand out tickets and get some notice. Your musical career will proceed only as fast you are willing to work.

Bard Marc Gunn of the Brobdingnagian Bards has helped 1000's of musicians make money with their musical groups through the Bards Crier Music Marketing and Promotion Ezine and the Texas Musicians' Texas Music Biz Tips. Now you can get personal advice by visiting http://www.bardscrier.com for FREE "how-to" music marketing assistance.

No time to visit the site? Subscribe to the BardsCrier.com distributed weekly for Free. Just email subscribe@bardscrier.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Gunn

Italian Espresso

2006-01-02T21:28:00.000-05:00

Italian Roast Coffee For An Authentic Espresso
By Nicholas Webb

One of the things people think of with Italy is it's coffee. In fact Italian roast coffee is perfect for bringing a touch of Europe to your home. Can 50 million plus Italians all be wrong? Well, with Italian roast you can't go wrong either.

Generally speaking, Italian Roast coffee is darker in colour than most roasted blends of coffee and consequently develops an intense, full-bodied flavour from the blend of Pacific and Latin American origins. It seems to be richer and fuller and has a bit of a bite to it. The aroma is balanced and complex.

Why the name Italian Roast when coffee comes from Brazil?

As is known, most of the coffee we drink today originates from Latin America or the Pacific, so where does the name Italian Roast come from?

Well, the name Italian Roast derives from the dark roasted blend style that is commonly used in Italy. And do the Italians know a thing or two about their coffee? I think they do. Naturally it goes without saying, if you grind your own, Italian roast coffee is perfect for making authentic espresso. If served in Illy Collection cups, for instance, you cant go wrong.

There is espresso coffee and espresso coffee, but with an Italian roast blend the difference is clear

In fact, most of today's household names, such as Gaggia, Lavazza and Illy are Italian family companies that have conquered the world with their particular blends of coffee, targeted marketing and wonderful coffee making machines. Gaggia, for instance started business in the 1940's, not so long ago, but they are recognised as a well respected coffee-company in most of the world.

Similar with Lavazza, started in Turin, not only famous for its coffee, but also a prestigious calendar, similar to that of Pirelli. And what espresso lover isn't familiar with the Illy Collection; neat espresso cups with exclusive designs produced in limited numbers.

Do you think all this could have been possible without a deep knowledge and respect for coffee? Italian roast must deserve some of the success of these companies.

Webb is a successful author and publisher of http://www.allabout-coffee-beans.com Coffee is a passion to be shared. Info from coffee beans to coffee making machines can be found by clicking over to this great resource site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicholas_Webb

Ferrari

2006-01-02T00:51:00.000-05:00

The History of Ferrari
By William Berg

When Enzo Ferrari created his company Scuderia Ferrari in Italy in 1929 his intentions was to sponsor amateur race car drivers and invent racing cars, and it would take more than 15 years before Ferrari began to create their own road cars in 1946. Ferrari is still devoted to the creation of racing cars and high performance sports cars and do not create other types of cars. Scuderia Ferrari is still the widespread name for Gestione Sportiva, the part of the Ferrari company that works with racing. Scuderia is an Italian word and means “stable”, but Scuderia Ferrari is sometime also translated as Team Ferrari.

During the early years, Scuderia Ferrari sponsored race car drivers that were driving Alfa Romeo cars. Scuderia Ferrari would prepare Alfa Romeo cars before the race, and in 1938 Enzo Ferrari became officially employed by Alfa Romeo's racing department. Two years later Enzo Ferrari found out that Alfa Romeo was planning to absorb Scuderia Ferrari, a plan which Enzo Ferrari strongly opposed. He instantly left his job at Alfa Romeo, but his contract restricted him from being involved with racing for several years. He changed Scuderia Ferrari into “Auto Avio Costruzioni Ferrari” and officially manufactured aircraft accessories for a few years. Enzo Ferrari did however create a race car during this restricted period. The Tipo 815 debuted at the Mille Miglia race in 1940, but the race was hampered due to World War II and Tipo 815 encountered no real competition. In 1943 Enzo Ferrari moved his factory to Maranello in Italy and one year later the factory was bombed. After the end of World War II, Enzo Ferrari rebuilt his factory and now the Ferrari factory was capable of construction road cars as well.

Ferrari constructed its first road car in 1947. The 1947 125 S Ferrari had a 1.5 L V12 engine and the whole car was considered very beautiful and well designed. Enzo Ferrari was still more interested in race cars and the Ferrari road cars was merely a way for him to fund his work with the Scuderia Ferrari. His distaste for the road car customers became famous and he even accused them of buying Ferrari cars only as status symbols. It is true that the Ferrari road cars grow to fame not only due to excellent performance but also thanks to their stylish elegance. Pininfarina, Bertone, Ghia, Scagliette, Touring and Vignale are all examples of design houses that have worked with Ferrari.

