Vol. 37 No. 3
February 7, 2020
JTAGS: OPEN FOR BUSINESS pages 6 & 7
U.S. CONSUL GENERAL OF NAPLES JOINS COMREL TIME FOR CARNEVALE!
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Direct Line
Cmdr. Patrick Moran, NASSIG Executive Officer
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uongiorno Sigonella, Once again I would like to put out that it is never too late to plan for the future and it is never too late to get smart on you can do to prepare financially for the future. Much of what follows is what I put out during my first year at Sigonella, and it bears repeating. When I was growing up and got my first job all I knew about finances was that if I went to work, I would get paid. It seemed simple enough. That was my mindset as well when I first enlisted in the Navy (quite a while ago) and started to receive a regular income. In my late teens and early 20’s I never gave the future much though. I got a paycheck (a physical piece of paper actually) every two weeks and it was solely up to me how those funds would be used. As I said before, let me tell you that those funds were used quickly and not always with any serious thought of how they should be used. Fortunately for me, and many of my peers, credit cards were very difficult to obtain, and not as prevalent as they are today. It wasn’t until I was well into my 20’s that I obtained a credit card, and once I received it the only thing I cared about was how much my spending limit was, like it was a score card or banner indicating my worth. In reality, that spending limit only reflected the bank’s faith in my ability to repay their loan – with interest (usually high), and much of the time with various processing fees and other charges. That interest and those fees continued to add up until I realized one day that I needed to get smart – and quick. This was in my late 20’s. I did some research and soul searching and started to understand the ground truth regarding income, spending, and savings and
investment. The first thing I did was pay my credit cards off. I had two cards with a running a balance maxed out, paying close to the minimum payment every month in addition to continued purchases. I vowed to myself that I would do that no more. I paid them off and have not held a balance since then. My debt was large, but manageable with discipline. In comparison, I had a friend who managed to pile up over $50,000 in credit card debt alone by the time I was reevaluating my financial choices. That would be over $90,000 today. Again, we were in our late 20’s. The second thing I did was start to pay myself. This is an old adage but an effective one – “pay yourself first.” Every two weeks I started to save more and spend less on things I surely did not need. With some discipline I soon had some funds to begin investing. But I didn’t know where to start. The third thing I did was look to educate myself on what my options were with respect to savings and investments. The resources weren’t as prevalent as they are today – this was just when the internet started to take off but online resources were minimal. I had to talk to people so I approached a financial planning specialist who laid out some basics for me. That conversation was the impetus for how I save, plan, and invest today. My strategies have changed over the years as my knowledge base has grown but it was a simple conversation back then that opened a world of resources to me and then had an idea of what the landscape looked like and how to navigate it. To be sure, there are myriad options for investing and planning for future financial needs. Each can be tailored individually and I am
not going to promote one method over another. Some prefer buying, selling, and holding traded stocks. Others consider real estate a solid investment, while still others may lean towards collectible items. Surely there is more to that list. But the only way to know what is right for you and your situation is to get smart on the subject. It may seem daunting at first but the rewards can often be immeasurable in the long run. NAS Sigonella offers many free onbase resources to take control of your finances and provide you the necessary tools to meet your financial goals today. Services include command financial specialist, personnel financial management, Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, and financial management and budgeting classes offered by our Fleet and Family Readiness Center. For alternative sources you can always check with your banking institution, or visit websites like; militaryonesource.mil, militarysaves. org, mymoney.gov or tsp.gov.
February 7, 2020
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Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding MVRO Gym:
The saunas and showers are not very clean. In addition on NAS I the showers in the male head, half of them don’t work. It never fails that I need to use athletics foot cream once I am done using the facilities or I will come down with athletics foot. Yes I use shower shoes and it is a won-der no one hasn’t caught MERCA, or maybe they have but the population doesn’t know about it. Please clean up the NAS I and II saunas and fix the showers. Thanks!
