The Signature | April 27, 2018

NCTS Sigonella

Fuel for the Fleet

Volunteers Beautify

Adopts Local School

April Update

Catania War Cemetery

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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APRIL 27, 2018

Vol. 35 No. 16

NAS Sigonella Takes Action on Earth Day

SIGONELLA, Sicily (April 20, 2018) Sailors line up in preparation for a foreign object debris (FOD) walk-down on the flight line onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in honor of Earth Day. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 and is a day where more than 193 countries hold events to demonstrate support for environmental protection. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)

by MC2 Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Service members and civilians onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella left their offices in waves, greeted by the fresh spring air, and participated in a base-wide cleanup, April 20, in honor of Earth Day. “We had a great turnout for the cleanup where we collected more than 100 bags of trash,” said Crystal St. Clair-Canaii, NAS Sigonella Environmental Program Manager. “After the event we set up a table out front of the Liberty Center on NAS 2 where we gave away Earth Day goodies and the USO served a free lunch to all of the volunteers.”

Earth Day was founded in 1970 as a way for the United States, and eventually, in 1990, the rest of the world, to focus on environmental protection.

Earth Day is celebrated by more than 190 countries

and, according to Denis Hayes, the first Earth Day organizer in 1970, is the largest secular holiday in the world, celebrated by more than a billion people every year. Since the 1990s, the Department of the Navy and other military services have celebrated Earth Day with themes geared towards recognizing the symbiotic nature between the military mission, the lands entrusted to us, and the communities we serve.

This year’s theme was “Global Reach, Local Action”, promoting the message that the Navy is located worldwide, putting us in a position to make a positive impact on wherever we are at the local level.

With this year’s theme in mind, 30 volunteers took a trip to Mt. Etna on Earth Day itself, Sunday, April 22, for a beautification project.

“Sicily is beautiful and there’s so much to see,” said St. Clair-Canaii. “For the surrounding cities to

SIGONELLA, Sicily (April 20, 2018) Naval Air Crewman (Mechanical) 2nd Class Yvonne Zamarripa picks up foreign object debris (FOD) during a FOD walk-down on the flight line onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in honor of Earth Day. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 and is a day where more than 193 countries hold events to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)

come seek us out and say ‘hey, we want you to come out here and experience this and be a part of the community’ I think is awesome.”

While Sigonella keeps an incredibly clean base every day, there is always room for improvement.

By following the Environmental Protection Agency’s motto “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”, or “the three R’s,” we can easily make an impact on our community. The three R’s all help to cut down on the amount of waste we throw away. They conserve natural resources, landfill space, and energy. It also saves land and money that we must use to dispose of waste in landfills.

Reduce: One person’s trash is another’s treasure.

Instead of discarding unwanted appliances, tools, or clothes, try selling or donating them. Not only will you be reducing waste, you’ll be helping others.

“Earth Day” continued on Page 3

Sailors pose with a bag of trash they collected onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella during a base cleanup in honor of Earth Day. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 and is a day where more than 193 countries hold events to demonstrate support for environmental protection. (U.S. Navy Photo/Released)

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APRIL 27, 2018

Direct Line

Cmdr. Manny Cordero, NCTS Commanding Officer It's always good to have the microphone for a minute, and particularly so when given the chance to brag about the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily force and the exceptional Sailors with whom I serve. I'd first like to provide a little context to what we do. Geography class taught us that 70% of the world's surface is covered by water; but additionally, 80% of the world's population lives near those coasts; 90% of world trade and commerce travels by sea; and 95% of intercontinental communications (like your ATM withdrawals, your stock trades, and your internet web surfing) travel not by satellite but via an underwater cable.

Now, it is the Navy's responsibility to prevent challengers from using the sea to threaten the interests of the US

and our allies; and within this domain lies our vital telecommunications infrastructure that needs to be protected. That makes this an incredibly exciting time to be a Sailor, and also an incredibly important time for our computer and telecommunications command.

Today NCTS Sicily is among the most capable military communications stations, not only in the Mediterranean, but throughout the world. It is the recipient of multiple Communications and Information Technology Excellence awards, Golden Anchor and Silver Anchor retention awards, and Defense Information Systems Agency Outstanding Facility awards.

For the past three years, NCTS Sicily has had either a Senior Sailor of the Year or a Junior Sailor of the Year as a regional winner. We are team that is

constantly and productively working toward our common goal, and we are ready to quickly answer our nation’s call. We are passionate about our profession, and proud of what we do for our country, our allies, our families and friends, and our shipmates.

This year you can expect us to expand our mission set to meet the needs of our warfighters within this AOR. If good ideas come from everywhere, I know Sigonella Sailors have some great ones. As customer services’ representatives to you, the warfighter, my team and I are here to address your concerns. We intend to continue enhancing our network administration and server management, ensuring our local network service center and enterprise service desks provide the best customer service in the fleet! Our team strives for creating better pro-

cesses with system engineering while pushing the envelope in cyberspace and security operations. If you see something within the NCTS realm, I challenge you to bring it to our triad's attention. Thank you for all you do, Sigonella. NCTS is here to help!