In November 1961 a dispute between Enzo Ferrari and his sales manager, Girolamo Gardini, turned into a crisis. Girolamo Gardini threatened to leave the company. Enzo Ferrari responded to the threat by throwing out Girolamo Gardini, and several employees who agreed with Girolamo Gardini were also ousted. Among them were Romolo Tavoni, manager for Scuderia Ferrari, Giotto Bizzarrini, the chief of the experimental sports car development, and Carlo Chiti, the chief engineer. This was naturally a huge loss for the Ferrari company and the crisis deepened when those who had been thrown out formed their own company – Automobili Turismo e Sport (ATS). ATS even managed to take over Scuderia Serenissima, a very successful racing team, from Ferrari.

A younger engineer, Mauro Forghieri, and an experienced racing bodyman, Sergio Scaglietti, assumed responsibility and tried to finish the projects that the leaving employees had left behind. One of the most important tasks was to finish the development of 250 GTO; a new 250-based model that could compete with the Jaguar E-type. The 250 GTO was finished in time to participate in the Sebring race and place itself first in class, driven by Phil Hill. Throughout 1962, the 250 GTO continued to win the races and it is still one of the most well known race cars in history. The crisis turned out to be something good for Ferrari and the 1960s became a very good decade for the company.

Until the 1980s when Ferrari began to use fuel injection in the road cars, the Ferraris were known as rather temperamental cars. They could be very unreliable, but would still attract a large group of dedicated fans that viewed this unpredictability as “character” rather than a problem. Today, FIAT controls 56 percent of the Ferrari stocks. The rest of stocks owned by Enzo's con Piero Ferrari and by Commerzbank, Mediobanca and the Lehman Brothers. Maranello is still the home town for Ferrari.

Another dream car for many is the Hummer. The History of the Hummer is much shorter than the history of Ferrari and GM is just releasing their third Hummer model, the Hummer 3. A new more family friendly Hummer that will be very customizable just like the other hummer models with the help of a Hummer accessory or two.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Berg

Rome, Italy

2005-12-01T16:16:00.000-05:00

Rome Travel Guide
By mark brading

Rome style and history:

Rome is the bustling heart of Italy. A modern capital in every sense of the word yet steeped in history, with a wealth of art, architecture and religion to suit every holidaymaker, traveler, academic or pilgrim.

Over 2,000 years of history have left their mark in all parts of this stylish metropolis. Tradition has it that the city was founded by Romulus on Palatino one of the 7 hills on which Rome is built near the Tevere river, which guarantees that wherever you are you are never far from a stunning view of the city.
The most essential thing in Rome is a good pair of shoes! This is not a city where you take the bus to see the different attractions.

The whole place is like a huge, vibrant, open-air museum. Italians are a friendly people, expect to be offered help if you are standing on a street corner with a map in your hand and a puzzled look on you face. Style is the order of the day when out in Rome, good strong, but not bright colors a scarf flicked fashionably over and a smart bag over your shoulder, nom fanny packs please they do spoil the line of you Gucci you know!

Avoid eating in the tourist cafes around the main spots such as St.Mark’s square they are overpriced, very often with poor food and service. Go back a couple of streets to the small cafes frequented by the locals and you will get better, cheaper food and also get to dine and chat with the real Romans.

Colosseum: Probably the most famous landmark in Rome is a huge open-air stadium that could hold up to 50,000 Romans. Built by the Emperor Titus in AD80 it hosted games, gladiatorial combats and even could be flooded with water to provide a setting for reconstructions of famous navel battles.

Sistene Chapel: Situated at the far and of the Vatican museum, a day out in itself, the chapel was in need of a little decoration so in 1508 Michelangelo was brought to paint the 10,000 sq foot ceiling, single-handedly! The resulting work took over 4 years to complete and is considered to be on of the finest works of art in the world.

Fontana di Trevi (trevi fountain): A Huge and stunning eighteenth century fountain designed by Nicola Salvi, it is said that if you throw a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder you will one day return to Rome.

Piazza Navona: This square takes it’s strange shape from the original arena built there for displays of horsemanship, it is now a busy, fun place packed with stalls and eateries in the daytime and portrait and Caricatures artists at night.

Pantheon: A huge temple built by the Emperor Hadrian around AD120 it had, until 1960, the largest dome in the world. It also still has the original doors now nearly 1,900 years old. A fascinating and magnificent building.

