Swordfish Host International Meet
National Preparedness Month Wraps Up
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Ryanair Changes Carry-On Policy
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
Vol. 35 No. 36
NAS Sigonella Raises Awareness During Suicide Prevention Month Story by MCC Jessica Vargas NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella held several events throughout National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to emphasize the importance of committing resources to education and suicide prevention for service members, their families, and DoD civilians. The entire community was encouraged to “Be There” for each other every day. Anyone can make a dramatic difference and save someone’s life simply by caring enough to listen and take appropriate action. Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of NAS Sigonella, and other leaders throughout the installation kicked off this year’s Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month by signing a proclamation on Sept. 7. “Suicide Prevention Month helps to renew our commitment and remember our responsibility to look out for those we live and serve with,” said Lt. Steven Hervey, chaplain on board NAS Sigonella. “One of the best things about Suicide Prevention Month is the collaboration between the various organizations such as the First Class Petty Officer Association, the Chief Petty Officers’ Association, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s Health Promotions Department, and the Fleet and Family Support Center. Working together in this way demonstrates that here at NAS Sigonella, we are here for one another and will be there for every Sigonella Citizen every day.” Preventing suicide requires an enduring commitment to taking care of ourselves and each other on a daily basis. Suicide Prevention Month is an opportunity to refresh that commitment and kick off year-round engagement that enables us to talk openly and honestly about psychological health. In doing so, it empowers us to seek help when we need it. “Often times, the stressors that cause suicidal thoughts or attempts may come from financial issues, the pressure of family separation, domestic violence, fear of the unknown when
SIGONELLA, Sicily (September 7, 2018) Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer, NAS Sigonella, signs a proclamation pledging to be there for every Sailor, every day during a kickoff event for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Andriana Genualdi/Released)
separating from the military, or a host of other things,” said Shannon Harden, NAS Sigonella’s Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. “The Fleet and Family Support Center has programs to help address all of these issues once they’ve occurred, and more importantly, before issues arise. We are in this together. No one is alone.” Throughout the month, service members also participated in the “1 Small ACT” campaign. One small act by a shipmate, leader, or family member to encourage healthy behaviors, offer support, and uphold seeking help
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Ways to Get Help • Chaplains, Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) or medical • Military Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-TALK, Press 1; text 838255; In Europe: Call 00800 1273 8255 or DSN 118; visit www.militarycrisisline.net • “BeThere” Peer Support Call and Outreach Center: 1-844-357-PEER, text 480-360-6188 or visit www.betherepeersupport.org • Military OneSource: www.militaryonesource.mil • National Suicide Prevention Crisis Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), https://www. veteranscrisisline.net/support/be-there • USMC DSTRESS Line (1-877-476-7734) • Civilian employees and their families: Civilian Employee Assistance Program at 1-844-366-2327, 1-866-829-0270 (international) or https:// DONCEAP.foh.psc.gov
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Direct Line
David Carlisle, Principal, Sigonella Middle-High School
Bongiorno, Sigonella! As the new principal of Sigonella Middle-High School, it has been a real pleasure to begin the process of meeting parents, students, and community members. I want to thank everyone I’ve met so far for the kind and open-hearted reception into this great community. As you can imagine, it has been a big and eventful transition. This is my 10th move as part of the military community. The first nine were throughout Germany, and so this is my first time living in Italy! I am trying my best to pick up the language and integrate into the school and the host nation. Overall, this is my 34th year working in the education field. I started working in Montana after graduating from the University of Montana, and I’ve been teaching, coaching, and administrating ever since. This will be my fifth time serving as an administrator in a Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school.
My goal as a DoDEA administrator is to align the efforts of the school with the DoDEA and Region initiatives, and to work to define the best possible educational environment for students. Sigonella has already been engaged in professional discussions about the implementation of the College and Career Ready Standards as well as the implementation of a new DoDEA Blueprint for continuous improvement. These can be found on the DoDEA website at www.dodea.edu. This year, we will be focusing on four main initiatives: Rigor in the Classroom, Collaboration, the DoDEA Comprehensive Assessment Program (DCAS), and Teacher Observations. Regarding the DCAS, once we receive the results from last year’s assessments, we will hold an informational evening event for parents and sponsors, probably in early October. These are all big initiatives, so when you hear that teachers are collaborating every Thursday,
this is exactly what they are working on. These collaboration times are driving important conversations about applying effective research-based teaching strategies in the classroom and implementing the College and Career Ready Standards. As a parent, I can proudly say that I put three daughters through the DoDEA system from Kindergarten through the 12th grade. I have great faith in our education system, and believe my daughters received an excellent education with a very diverse group of people. While my children attended different schools, there was always alignment in curriculum and objectives, which served them well during those transitions. This will be my first year in many when I will not have a child attending school with me-my youngest daughter graduated from Stuttgart last year. I hope to give all parents the reassurance that your students are in a sound,
healthy educational setting. If you do experience any issues during the year, the school and staff are here to support you. I know firsthand that children can present us with unexpected challenges. I always hoped that children would be born with an instruction booklet tied to their toe, but that doesn’t seem to be happening. They are all unique, and each one would have to come with their own set of instructions! And that is exactly why we love them.