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 Comment regarding “Navy Federal Credit Union contact information””

Moving to Sigonella is a stressful transition. Moving out in town has many additional stressors, including financial responsibilities such as paying rent. I've been trying to contact Navy Federal to ask a question as I work on NAS 1 and do not have a vehicle of my own. I can't use a government vehicle considering this is personal business. I've come to find out Navy Federal Credit Union does not give out their local extension phone number and the Navy Federal customer service 800 line wouldn't give out their extension either. I'm disappointed and frustrated by this, as we are only offered two local bank branches and Navy Federal prides themselves for being there for military and DoD civilians alike. If I'm expected to answer my phone during working hours to provide customers help, I expect the same service from this business, too.

Sincerely: Elizabeth Leonard

Response:

Ms. Leonard, Thank you for your comment. Navy Federal is committed to providing fast and efficient service to all our members 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To help us achieve this goal, a decision was made several years ago to remove the option for members to directly call Navy Federal branches. This allows branch staff to focus their attention on those members visiting the branch. Those needing help by phone, no matter where they are stationed in the world or what time it may be, can connect with the credit union’s call center and receive assistance from highly trained Navy Federal team members around the clock. In those rare situations when a call center employee cannot resolve the members’ local problem, the call center can contact the local branch directly.

To ensure members do not incur any costs when calling our call centers from overseas, toll free numbers were established to reach them (In Italy the toll-free number is 00-800-0-842-6328). Members can also reach out for help by logging into NavyFederal.org and clicking on “Messages” near the top right of the screen. Navy Federal members in Sigonella can also receive service in the branch on NAS II which is open from 0815-1615 Monday to Friday, from Navy Federal ATMs attached to the branch on NAS II and in front of the Commissary on NAS I and via Navy Federal online and the Navy Federal mobile app.

I hope that this information is helpful to you and helps you get the answers you need from them.

Comment regarding “Bravo Zulu for Housing employee”:

This is a comment about the assistance my family received from Ms. Simona Tringali. Ms. Tringali recently provided us with outstanding customer service as she assisted us with an appliance maintenance issue at our out on the economy housing. She was always responsive to our calls and texts. In particular, she was willing to speak with us and with the repairman on weekends and late into the evening. Ms. Tringali was always professional, courteous, and helpful; but she was equally good at advocating for us with the repairmen who seemed unwilling to address our problems.

Our maintenance issue was with a broken clothes dryer, which is admittedly not a major problem. But Ms. Tringali always treated our requests with urgency and attention. If it was important to us, it was important to her. Ms. Tringali's work provided invaluable assistance and peace of mind for our family, and we wanted to make sure she got appropriate recognition for her efforts.

Sincerely, Frank Vargas

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APRIL 27, 2018

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Name: Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fueling) 2nd Class Ronald Garcia Hometown: Agat, Guam Command: NAVSUP FLC Second Class Petty Officer Ronald Garcia is an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate, Fuels for NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, and he’s also an artist. Garcia has been drawing since before he could write. His first experience painting in the Navy was when he painted the wings on his previous ship, the USS Boxer (LHD 4). It was there that his talent was recognized

by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas, currently serving on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s public affairs staff. After learning that Garcia, too, was as-

signed in Sigonella, Vargas suggested that he volunteer to paint a mural for a local school during one of NAS Sigonella’s many community relations events.

Last month, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella hosted a community relations event at the Istituto Maddalena di Canossa Catholic school in Catania, Sicily, where members of the command came together to pick up trash, paint, pull weeds, and scrape old rusty gates. Garcia quickly got to work painting two murals on the school’s walls. In honor of the school’s history and heritage, he chose to paint the Saints Magdalene of Canossa and Josephine Margaret Bahkhita.

Garcia plans to sharpen his artistic craft studying at The Art Institute of California. If a chance arises to see one of ABF2’s paintings, do not miss it!

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 Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@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

“Earth Day” continued from Page 1 On the flip side of the same coin, buy used items instead of brand new. Often times, used items are less expensive and just as good as new.

Reuse: Buy reusable over disposable items. Look for items that can be reused; the little things can add up. For example, you can bring your own silverware and cup to work, rather than using disposable items. Also, by bringing your own reusable bag to the commissary or Navy Exchange, you can cut down the number of plastic bags thrown away in the environment. The U.S. uses about 100 billion plastic bags a year, with the average person using 350 to 500. By using re-

"ICE" continued from Page 2

Response:

Dear Mr. Vargas, Thank you for taking the time to praise Simona Tringali and the outstanding customer service you received. I have passed along your kind words. She is a phenomenal member of our Housing team who works hard and always goes above and beyond to take care of our Sig’ Citizens. Mrs. Tringali provides

usable bags, you can help bring that national average down.

Recycle: Put your trash in the correct bins around base.

Plastic goes in the blue bins, paper and cardboard go in the white, glass and cans go in the yellow, and the rest goes in the green bins.

NAS Sigonella, “The Hub of the Med”, is a U.S. Navy installation and an Italian Air Force base in Sicily, Italy. NAS Sigonella is the Navy’s second largest security command, second only to that located at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Because of its location near the center of the Mediterranean Sea, NASSIG is well placed to support operations by the U.S. 6th Fleet, other U.S. military units, and U.S. allies and coalition partners. the highest standard of customer service when it comes to resident issues which includes utilities and appliances. She makes sure all appointments are kept out in the economy and always follows up with residents. I am grateful we have her here along with the other staff. Housing is always looking to provide the best service that they can. Again, thank you for your comment.

If we can be of any more assistance to you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact Peter Faulk, the installation Housing Director, at 624-4070 or peter.faulk@eu.navy.mil.