Travestere: Not the main tourist center of Rome but a fascinating area full of winding lane and small shops selling interesting and unusual things, great nightlife food and a huge Sunday market. It is also home to what is said to be the oldest church in Rome. The beautiful Santa Maria the oldest part of which is said to date from the 3rd century AD.

Villa Borghese:The largest are of parkland in Rome it is a wonderful place to get away from the noise of the city fort a while. It has wonderful trees, quiet walks, a lake where you can rent a boat, and a wonderful art gallery. It also holds outdoor concerts of classical music every July.

There are many walking tours on offer and these are a great way to see the highlights of the city with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide.
Beware of over enthusiastic street traders in popular tourist spots such as the Trevi fountain.

Although a fairly safe city it is best to avoid the back streets at night and stick to the main thoroughfares, which are usually a sight in themselves as the stylishly dressed inhabitants go out for a stroll and a good meal. A great time for people watching, especially if you at one of the pavement table that many restaurants and cafes have.

But the main focus of any holiday in Rome should always be on the architecture and history which is like nowhere else in the world

http://www.nearlyhealthytravel.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=mark_brading

Osso Bucco Italian Recipe

2005-11-30T00:47:00.000-05:00

Entrée Italian Osso Bucco-Recipe
By Shauna Hanus

Osso Bucco

3 ½ to 4 lbs veal shanks ( I serve one shank per person. If the cost is high you can cook down the meat and separate it from the bone.)

¼ Cup all-purpose flour

2 Tbs olive oil

2 oz diced salt pork

¼ Cup butter, melted

½ lb diced and peeled onions

1 large clove garlic, mashed

1 tsp dried rosemary

1 tsp salt

1 tsp fresh ground pepper

2 bay leaves, remove before serving

¾ Cup dry white wine

2 Tbs finely chopped carrot

½ stalk celery minced

8 to 10 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped fine

1 Cup canned chopped tomatoes (I have used fresh tomatoes, but I find that the canned are constantly good in taste and the liquid is always welcomed in the sauce)

1 Tbs tomato paste

½ Cup warm water

Dredge the veal in flour and shake off any excess. Heat olive oil, salt pork and butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet. Add the onion and brown. When the onions are browned add the veal and garlic. Brown on all sides for about 8 to 10 minutes. Add, rosemary, salt and pepper. Stir and brown for about for about 10 minutes longer. Add bay leaves, wine, carrot, celery, parsley, and tomatoes. Stir tomato paste with the warm water until well blended and then add that to the mixture. Stir and simmer covered for about 40 minutes. ( I tend to let this simmer longer on my stove. This serves two purposes, one makes the meat extremely tender and two fills the house with wonderful aromas.)

Serve over Ravioli ( I use fresh over sized store bought ravioli. I have made my own, but I find that the store bought is good quality and much simpler. If you would like a recipe for homemade ravioli please send a request to recipes@gourmayeats.com)

Shauna Hanus is a gourmet cook who specializes in creating gourmet recipes. She has extensive experience cooking with easy to find grocery items to create delightful gourmet meals. She is also the publisher of a no cost bi-monthly gourmet newsletter. Her newsletter is always fun and informational packed with tips and trivia you can use everyday. http://www.gourmayeats.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shauna_Hanus

Italy

2005-11-30T00:28:00.000-05:00

Italy
By Susanne Pacher

Italy is an extremely diverse country and one of my favourites. It has a fascinating history, going back to the ancient Romans and beyond and was a cultural powerhouse during the Renaissance period. It is truly one of the cradles of Western civilization.

Rome is the "Eternal City": Today a hustling and bustling overcrowded metropolis, it was the hub of Ancient Rome, the capital of an enormous and powerful empire. Today one can admire many relicts from Roman times: the Roman Forum (Foro Romano), the Colosseum and the Pantheon, among many others, are witnesses to a highly refined culture that existed more than 2000 years ago. A visit to the Vatican also underscores the uniqueness of this city. Outside of Rome there is just so much to discover.

Florence comes to mind immediately, one of the primary tourist destinations. Florence is the capital of Tuscany and known for its many sights: the Duomo (the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Fiore), the Uffizi, the Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo's David, and many more. You can also enjoy the quieter villages and serene landscapes in the interior of Italy, with Tuscany as one of the preferred destinations for interior travel. A favourite Tuscan location is San Gimignano, fabled for its many historic towers.

The word Venice immediately evokes romantic notions of canals, the Piazza San Marco and the Doge's Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and of course the gondolieri. There are many other cities and towns to explore. Milan, for instance, is Italy’s fashion capital and has stunning architecture to admire. The old city of Verona is the setting for Romeo and Juliet. Genova is an important harbour city on the Ligurian coast. The glamorous coast along the Italian Riviera around San Remo and Imperia has attracted many Hollywood celebrities. Many other famous historic towns are located in the north: Bologna, Siena, Padova, Vicenza, Trieste.

