When in Doubt....Strike?

It's great to know that even while living here in Italy, where things are often uncertain one thing is almost certain; if the people aren't happy there will be a strike or some other form of protest.

Although the emails, notifications, and inconvienances have all significantly decreased over the past 30 hours the week has been interesting to say the least. (Please note that I just rolled my eyes while typing.) 

The reports of chaos began early Monday morning: semi-trucks blocking the highway, cars 20 deep waiting for gasoline, gasoline shortages, tires being slashed, lack of dairy and other pershable goods on base. Relieved that I had stopped for a little gasoline the night before I still braved the local station for a topping off on my way home. Luckily, it wasn't too bad since I leave work before most Italians do.

Excited with the though of being home before dark I started to figure out what to do with my free time. And then I saw brake lights.

Lots of them.

So many of them. In the same area where the protest happened back in December with the illegal construction I was once again met with a wall of cars. Thinking that it would be faster than turning around and going another way I decided to stay since those other routes also had gas stations along the way and inevitably would be looking about the same. The minutes turned to double digits. I had at least 2 cds play all the way through. The brand new box of Triscuits was opened and arrived home much lighter than it started. I think all in all in took about an hour to make my way up to the gas station (where lines on both sides of the road blocked the road). Then it was the moment of panic; squeezing my car through a narrow 2 lane road with cars parked on the curb. Oh! Did I mention that prior to this panic moment an ambulance had already gone down the middle of the road?

Insane. Seriously, I think that's the only way to describe just what I saw. It was entertaining as well, and based on the number of people just chatting on the sidewalks and watching the scene from their balconies I wasn't the only one.

Here's an edited email that was sent out by the base:

Strike update: Stay Prepared

At least 60 gas stations in the area have received fuel deliveries and have reopened. The JFC gas station is now open to all regular patrons. Please take the time now to top off fuel in your vehicles. If possible, fill up an approved fuel container to ensure you have an emergency reserve and remember to store it in a safe location away from ignition sources. Supervisors are encouraged to allow some time today to fill up if necessary. The commissary received a shipment of fresh milk, dry and chilled items last night, and mail was delivered as well.

Please continue to conserve fuel and prepare for further disruptions, as the truck strike continues nationwide and subsequent strikes, including a threatened 10-day gas station attendant strike, could again interfere with normal operations. Remember tomorrow's planned train, Alitalia, and bus/tram strikes, and ensure you have a plan that allows for any contingency not only this weekend but for the foreseeable future.

Arrange for home heating fuel deliveries. Carpool and take the shuttle bus whenever possible, and plan out your shopping trips to ensure you're making the most of your driving time. Please use your best judgment when deciding travel plans in the coming weeks, and if you do choose to take that road trip, stay informed and ensure you are being smart with your fuel.

Although conditions have improved significantly- our gas gauges are a little on the low side. Yesterday's traffic wasn't all that great either...but blame all the police escorted fuel trucks. Come to think of it...I should get out of here on time today and got get more just in case the attendants really do go on strike.

Not quite the Italy you all thought I was living in...now is it?