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 factorof 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 proceeding 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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10 Habits to Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Child Story by Fleet and Family Support Center

We all crave those close moments with our children that make our hearts melt. Connection is as essential to us parents as it is to our children. When our relationship is strong, it’s also sweet -- so we receive as much as we give. That’s what makes parenting worth all the blood, sweat and tears.

That connection is also the only reason children willingly follow our rules. Kids who feel strongly connected to their parents WANT to cooperate. They trust us to know what’s best for them, to be on their side. I hear regularly from parents that everything changes once they focus on connecting, not just correcting.

But we’re only human. There are days when all we can do is meet our children’s most basic needs: Feed them, bathe them, keep an encouraging tone, hug them, and get them to sleep at a reasonable hour so we can do it all over again tomorrow. Given that parenting is the toughest job on earth -- and we often do it in our spare time, after we work at another job all day -- the only way to keep a strong bond with our children is to build in daily habits of connection. What kinds of habits?

1. Aim for 12 hugs (or physical connections) every day.

Hug your child first thing in the morning, when you say goodbye, when you’re re-united, at bedtime, and often in between. If your tween or teen rebuffs your advances when they first walk in the door, realize that with older kids you have to ease into the connection.

2. Connect before transitions.

Kids have a hard time transitioning from one thing to another. If you look them in the eyes, use their name, and play a bit to get them giggling, you’ll fill their cup and make sure they have the inner resources to manage themselves through a transition.

3. Play.

Laughter and rough-housing keeps you connected with your child by stimulating endorphins and oxytocin in both of you. Making playfulness a daily habit also gives your child a chance to work through the anxieties and upsets that otherwise make them feel disconnected -- and more likely to act out. And play helps kids want to cooperate.

4. Turn off technology when you interact with your child.

Really. Your child will remember for the rest of their life that they were important enough to their parents that they turned off phones and music to listen to them.

5. Special time.

Every day, 15 minutes with each child, separately. Alternate doing what your child wants and doing what you want.

6. Welcome emotion.

Sure, it’s inconvenient. But your child needs to express their emotions or it’ll drive their behavior. So accept the meltdowns, don’t let the anger trigger you, and welcome the tears and fears that always hide behind the anger. Remember that you’re the one they trust enough to cry with, and breathe your way through it. Afterwards, they’ll feel more relaxed, cooperative, and closer to you.

7. Listen, and Empathize.

Connection starts with listening. The habit of seeing things from your child’s perspective will ensure that you treat them with respect and look for win/win solutions. It will help you see the reasons for behavior that would otherwise drive you crazy. And it will help you regulate your own emotions so when your buttons get pushed and you find yourself in “fight or flight,” your child doesn’t look so much like the enemy.

8. Slow down and savor the moment.

Share the moment with your child: let them smell the strawberries before you put them in the smoothie. Smell their hair. Listen to their laughter. Look them in the eyes. Connect.

9. Bedtime snuggle and chat.

Set your child’s bedtime a wee bit earlier with the assumption that you’ll spend some time visiting and snuggling in the dark. Just listen.

"10 Habits" continued on Page 5

APRIL 27, 2018

NCTS Sigonella Adopts Local Sicilian School

By PO2 Benjamin Larkin NCTS Sicily Technical Support Communications Watch Officer

Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily recently adopted the Istituto Comprensivo Statale CARONDA, a middle school, located in the Catania San Cristoforo working-class neighborhood. The purpose of adopting the school was to increase the partnership between the United States Navy and local national civilians in Sicily through a series of lectures, workshops, and service projects. On March 27, Cmdr. Manny Cordero, commanding officer of NCTS and more than a dozen NCTS Sailors made their first visit to the school.

Cmdr. Cordero spoke with administrators and teachers about the school’s importance to the local community and needs the school has in the upcoming school year. He also addressed several student classes during the visit.

“One can never underestimate a good education,” he said. “I grew up in a family without any high school graduates. But, I loved going to school, and I wanted to pursue a higher education. As a result, I am now a commander in the United States Navy. With enough drive, perseverance, and opportunities, anything is possible!”

School students and NCTS Sicily coordinated a service project to clean up the school grounds. When other students saw the efforts the team made to pick up trash and weed the grounds, they quickly joined, eagerly helping to rake dirt and leaves, pick up trash, shovel dirt, and carry broken pieces of brick and concrete to the dumpster. One teacher said, “I have been at this school for over eight years, and it has never looked this nice outside.”

Many of the students engaged with NCTS Sailors and asked how and why the Sailors joined the Navy. Likewise, students shared their hopes and aspirations for the future.

“Our team and the children worked incredibly well together considering the language barrier,” said Second Class Petty Officer Molly Baumbeck. “Seeing tremendous results in just a few hours of work gave true satisfaction. The interaction with the children was amazing.

They worked very hard while cleaning up the school grounds and during the soccer game they showed so much enthusiasm. It seemed as if they genuinely enjoyed us being there. It was a great COMREL and I look forward to the many visits to the school.”

Over the next several months, NCTS Sicily plans to visit the school to provide training and education on topics such as leadership and environmental resource management. The team also plans on coordinating a fundraising effort to install protective barriers around critical facility pipes and equipment, repair damaged walls and doors, and donate much needed supplies to the school.