In the south there are cities such as Naples, Cosenza, Salerno, Sorrento and many more that let you explore Southern Italian hospitality. The eastern side of the boot-shaped Italian peninsula is generally quieter than the western side and cities such as Ancona, Pescara, Bari and Brindisi and their surrounding areas have their own charm. Historic sites in the south include the ancient cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii that were destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 A.D. Needless to say, geologists are going to be interested in seeing the still active volcanoes Etna and Vesuvius. Italy’s landscape is truly stunning.

The Italian Alps with the limestone spires of the Dolomites are simply majestic, and the famous lakes such as Lago Maggiore, Lago di Como, Lago di Garda, Lago di Iseo are blue jewels embedded in green mountains and hills. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing and windsurfing are favourite acitivites in the north of Italy.

Naturally, Italian cuisine and wine are appreciated the world over and a trip to Italy can become a venerable feast for the senses. Some of the most visually stunning scenery can be found just south of the Bay of Naples, along the Amalfi coast and the island of Capri. The islands of Sardinia and Sicily, reputedly the birthplace of the Mafia, glisten like gems in the Mediterranean.

There are just too many places to mention, Italy is simply a fabulous place to visit. Check out some of the links below and dream about all these beautiful far-away places.

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions(http://www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest(http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

"Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons".

The interview with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Interviews

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susanne_Pacher

map of sicily

2005-11-24T18:03:00.000-05:00

Luxury Cruises On The Mediterranean Including Sicily

2005-11-24T17:44:00.000-05:00

A classic Mediterranean cruise visits major port cities located on the northern shores of the Mediterranean Sea in the countries of Spain, France, Italy, Monaco, Greece and Turkey and the islands of Malta, Crete and Sicily. Some cruises also include stops in Egypt. The Mediterranean cruise season is April to November when the weather is generally sunny and mild. Many cruise lines sail the Mediterranean and while there is most likely a cruise that appeals to any style and budget, we’ll focus on luxury cruises here.
Radisson Seven Seas is a luxury carrier in the small cruise line category. As such, a small number of passengers (only 198 to 700 based on individual ship capacity) are treated to personal service by a cruise line that has been selected by Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure to be the “World’s Best Small Cruise Line”. Radisson Seven Seas appeals to the sophisticated traveler. Based upon service, quality dining, upscale accommodations, and service, Radisson Seven Seas has earned a six-star rating. The cruise line’s special accommodations include two 700 passenger all-balcony suites ships, Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner, and one 490 passenger all-suites ship, Seven Seas Navigator. The Radisson Diamond is another unique ship due to its twin hull design. The Radisson Diamond carries 350 guests in luxury.
The Seven Seas Voyager and the Radisson Diamond routinely cruise the Mediterranean Sea, departing from or terminating at ports such as Rome, Venice, Athens, Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Istanbul normally for a 7-night cruise. These cruises stop at some of the most famous European cities that occur between the start and end points such as Florence, Italy; Marseilles, France; St. Tropez, France; Dubrovnik, Croatia; the island of Sicily; and others.
Crystal Cruises is another award-winning six-star cruise line. A reader’s poll by Travel + Leisure magazine named Crystal “World’s Best” in cruise line service. Conde Nast Traveler magazine has awarded Crystal “Best Large-Ship Cruise Line” while Travel + Leisure called Crystal the “World’s Best Large - Ship Cruise Line”, both titles being given for the past nine years. Crystal Cruises boasts “extraordinary cuisine” coupled with impeccable service.
Crystal offers a large number of 7- to 12-night Mediterranean cruises, many with romantic overtones. For example, the Renaissance Reflection cruise originates in Lisbon and stops in Barcelona, Cannes and Monte Carlo. The Italian Treasures cruise spends seven nights on the west coast of Italy. The Path of the Phoenicians is a twelve-night odyssey from Athens to Istanbul followed by stops at the historically famous Greek islands of Kusadasi, Rhodes, and Santorini before terminating at Venice.
The Yachts of Seabourn cruise line advertises that they provide “Ultra Luxury” by “delivering the highest levels of personalized service to an exclusive group of guests aboard intimate, elegant ships that could visit the most enticing destinations worldwide.” Seabourn sails three identical all-suite ships that cater to only 208 passengers each. Of course, dining and service is world-class.
Seabourn offers longer, leisurely cruises that can explore a small or unique area in-depth. For example, the 17-day Spring Time in Spain cruise originates in Lisbon, Portugal, stops at six Spanish ports plus ports in Monaco, France and the Balearic Islands. Many of the stops were selected due to the availability of golf courses. The 16-day Mediterranean Odyssey II begins at Istanbul; spends six days at Greek ports, four days at Italian ports along with several days at sea before terminating at Lisbon. The 7-day Capitals of Antiquity cruise begins at Cairo, Egypt; tours the historic Greek islands of Rhodes, Mykonos, and Kusadasi before terminating at Istanbul.
If luxury is your objective, there are a large number of out of the ordinary Mediterranean cruises to choose from beyond those discussed here.

