NEX's Best:
2015 Relay for Life
Anna Sponziello!
Check out the action!
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Dietary Supplements:
N A S SIG O N E L L A
It’s time to get educated! PAGE 12
May 8, 2015
Vol. 32 No. 18
NAS Sigonella updates leave policy BY NAS Sigonella Public Affairs NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – When the weather begins to warm, so too do our thoughts and intentions about travel. So for those attached to the NAS Sigonella UIC – and even those who want to compare notes with how their own command conducts leave – now is a good time to talk about the revised leave and liberty policy recently codified in NASSIGINST 1050.1M as well as travel guidelines to make sure your next trip goes smoothly. Taking time off and experiencing Sicily and its nearby countries was one of the main attractions in taking orders to Sigonella; why wouldn’t we get out and see the sites? Just make sure you’re prepared in advance as the new policy clearly outlines that those who violate the regulations are subject to administrative and/ or judicial punishment under Article 92 (failure to obey an order) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Nothing would be more disappointing than having what’s supposed to be a relaxing getaway turn into an even greater source of stress once you return. To avoid such potential annoyances, here is a quick “Top 5” from the new instruction to help you on your way to your next destination of choice: 1) Leave in excess of 30 days is usually a no-go: Exceptions on a case-by-case basis can be made by the Commanding Officer, but unless there is valid grounds for such an allowance regular leave taken by NASSIG personnel will not to exceed 30 days at one time. Personnel are encouraged to use their available leave, but also maintain a sufficient quantity in reserve should emergency leave become a necessity. 2) Make sure you have enough of a leave balance saved up: If you are planning on taking leave that will leave you with a negative leave balance, there must be an emergency or extenuating circumstances. Also, the instruction reads that “leave shall NOT be approved for any Sailor that will ultimately end up with more than negative 10 days of leave.” Again, special circumstances may be addressed and approved by the CO. 3) Know what needs doing before you start leave: Each person taking leave is expected to complete the following requirements prior to travel: - For leave outside the continental United States to even include leave within Italy: (A) The completion of the proper level of training for Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection.
(B) Review of Department of Defense (DoD) Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG) for country-specific information on their travel destination. “The Foreign Clearance Guide is the first step in prepping your plans to visit a foreign country,” says Anti-Terrorism Force Protection (ATFP) Officer CWO4 Lou Martinez. “Whether official or unofficial travel it is your best resource to understand the place you’re traveling to.” (C) Compliance with all applicable theater requirements (passports, NATO travel orders, country clearance requests, etc.). (D) Submission of individual Anti-terrorism plan to Security Department, if destination of travel is OCONUS and outside of European Command (EUCOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR). - For leave requested within the continental United States (CONUS), each traveler must have in their possession a passport and military ID card. - In the event that emergency leave is requested after hours, the CDO can authorize such requests, but will contact the member’s Department Head prior to approving their emergency leave or leave extensions when possible. 4) You can’t start your leave at your leave destination: It’s understood that burning through a couple days of leave during a weekend you normally have off anyway is a bummer. Even so, don’t plan on arriving to Paris on a Friday evening and spending the next week there if your leave doesn’t start until Monday morning. Remember, all members will begin or end their leave in the immediate vicinity of their duty station (or residence). The only exception to this policy is leave in conjunction with TAD/TDY. 5) Make sure you can be reached: All personnel are subject to recall at any time during their leave or TAD periods and must return to NAS Sigonella when directed. In addition to providing your chain-of-command with good numbers at which you can be reached, you are required to be registered in Computer Desktop Notification System (CDNS) before commencement of leave. While on leave or liberty, all personnel shall have in their possession a chain of command recall and emergency phone numbers. Additionally, all personnel traveling off island (leave or liberty) must discuss their travel plans and leave a contact telephone number with their Department Head or Director. In closing, please enjoy your leave, but be vigilant as you travel, have a plan, and know your command policy!
Health and Wellness educates community at 'Relay for Life' event By MC3 Ramon Go NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Staff
Brothers Aden, Antonio, Atticus, and Alexander Scott, learn how to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on a dummy during the U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella Health and Wellness Fair, May 2. The other big event taking place alongside the health fair was American Cancer Society’s "Relay for Life" completing 24 consecutive hours of walking or running laps around the NAS 2 turf field. For those 24 hours, the ACS Relay for Life symbolizes walking in the shoes of those who fight the struggle against cancer around the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon Go/Released)
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Exercise is just one aspect of staying healthy, and service members, families, and civilians stationed here were able to learn what else it takes to remain or get well during the U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella Health and Wellness Fair, May 2. “We want to emphasize the multi-disciplinary approach to wellness and health,” said Lt. Sarah Anderson, USNH Sigonella’s health promotion coordinator. “Health and wellness isn’t just a oneday event, it’s every day, and we are hoping that people will take home all of the resources available to them and to be accountable to live a healthier lifestyle.” The health promotion department had various booths set up on the NAS 2 athletic fields with many tips and items to offer. Many displays were simply informational, but others such as the eye and hearing tests, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) station, and Zumba fitness sessions, were hands on. Among the booths represented were health promotion, behavioral health, laboratory, radiology, Medical Homeport, American Red Cross, Fleet and Family Support Center, Tricare, the fire department, audiology, occupational health, and NAS Sigonella’s chapter of the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD). “I stopped by at the CSADD booth and we started doing diamond push-ups, not for show or competition, but for fun,” said Religious Programs Specialist 2nd Class Sean Hancock. “I exercise five to six times a week because I enjoy the stress release and to be able to push past my limits. I enjoy running and I am here to do my part for the 24-hour American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life.”