NCTS Sicily reports to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, the Navy component command to U.S. Strategic Command and U.S. Cyber Command, to provide secure and reliable telecommunications in support of Command, Control, Computer, Communications and Intelligence (C4I) to U.S. naval, joint, inter-agency and coalition operating forces in U.S. European Command (EUCOM), U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), and U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) theaters of operation. We represent a long history of superior command and control to a vital region of the world. We will remain faithful to our proud legacy and embrace the challenges of the future together.

APRIL 27, 2018 "10 Habits" continued from Page 4 Acknowledge feelings. Reassure your child that you hear their concern, and that together you’ll solve it, tomorrow. The next day, be sure to follow up. You’ll be amazed how your relationship with your child deepens.

10. Show up.

Most of us go through life half-present. But your child has only about 900 weeks of childhood with you before they leave your home.

They’ll be gone before you know it. Try this as a practice: When you’re engaged with your child, just be right here, right now. You won’t be able to do it all the time. But if you do it every day for a bit, you’ll find yourself doing it more and more. Because you’ll find it creates those moments with your child that make your heart melt.

The Fleet and Family Support Center offers counseling to help individuals, couples and families develop healthy relationship skills and address common relationship challenges. Learn more about healthy families and relationships by contacting the Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN: 624-4291, Commercial: 095 56 4291.

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APRIL 27, 2018

Naval Hospital Sigonella Volunteers Beautify Catania War Cemetery Story by Alberto Lunetta

On April 20, volunteers from the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Cultural Outreach Committee and Medical Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) turned out in droves to support one of the most meaningful Community Relations (COMREL) events ever organized by the NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office (PAO), the cleanup of the access area to the Catania War Cemetery, one of three Commonwealth war cemeteries in Sicily which contains 2,135 Commonwealth graves from the Second World War, including American Red Cross nurses.

The idea for this volunteer event was born a few days after Easter Monday when the son of one of soldiers buried at the cemetery, who was accompanied by Alan Batty, a retired British Army major, was visiting his father's grave and noticed that members of a Sicilian family were having a picnic among the graves, playing soccer, and walking their dog. The behavior which showed a lack of respect for this hallowed site which holds the remains of war heroes who gave their lives for the liberation of Italy from Nazi-Fascism. Besides that, over the past few years, disrespectful people had turned the access road into an illegal dumpsite.

When the news hit the social media, it set off waves of anger in the public opinion and Sicilian media. So the NAS Sigonella PAO and Catania City councilman Giuseppe Catalano, who enjoy a strong COMREL partnership, demanded and obtained an immediate general cleanup of the site by the city garbage collection company and organized an educational project by inviting the children of the Catania "Battisti" School to learn the history of WWII and the importance of respecting those who died to give us the lives of freedom we live.

The event was also supported by "Gruppo Husky 1943," a group of WWII re-enactors from Siracusa who attended wearing historic uniforms.

After the big cleanup conducted by the garbage collection company over the past few days, volunteers from Sigonella spent the morning completing the work and supporting the educational event with the young students facilitated by Batty who taught the children how to navigate in the cemetery. Four remembrance crosses were marked with the name of the regiments and the grave locations, after the lesson each group of children was able to locate the graves and the headstones.

“A big thank you to the organizers, the NAS Sigonella PAO and Councilman Catalano, and to the American and Italian volunteers for the great cleanup,” said Batty. “Today we honored all the fallen who are buried here. The Battisti School students were very respectful and attentive.”

“Being able to clean this Catania WW2 memorial site and honor those who died, means everything to us Sailors at Naval Hospital Sigonella,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Derrick Johnson who led the volunteers from the hospital. “I believe we all left this COMREL with a renewed dedication to what we do on a daily basis as Hospital Corpsmen. This COMREL would not have possible without the Cultural Outreach Committee and outstanding command participation.”

Three Patron Saints’ Festival in Trecastagni May 4-10

by Alberto Lunetta If you want to understand the inner soul of Sicilian culture, you should attend a festa religiosa (religious feast). Those celebrations blend religion, history, culture, and folklore. Every year, the community of Tracastagni hosts a lively festival honoring the “Three Martyred Brothers” i.e. Alfio, Filadelfo and Cirino (St. Alphius, St. Philadelphus, and St. Cyrinus). The festival revolves around the saints’ Santuario (sanctuary), which was founded in 1928 thanks to an authorization granted by Cardinal Francica Nava.

Trecastagni townspeople share their faith amongst the three saints. The Martyred Brothers or, Alfio, Filadelfo, and Cirino, are the town’s three patrons. Devotees believe these saints have the power to win divine aid for mortal petitioners by interceding with God. Celebrations, which go back to the 16th century, also include a spectacular parade of Sicilian carts and a traditional garlic fair. Garlic is considered a symbol of the pilgrims’ participation in the festival and is traditionally believed to keep evil away and grant health and protection from illness.

Sicilian anthropologist Giuseppe Pitrè gives a vivid description of the festa (festival) writing that “surging crowds of devotees” attend the celebrations “singing, dancing, playing, laughing

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14

Students from the Catania “Battisti School,” volunteers from Naval Hospital Sigonella, and local WW2 “Husky 1943” re-enactors pay their respects at the grave of Lance Sergeant William Duncan Findlay of the Gordon Highlanders, one of the 2,135 Commonwealth soldiers of the Second World War who are buried at the Catania War Cemetery. Sigonella volunteers and students gathered at the cemetery to conduct a Community Relations project aimed at cleaning the burial site’s access area and raising awareness on the sacrifices made by servicemen and women who served during the World Wars and on the respect due to this site.