Response:
Thank you for your feedback about our facilities. We apologize that you have had a less than sat-isfactory experience. The locker rooms are cleaned by the PW base contractor daily but based on foot traffic and the time of day they clean, it can feel like it is not enough. We will ask Public Works if they are able to increase the number of times they clean our facility but it usually comes down to funding. With that said, we do know that our gyms are cleaned to a satisfactory manner that enables us to avoid serious infections such as MRSA. To date, no report of MRSA incidents have occurred. We are not aware of a time when we have had half of our showers down at once but there was a period of time where two were out of order. We apologize for that inconvenience. If you have any questions or additional comments, please contact Elizabeth Leonard at 624-0504 or by email at elizabeth.leonard@eu.navy.mil.
Comment Regarding the Pool:
We have received multiple ICE comments regarding the pool extension. Though our response addresses the concerns of all, we have provided one comment as a representative example: NAS Sigonella is the Hub of the Med,
supporting warfighters and maintaining mission readiness, right? How can we do that if we don’t even take physical fitness seriously? The pool is closed for an additional month?? The gym hours have not changed AT ALL even after numerous complaints. What mission can we support if more than half our servicemembers don’t have the cardiovascular endurance to cross large distances? What mission can we support if our service members lack the upper body strength to drag/ carry a person to safety? Or better yet, do even two pull ups. Motivate your active duty staff to come work out by making our limited fitness services more accessible. Copy the hours from ANY installation that is NOT Sigonella and you will see how other installations are doing better than us. Establish an outdoor gym area. FIX THE POOL.
Response:
First off, I understand your frustration with the recently announced delay in the NAS I pool re-pairs. Maintenance of the NAS I pool is required for safety reasons, and the lengthy closure is largely due to adhering to strict environmental laws while draining the pool. To accommodate the extended closure of the NAS I pool, 27 hours per week were added to the NAS II schedule, which is where you will find our NAS I lifeguards. During this timeframe, we have been able to accommodate all requested Command trainings, PRTs, and Active Duty who wish to have extra training to pass swim qualifications. Please know that we always analyzes our utilization numbers to best accommodate our custom-ers. We don’t have maintain later pool hours due to the fact that over the past two years, we have only averaged three people swimming during our last "ICE" cont’d on Page 11
THE SIGNATURE
U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Commanding Officer Capt. Kevin Pickard Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL
Public Affairs Officer Lt. Karl Schonberg karl.schonberg@eu.navy.mil
Public Affairs Leading Petty Officer MC1 Kegan Kay kegan.kay@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Joshua Coté joshua.m.cote@eu.navy.mil
MR2 Kyle Drummond kyle.m.drummond@navy.mil MCSA Triniti Lersch triniti.lersch@navy.mil CONTACT US
Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001
This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.
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Name: AWO3 Jessy Rosenkranz Department: VP-4, “Skinny Dragons” Hometown: Crawfordville, Florida By MCSA Triniti Lersch, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs aval Aircrewmen Operator U.S. or NATO assets within the region. (AWO) 3rd Class Jessy “I really like aviation, it’s just the Rosenkranz, a native of Crawfordville, job and being able to fly,” stated Florida, knew he wanted to serve his Rosenkranz. “It’s something I’ve country, so he took the oath and joined always wanted to do.” the Navy in April 2017. Naval Aircrewmen Operators, as Rosenkranz now serves at his first a whole, are responsible to detect, command, the “The Skinny Dragons” analyze, classify, and track surface of Patrol Squadron (VP) 4, deployed to and subsurface contacts; and operate Naval Air Station Sigonella. advanced sonar and radar equipment “AWO3 Rosenkranz is a dedicated, systems, such as Electronic Support motivated, and humble junior Sailor,” Measure (ESM), Magnetic Anomaly remarked AWO1 Jeremy Schillace, Detector (MAD), Identification Friend Rosenkranz’s leading petty officer. “In or Foe/Selective Identification Feature just 10 months after checking into the (IFF/SIF), and