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THE SIGNATURE
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May 8, 2015
Direct Line
May 8, 2015
THE SIGNATURE
NEX sales associate singled out as Europe’s best
Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Buongiorno Sigonella! We are in the midst of great changes. It’s getting warmer outside, there are many new personnel joining our community, both the Navy Exchange and Galley (Ristorante Bella Etna) are undergoing sweeping renovations… And, that’s just the surface. Underneath it all, there are constantly undulating political currents globally and locally driving the way we do business, travel, and decision making. Many Sigonella Citizens are investing hours upon hours to ensure we are doing our absolute best to be able to accomplish missions on a daily basis. Many others are looking to the future, ensuring projects are worked and programs are put in place that will provide for a legacy of successful growth, while conserving resources. No matter your skill set, or which category you may be a member of, you are a leader. Regardless of position, rank, affiliation, or if you are in a supporting role, you are a leader. Like the CMC says, as leaders we must first lead ourselves exceptionally well. At the center of this are Honor, Courage, and Commitment. I mention this because we’re once again in the midst of the Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) season. And while many of you have “Committed” to maintaining your fitness levels, some of you have not. Some may have promised themselves to change their approach to eating right and exercising in a dedicated fashion after failing the PFA or just getting by last fall. This is undoubtedly an uncomfortable position to be in. It may be that recently failed PFAs have threatened an otherwise promising military career. Or, there might be frustration with the forsaken leadership opportunities being missed by not doing your part to promote fitness where you live or work. As a Sig’ Citizen, if you find yourself in this position, I encourage you to do something about it TODAY. Like all change, taking the first step is often the hardest. It involves taking an objective look inward to understand what is holding you back. You may not like what you find. However, you need to have the “Courage” to confront and own your challenge, to face your nemesis. As you devise your course of action through deliberate planning, leave no stone unturned. In Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change, Stephen Covey says to have a successful outcome to your planning you need to “Start with the end in mind.” In this case, by envisioning what you intend to become first, you
will be able to map out best how to arrive at that point. Then you need to put your “Honor” to work, keeping steadfast in your journey to completion. Understanding of course that your goal is to always be improving, thus you will create perpetual habit/lifestyle/personal culture change. As always, the Sigonella community is filled with highly skilled professionals to assist you with your planning. The first group should include your medical physician or nutrition and exercise specialists. The U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella runs several fitness and nutrition platforms with varying degrees of commitment. “The Healthy Weigh” is a several-week, multidisciplinary offering used to foster lifestyle change. Healthy Weigh is primarily facilitated through NAS 1 and involves regular meetings with the base dietician, mental health, and a personal wellness coach. For those looking for something less time-intensive, beginning June 4, Health Promotions will once again offer “ShipShape.” This is the official Navy weight management program designed to assist active and reserve military members, beneficiaries, and government civilians with making healthy modifications to lose weight. “ShipShape” meets 90 minutes once a week for eight weeks (June 4 – July 23). Those interested in the formalized initiatives just mentioned, or simply those seeking to consult the base dietician or wellness coach before starting their own program, should call Health Promotions at 624-4710. The point is, wherever you can find the inspiration, find it and apply it to becoming healthier. Think of it as quality of life assurance. Another opportunity to show we are communityminded leaders is through energy conservation. We just finished with a base-wide inspection and we are quite familiar and conscious of the spaces and places that need attention. One area that will always need monitoring, especially now that the temperatures are rising, is how we consume energy. A few quick tips: turn off monitors, copiers, speakers, and printers before you leave the work space, and continue to turn off your lights where not absolutely needed. Helping us to help you translates into making trouble calls to Public Works if you notice equipment malfunctions contributing to unnecessary energy loss. Please
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor M. Todd Butler michael.butler@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC3 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil Vanessa Ogletree v_ogletree@yahoo.com
engage your Building Energy Monitors to ensure your facilities and spaces are as efficient as possible. These practices will pay dividends now and are great practice for even bigger dividends when the Commander, Navy Region Europe’s “Biggest Energy Loser” contest kicks off once again July 1. This year’s prize has yet to be determined for the month-long event, however last year the Region Commander awarded $50,000 to the winner to be used for base beautification. Though Sigonella had some unique around-the-clock operational commitments toward the end of the competition that took us out of the running last year, we still did very well and we have been benefiting from the energy conservation culture changes made since then. You won’t usually hear this, but I am looking forward to “losing”… more energy consumption than the other bases in the Region this summer! Whether looking to get in better shape, watching out for energy costs, being safe and vigilant on the roads, or living through a host of other day-to-day tasks, holding yourself to the principles of Honor, Courage and Commitment while nobody else is looking determines who we are as leaders. As you strive toward excellence in all of your endeavors, I hope you are making each of these a priority in your life!
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box There are two ways to submit feed back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis: Visit The 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. Also, visit NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box". The Signature will anonymously publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. If you are submitting a "BZ", we ask that you provide your name in order for us to properly recognize employee. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “BZ for the Ground Electronics Maintenance Division”: Sir, I can’t thank your Ground Electronics Maintenance Division (GEMD) for allowing our Global Hawk missions to continue without the risk of losing sorties. To the point, two GEMD petty officers – Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Henry, and Petty Officer 2nd Class Kevin Bernabe – have provided technical expertise/trouble shooting and repairs and equipment loans that have allowed our very high-profile missions to continue unabated. That’s right, NASSIG Global Hawks have literally continued their important US/Italian/NATO missions because of these two Sailors! We cannot thank these two warriors enough for their support to Global Hawk operations!!! Sincerely and very gratefully, MAJ Brandon Cieloha Director of Operations, Detachment 2 (Global Hawk) Response: MAJ Cieloha – thank you for your shoutout to these two stellar Sailors. This is what our Sigonella community is all about – supporting the achievement of U.S. and allied national security. Your note makes it clear we are a true community dedicated to our cause.