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Sug-
gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard
those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comments Regarding Marinai Housing Yard Maintenance:
I have received several comments regarding the maintenance of back yard and carport areas on Marina. Specifically, the comments address residents not regularly mowing their backyards as required by their leases, and keeping prohibited items out of the carports. There are concerns that having overgrown vegetation can become habitat for unwanted creatures or insects, and that having a lot of items crowding carports can create a poor perception of the community.
Response:
Thank you for your comments. These comments help the housing office focus on what they can improve. Recently, the maintenance of front yard lawn mowing and shrub trimming has been be taken over as a housing office responsibility. However, as a reminder, residents are still responsible for maintaining their own back yards, including picking up after their pets, cutting the grass and bushes, and making sure nothing is collecting water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. For carports, please keep in mind that Marinai has very limited outdoor storage, so many residents store items in their carports out of necessity. Nonetheless, residents are required to make sure their carports are neatly organized. The housing office has already identified some houses that are not currently meeting this requirement and will be inspecting carports weekly for future violations. They are looking for safety violations like open storage of paint, gas cans, propane canisters, and aerosol cans—these items should be stored in a cabinet. Also, power tools and woodworking equipment should be put away after every use. The housing office also provides videos and information about the limited outdoor storage so that incoming residents have a better sense of what they can bring. They are also exploring the option of providing outdoor sheds, but this will likely take some time to finalize. Please contact the Marinai housing office for more information or email the installation’s Housing Director, Peter Faulk, at peter.faulk@eu.navy.mil at any time.
BZ for Housing:
I just wanted to say thank you to the housing department. I saw the comments on Facebook in reminding Marinai residents to clean up both their front and back yards. I think that it’s a good thing. I know these are existing regulations and I don't understand why they haven't been upheld here in the almost two years that I have been here - but I am glad that the housing office is finally taking notice. I have had to speak with my neighbors on several occasions because they don't cut their grass in the back and they let their dogs out there to do their business. This is not very sanitary for my children. So now I just hope that the housing office follows through and it stays that way. Great Start!
Response:
Thank you for the encouraging comment. The Marinai Housing office is adjusting and refocusing our efforts to your area of concern. Now that Pizzarotti has
undertaken the responsibility of maintaining front yards, the housing office has been able to dedicate more effort to inspecting and enforcing backyard and carport regulations. For any future concerns you might have, please email the Marinai housing office at any time at NASSIG-HousingMarinai@eu.navy.mil or the Housing Director, Peter Faulk, at peter.faulk@eu.navy.mil.
BZ for Security:
On 19 SEP, at approximately 1430, I was assisted at the NAS II gate by two service members. I apologize for not being able to get their names due to them having safety reflective vests on, but they were very helpful. I requested assistance to navigate to the legal office, and the two gentlemen were friendly, kind, clear, informative, and professional. I often feel that I am a nuisance if I ask a question at the gate; however, with these two I had a much different experience. They were very patient and clear. With their help, I was able to safely get where I need to go. I often think they do not get enough credit for dealing with hundreds of service interactions a day, but these two definitely deserve credit and appreciation. Thank you!
Response:
Thank you for your positive feedback for the MAs. The Security Department is continually training their Sailors to be professional and maintain the highest standards of military bearing, regardless of the long hours and environmental elements in which they are exposed to on a daily basis. One of their duties is to offer directions and guidance to those in need of it. I am pleased that you were able to get to your destination safely and I am happy to hear that the Security Department is upholding my expectations of premier customer service. We have been able to identify the two Sailors you spoke about and have passed along your BZ to them directly.
Comment Regarding Galley Dress Code:
The employees who work at the front desk in the galley are severely strict with the updated appropriate civilian attire instruction for galley patronage. I do not understand why people that are forced to forfeit their BAS cannot even wear Adidas sandals in the galley. We are paying full BAS whether we eat there or not. I believe that either we should give a little leniency in regards to civilian attire worn at the galley, or make it possible to route a chit to receive BAS while living in NAS II barracks. Whether you show leniency on the proper civilian attire or authorize us to receive BAS, it will increase morale and Sailors will more frequently use the galley.
Response:
Thank you for your time and comment regarding galley footwear regulations. The galley is striving to improve customer service and has relaxed the rule regar-
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Yeoman Seaman Apprentice Samuel Ford Department: Administration Hometown: Ft. Lauderdale, FL Tasked with providing administrative and management support to the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella commanding officer, the Administration Department handles a wide array of duties, including official correspondence, awards processing, directives issuance, handling the command calendar, and many other tasks as directed by the CO and XO. It takes Sailors like Yeoman Seaman Apprentice Samuel Ford to keep the command’s clerical functions a well-oiled machine. Ford handles correspondence that is routed to NAS Sigonella for the base CO’s attention and other administrative duties. This includes processing medical waivers, housing and subsistence allowance requests, issuing the command calendar, and many other clerical tasks. Ford says he enjoys analyzing all of the administrative packages that cross his desk and making sure that they meet all the requirements to process them. He also stands yeoman duty watch several times per month, standing in for the commanding officer’s secretary when she is out of the office. In this capacity, he sometimes fields important and interesting phone calls that need the CO’s attention. Ford has several collateral duties.