Infrared Detector (IR). squadron, AWO3 Rosenkranz became As if that’s not enough responsibility, a fully qualified aircrewman and they use these tools to produce simultaneously earned both his Naval intelligence products for aircrews Aircrew Warfare Specialist wings and to support operations and tactical the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist mission’s worldwide. wings.” “We utilize all the systems to build While flying aboard the Navy’s an accurate picture of what’s out there newest maritime patrol aircraft, the while we fly,” explained Rosenkranz. P-8A Poseidon, Rosenkranz and the “That better helps us to maintain Skinny Dragons utilize the aircraft’s situational awareness when doing anticapabilities of anti-submarine and anti- submarine warfare or other missions.” surface warfare to scan for threats to the As a qualified electronic warfare
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operator, Rosenkranz current tasks while assigned to the squadron consists of assisting in the mission of anti-submarine warfare while flying, and training his fellow shipmates on personnel qualification standards (PQS) related to their various job responsibilities. “Rosenkranz can always be found studying for upcoming events or sharing his knowledge with his peers in the shop,” added Schillace. “His positive attitude and relentless drive have led to his selection as one of the squadron’s next instructors.” Work in the squadron is by no means a 9 to 5 job as Rosenkranz typically works 12 hours on and 15 hours off duty. While his demanding schedule hasn’t provided him with the opportunity to explore Sicily yet, it has afforded Rosenkranz his own unique opportunities. “You get to fly to a lot of cool places, see a lot of cool things, and meet new people,” said Rosenkranz. “I enjoy that.”
February 7, 2020
U.S. Consul General of Naples Lends a Helping Hand in NASSIG COMREL
By MC1 Kegan E. Kay, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
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aval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and her tenant commands conduct over 200 community relations projects a year throughout Sicily. Recognition of the base’s efforts have travelled far and wide, even drawing the attention of the U.S. Consulate General of Naples. Marking her first visit to Sicily, both personal and professionally, U.S. Consul General Mary Avery took the opportunity to participate in a community relations event and conduct an official visit to NAS Sigonella. Jan. 28. “Supporting the bases is really important to our mission at the Consulate General,” said the Consul. “I’m here to visit Sigonella as well as Catania to connect with the important local contacts who support our activities here. I think it’s a really great opportunity to showcase volunteerism that is such an important part of American culture and American values. It’s the way we give back to the communities that support our presence here.” Avery started her visit by speaking with Antonio Raspanti, Bishop of Acireale, and Father Marcello Pulvirenti, the priest of the Church of Jesus and Mary, before joining the Sailors and Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa 20.1 (SPMAGTF-CR-AF 20.1) and the Sacred Military Constantine Order of San Giorgio - Delegation of Sicily, in cleaning the church. “I think it’s a great activity and I’m really
happy to do it with the Marines and with the Constantine Order of St. George,” said the Consul. “Places like this in Italy just need so much care and work and it’s such an on-going responsibility for Italy to protect its patrimony. It feels really good to give back and to help Italy do that with all the beauty they have here.” Dressing out in a protective suit for painting, Avery joined the others in removing rust from the church’s entry gate before providing the gate with a fresh coat of paint. Following her participation in the community relations project, Avery conducted an official visit of NAS Sigonella where she received command mission briefs from NAS Sigonella, SPMAGTF-CR-AF 20.1, and NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance. Following the briefs, the site visit was rounded out with a base tour and a meet with greet with Patrol Squadron (VP) 4 and the U.S. Air Force’s 7th Reconnaissance Squadron. “The U.S. Consulate appreciates the close working relationship we enjoy with NAS Sigonella in our efforts to further strengthen the U.S. - Italy security cooperation,” remarked Avery about the base and it’s various mission sets. NAS Sigonella’s strategic location enables U.S, allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.