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
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and Navy Exchange (NEX) leaders presented Anna Sponziello, with her award as NEX European District Associate award of the Year 2014. Sponziello is also a nominee for the upcoming NEX World-wide Employee of the year. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon Go/Released)
By MC3 Ramon Go
here,” said Sponziello. “I know it’s part of [the military] life to move so much, so I do my best to make them feel NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Awards are often comfortable, whether it’s to help them decide which item symbols of gratefulness from leaders, communities, is better, or just someone to talk to. I am here for them.” or organizations, given when a career milestone has Perhaps the best telltale in measuring her care for the been reached, excellence has been sustained, or a community in which she works was her passion toward single act is so exceptional it stands out and deserves promoting the sales of the $5 Navy-Marine Corps Relief acknowledgement. After 17 years working at the Navy Society Active Duty Fund Drive discount scratch off Exchange here, Sicily’s own Anna Sponziello earned an coupons. “She sold 618 out of 1054 tickets,” said Julie award worth waiting for. Herring, NEX general manager. ““Customer service is Since November 1998, Sponziello, by far her best virtue, but her care a NEX sales clerk, says she has given “I do my best to care for the community goes beyond our her best every day. Recently she was doorways.” for the customers formally recognized for those efforts Neither award was easy to attain. and was selected as NEX Sigonella’s and the community.” Competition for the NEX European Employee of the Year 2014, and then District Associate of the Year was - Anna Sponziello high as she was selected number NEX European District Associate of the Year 2014. one out of 10 districts for the NEX “I don’t have any words to express European District Associate award how I feel right now,” said Sponziello. “I do my best to of the Year 2014. After presenting Sponziello the award, care for the customers and the community.” Herring said the European-wide "one" makes her a While words may have fallen short of articulating her nominee for the upcoming NEX World-wide Employee feelings, the large grin she wore at a May 1 presentation of the year. No matter the outcome, or even had she not honoring the Europe-wide distinction spoke volumes been awarded the recent distinctions, her employers about the happiness she felt. When she finally found and co-workers the past 17 years, and countless NEX more words, she used them to express how being a sales customers they’ve served, know they’ve been fortunate clerk is more than sales, it’s an opportunity for her to recipients of Sponziello’s devotion. help and care for her customers. “She takes on every challenge and does it well,” said “I want to take care of them because I know it’s not Herring. “I guess the easiest way to say it is everybody easy to leave so many friends and families behind to come loves her.” NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Staff
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 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 anyanonymous 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. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
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"RELAY" continued from Page 1 The other big event taking place alongside the health fair was American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, which consisted of NAS Sigonella departments and tenant commands forming teams to pass the [relay] from one member to another while completing 24-hour consecutive hours of walking or running laps around the NAS 2 turf field. The relay, though challenging, consisted of many exciting activities designed to raise cancer awareness and promote healthy living. The Relay for Life kicked-off with the Survivors Lap – the ceremonious first lap around the track by cancer survivors wanting to celebrate their personal battles against cancer. “I was diagnosed in 2002 with Stage 3 invasive breast cancer, and I was totally surprised because I didn’t think I had any risk factors associated,” said Cmdr. Susan Tussey. “I went through six cycles of therapy and it was hard, but I had a lot of support from friends and families.” For those 24 hours The ACS Relay for Life symbolizes walking in the shoes of those who fight the struggle around the world. Cancer is shaped in 80 different forms that are rooted in our ancestor’s gene pool or from [our] negligence to protect and maintain a healthy lifestyle for ourselves and future generations – a life-changing situation many react to differently, but something no one should fight alone. “Some people withdraw and isolate themselves from everyone,” said Tussey.”But it’s very important to reach out to people who are there to support you.” After the Survivor Lap, supporters continued the loop all day long. Not long after sunset, candles were lit and are placed around the relay track to begin the Luminaria Ceremony, another special moment in the relay that remembers loved ones who have lost the fight to cancer while also honoring those who have fought, and those whose fight continues. “This is an event to bring together all the people who worked very hard to support those who have cancer,” said Tussey. “It was a humbling feeling to have all of that support in that terrible time, and to be reminded that we are not alone in the battle of cancer.”
THE SIGNATURE
May 8, 2015
Congrats to the NAS Sigonella 'Yard of the Month' Winners
Capt. Christopher Dennis awards Master-at-Arms Chief John Richardson and his wife Dee the Senior Housing Yard of the Month award, and Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Scott Guidry and his wife Shelley the Junior Housing Yard of the Month Award. (Photos provided by NAS Sigonella Housing Department) from NAS Sigonella Housing Office
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Congratulations to Chief John Richardson and wife Dee, and to Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Scott Guidry and wife Shelley for having the best yards in Marinai!!! From now until October, Sigonella Housing Service Center is recognizing Marinai residents that exemplifies the neighborhood beautification campaign. Two Yard of the Month (YOM) winners and two runner-ups will be selected every month (one winner/runner-up for Officer/Senior Enlisted housing area; and another from the Junior Enlisted neighborhood). Marinai residents are encouraged to submit nominations to recognize their neighbors that take special pride in maintaining their homes. Your nomination will recognize the efforts of those residents who go above and beyond in showing their “green thumb” and desire to beautify our community. You can nominate any yard who you feel is deserving of this award. All nominations need to be turned into the Marinai Satellite Housing Office no later than the 20th of each month. The overall winners will receive a special certificate, have the “Yard of the Month Sign” placed in their lawn for one month. We want to thank the Navy Exchange Sigonella and MWR for providing gift certificates and discount coupons to the winners! For complete program details please contact Marinai Housing Office or Chief Chico Garcia at 624-3824.
Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial 095-56-2273, M-F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, holidays, or after office hours, please call 335-578-8077 if you are normally seen at the hospital or 335-578-8150 if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.
May 8, 2015
THE SIGNATURE
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Reverse culture shock: Relocation Assistance Program From Fleet & Family Support Center Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Returning home can be as great an adjustment as going abroad. Just as most of you had a period of adjustment upon arrival abroad, many of you also may experience a period of transition and readjustment to the United States. During your time away, you no doubt gradually adopted or accepted many of the ways of your host country, maybe without even realizing it. This new cultural perspective often leaves people feeling somewhat ambivalent about being back in the States; while happy to see family and friends, it sometimes may seem that you were strangely more at home abroad. Such sentiments, often referred to as reverse culture shock or re-entry shock, are common. Like culture shock, which you experienced while abroad, re-entry shock, too, has distinct stages. Stage One: Disengagement may happen before you leave your host country and often occurs because of the pace of final goodbye dinners. As a result, you begin to distance yourself from friends and host-country nationals. Stage Two: Initial euphoria also may occur as a result of leaving your host country and returning to the United States. This is where you may have formed idealistic views of home and what will happen upon your return. You are happy to be home! This feeling of euphoria may last a few weeks but may inevitably give way to feelings of loneliness. Stage Three: Irritability and hostility may occur when you realize that life at home went on without you, and as you were learning new things and making subtle changes, they were too. You may feel that friends and family don’t understand or want to hear what you experienced abroad. The Challenges Back on U.S. soil, you may experience a number of challenges, including: • Boredom • Restlessness • Realizing that people at home do not appear to think beyond the U.S. bubble • Realizing you cannot fully articulate your experience • Realizing relationships have changed • Homesickness for your host country • The belief that people misunderstand • Feelings of alienation These are all natural reactions to having spent a great deal of time and energy in adapting to a new country, culture, language and way of life, only to pack up and leave four months later. It takes time to process what you have experienced and the sense of loss once you leave. For many of you it may be months or even years before you truly can express how this experience has shaped your values, beliefs, politics and goals for the future. But you will come through it, and below are a number of tips on staying connected without alienating those around you. Managing Stage Three: Irritability and Hostility • Stay connected with host-country nationals you befriended as well as the U.S. students with whom you have shared this experience. • Share your experience with others who were abroad at the same time. • Like you may have done while you were abroad, continue to write in a journal about your new journey at home. • Try to be patient with friends and family who may appear uninterested or who want to talk about what happened to them while you were abroad • Read a book in your host-country language or rent a foreign movie. Stage Four: Readjustment and adaptation. Patience and continued reflection will lead to Stage Four. You may see the world through a different lens now but are quick to find that the cultural differences you once thought so great are, in reality, infinitesimal. You have learned to incorporate the changes you’ve made within yourself, into new goals and ideas that don’t negate your own culture’s norms and values. You have attained a balance between both cultures.
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THE SIGNATURE
May 8, 2015
U.S. Navy HEADLINES May 8, 2015
THE SIGNATURE
Six things to know about 2015 Selective Reenlistment Bonus
Infiorata Flower Festival in Noto to share Sicily’s tradition with Catalonia NOTO, Sicily - The enchanting Infiorata flower festival will kick off in Noto. On Friday, May 15 and will be open through May18. Noto is a breathtaking Baroque city located on the southern slopes of the Iblei Mountains southwest of Siracusa, which is put on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Every year, Infiorata, (decoration with flowers) turns Noto into a beautiful garden. Along the streets of the historic center, festivalgoers get a chance to see, flower decorations that are absolutely astonishing and impressive in scale (decorations cover about 700 square meters). This year’s festival, the 36th edition, will “speak Spanish” as the event will feature Catalonian artists who, along with their Sicilian counterparts, will perform concerts, plays and display their artifacts. “Sicily and Catalonia share important cultural roots: a common past linked to the classical cultures and Catalano-Aragonese crown and unique traditions such as flowers’ carpets. And a leading heritage that goes back to the Greeks and Romans and continues in the Middle Ages, always imbued with the Mediterranean cultural and environmental values: an intense light, mild climate and the ancestral and renovated cooking traditions. For the exponents of the Catalan cultural activity, being present at Noto’s flower festival is a valuable exchange of experiences and traditions,” said Ferran Mascarell, the Catalan Ministry of Culture. “The full program of events of this year’s event features the story of the city through the display of the beauty of the soul of its places as well as art and the wonderful flowers’ decoration art. The Flower Festival, the highlight of this year’s spring events’ schedule, as in the last two previous editions, brings an international touch, opening this time the door to Catalonia, the lively region of neighboring Spain, with which Sicily, Noto and in particular, shares crossroads of civilization, common pages of history, temperament and warm sunshine,” said Noto Mayor Corrado Bonfanti. The tradition of decorating the main streets of the city was originally imitated from the one that is annually organized in Genzano, a small village located in the center of Italy. In Genzano, petals were traditionally spread to decorate the itinerary of religious processions honoring the Virgin Mary. In 1980, Noto administrators decided to hold a similar festival in their town. And so they invited the Genzano decorators to “paint” with flowers the historic center of Noto. Thus, Sicilian artists quickly learnt the techniques and the secrets of this ancient art. Since then, “Infiorata” became one of the most important annual cultural events in Noto. Every year, the city administration announces the theme of the year and then organizes a competition
Make sure you mark on your calendar the spectacular Infiorata Flower Festival featuring historic streets decorated with flowers, entertainment, wine tasting, arts and crafts booths and more. This year’s festival, which twins with Catalonia, is held from May 15 through May 17. (Photo By http://www.novetv.com/)
for the best sketches. An award is given to the best three drawers. Festival Highlights Here are some of the must-see festival’s highlights. Infioratori, (the ones who decorate with flowers) begin to fill the drawings with petal colorful plants a few days before the official opening which will take place on May 15 at 5 p.m. Tons of flower petals (about 400,000 including carnations, gerberas, daisies, roses wild flowers and more) are used to create big carpets that typically reproduce holy images and modern topics. Via Corrado Nicolaci, one among Noto’s main streets, will be covered by a mantel of flowers although there will be smaller decorations in some adjoining roads, courtyards and squares. The magnificent balconies of Palazzo Villadorata, the mesmerizing Montevergini Church and the elegance of the aristocratic palaces of Modica and Giunta, form a unique Baroque backdrop for the event. Those
skilled artists will work all night through dawn to create magnificent decorations. The festival will also feature a vintage car parade, dance and music shows, art exhibits and food booths selling local specialties as well as spectacular Baroque costumes parade (May 17 at 3 p.m.) and the not-tobe-missed breathtaking final fireworks & music show.