For one, he issues welcome aboard letters to incoming Sailors. He also serves as the Administration Department’s representative to the Base Informative Telecommunications Council, which handles the management and administration of base communications equipment and services. When Ford isn’t working, he is taking classes at the University of Maryland University College’s satellite campus here at Sigonella. Down the road, he would like to become a lawyer that specializes in business law. For now, he has plans to complete at least his Associate’s degree while stationed here, and eventually his Bachelor’s and J.D. He
"ICE" continued from Page 2 ding open-toed foot wear from its original proposal. However, the Adidas sandal that you are referring to is considered to be shower shoes and is made of plastic. This does not create enough grip with the tiled floor, which creates a slip hazard; meaning that it does not comply with the relaxed rule I mentioned previously. The galley’s main concern, aside from providing nutritious meals, is safety. Therefore, cashiers have been instructed to be strict about enforcing the new footwear instruction. You are more than welcome to wear rubber and leather sandals and open-toed footwear that conform to the regulations when eating at the galley, but plastic-soled sandals are prohibited.
also enjoys listening to audiobooks in his free time. This is Ford’s first duty station in the Navy but he is no stranger to moving around. He spent his adolescence in rural Virginia but has moved up and down the east coast since he was eleven years old. In fact, he says Sicily reminds him of the rural Virginia landscape. So far, Ford has been able to enjoy Sicily’s beaches in his off time but has more travel plans in the works. “I definitely want to visit the United Kingdom,” said Ford. “My dad’s ancestors are Scottish, and he even has a sheep-herding trophy from one of my great-grandparents.”
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.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 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) 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. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday preceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
Sigonella Swordfish Host First-Ever International Swim Meet By Capt. Brice Goodwin
The Sigonella Swordfish demonstrated their ongoing curiosity of cultures and taste for adventure as they served as hosts to two local Italian swim teams for the first-ever intercultural swim practice invitational. Seventeen Italian swimmers, along with their coaches from the La Meridiana Sport team from Catania and Cley Squirt from Bronte, joined senior Swordfish at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s Splashers Pool for a week of practice sessions, and to share and compare coaching and training techniques. The primary goal for this event was to forge community relationships among this younger generation by providing a cultural immersion in which they could practice their foreign language skills along with their swimming skills. The week began with head coaches Molly Fuselier, Giovanni Pelligrino, and Giulio Grandoni providing poolside instruction in English and
Italian so that everyone received exposure to real-world interactions and applications that, for many students, exists only inside a classroom. But it was the shared passion for swimming, and curiosity about each other’s culture, that brought these young swimmers together at the start of each set—working with each other to understand what they were being asked to accomplish. Several Swordfish and La Meridiana swimmers used their fluency in Italian and English, respectively, to fill in any language and communication gaps for other swimmers. By the end of the first day, the fun and excitement from practice had replaced any of the initial awkwardness felt by swimmers. The concept for this intercultural swim meet originated in parents’ and swimmers’ shared interest in interacting within each other’s culture, with swimming serving as the common bond to link them together and reduce the typical discomfort many feel in
these types of situations. Some Swordfish swimmers also train and swim competitively on local Italian teams, and it was through these encounters that the logistics of extending this enrichment program to the full teams took shape. And as expected, with the short time intervals between practice sets, much of the self-consciousness felt by swimmers was quickly overcome as they interacted with one another to confirm the coaches’ expectations of them before the starting whistle sounded. Forging strong community relationships with host nations has been an important element in building and maintaining long-standing partnerships that date back decades. And while these cultural exchanges of ideas and interests often occur at the higher levels of government, it may be closer to the truth to say that they start with our children. Their innate curiosity and open-mindedness allows them to approach new experiences and opportunities with a greater enthusiasm and
lack of restraint compared to adults. These American and Italian children embodied this concept. At the conclusion of the week-long event, parents, coaches, and swimmers all agreed that it was a resounding success, but for very different reasons. Parents were grateful for the opportunity to have their children socialize and interact on a meaningful level that allowed them to get to know each other’s culture on a personal level. Coaches enjoyed comparing and sharing training styles and techniques that they could each take away and implement with their teams. And swimmers overwhelmingly enjoyed the opportunity to compete in a friendly medley relay race so they could lay claim to being the fastest. And although a rain shower put a halt to determining the final outcome of the races until a future rematch, it was indisputable that the intercultural experience positively shaped perceptions of each culture for a generation to come.