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By 1st Sgt. Steve Segin, 302nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
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ou may not need Camouflage uniforms in space, but you will need them to operate the U.S. Army’s newest space based early missile warning facility. Soldiers from A Detachment, 1st Space Company, 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade cut the ribbon on a new Joint Tactical Ground Station (JTAGS) facility last week. After more than two decades in Germany, JTAGS moved to NASSIG in 2018. “JTAGS Europe was stationed at Kelley Barracks, Germany from 1997 to 2018,” said CPT Dustin Mondloch, commander of A Detachment. “In an effort to take advantage of new technology, JTAGS re-stationed to Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy at the end of 2018.” As one of the first lines of air defense, JTAGS provide in-theater and strategic missile warning to the U.S. military, our allies and partners. JTAGS operators process direct down-link data from a number
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of Overhead Persistent Infrared, or OPIR satellites, then disseminate missile warning or special event messages to warfighters in support of regional combatant commanders over multiple theater communication systems. The re-stationing was necessary to better utilize the OPIR satellite systems JTAGS use to conduct their mission. “This move was necessary to better leverage our satellites, “said Mondloch “Our new facility on NASSIG ensures JTAGS-Europe remains a viable and operationally effective in-theater missile warning producer well into the foreseeable future.” The new facility utilizes the JTAGS Block II system which has enhanced capabilities to detect and report OPIR events. The facility was officially dedicated during a small ceremony February 6th, 2020. Col. Eric Little, Commander of 1st Space Brigade was on NASSIG for the dedication
February 7, 2020
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and praised the hard work of all those involved in getting this facility complete. “This move would not have been possible without our partners here at the Naval Air Station, said Little “The support this community has given us is one of the reasons we are opening today. It has taken teamwork, preservice and hard work to get this facility open.” The Army fielded the first production model JTAGS at Kelly Barracks in 1997. The JTAGS-Europe detachment, also known at the time as the 15th Air Defense JTAGS Detachment, was the first unit equipped for continuous 24 hour early missile warning. The JTAGS detachment is part of the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, the Army’s only Space Brigade. Soldiers of the 1st Space Brigade generate and provide space combat power to Army and Joint forces in support of global and continuous multi-domain planning and operations.
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Carnevale Fun Kicks Off in Acireale By Dr. Alberto Lunetta, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
et ready to have some fun! As the popular Italian saying G goes: “A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale,” (Any prank is accepted at Carnevale), Carnevale is a week of revelry, cheer,
good food and most of all- crazy fun. Thousands of Italians swarm the streets attending the colorful carri (floats) parades, wearing costumes, playing pranks on friends and having a blast. Carnevale is an Acireale ancient tradition dating back to the 16th century. Celebrations will begin Feb. 8 at 10 a.m. with a Holy Mass led by Acireale’s Bishop Antonino Raspanti in the city’s historic center and will run through Feb. 25. Historians believe that the word Carnevale (Carnival) derives from the Latin word “Carne Levare” (Put meat away). It refers to the period preceding the beginning of Lent, the austere 40 days during which Roman Catholics abstain from eating meat. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, falling on Feb. 26 this year. Despite its religious origin, Carnevale has become a pagan celebration through the centuries and in ancient times; many Carnevale-like festivals were celebrated by different cultures. The first written record of Carnevale celebrations held in Sicily dates back to the 16th century. Sicilians used to celebrate “Carnalivari” through dance festivals. Dancers performed shows throughout the streets accompanied by drums and trumpets. Masked revelers from different social classes used Carnevale as an excuse to mingle. The “Jardinara,” (Gardeners),
Carnevale in Ancient Times
ROMANS: Ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia to honor the god Saturn and in the hope of procuring plentiful harvests. Celebrations included feasting, gift giving, drunkenness, big meals and pranks. Masked parades of merrymaking featuring young boys and girls dancing on allegorical floats were also held through the streets of the cities. It was a time when masters and slaves exchanged roles. During the festival, Romans used to burn the effigy of the “King of ancient Saturnalia.” It was a grotesque puppet that was publicly burnt at the end of the celebrations. Today, this practice is still performed in many countries. A straw puppet named the “King of Carnevale” is burnt on the evening of Mardi Gras. GREEKS: In ancient Greece, floats were used for the yearly celebration in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine, in order to guarantee fertility and a successful breeding among the animal stock. EGYPTIANS: Ancient Egyptians celebrated the renewal of life brought about by the yearly flooding of the Nile through a joyful festival held in the springtime.