"NOTO" continued on Page 12
From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Selective Reenlistment Bonus plan has been updated. Here are six things Sailors should know about the new plan. 1. NAVADMIN 106/15 contains the updated SRB eligibility and award level. Go read it at www.npc.navy.mil to see if you are eligible for a reenlistment bonus. 2. The increased award levels are effective immediately and decreased levels are effective 30 days from the release of the NAVADMIN. 3. Changes to award levels from the SRB plan released last April include: 26 award level increases, 25 reductions, 15 skills added, and five skills eliminated. An additional two skills were removed, but there is no loss of eligibility for Sailors since these skills were rolled into another existing SRB skill.
4. SRB provides incentives to Sailors with critical skills and experience to stay Navy. It rewards Sailors who attain special training in skills most needed in the fleet, and helps meet critical skill reenlistment benchmarks and enhance Navy's ability to size, shape and stabilize manning. Award levels are adjusted as reenlistment requirements for specific ratings and skill sets are met. 5. Sailors eligible for a SRB reenlistment are encouraged to work with their command career counselors, command master chiefs, and chain of command to discuss timing of reenlistment and procedures well before their EAOS. 6. SRB policy can be found at http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/ career/enlistedcareeradmin/pages/srb.aspx For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www.navy.mil/cnp or www. navy.mil/local/cnp/.
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MCPON names celebrity Chef Robert Irvine honorary chief
By MC1 Stuart B. Phillips Office of the MCPON
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Celebrity chef Robert Irvine was named an honorary chief petty officer by Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens during a ceremony at the United States Navy Memorial, May 1. MCPON spoke about the example Irvine has set, and his dedication to the troops demonstrated through his volunteer work and many visits to service members both overseas and stateside. "I often share with my Chiefs what it means to be a true leader, and I believe it means you are a quiet, humble, servant leader," said Stevens. "By quiet, I mean we let our actions speaks for themselves, humble means we think less of ourselves, and think more of others, and to be a servant leader, means it is others we serve, not ourselves." "And Chef Irvine, it is evident you exemplify all of these qualities... I want you to know that your unbelievable dedication to our service men and women, and our wounded warriors is inspiring and has not gone unnoticed," said Stevens. "It takes a special person with a big heart to commit the personal time and resources that you have committed in a most humble way." After the pinning ceremony and gift presentation, Chef Irvine thanked Stevens and spoke about what this event meant to him. "You know I come from the British Royal Navy and after spending ten years there and then coming here, I see what the men and women [of the U.S. military] do every day of their lives and it is humbling," said Irvine. "I'm an American citizen now and I do what I do with the troops because I love them and what they do - for the sacrifices they make every day." When asked how he felt about being named an honorary chief petty officer, Irvine was almost at a loss for words. "This is something very special, and words don't express that," said Irvine. "It's hard to express my feelings right now ecstatic, humble, and excited to be in one of the best clubs in the world. You can't just buy into this club." Chef Robert Irvine joined the British Royal Navy at the age of 15, and spent the next ten years cooking his way through Europe, the Far East, the Caribbean and the Americas. Over the past 25 years, Chef Irvine has become a successful chef and been a long-standing supporter of the armed forces. He recently kicked off the United Services Organization's Entertainment Tour of 2015, traveling to Japan where he spent a week visiting, thanking and creating moments for our troops and their families stationed in the Pacific. Additionally, Mr. Irvine has traveled the world with the USO and the Gary Sinise Foundation, visiting with service members and their families while dishing up fine cuisine and providing cooking classes. For more news from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, visit www.navy.mil/local/mcpon/.