Looking for information about cruises?
Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com
'What Cruises' is published by Colin Hartness -
An excellent resource for Cruises!
Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colin_Hartness

Spaghetti with Lentils and Vegetables

2005-11-24T17:21:00.000-05:00

4-5 Servings
Steps
1.First you get a pot
2. Next step is to add water, Lentils, beans,diced tomatoes, diced onions,
oil,salt and pepper.-All in at once.
3. Cook for about an hour. Until the lentils are cooked.
4. Then add Broccoli.
5. After the broccoli is cooked, add spaghetti.
6. After the spaghetti is cooked. Takes about 15 minutes.
The soup is ready to be served.

Measurements
Lentils- one cup
Beans- one cup
tomatoes- 2
onions-small amount
oil- 1 tbl spoon
salt- 2 tbl spoon
pepper-half a tea spoon
broccoli-1
spaghetti-half a pound.

Sicily's Great Eggplant - Tomato Stew

2005-11-24T16:25:00.001-05:00

I ran into a friend yesterday, who tells me that he should be harvesting eggplants from his garden any day now. Of course, this got me thinking about Caponata, the famous Sicilian eggplant and tomato stew.
This is a terrific 'contorno', vegetable course, and also a great topping for 'bruschetta', Tuscany’s grilled bread. Of course it's one of the quintessential Italian antipasti too. And when you can walk into your own garden and harvest the vegetables to put it together, Caponata becomes all the more magical.
Italians have a particular fondness for 'le primizie', the smallest of the first crop of vegetables. So if you have access to a garden—either your own or a friend's—or if you can get to a farm stand, now is the time for you to be thinking about caponata too.
The recipe below is excerpted from my first cookbook, "La Cucina dei Poveri."
My Grandmother's Caponata
When the garden was in full swing during the summer, Noonie (my grandmother) would harvest—well, more accurately, she would direct Pop (my grandfather) to harvest some eggplant, tomatoes, and peppers for this delicious antipasto that she referred to as 'Caponatina. My recollections fail as to how she served it, but I’m betting that it was over a piece of Italian bread that Pop had fried in olive oil.
Nowadays, I serve it over bruschetta made from some good Tuscan bread which—I’m happy to report—seems to be turning up more and more frequently at supermarket bakeries.
Ingredients:

4 Tbs. Olive oil
2 Cloves garlic, peeled, and thinly sliced
1 Medium onion, peeled, and chopped
1 Medium eggplant (approximately 1 1/4 Lb.) cut into 1 inch cubes
2 Medium bell peppers
1/4 Lb. Green olives, pits removed
1 Tbs. Capers
1 Cup Italian plum tomatoes, roughly chopped
1/4 Cup sugar
1/4Cup red wine vinegar
1/2 Cup raisins
2 Tbs. Fresh mint, chopped
1/4 tsp. Red pepper flakes

Preparation:
Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat, then add the garlic. Sauté until the garlic just begins to give off its aroma—perhaps a minute or two. Add the onion and sauté for about five minutes, until it becomes translucent.
Add the eggplant and sauté for about five minutes or until it begins to soften, but still has plenty of texture. Add the peppers, olives, and capers and sauté until the peppers become tender. Add the tomatoes and continue cooking to incorporate the tomatoes with the other ingredients and to begin to form a sauce.
Add the sugar, spreading it evenly over the pan, then the vinegar, raisins, mint, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to blend all the ingredients, then remove from the heat.
Italians typically serve Caponata at room temperature.
Serves four to six.
About The Author
Skip Lombardi is the author of two cookbooks: "La Cucina dei Poveri: Recipes from my Sicilian Grandparents," and "Almost Italian: Recipes from America's Little Italys." He has been a Broadway musician, high-school math teacher, software engineer, and a fledgeling blogger. But he has never let any of those pursuits get in the way of his passion for cooking and eating. Visit his Web site to learn more about his cookbooks. http://www.skiplombardi.com or contact Mr. Lombardi at
info@skiplombardi.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Skip_Lombardi

Sicily Italy