Sigonella Swordfish swim team members pose with the Italian La Meridiana Sport and Cley Squirt swim teams at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s Splashers Pool. (Photo by Jason Ruppert)
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Health Plan of the Week: Create Healthy Routines From Naval Marine Corps Public Health Center/ Lt. Mark Knutson, USNH Sigonella
Change your daily routines and behaviors to promote a positive, healthy lifestyle. There are things you can do every day to improve your psychological and emotional well-being. Instead of binge eating because you are stressed, take the time to care for yourself by making well-balanced meals. Staying physically fit can also keep your mind sharp and reduce stress, so choose an exercise program for active, healthy living. Mindfulness meditation can also help create stressfree environments wherever you are at the time. And don’t forget to get enough sleep. Seven to eight hours of sleep each night can improve your
memory and mood, allowing you to maintain a positive outlook. By making positive daily behavior changes, you are taking control of your mental health and ultimately strengthening your mind and body. If you would like to learn about meditation, there is a free class every Wednesday at the NAS II Chapel from 1700-1730 that is open to everyone! No need to register, just show up. Support your community and find out ways you can #BeThere. If you would like to learn more about Health Promotion and Wellness, come to Midtown at NAS I, 2nd Deck, room 1041, or call 624-4710.
Did you know? • Less than 0.5% of Earth’s water reserves are potable (drinkable) • 20% of California’s electric consumption is used to treat and transport water. Saving water means saving energy! In California, four years’ drought resulted in loss of 21,000 jobs and $2.74B in crops. • Water conservation measures enacted in California in 2015 yielded better-than-expected results: m 25% water savings m Annual reduction in greenhouse gases equivalent to emissions from about 100,000 cars m Annual energy savings equivalent to that consumed by about 165 homes. Water scarcity all around the world threatens not only our health and economic wellbeing, but also global security as countries vie for control over a vital and dwindling natural resource. What is the US Navy – specifically here in Navy Region EURAFSWA - doing to conserve water? A lot! Many of our bases use non-potable water for irrigation. Faucet aerators, low flow faucets and showerheads, and landscaping
designed for low or no irrigation are other measures that conserve water in our region. Ways to Save California’s succeeded because individuals (and communities) were willing to change their behaviors. Here are some ways that we, as individual members of the Navy EURAFSWA community, can protect our water resources. Each can save thousands of gallons per year, along with the energy it takes to treat and transport it. Small Leaks, Big Savings: One faucet leaking one drop per second wastes 2,400 gallons of water a year. That’s 13 years’ worth of drinking water for one person. Reduce Plastic – It takes 3 to 11 times more water to produce a bottle of water than the bottle contains. Consider using water filters on taps, the blue coolers or re-usable water bottles instead, savings both water and energy. Flip that Flapper. The rubber flapper in your toilet tank wears out over time. For only a few euros, you can replace that old flapper with a new one that is leak-tight and save thousands of gallons per year. WaterSense Makes it Easy: Look for the Water Sense Label when purchasing items.
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
Sigonella Air Force Volunteers Support Acitrezza Boat Trip for Special Needs Children By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Acitrezza, SICILY – On September 15, a group of Air Force volunteers from the U.S. Air Force 7th Reconnaissance Squadron stationed at Naval Air Station Sigonella supported a boat trip community relations project for disabled children. The project was coordinated by Rete di Associazioni, a Catania-based volunteer group whose mission is to enhance quality of life for people with disabilities. Volunteers spent a morning helping children with special needs board small boats, which toured the enchanting Lachea Island, and ensuring their safety on board. Aci Castello Deputy Mayor Ezia Carbone attended the event and thanked Sigonella volunteers for their support. At the end of the event, Sigonella volunteers were invited for a tour of the Casa del Nespolo, a landmark in the Italian author Giovanni Verga’s famous novel “I Malavoglia.” The museum hosts photographs and nostalgia from the 1947 movie “The Earth Trembles” by Luchino Visconti, shot in Acitrezza with local residents playing the characters, which depicted the hardships suffered by Sicilian fishermen in the 19th century. The museum also hosts a traditional humble fishermen’s house of that time.