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American Cancer Society Relay for Life Health and Wellnes Fair 2015 Photos by Ed Lucio and MC3 Ramon Go
May 8, 2015
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All Hands News Bulletin
To request publication of your message, please send it to thesig@eu.navy.mil
The Navy College Office in Sigonella is hosting the Graduation Recognition Ceremony on June 11 at the NAS 1 Chapel. Eligible participants include Service members, Veterans, DOD civilians, DOD contractors and family members who earned or will earn their certificates and/or degrees (GED, Certifications, Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate) from Dec. 2014 - Dec. 2015. A reception will be held following the ceremony. Please support our graduates on this very special day. To sign up, contact NCO Director William Garcia at william.r.garcia@eu.navy.mil or UMUC representative Patrizia Tedesco at patrizia.tedesco@umuc.edu. The last day to sign up will be May 29. Religious Ministries Department - Club Beyond is hosting an opportunity to serve others in Ostrava, Czech Republic, June 21-27. For more information or reservation packets, please contact the Club Beyond Sigonella Community Director, Michael King, at mking@clubbeyond.org or the NAS 1 Chapel at 624-3975. NAS Sigonella Security wants to remind everyone that as summer approaches "Bicycle operators riding on a Navy installation roadway shall ride with the traffic, in single file, obeying traffic rules while properly wearing brightly colored, fluorescent or reflective clothing between sunset and sunrise and a bicycle helmet approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission or Snell Memorial Foundation at all times. All active duty military personnel shall wear an approved bicycle helmet on and off a Navy installation this includes our housing." Additionally "Skateboards, roller-skates, roller-blades, rip sticks, and other similar equipment may only be used in approved areas on Navy installations. Housing is an authorized area and so is the skate park on NAS 1 behind Midtown. Proper PPE, at a minimum head protection, shall be worn by all personnel at all times." Security will be patrolling and enforcing. The reference for this is the OPNAVISNT 5100.12J NAVY TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAM. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Security Officer, Lt. Chuck Cranston @ 624-6392 or Charles.cranston@eu.navy.mil
NASSIG Worship Services
ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY 11:30 a.m. - Catholic Mass at NAS 2 Chapel Sacraments of Reconciliation / Penance precede each Mass • FRIDAY - 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel LATTER-DAY SAINTS • SUNDAY - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049 JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICE • FRIDAY - 5:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel
PROTESTANT - NAS 1 CHAPEL • Saturday - 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services • SundaY - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship; 12 p.m. Sunday School PROTESTANT / Non-Denominational - NAS 2 Chapel • SundaY - 6 p.m. NIGHT STUDY • MONDAY - AA Meetings - 5:30 p.m., second deck at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at Classroom at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Glee Club - 12 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel
Chapel Offices: NAS 1 095-56-3975, NAS2I 095-86-9049, DSN: 624-3975, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493 RP Duty: 335-786-1950 NAS Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel
DRIVE SAFELY SIGONELLA
May 8, 2015
Ristorante Bella Etna
BREAKFAST Mon-Fri 6:30-8 a.m. Weekend/Holiday 7 -9 a.m. LUNCH Mon-Fri 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend/Holiday 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. DINNER Mon-Fri 4:30 - 6 p.m. Weekend/Holiday 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Friday, May 8 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak Lunch: Herbed Baked Chicken, Lemon Baked Fish Speed Line: Chef Gigi’s Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy, Fishwich Saturday, May 9 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Chicken Fillet Sandwich Dinner: Spaghetti Carbunada, Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Sunday, May 10 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Roast Beef Dinner: Oven Baked Chicken Nuggets, Salisbury Steak Monday, May 11 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef on Toast Lunch: Oven Roasted Beef, Lemon Baked Fish Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Oven Fried Chicken Fillet Tuesday, May 12 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey sausage, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Chicken Cordon Blue, French Fried Shrimp Speed Line: Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich Dinner: Fishwich, Chef Vincenzo’s Home Made Lasagna Wednesday, May 13 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast Lunch: Roast Turkey, Pepper Steak Speed Line: All American Grilled Burgers Dinner: Chicken Tetrazzini, Chef Russo’s Home Made Meatloaf Thursday, May 14 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Biscuits and Gravy, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Oven Roasted Pork, Swiss Steak w/ Mushroom Gravy Speed Line: Pasta Bar with choice of Freshly Made Pasta Sauce Dinner: Corn Dogs, Salisbury Steak Friday, May 15 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Grilled Turkey Sausage Lunch: Shepherd’s Pie, Fish W/ Cherry Tomatoes Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Chili and Rice, Grilled Chicken Breast Breakfast: $3.45 Lunch: $5.55 Dinner: $4.85 As a reminder to everyone: Reminder - 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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By LT Melissa Amescua