(Photo by Alberto Lunetta)

APRIL 27, 2018

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Raising Our Standards

By Adm. Bill Moran Vice Chief of Naval Operations

Recently released Annual Standards of Conduct Guidance reminds all senior leaders of their personal ownership over their respective ethics programs and discusses my expectations concerning their personal standards of behavior and performance. In past years, the Standards of Conduct Guidance emphasized the importance of developing strong personal character in our senior officers and leading by example. While this guidance is directed at our flag officers, we must all act as standards-based leaders who aspire to elevate personal behavior and performance to higher level outcomes and better unit cohesion. Whereas rules-based leaders may foster minimally accepted levels of behavior, standards-based leaders do what is right, which almost always exceeds the legal requirement.

In short, the annual guidance illustrates the close personal involvement that the Office of the Vice Chief of Naval Operations exercises in ensuring ownership and oversight of ethics in our Navy. In turn, I expect you to take ownership for the standards of conduct within your respective command, department or division. Our collective focus on this effort will help develop standards-based leaders who apply good judgment and meet the mission.

This year’s guidance focuses on trust, which is the cornerstone for leadership at all levels within the Navy. Principled, ethical leadership strengthens the Navy’s foundation of trust, which is essential to ensuring the safety of our people, safe operations at sea and the readiness of our force. When we fail to meet the highest standards of personal and professional conduct, we jeopardize the institution and erode the efforts of everyone else on the team. In order to be the high quality Sailors the public expects and our

Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO) Adm. Bill Moran speaks to Sailors during an all hands call aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elliott Fabrizio/Released)

shipmates deserve, we must go beyond mere compliance and exceed the standard in everything we do.

Here are three things all of us can do to raise the standards in our Navy: 1) Improve our professional performance: Achieving minimal levels of performance is not good enough; true professional excellence requires breaking through required minimums to reach peak performance. Before we question the boundaries of a perceived roadblock, explore the wisdom behind the rule and intimately understand what it seeks to guard against.

2) Safeguard our personal character: Following the rules is important, but doing what is right is imperative. Never compromise our integrity, our morals or our honor. Our ethical compass must remain

true. Our personal character is the root of our professional ethics.

3) Identify process improvements: Do not accept the status quo simply because that is how we have done things in the past. Have a questioning attitude that respects the chain-of-command while constantly seeking process improvement. Be intellectually curious about how the Navy can do things better, and provide value to this dynamic institution. Small things matter. When aggregated across the Fleet, relatively minor improvements can make a major difference.

Raising standards is a mission for all hands. Today’s environment is composed of infinite challenges and limited resources. Although we navigate through an invariable sea of change, our commitment to these principles must never waiver.

Navy Announces 2017 Shore Sailor of the Year

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Everett Allen Defense Media Activity

ARLINGTON, Va. (April 19, 2018) Sailors nominated for the Navy Shore Sailor of the Year stand at attention during a ceremony at the Pentagon. The finalists are Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Shelldon Hunter, left, Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 1st Class Jared Mollette, Construction Mechanic 1st Class Cole Tankersley, Electrician's Mate 1st Class Avanese Taylor and Legalman 1st Class Jean Yusten. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathan Laird (Released)

WASHINGTON (NNS) -Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Bill Moran announced the 2017 Navy Shore Sailor of the Year (SOY) during a ceremony held at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., April 19.

Moran announced Legalman 1st Class Jean M. Yuston, U.S. Naval Forces Europe/Africa Shore SOY, as this year's winner.

Yuston also received a Navy

and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at the ceremony.

"This is one place I never thought I would be, not because I doubted myself but because I believe there are so many others who deserved to be here as well today," said Yuston. "There are so many Sailors in the Fleet who are doing amazing things every single day, and in many cases, they are doing the exact same thing that we are doing to get here. I believe I got here because

"Navy Announces 2017" continued on Page 15

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APRIL 27, 2018

Volunteers Beautify Ca

Photos by Ra

Sigonella volunteers turned out in droves Community Relations (COMREL) events e Affairs Office (PAO), the cleanup of the a one of three Commonwealth war cemeteries i graves from the Second World War, includin

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atania War Cemetery

andy Latimer

s to support one of the most meaningful ever organized by the NAS Sigonella Public access area to the Catania War Cemetery, in Sicily which contains 2,135 Commonwealth ng American Red Cross nurses.

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APRIL 27, 2018

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED : SIGONELLA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FIELD DAY

NAS 1 POOL CLOSURE 1 MAY - 1 JUNE

Command, Department or Organization: MWR Date of Event: 1 MAY - 1 JUNE 2018 – Location of Event: NAS 1 POOL Point of Contact Name: Beth Sweely – Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4483 Point of Contact Email Address: Beth.sweely@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: NAS I Pool will closed from 1 May - 1 June due to scheduled repairs.

During this time, NAS 2 Pool lap swim hours will be expanded as follows: Monday: 0530-0800 / 1100-1300 / 1500-1800 Tuesday: 1100-1300 / 1500-1800 Wednesday: 0530-0800 / 1100-1300 / 1500-1800 Thursday: 1100-1300 / 1500-1800 Friday: 0530-0800 / 1100-1300 / 1500-1800 Closed Saturday/Sunday/Holidays Any lane reservations made for Command PT or PRT made for the month of May for the NAS I pool will be shifted to NAS 2.