San Vito lo Capo Couscous Festival Ends This Weekend By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Couscous lovers should not miss the last weekend of the international festival that is currently being held in San Vito Lo Capo. Every year, thousands of food connoisseurs make a beeline for tasting this delicacy that has been around for over 1,000 years ever since the Arabs introduced it in Sicily. San Vito Lo Capo is a beautiful costal town, located about 25 miles from Trapani, whose amazing crystal-clear sea and pure white shores were awarded the international recognition “Blue Flag of Europe” in 2002 for achieving high standards of water quality, excellent beach facilities, management, and litter control. The festival takes place in the lively streets of city’s historic center where ethnic music concerts and numerous display stands create an amazing Mediterranean atmosphere. The festival runs through Sunday, Sept. 30 and features a contest spotlighting talented Mediterranean and African chefs who compete to create the best ethnic couscous dish. A jury of journalists and experts in the tourism, food, and wine industries will select the winner. Couscous is a staple dish in North Africa’s Maghreb region (Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia) and the word can be a reference to the grain as well as to the finished dish. Dishes are usually composed of cumin-flavored meat and/or vegetable stew which is served over the cooked semolina pasta. According to historians, the French term couscous stems from the Arabic word kuskus, which in turn evolved from another Arabic word, kaskasa, meaning “to pound or to make small.” It takes skillful hands to n’cucciare (mix the semolina grains) in the mafaradda, a large terracotta container that is handed down from mother to daughter. Couscous is traditionally steamed in a couscoussier or couscous pot, which consists of a double boiler. The lower part is a cooking pot while the upper part vents steam. The stew of lamb, beef or chicken, the broth and fresh vegetables cook in the bottom pot while the wheat semolina couscous is steamed up top. Festival goers will also have the unique chance to sample the traditional siciliano couscous that will be prepared daily by the women and fishermen of San Vito lo Capo. This dish, of Arabic origin, is very common on the West coast of Sicily spanning from Trapani to Marsala. It is prepared with local fish (prawns, groupers, amberjacks, scorpion fish, etc.) instead of vegetables or meat. There are two Sicilian couscous variations: one with toasted almonds and chilies that is typical of San Vito Lo Capo and another, unique to the Agrigento area, which is a sweet dish consisting of pistachios, almonds, candied pumpkin, chocolate, cinnamon, and icing. During each day of the festival, from noon until midnight, festival visitors can sample a menu consisting of a couscous course
"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14
Photo by Alberto Lunetta
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USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group Begins Operations in U.S. 6th Fleet From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (CSG) has commenced operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations to continue support to NATO allies, European and African partner nations, coalition partners, and U.S. national security interest in Europe and Africa. Harry S. Truman CSG initially deployed to the European theater April 11, 2018, and returned to its homeport Naval Station Norfolk July 21, 2018, for an extended working port visit. “We are thrilled to have the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group back in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations and look forward to continuing to work with Rear Adm. Gene Black and his team as we conduct the full spectrum of maritime operations,” said Vice Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet, head-
quartered in Naples, Italy. “The strike group’s return also gives us the opportunity to operate and train with our NATO allies and regional partners, which will enhance our interoperability and readiness as we work together to secure a safe and prosperous region for all.” The strike group got underway Aug. 28, completing training exercises and carrier qualifications in the Atlantic, to include participating in dual-carrier operations with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and bi-lateral operations with the Royal Canadian Navy. The strike group which departed Norfolk, includes the flagship Nimitzclass aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75); the nine squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1; Ticond-
“TRUMAN” continued on Page 15
NORTH ATLANTIC (Sept. 18, 2018) Sailors stand on the flight deck after launching a C-2A Greyhound assigned to the "Rawhides" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the North Atlantic, Sept. 18, 2018. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations, demonstrating commitment to regional allies and partners, combat power, and flexibility of U.S. naval forces to operate wherever and whenever the nation requires. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony Flynn/Released)
Chief Pride: Forged by the Creed By MC3 Class Timothy Hale Defense Media Activity
Being selected as a chief represents the most significant change in an enlisted Sailor's career. Less than 10 percent of all who enter the enlisted ranks will be selected. The level of responsibility they assume is a reflection of their leadership potential as well as technical prowess. Chiefs not only are considered the subject-matter experts in their rates, but also assume many collateral duties, such as training junior Sailors and even junior officers. Simply stated, the fleet is full of great chiefs, senior chiefs and master chiefs, men and women who were provided with outstanding leadership as they came up through the ranks and are paying it forward to the generations that follow. "The difference between E7 and a 'chief ' is a person that is in charge and a person who is a leader," said Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ja'lon Rhinehart, senior enlisted leader at the Defense Information School's Navy Detachment. "A person who is in charge has simply
been appointed to a position and they rest upon those laurels. They accept that 'I'm here, I do my job and you work for me because you have no choice.' A leader recognizes that it is the people who make the difference, and they develop personal relationships. A leader works for his people, and their success is their people's success and their failure is a 100 percent the failure of leadership." A chief is a chief no matter what uniform he or she wears and that will never change. The Navy has experienced one constant through the years: In the face of unrelenting change, sound and solid leadership skills, traditions and values remain the same. That's in large part thanks to chiefs. Drawing on their past, they serve as technical experts and act as liaisons to commissioned officers. They possess the ability to establish and maintain the conditions that provide Sailors with opportunities for success. The ability to bridge that gap and provide solutions for both officers and enlisted personnel ensures the old mantra, "ask the chief," shall remain a vital part of the Navy well into its future.