Registered Dietitian, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Are they safe, or aren’t they? These are questions most people ask themselves because they are unsure of how to read a label and understand what is actually in their supplement. The main reasons individuals seek out dietary supplements are to promote good health, enhance physical performance, increase strength and stamina, build muscle mass, boost energy and of course lose weight. So you might ask, what exactly is a dietary supplement? It is any product that contains a “dietary ingredient” intended to “supplement” the diet. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids/protein, and substances such as enzymes, organ tissues, gland tissues or secretions. It can take many forms to include extracts, concentrates, tablets, capsules, gel caps, liquids, powders, or bars. Safety Concerns: There are many risks, or factors that can increase risk, when taking dietary supplements. It is important to be aware of what those risks are when evaluating a dietary supplement. Some risks include; lack of knowledge, excessive protein and or other nutrient intake, improper use such as stacking or taking multiple types of supplements, medication interactions, specific risks associated with, the age of the individual consuming the supplement, and unfortunately death as well. Things to Consider: There are many important considerations before purchasing a dietary supplement. If it has ingredients such as “blend, proprietary blend or delivery system” with no amounts listed it’s really hard to know what you are buying. If you can’t pronounce what you are buying then think twice and look it up. Many manufacturer practices are not regulated, therefore you could be buying something that is toxic and could contain contaminants. Consider the amount of caffeine per serving and if it is more than 200mg that should be a red flag. If any supplement promises a “quick fix” or magic to happen in a short amount of time, this is obviously not true or safe. Also, remember if you are taking any other medications or supplements, you need to contact your health care provider to make sure you are not putting yourself at risk for an interaction that could be harmful. Lastly, check for a seal that can give you assurance of quality. Seals on a label such as U.S. Pharmocopeia (USP), Consumer Lab (CL), NSF International, Informed Choice, or HFL sport Science that are displayed on the supplement you are buying provide assurance that it was properly manufactured, contains the ingredients it says it does, and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants. It is also important to note before purchasing a dietary supplement, if it is not banned by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), FTC (Federal Trade Commission), or DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency), then it is not banned by the DoD at large. However, the DoD has the ultimate authority to issue guidance on specific supplements or categories of supplements along with individual commands. And just because it is not banned by the FDA does not always mean it is safe either. Until a supplement is proven to be unsafe or harmful (which could take months, or even years) it could still be on the shelves ready to sell. In Conclusion.. Food first is always recommended. The actual absorption of vitamins and nutrients is often much less from a pill than actual food. Dietary supplements are designed to supplement your diet, not to replace nutritious foods. Some exercise and or dietary supplements may not only end a career, but may can also permanently harm you. It is important to seek knowledge and resources to make the best informed decision when it comes to picking a dietary supplement. Resources to Use: Here are some resources to use if you are wondering about taking a supplement that can also help you make an informed decision. • Human Performance Resource Center (HPRC) • Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database • U.S. Food and Drug Administration • National Institute of Health, Office of Dietary supplements • Banned Substances Control Group (BSCG) • Natural Products Association • Your Healthcare Provider • Health Promotions, Dietitian • Operational Supplement Safety (OPPS) Contact your health care provider at 624-2273 if you are unsure of how to choose a supplement safely.
"NOTO" continued from Page 6 For detailed festival schedules, visit http://www. infioratadinoto.it/ What to see in town If you want a good reason to visit Noto, you should know that this amazing Baroque town is so precious that it was chosen by UNESCO to be part of its World Heritage List. UNESCO, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has indeed inscribed Noto and other seven towns in south-eastern Sicily (Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Palazzolo, Ragusa and Scicli), on the World Heritage List, which consists of 563 cultural properties throughout the world. Those cities were all rebuilt after the terrible earthquake that struck Sicily in 1693. UNESCO officials maintain that those cities represent a considerable collective undertaking featuring a unique architectural and artistic style. So while you visit the Infiorata, remember that you are in one of the most beautiful Baroque cities in the world. Did you also know that Noto is called “Garden of stone and gold” for the yellowish-rosy color of its buildings and monuments? Once you are there you’ll figure out by yourself! Noto is located about 20 miles south of Siracusa. The city was built next to the river Asinaro in 1703 on the ruins of the ancient Roman City of Netum on the Alveria Mount, which was destroyed in the earthquake of 1693. As it happened pretty much everywhere around Sicily, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Swabians, Aragoneses, and Spaniards conquered Noto throughout the centuries. But unfortunately, few traces of the pre-Baroque civilizations got lost because of the earthquake. So, today’s Noto displays just the 18th century baroque layout. Noto boasts a plethora of churches and palaces that are among the most valuable examples of the skills of talented artists of the time such as Gagliardi, Sinatra, Labisi. Graceful curves of floral interfacings, of foreshortened views of palaces, gardens, and capitals and of putts decorate the facades of churches and buildings like the Church of San Francesco, San Domenico, Immacolata. San Carlo, Santa Chiara, the Franciscan Convent and the Salvatore Benedictine Monastery. Among the aristocratic palaces, Palazzo Ducezio is definitely worth a visit. Architect Vincenzo Sinagra designed it in 1748. Beautiful neoclassical style frescoes by Antonio Mazza decorate the interiors. For more information and detailed schedules, visit http:// www.comune.noto.sr.it
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GAME ZONE
May 8, 2015
Physics 1
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining 30 letters spell an Albert Einstein quotation.
ACCELERATION ACOUSTICS AMPLITUDE ATOM BLACK HOLE BUOYANCY CENTRIPETAL COLD FUSION CONVECTION DENSITY DISPLACEMENT DOPPLER EINSTEIN ELECTRON ENERGY ENTROPY EXPERIMENT
FARADAY FREEZING POINT FULCRUM GRAVITY HAWKING IMPEDANCE ISOTOPE KELVIN LAWS LENGTH LEVER MASS MECHANICS MOMENTUM NEWTON OPTICS PASCAL
PENDULUM POWER PRINCIPLES QUARK REFRACTION SOUND STRING THEORY TESLA THERMOMETER TRAJECTORY VECTOR VISCOSITY WAVE WEDGE WORK
DIFFICULT
Dietary supplements….It’s time to get educated!