MWR thanks you for your patience during this time. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Aquatics Manager, Beth Sweely, at beth.sweely@eu.navy.mil

Command: Sigonella Elementary School Date of Event: 4 May 2018 Time of Event: 0700-1430 Location of Event: Sigonella Elementary School soccer field on NAS I Point of Contact Name: Anne Marie Politi Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4406 Point of Contact Email Address: AnneMarie.Politi@eu.dodea.edu Additional Information: Sigonella Elementary School is seeking volunteers for their Annual Field Day. The event is on Friday, May 4th at the HS Track/Field, which is located on NAS 1 behind the school.

We will need about 35 volunteers who will help set-up and assist with various games. Setup is at 7:00 am followed by two sessions: 8:00 to 10:30 (Gr 3-5) and 11:30 to 2:00 (Gr K-2).

Lunch break is 10:30 to 11:30. It works best when I have volunteers who can help with both sessions, but any amount of time will be greatly appreciated.

Please contact annemarie.politi@eu.dodea.edu if you are interested in having fun, and making our Field Day possible. Thank you in advance!

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Mondays AA Meeting:

1800-1900

Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900-1100 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 AWANA: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . 1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: .0600-0700

Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): . . . . . . . . . . 1600-1800 Thursdays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1200-1530 Choir Practice: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2030 Fridays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 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

Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . 1800 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS):.

1045-1200 Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600

NAS 2

Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2100 Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900 Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2000

Weekly Traffic Report: Apr. 16 - Apr. 23, 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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ERGONOMICS - What you need to know about MSDs

From the NAS Sigonella Safety Office

Ergonomics derives from two Greek words: ergon, meaning work, and nomoi, meaning natural laws, to create a word that means the science of work and a person’s relationship to that work.

Musculoskeletal Disorders or MSDs are injuries and disorders that affect the human body's movement or musculoskeletal system (i.e. muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, discs, blood vessels, etc.). What makes MSDs hazardous in work situations is the continual repetition, often in a forceful manner, and, most of all, the speed of the movements and the lack of time for recovery between them.

Other contributing factors for MSDs include heat, cold and vibration; working in constrained positions; repetition of movements, particularly on one small part of the body, such as a hand or wrist; and working too fast without taking time to recover between movements.

HOW TO SET UP AN ERGONOMIC COMPUTER STATION There are four areas that a computer user interfaces with: 1. THE MONITOR - Place the monitor as far away from you as possible while maintaining the ability to read without consciously focusing. Keep a minimum distance of 20 inches.

- Place the center of the screen at a 15 degree down angle from your eyes with your neck only slightly bent holding your head perpendicular to the floor.

- Align the monitor and the keyboard/ mouse 2. THE KEYBOARD AND THE MOUSE - Position the keyboard slightly below the elbow and at a negative angle to allow the wrists to remain straight when you sit in a slightly reclined posture - Do NOT use a wrist rest while actively typing. It’s meant to rest on not to lean on when working. Hold your hands and arms off of any supports while typing.

- Place the mouse on the same level as and immediately next to the keyboard tray.

- Keep the mouse in the arc line of the keyboard so that you can reach it when rotating your arm from the elbow 3. THE CHAIR - Use arm rests.

- Place the lumbar support slightly below the waist line.

- Adjust the height of the chair so your feet can rest completely on the floor.

- Allow 1-3 inches between the edge of the seat and the back of your knees.

- Use a high back chair that supports your shoulder blades if at all possible 4. THE LIGHTINING OF THE ENVIRONMENT - The office should be moderately bright (20-50 foot-candles or equal to a nice day where sunglasses aren’t needed).

- Do not use task lighting for computer work.

- A mix of incandescent and fluorescent lights reduces flicker and provides good light color.

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APRIL 27, 2018

GAMEZONE GARLIC GOAT CHEESE GOUDA GREEN OLIVES GROUND BEEF HAM JALAPENOS MONTEREY JACK MOZZARELLA MUSHROOMS OLIVE OIL ONIONS

OYSTERS PARMESAN PEPPERONI PROVOLONE RICOTTA SALAMI SAUSAGE SHRIMP SPINACH TOMATO SAUCE TOMATOES ZUCCHINI

MEDIUM

ARTICHOKE HEARTS ASIAGO ASPARAGUS BACON BANANA PEPPERS BASIL BELL PEPPERS BLACK OLIVES BROCCOLI CRUST EGGPLANT FETA

EASY

Find and circle all of the pizza ingredients and toppings that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell four additional pizza toppings.

DIFFICULT

Pizza

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APRIL 27, 2018

Honoring Unseen Helpers: Emergency Dispatchers Answer the Call GM3 Joshua Neal Emergency Preparedness Coordinator

Day or night, Force Protection Condition (FPCON) Alpha or Delta, rain or shine, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella dispatchers answer the call when needed the most. When someone calls the dispatch center, emergency or not, they are greeted with calm professionals who work to answer questions and to get first responders to where they need to be as soon as possible. In a sense, our Emergency Dispatchers are the “first” first responders to all calls.