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
National Preparedness Month: Weeks III and IV By GM2 Joshua Neal NAS Sigonella Emergency Operations Center
September is National Preparedness Month and one of the Emergency Management Department (EMD)’s favorite times of the year. National Preparedness Month was started in 2004 and is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Its goal is to help local communities take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities to include natural disasters and terrorist attacks. One of the main reasons the federal government chose September was due to the latter, as the events of September 11, 2001 highlighted to the nation the significance of being prepared. No one ever envisions being part of a “real world” disaster, and that in itself is the reason why we should all prepare to for one. Here in Sigonella, we encourage everyone to do what they can to prepare themselves and their families for the unthinkable. The theme this year for National Preparedness Month is Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How. Each week within the month, however, has its own message. They are: Week 1: Sept 1-8.......... Make and Practice Your Plan Week 2: Sept 9-15..................Learn Life Saving Skills Week 3: Sept 16-22...................Check Your Coverage Week 4: Sept 23-29................Save For an Emergency
need. Keep your inventory records in a safe place such as a waterproof and fireproof box, a safe, or even a bank deposit box. If you use electronic copies instead, make sure that the files are protected by strong passwords, saved on a backup portable device, and kept in a water/ fire proof box or safe. Inside this container, you should also store your policy numbers, insurance company contact numbers, and claim filing instructions. • Understand your Options for Coverage There are various types of coverage. A typical homeowner’s policy provides coverage for your dwelling, personal property, loss-of-use, personal liability, and medical protection. The dwelling coverage includes your house, other structures insures structures such as garages, decks, and fences. Personal property coverage includes furniture, clothing, appliances, etc. Loss-of-use coverage provides compensation if you need to temporarily relocate due to damages covered by your insurance. Personal liability coverage insures accidents that occur on your property. And medical protection covers payments to other persons who are injured on your property. If you live in a condo, manufactured home, mobile home, or farm, or if you’re renting or have a business location, there are various policies specifically for these. Check with your insurance provider for more details. • Ensure that you have Appropriate Insurance for Hazards Insurance companies call the causes of loss or hazards “perils.” Review your policies to see which perils are covered. Note that a peril covered in a homeowner’s policy under dwelling may not be covered when it comes to personal property. Consider the perils for you area that you live and work. Living in a high-risk or high-crime area may increase the price for insurance coverage. Always double-check your individual policy for details.
Continuing from our previous article here are your tips from weeks three and four. Week 3: Check Your Coverage When it comes to disasters and emergencies, one cannot overstress the importance of having active insurance coverage for yourself, your family, and your property. Everything you have is valuable and meaningful. Should a disaster occur, or should you find yourself the victim of an emergency, having insurance is the best way to make sure that you have financial resources to help rebuild, repair, or replace what was lost or damaged. We want to focus on three tips when it comes to insurance. • Document your Property Maintaining a detailed inventory of your property will help you to prove the value of what you own, which will assist you when filing and processing a potential claim with your insurance provider. Keeping a current inventory will also help you to determine what kind of insurance policy to buy and how much coverage you
Week 4: Save for an Emergency At Sigonella and throughout the Navy, there are Command Financial Specialists (CFS). A CFS functions as the command's principal advisor on policies and matters related to personal financial management. CFSs are nominated by their commands as special assistants to senior leadership. They help others with car buying, checking account management, credit and bankruptcy, and financial planning. If you don’t know where to turn,
but you know you want to start better saving habits, start with a CFS. He or she can steer you in the right direction. But how does saving relate to being prepared for disasters? Americans from all income levels have experienced the hardships of rebuilding their lives after a disaster or emergency incident. In those stressful situations, having properly saved and prepared will allow you to start the recovery process without delay. Establish an emergency savings account that could be used in any crisis. Keep a small amount of cash, both USD and Euro, at home in a safe place. It is important to have small bills on hand because ATMs and credit cards may not work during a disaster when you need to purchase necessary supplies, fuel, or food. Learn more about achieving financial health by visiting https://www.usa. gov/flec, which has a wealth of information. Finally, gather financial and critical personal, household, and medical information into one place. This includes: • Household Identification: Photo IDs, birth certificates, social security cards, military service documents, and ID tags for your pets. • Financial and Legal documentation: Tax statements, insurance policies, proof of income, and housing payments to name a few. • Medical Information: Medications and the associated documentation for each prescription. Physician information, copies of health insurances, and immunization records. • Household goods inventory, vehicle, and personal property documentation.
Visit the FEMA website to read more about creating an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK). If a disaster or emergency strikes your community, your initial response will be focused on keeping your family safe. Once the threat of harm has passed, having your insurance policies, financial records, and other records will be very important as you begin the recovery process. You can find a PDF download link for an EFFAK, as well as an incredible amount of other preparedness information at www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness. Your EFFAK will guide you toward financial preparedness. Should you have any emergencies, please call the Emergency Dispatch Center (our 911) at 095-86-1911 or DSN 624-1911. For non-emergencies, you can contact the Emergency Dispatch Center at 095-86-5225 or DSN 624-5225.