Carnevale (Carnevale) returns to Acireale tomorrow and will run through Feb. 25 animating the streets of the amazing Baroque historic center. It features lighted-up, decorated floats roaming the streets of the city and musicians, and masqueraded dancers riding on the top of dazzling floats carriages and dance to the music to African and Latino rhythms. (Photo by Alessandro Grussu)
“Briganti”(Bandits), “Baruni”(Barons) and “Abbati” (Abbots) were among the most popular masks. During the festivals, aristocrats and politicians were publicly mocked. Revelers also staged “battles” throwing rotten eggs and vegetables at one another which was a popular practice in the 17th century but in 1612, local authorities forbade it due to property damage and injuries to people. By the 18th century, celebrations became less “violent” and turned into comedy plays that were performed by jokers named “Abbatazzi.” Under the authorization of the Bishop, they used to make fun of nobles or priests pretending to read jokes from a big book and taking part in prank competitions. In 19th century, celebrations included the “Casariata,” a parade of flower-decorated carriages, named “landò,” that toured the historic center. Local nobles, paraded on the carriages wearing masks and threw colored sugar-coated almonds and coins at the crowd. Today, people throw “lighter” confetti and foam spraying is also very popular during Carnevale. In the 1930s, Acireale artisans started to create huge allegorical floats with papier-mâché depicting animated figures of politicians, animals and other fantastic subjects that are mounted on a mobile platform and driven in parades. Since then, Carnevale carri have become much more elaborate and spectacular. The first big parade will be held Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. and continue on the following days: Feb. 9, 15, 19 - 25. Besides Acireale’s Carnevale, spectacular festivities will be held in the town of Misterbianco from Feb. 16 - 25. The event is to feature "Italian News" cont’d on Page 11
February 7, 2020
Sailors Can Access MyNavy Portal Without Common Access Card
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By Cmdr. Erik Wells, Sea Warrior Program (PMW 240) Public Affairs
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ailors have been asking for it and today the Navy delivered! Sailors can now access MyNavy Portal (MNP) from their personal mobile devices using their mobile web browser without a CAC. “We know that MyNavy Portal is the primary gateway for our Sailors to accomplish much of their HR needs,” said Vice Adm. John Nowell, Jr., chief of naval personnel. “Today’s Sailors do so much of their daily tasks from their cell phones and tablets that it became a priority to make MyNavy Portal CAC-free. Today, that is now a reality and Sailors can log on from any mobile device, anywhere, anytime as long as they have an Internet connection.” The Navy’s first venture into CAC-free access started in Dec. 2018 with the release of the MyNavy Portal-MyRecord app. This pilot project pioneered many firsts in the transformation of how Sailors are able to access and interact with their MyNavy HR resources. These firsts included CAC-free access to human resource information in the Navy, the first Navy mobile app to deliver Sailor personally identifiable information (PII) data, and the first mobile app to synthesize MNP web resources with a mobile application. While MyNavy Portal-MyRecord app is no longer available for download, its success as a pilot was
a significant stepping-stone to the release of MNP CAC-free and the beginning of a greater capability release. “MyNavy Portal is a robust source of information that is constantly being updated to meet the demands of Sailors,” said Kenneth Johnson, acting program manager for the Sea Warrior Program (PMW 240), which is making CAC-free access to MNP possible. “The most efficient way to provide CAC-free access was to integrate our secure cloud based multi-factor authentication solution into our portal allowing Sailors more flexible access than ever before.” This initial release provides Sailors access to current MNP features such as MyNavy Career Center ticket submission, ePAR and general inquiry and data from MyRecord, PRIMS and eLeave. At this time, access to Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) and BUPERS Online (BOL) will still require CAC access and will not be accessible from mobile devices without using a CAC. Here’s how the process works. First, Sailors must log into MNP using their CAC to set-up their CAC-free account. They will be guided through the process by following several steps that will grant them CAC-free access by using Okta Verify, the Navy-approved third party app that