On average, our Dispatch Center takes 1,100 calls for service / assistance a week which includes 9-1-1 calls. Day and night our dispatchers are constantly on the phone, responding to emergencies to keep us all safe. Even with being trained professionals, dispatcher duties can become stressful, and even emotional, as most of the time our dispatchers never learn the outcome of the emergencies they respond to. A life on the line being transported to a hospital is the last information a dispatcher gets in most events. Talk about a cliffhanger ending! I myself have had my share of these occurrences during my time as a dispatcher here in Sigonella. From my experience as a telecommunicator, the job of a dispatcher-with its multiple phone lines, emergencies underway, radio traffic drowning out other noises while you sift through information, and all the while keeping up with record logs-can indeed become stressful. But we stay calm. When we receive calls, often-times people are emotionally involved.

Our dispatchers take control and are the dependable calm voice that guides callers through the emergency.

And we appreciate every one of our dispatchers for being that calm voice, our “first” first responders.

To honor their hard work National Public Safety Telecommunications Week is observed annually, during the second week of April, to recognize the men and women who work behind the scenes and around the clock providing emergency services.

When interviewed, one of our Sigonella Emergency Dispatchers, Mrs. Melissa McCarthy, gave some more insight to the world of Public Safety Telecommunications.

Q: What do you find to be the most rewarding part of being an Emergency Dispatcher?

A: I would say the most rewarding thing is being able to help my community to be and stay safe. As a certified emergency medical dispatcher, I am able to provide pre-arrival instructions to the caller. These instructions are medically approved, scripted instruc-

tions, for managing potentially life-threatening situations. An example of a pre-arrival instruction would be the steps that the caller could follow to perform CPR. Q: Our Sigonella community is indeed unique.

What is a unique challenge that you and your teams have overcome as dispatchers here that you had not previously experienced while dispatching state-side?

A: We have all services represented here at Sigonella’s Dispatch Center and that helps to enhance our capabilities. We work with both Navy and Air Force personnel as well as local nationals, which allows us 24/7 access to people who speak Italian, and resources that we otherwise would not have. The challenge of a language barrier is unique but we overcome it with the assistance of our local nationals to contact emergency services for personnel who are off-base, out of range for our responders, or those who need more assistance than what Sigonella can provide.”

Q: What are some ways that the rest of us here in Sigonella can help to make your job easier?

A: The community can help dispatchers by being familiar with the areas they live in or commonly visit, including street names, mile markers, and landmarks to help responders locate them in emergencies. Knowing where you are before an incident is key in saving precious time during emergencies. Be ready to answer questions for the dispatcher when you call so that we can help you. Knowing the phone number you are calling from helps too. Sometimes we may need to have someone else contact you after the call. This happens more frequently in incidents that occur off-base.

Speaking of locations and phone numbers, we highly encourage all Sig’ Citizens to verify that their contact information and phone numbers in NFAAS and AtHoc are up to date. This way the EOC can keep you informed with text alerts, emails, and calls regarding ongoing or expected emergencies. Should you find yourself in any emergency, knowing your location and GPS coordinates is essential to allow the dispatchers to send the appropriate responders to help you.

Mrs. McCarthy is one of our many dispatchers who diligently goes above and beyond on a normal basis to ensure that Sig’ Citizens get the best service possible.

We truly couldn’t ask for better teams of telecommunicators here in Sigonella. Perhaps it’s a little biased coming from me, but to each and every one of our Emergency Dispatchers - Bravo-Zulu!

Want to learn more about our Dispatch Center or other emergency services and preparation? Stop by the EOC at NAS II, and our Emergency Management staff and Emergency Medical Dispatchers will be more than glad to guide you in preparing for and responding to a myriad of situations. You can also send me an email at joshua.neal@eu.navy.mil or call 624-8328.

For emergencies, please call the EOC's Emergency Dispatch Center 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.

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6

and other Etna towns to the Sanctuary), these St. Alfio journeys are still a genuine and low profile display of true devotion.

Historic chronicles tell us that, in the year 1516 “The Three Saints” began to be venerated with a particular fervor in Trecastagni after the finding of their relics in a monastery near Messina. Throughout the centuries the festival was enriched with more elements like representations of the lives of the Three Saints.

According to historic chronicles, the Three Saints were born in Vaste (Lecce) in the third century. During the persecutions made by the Romans against the Christians, they were arrested and forced to leave Sicily to go to Rome where they were convicted and tortured. Legend tells tell of miracles worked by the saints, for instance, the fact that every place they

and swaying like waves in a stormy sea.”

Feasts of the Three Saints are also held in other parts of Sicily (in St. Alfio, St. Fratello, and Lentini), Italy (in Vaste near Lecce), and the world (in Lawrence, Massachusetts and Sydney, Australia).

Celebrations begin on May 1 with hundreds of pilgrims performing the Viaggio di Sant’Alfio (St. Alfio’s journey) under all weather conditions. It is a visit to St. Alfio’s sanctuary that is paid daily from May 1 through 10, to fulfill the vows they have made to the saint for granting a wish or bringing themselves or their beloved relatives and friends safely through an accident or an illness. Although this pilgrimage might seem less “picturesque” than the ones performed by the ‘Nudi’ in the night between May 9 and 10, (during which devotees wearing white shorts and a red band on the chest also walk, some barefoot, from Catania

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 15

APRIL 27, 2018 "Navy Announces 2017 " continued from Page 7 of three things that I've been given: mentorship, morals and my personal mantra: 'No excuses.'"