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MWR Hosts 5th Annual Command Challenge Tournament Photos by Vanessa Narvaez, Edward Zamarripa, and MWR
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SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:
WOMEN'S HEALTH AND LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM
MOUNTAIN MEDITATION/STRESS REDUCTION WORKSHOP
Command, Department or Organization: HEALTH PROMOTION AND WELLNESS DEPARTMENT Dates of Event: 1 October • Time of Event: 0800-1600 Location of Event: NAS I Theater Point of Contact Name: Health Promotion Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4710 Point of Contact Email Address: usn.sigonella.navhospsigonellait.mesg. hp@mail.mil Additional Information: Join U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella for the first WOMEN'S HEALTH AND LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM. A daylong idea exchange surrounding the unique strengths and challenges of being a woman. Choose between multiple breakout sessions. Topics include: nutrition, contraception, mentorship, family and work life balance, STIs, and sexual assault.
Command, Department or Organization: CREDO/Health Promotion Date of Event: Thursday, October 4 Time of Event: 0800-1200 Location of Event: National Park on Mt Etna Point of Contact Name: CREDO Facilitator, Richard Graves Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-5231 Point of Contact Email Address: richard.graves.ctr@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: This workshop is open to all personnel and family members assigned to Naval Air Station Sigonella. Transportation to the Park will be provided. The workshop will include a 30 minute meditation session led by LT Khatawoda from the Behavioral Health Dept at The Naval Hospital at NAS I. Following the meditation session, a Forest Meditation exercise will be led by Rich Graves, the CREDO facilitator at Sigonella. To register, call the Health Promotions Office at 624-4950/4710.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 Daily Mass: 1130-1200 Chapel Youth Middle School: 1445-1615 AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:
0600-0700 1130-1200
Thursday 1330-1500 Chapel Youth High School: Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday Daily Mass: 1130-1200 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830
Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel
Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:
1100-1200
Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education: 1045-1200 1100-1200 Protestant Service: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600
NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:
1130-1200
Weekly Traffic Report: September 17 - September 24, 2018
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
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PAGE 14 "ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 (choosing between the Sicilian or the traditional kind), a glass of Sicilian wine, a portion of local sweets (cassatelle, cannoli, cassate, and almond desserts), and some dessert wine. This year’s festival edition features a new tasting opportunity called “Cous Cous & Friends.” It is a new tasting point that offers not only couscous but also Mediterranean specialties such as moussaka and kolokythokeftedes (zucchini and feta meatballs) from Greece, Moroccan chicken, vegetable tajine, and also casarecce pasta with Trapani pesto. The festival also features food workshops, arts and crafts, seminars, wine, olive oil and traditional pastry tastings as well as fusion and world music concerts and shows. For detailed schedules, consult the official festival website (also available in English) at https://www.couscousfest.it/programma-2018/ or Facebook. Reaching San Vito lo Capo is fairly easy using the Catania-Palermo highway (A19). Once you arrive in Palermo, take the Palermo-Mazara del Vallo highway (A29) and exit Castellammare del Golfo.
Tourists Could Face $500 Fines for Sitting Down Under Venice Mayor's Proposed Ban From Newsweek
In a bid to crack down on “boorish” tourists, the city of Venice wants to fine visitors for sitting or lying on the ground in landmark spots. The proposed rule comes from the Italian city’s mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, as local authorities ponder a handful of strict measures to regulate behavior in the historic town. The proposal would add to existing rules that ban people from taking any sort of dips in the canals, eating while sitting on the steps of buildings, or walking through Venice’s streets. Besides fines, offenders can also be banned from visiting the city again. The proposed rule aims to effectively expand an existing ban on sitting on the steps of monuments or the portico of the Piazza San Marco. The city administration is considering fines of between 50 and 500 Euros if eventually put into practice, The Guardian reported.
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Venice is a hugely popular summer tourist destination, despite its relatively small size (it ranks outside the top 10 of Italy’s most populous cities). This has made overcrowding during peak season an earnestly debated concern. In response, Brugnaro has proposed a possible cap on the number of day trips the city can host at any given time and implemented crowd-control gates to stem foot traffic during Easter weekend. The Venice city council will likely vote on the new motion in October. But the idea has already encountered a backlash from locals, who fear they will be affected in addition to tourists. Residents, activist groups, and the antiestablishment Five Star Movement have argued against it. “There is such a long list of things that are already forbidden in Venice that there is nothing left that you can do,” Marco Gasparinetti, residents’ group Gruppo Aprile 25. “They would need to hire an extra 5,000 officers to properly enforce everything.” The mayor has already pushed to tighten the rules that city council employees must adhere to. This month, the media has reported that Brugnaro is banning them from wearing bermuda shorts (even during the height of summer), restricting usage of smartphones for work purposes only, and forcing employees to take time off for activities like getting a morning coffee—local traditions be damned. The new regulations for city employees followed another crackdown on police dress code in the city, specifically controlling how much jewelry officers can wear. Female police officers may only wear one ring and a small necklace, and earrings are only permissible if they are «spherical or semispherical.» Male officers have less leeway, barring them from wearing any earrings or visible body piercings.