verifies the user’s identity. When a Sailor wants to view MyNavy Portal CAC-free on their mobile device, Okta Verify generates a code that is used to complete the log in process. At no time will any Sailor PII be transferred or revealed to Okta Verify. “This is a game changer for Sailors to manage their careers,” said Capt. David Kemp, director, MyNavy HR Transformation Office. “In the last year, we have introduced CAC-free products to allow Sailors to view and update their personnel records, assist them with their PCS moves with MyPCS mobile, and opened up MyNavy Career Center to provide 24/7 customer support to the fleet.” By delivering MyNavy Portal access without using a CAC, MyNavy HR is continuing to deliver Human Resources (HR) – personnel, pay and training services to Sailors and their families with increasing speed, accuracy, quality and transparency. The introduction of MNP CAC-free is just the start of creating CAC-free access to MyNavy HR websites such as BUPERS Online. Once Sailors set-up CAC-free access with MNP, they will not have to do it again when other sites go CAC-free. To learn more about MNP CAC-free access, visit https://my.navy.mil/login-faq.html
Happy 79th Birthday! N
aval Air Station Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Kevin Pickard (center) along with NAS Sigonella Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick Moran (left) and United Service Organizations Director Brian Coyle, take part in a cake cutting to celebrate United Service Organizations 79th birthday onboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Feb. 4. The USO was formed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as a way to unit several service associations into one organization to lift the morale of our military and nourish support on the home fornt. Today, the USO provides live entertainment and continuously adapts their many programs to meet the needs of members of the United States Armed Forces and their families.
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Local Student Named Candidate in U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
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ean M. Solano, a graduating senior at Sigonella High School, has been named a Career and Technical Education candidate as part of the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. The Career and Technical Education candidates were nominated by their Chief State School Officers based on their accomplishments in career and technical education fields. The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students demonstrating exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was expanded once again to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical fields. Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth. All Scholars are invited to Washington, D.C. in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholars Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the 161 Scholars in May. Of these, up to 20 will be selected as U.S. Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical Education.
February 7, 2020 "ICE" cont’d from Page 3
hour of operation (1700-1800). During this past summer, we had an overwhelming need from our operational commands at NAS II to have lunch swim hours available each day. In fact, the NAS II pool had so many patrons that we had to turn people away. To accommodate the over-utilized facility at NAS II, we re-duced the NAS I pool operations by six hours per week during a time frame which never had more than five people swimming. As a compromise, we offered two lanes for lap swim during open recreation swim each day. Overall we offer more hours of lap swim time at both facilities than we have in previous year. Second, those who successfully join and excel in special programs overcome adversity which far outweigh perceived limitations in pool hours. I personally know the leaders on our installation and I know they would assist you in reaching your goals if you respectfully brought your particu-lar issue up your chain of command. If you feel as though your "Italian News" cont’d from Page 8
“The most beautiful costumes of Sicily,” and boasts of an ancient Carnevale tradition called “A Mascara” (Carnevale Masks) and “Comari” (godmother or gossipy woman). Mascari were humorous and funny plays, which were staged by local peasants in different areas of Misterbianco on the first Sunday of Carnevale. Four Sicilian carts were drawn up together to set up a stage and town districts competed to be the funniest show. The Comari tradition is a social event that was celebrated on Thursday before Lent. In the afternoon, all the women from Misterbianco would meet to eat and cuttigghiari (gossip) together. In the evening, they would go out to dance in the main square wearing the “Domino” (the first Carnevale costume, which disguised their identity). In the 1970s, the typical Carnevale masks replaced the traditional Domino. Colored floats were used to parade the streets of the city as well as competitions for the best float. People would transform their living rooms into ballrooms (“Tambureddi”)
command is not providing you the time to accomplish your goals, let me know who you are and how to contact you and I will personally talk to your chain of command via the formal military channels to address your par-ticular issue. Lastly, my public affairs officer, Lt. Karl Schonberg has signed up for two local gyms over the past ten months of living here. Each offering its own aquatic facility. If you need help in how to sign up for a local gym, he can walk you through the process by calling 624-6986. If you have any more questions or concerns about NAS Sigonella aquatics facilities, please con-tact the Aquatic Manager at 624-3785 or by email Elizabeth.cole@eu.navy.mil.