Alongside Wilson were Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Shelldon L. Hunter, Cryptologic Technician 1st Class Jared D. Mollette, Construction Mechanic 1st Class Cole K. Tankersley, and Electrician's Mate 1st Class Avanese P. Taylor.

"These Sailors come from all corners of the country and all walks of life, and we are lucky and fortunate that they chose to serve in the United States Navy," said Moran. "I'm not going to talk about their accomplishments because each one of these citations demonstrate the incredible quality of these young men and women, what they've done to get to this point, their maturity, and their ability to articulate what they and the United States value."

Yuston is a native of Sioux Center, Iowa. She enlisted in the Navy in July 2009 and attended Recruit Traning Command, Great Lakes, Illinois. After completion of Basic Training, she attended Master-At-Arms "A" school at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Her duty stations include Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific, Bangor, Washington, where she earned the nuclear weapons security designator; Naval Security Forces Bahrain in 2011, where she served in support of Operation New Dawn and the Global War on Terrorism; and then Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada, in 2013, where she served as a watch commander and training leading petty officer. Yuston later cross-rated from master-at-arms to legalman and attended the Legalman "A" school and Legalman Paralegal Education Program in Newport, Rhode Island. She is currently serving at Naval Forces Europe/Africa/6th Fleet in Naples, Italy, as the force judge advocate leading petty officer and works with operational law and administrative law portfolios.

Petty Officer Yusten will return to Washington, D.C., May 14-17 for the 2017 SOY Recognition Week, hosted by the master chief petty officer of the Navy, where she will be meritoriously advanced to the rank of chief petty officer.

Adm. Elmo Zumwalt initiated the SOY program in 1972 to recognize outstanding Atlantic and Pacific Fleet Sailors. The following year, the Shore SOY program was introduced.

Each year, every Navy ship, station, and command around the world chooses its SOY based on leadership, professionalism, dedication, and superior performance. These selectees compete against recipients from other commands, eventually competing at higher echelons until the Navy's five finest are chosen - only one is selected as the Navy Shore SOY.

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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont'd from Page 6 visited became a Catholic community. Since they belonged to a noble family Romans feared that they could influence other aristocrats.

Therefore they used them as scapegoats to convince others to stay away from the Catholic religion. After being tortured in Pozzuoli and then back in Sicily, they were eventually martyred in Lentini on May 10, A.D. 253.

Although the festival was meant to celebrate all three saints, the devotion of St. Alfio somehow overshadowed the memory of the other two saints. This is probably due to the fact that Alfio was the elder brother and consequently was the one who always spoke on behalf of his family.

During the centuries people tended to ask St. Alfio, rather than his brothers, to interceed for healing from serious illnesses and injuries.

Once the miracle is granted, devotees feel obligated to thank the saint. That is why today the ‘Nudi’ still perform with spectacular processions carrying heavy wax candles that can weigh up to 220 pounds. A red ribbon with a picture of the saints is tied around the candle.

Throughout the centuries, the desire to give thanks to the saints has also been driving pilgrims, who were healed after praying to the saints, to paint or commission ex-votos. Exvotos are pictures on wood, cardboard, or canvas describing the accident for which the saints’ help was invoked.

Trecastagni boasts an impressive collection of hundreds of those ex-voto-icons, which also includes artificial limbs donated to the sanctuary by pilgrims after healing. Visiting the collection is a touching experience. Every painting tells a story of joys and sorrows. Aci Sant’Antonio Sicilian cart craftsmen have long been the authors of those art pieces. They are among the few artists who keep this ancient decorating tradition alive.

Festival Schedule Highlights The festival starts on May 4 with the procession of the three candelore, (heavy wooden floats, about six meters in height, with a big

PAGE 15 main wax candle surrounded by sculptures representing the martyrdom of the three saints) leaving from Saint Alfio’s sanctuary. At 5 p.m. these beautiful decorated floats are carried in procession throughout the historic city center. These processions will be repeated daily through May 11.

On May 7, the Sagra delle Musiche, a music show is performed at 6 p.m. by local bands in piazza Saint Alfio. In the evening at 9:30 p.m. a religious play telling the story of the three saints will be held in piazza Aldo Moro.

On May 8 at 7:45 p.m. the relics of the Saints are brought in procession from the main church to the Saint Alfio sanctuary. The procession lasts until late evening. During the tour of the relics, the city band will be performing in piazza dei Bianchi throughout the night.

The highlight of May 9 is undoubtedly the spectacular fireworks show that is performed at 9:15 p.m. in Piazza Marconi (the main square).

Several pyrotechnic operators from all over Sicily will be competing for the best performance.

But even more spectacular is the long and exhausting journey that is undertaken by barefoot pilgrims coming from Trecastagni’s surrounding towns, who walk all night long until they get to the Sanctuary, to show their faith to the saints.

The celebration’s highlight is May 10 when the unveiling of the Three Saints’ Statues is performed before a huge crowd of devotees at 9 a.m. The ceremony takes place at Saint Alfio’s Sanctuary, located in piazza St. Alfio, where the statues are usually kept. After that, the statues are placed on a carriage to be ready for the long procession. Later on at noon, the first solemn procession during which the statues will be carried throughout the historic center begins. After a stop at the main church (Chiesa Madre di San Nicola) the procession is repeated around 8 p.m. and lasts late into the night.

Live music and booths selling food, arts, crafts, garlic, and onions galore will complement the Festival! For more information and detailed festival schedule, visit www.santuariotrecastagni.it

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