Is Ryanair's New Hand Luggage Fee Unfair? Italian Watchdog Opens Inquiry By The Local
Italy’s competition authority “Antitrust” has opened an inquiry into lowcost airline Ryanair’s decision to charge passengers for hand luggage, which the body described as an “essential” item for travelers. Starting in November, non-priority customers of the no-frills airline will only be allowed to take one “small personal bag,” such as a handbag or laptop case, into the plane’s cabin as long as it can fit under the seat in front. They will be charged if they want to take on a 10kg bag or carryon. It was also announced that customers who want to bring more than a small bag into the cabin will have to pay extra charges ranging up to €9. Hand luggage is “an essential element of transport” so Ryanair, and all other carriers, should include the price in the cost of a plane ticket, Antitrust said in a statement cited by the Italian press. The new Ryanair policy could amount to unfair commercial practice in that it distorts the final price of the ticket
SEPTEMBER 28, 2018 and does not allow a true comparison with other airlines’ prices, according to Antitrust. Italian consumer associations have complained to Antitrust about the Ryanair decision. “If its unfair commercial practice on hand luggage is confirmed, Ryanair ... should reimburse all of its customers who suffer unfair additional costs,” the association Codacons said in a statement, promising to take the matter to court if necessary. The Italian inquiry heaps even more negative publicity on Ryanair, whose shareholders delivered a blow last Thursday to the airline’s chairman amid widespread strike action by European staff that has rattled confidence in the company. Ryanair CEO David Bonderman was recently reelected at the annual general meeting, but with only 70 percent of the vote—a drop from last year’s assembly where he garnered an 89 percent endorsement. “Questions about the company’s business model and governance now pose a threat to shareholder value,” said the chairman of one of the shareholders, the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum.
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Sigonella Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Stretch it Out By MWR Sigonella Fitness
Time is scarce, and so many of us are guilty of rushing in and out of the gym just to get our workout in. We often tend to skip the warm up and cool down due to fear that someone is going to steal the equipment we need first or we just simply don’t think it’s worth it. Flexibility training is an essential, yet often overlooked, component of fitness. There are numerous studies that illustrate the short- and long-term benefits of various types of stretching. These include static stretching, dynamic stretching, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (a form of flexibility training that involves both the stretching and contraction of the muscle group being targeted). Here are 10 documented benefits from a regular stretching routine: • Decreased stress • Reduced pain and stiffness • Improved health • Enhanced range of motion • Improved muscular function • Reduced risk of injury • Enhanced performance • Improved blood flow and circulation • Minimized wear and tear on joints • Improved quality of life This is your friendly reminder to fully give your body what it deserves and take the time to stretch it out. Even if its 10 minutes, your body will thank you!
“PREVENTION” continued from Page 1 NAS Sigonella's CMDCM Nancy Estrada, U.S Sixth Fleet's CMDCM Johannes Gonzales, and members of the Heritage Committee participate in a Hispanic Heritage Month cake cutting ceremony on 18 Sept. (Photo by CS1 Alejandro Castillo)
as a sign of strength can make a difference and may save a life. “The 1 Small ACT campaign was especially meaningful,” said Hervey. “I love this campaign because it reminds us that you don't have to be a chaplain, doctor, or mental health professional to make a difference. One small act truly CAN make a difference in a person's life.” NAS Sigonella wrapped up the month with a three-mile run dedicated to veterans that have died by suicide. The race was conducted in 22 groups totaling 66 miles. The 22 groups represented each of the 22 veterans who die by suicide each day, and the 66 miles represented the 65 Sailors who died by suicide in 2017, with the final 66th mile serving as a reminder of our commitment to doing our part in preventing suicide. “Every year we lose Sailors, Marines, civilian employees, and family members to suicide,” said the Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus in a message to the fleet. “These losses leave voids in our units and families, impacting and hurting us all. As we recognize Suicide Prevention Month this September, I ask every member of the Department to support and recommit themselves to our fellow comrades, employees, and family members dealing with suicidal ideations and actions both in and out of uniform. We owe it to ourselves, our shipmates, and our families to recognize when help is needed and to provide support or refer to professional assistance.” Since 1974, the American Association of Suicidology has recognized the week of September 10th as National Suicide Prevention Week, which surrounds the International Association for Suicide Prevention’s World Suicide Prevention Day. In 2012, the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, through the Defense Suicide Prevention Office (DSPO) and Veterans Affairs Mental Health Services, expanded the weekly recognition to the entire month of September.
“TRUMAN” continued from Page 7 eroga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60); and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28, USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). Other Harry S. Truman CSG assets operating in the region include Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) and USS Farragut (DDG 99). CVW-1 squadrons, embarked on Harry S. Truman include the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11; the “Checkmates” of VFA-21; the “Sunliners” of VFA-81; the “Knighthawks” of VFA-136; the “Rooks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137; the “Seahawks” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126; the “Proud Warriors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 72; the Dragon Slayers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11; and a detachment from the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40. U.S. 6th Fleet conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.
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