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Marines in any way possible.
BZ to Security:
I just wanted to say thank you to the Navy Security Forces member who helped my wife out when her car broke down at the NEX a few days ago. We are new to this post and really aren’t familiar enough with our new surroundings yet. Good to know the hospitality of the Navy is there for both Soldiers and their families here in Naval Station Sigonella.
BZ to MWR:
The Manager of Liberty Center, Marissa Johnson, she goes out of her way to ensure happiness and customer service are met with top priority. She provides services for her Sailors and
Our family had an amazing and wonderful time at the MWR Christmas event last Saturday morning. It is our favorite event and still is! Everything was well planned and there were so much to do. Our children had the most fun shopping with the elves. Absolutely loved the backdrop and being able to take a picture home instantly for free! The decorations throughout the gym were cute like the gnomes. Food and music was great! Thank you MWR!
where guests could dance and enjoy Carnevale. Today, elaborate and colorful costumes, made by local craftsmen, are at the heart of the Misterbianco festivities. There will be 800 costumes that will participate in the spectacular parades. The tradition of costumes started in 2004 and was also exported abroad as costumes paraded in Dubai, Tunisia and Malta over the years. Costumes and floats parades will kick off on Sunday, Feb. 16 at 4:30 p.m. along Gramsci (town center). Other parades will be held on Feb. 23 and 25. If looking to travel to the main land then Venice is the place to be for Carnevale. Venice is known as the Italian queen of Carnevale cities and will host 18 days of Carnevale this year, with events taking place along the city’s canals and across its bridges and squares from Feb. 8 – 25. Artisans are hard at work preparing beautiful masks and floats for the annual Carnevale, whose theme is “Il Gioco, l’amore e la Follia.” Costumed visitors can look forward to
water parades, allegorical floats, masked balls and night parades, with a spectacular water procession from Punta della Dogana to Rio di Cannaregio opening this year’s program of events on Feb. 9. Another important event, the “Festa delle Marie” pageant, will be held on Feb. 15 with a grand parade starting from Piero di Castello reaching down to Piazza S. Marco where the most beautiful of the 12 “Marias” will be crowned on Feb. 25. The Carnevale di Venezia dates back to the 14th century, maybe earlier, and over the centuries the event was frequently forbidden under various rulers. The modern version of the Venice Carnevale, as we know it today, has taken place for the last 100 years. For more information and detailed schedules about each event can be found at : https://www.carnevaleacireale.it/ programma-2020/ https://www.facebook.com/ carnevaledimisterbianco/ https://www.carnevale.venezia.it/
Bravo Zulu
BZ to Liberty Center:
2019
Naval Air Station Sigonella NAS 1 Building 319, Room 1145 Tel: 624-4212
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NMCRS TEAM Sigonella
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Clients were assisted in creating a budget to better manage their finances.
7,759
61
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
6,435
VOLUNTEER HOURS
VOLUNTEERS
HOUSEHOLD SET-UP
$69,430
BASIC LIVING EXPENSES (FOOD, LODGING)
$42,867
TRANSPORTATION (CAR REPAIRS, INSURANCE, CAR PAYMENT, RENTAL)
$14,102
FAMILY EMERGENCY
$5,800
PERSONAL TRANSPORTATION EXPENSES (PCS, GAS, PARENTS TO BEDSIDE)
$4,074
TRANSPORTATION DUE TO FAMILY MEMBER ILLNESS OR DEATH
$28,189
OTHER
$17,068
Purchases were made at the Nearly New Thrift Shop.
19
Moms and dads attended a Budget-for-Baby workshop.
144
$181,530
Clients received financial assistance
NAS Sigonella ADFD Contributions $105,628
16
$93,937
$103,867 $88,002
Gift bags with hand-made blankets and other items provided to expectant parents.
2016
AS OF JAN 2020
2017
2018
2019