May 8, 2015
MEDIUM
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EASY
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Final Flight of the East Coast P-3C Orion By Tamara Calandra Naval District Washington Public Affairs
BAHRAIN (NNS) -- The Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 "Tridents," based out of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, are currently conducting missions in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. This is the Navy's final active duty deployment of the P-3C Orion aircraft from the East Coast. The Navy is in the process of replacing the decades-old Lockheed Martin P-3C turbo-prop aircraft with the new multi-mission maritime aircraft P-8A Poseidon, a modified Boeing 737800ERX. Historic events aren't new to the Tridents. VP-26 was the Navy's first operational P-3 squadron when they received the first production of the P-3B, which replaced the P2-V Neptune in January 1966. Then, in 1979, VP-26 transitioned to the P-3C aircraft used today. "It's incredible and it means being a part of history," said Lt. Cory Solis, tactical coordinator assigned to VP-26. "The plane has been a fighting force for the Navy for so long and we're still able to employ it. We can still count on her to get up in the air and be vital part of something like what we are doing now in the Middle East." Even in the final missions of the P-3C flights, VP-26 continues to work with joint and coalition forces in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. During this deployment, VP-26 has worked with British and French naval vessels and successfully executed combined operations with the Bahraini Coast Guard. Today's P-3 is equipped with the latest Command, Control, Communications and Computer (C4) technologies to enable it to integrate with other forces and to facilitate network-centric warfare. The P-8 is designed to take these capabilities to the next level. "The P-3 is an icon of Cold War antisubmarine warfare and it has proved extremely flexible, adapting to meet a variety of missions assigned by forward fleet commanders in the 25 years since," said Cmdr. Gregory A. Smith, commanding officer, VP-26. Transition to a new aircraft goes beyond utilizing the physical capabilities
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of the aircraft and its technology. "This flexibility is one of the hallmarks of U.S. Naval service, however, it is not the airframe that provides this flexibility," Smith said. "It is the people. The same people who are making P-3s succeed on station will be the ones who make the P-8 succeed on station. The airframe will change, but the culture and legacy of excellence in maritime patrol and reconnaissance will remain." Personnel are already preparing for the road ahead. Sailors will have to adjust, retrain and in some cases, find a different career path in the Navy. "My training is P-3 (April 8, 2015) Naval Air Crewman (Operator) 2nd Class Seth Gurrola, left, Naval Air Crewman (Avionics) specific and there's not 2nd Class John McDaniel, and Naval Air Crewman (Operator) 2nd Class Jakyra Hunter, all assigned to actually a spot for the Patrol Squadron (VP) 26, monitor targets while on a maritime surveillance patrol. VP-26 is on their in-flight technician in final active duty deployment from the East Coast using the P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft. (U.S. the P-8," said Naval Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Smith/Released) Aircrewman (Avionics) 2nd Class John McDaniel, in-flight crew) identified for transition will re- men and women of VP-26 do every technician assigned to VP-26. "So, I will turn home and complete Category II day," said Smith. "They make complex be switching platforms. I will be going training at VP-30, which lasts approxi- and challenging evolutions seem routo the EA-6B Prowler and will have to mately six months. Upon completion of tine. We don't set out every day to make attend another "A" school. I have been training, they will receive their new re- history; we set out to do the little things with P-3s for five years. I feel pretty spective navy enlisted codes (NEC) and the right way, the first time, to the best good and feel it's time to do something begin their first P-8 inter-deployment of our ability. Being a part of a "first" or a "last" makes it sound more special, but readiness cycle. new." "You either ride the waves of change what is really special is the way Team All maintenance Sailors will be required to attend the P-8 general famil- or drown beneath them," said Com- Trident works together to overcome a iarization course, which is between five mand Master Chief James B. Daniels challenge or rallies behind a shipmate to 10 days. They will also be required Jr., command master chief, VP-26. who needs extra support. To me the last to attend P-8 rate training. Upon com- "The point is change is going to happen (P-3) deployment from the East Coast pletion, they will be assigned to Fleet whether you like it or not. The P-8 is a will always imply the additional work Replacement Squadron, VP-30, in new, more capable aircraft, and as we and sacrifices required to do more with Jacksonville, and work in their rating did with the P-3, we will maximize the less, and meeting mission in spite of those challenges; the way VP-26 has alspecific area to become qualified col- use of it to further the Navy's mission." The new P-8 aircraft is expected to ways done before." lateral duty inspectors (CDI) and plane For more news from Naval Support captains on the P-8 for approximately arrive in Bahrain in approximately one Activity Bahrain, visit www.navy.mil/ year. six months. "I am extremely proud of what the local/nsabahrain/. All current VP-26 operators (air-
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Moving matters! Make yours a Smooth Move this summer By Sutten Thomas Navy Household Goods Personal Property Regional Program Manager, NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - We’ve all experienced a permanent change of stat≠on move. The way that you plan and execute your move matters. Success, for the most part depends on a member’s active participation at origin, and destination before pick-up, during the move and destination delivery. Communication with the Transportation Service Provider (TSP), local agents and Personal Property Shipping Office counselors is essential. May 15 through July 31 presents unique challenges for the moving industry, service members and their families, especially moves made during the peak of the peak (June 16 through July 4). During the busiest moving season, government moving service providers are stretched to capacity and often times are required to perform services with limited packing crews, trucks in short supply, and full storage facilities. However, each person can manage unforeseen changes in their moving plans by being informed, planning ahead, and remaining flexible. Before You Move: Moving is stressful enough, but knowing what to expect during the move can calm anxieties. Before you make your move application plans or contact the local PPSO, go to www. move.mil, for updated information, customer information videos and articles, regarding shipping entitlements, claims, privately owned vehicles and much more.
Counseling is the most critical part of a successful move. Customers must ensure they have all the information needed for a successful move. Having valid and updated contact information (phone numbers, e-mail, etc.) in Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is the key to a service member’s successful move. Customers should book early, remain flexible in arranging their pack out or pick up dates, and try to schedule before or after the peak of the peak season, whenever possible. Initial pack out or pick up dates are your “desired” pack or pick up and is not confirmed until official orders are turned into the Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO), and the moving company contacts service member to conduct the pre-move survey, finalize the pack and pick up dates and establish the Required Delivery Date (RDD). The PPSO will inform the member of the desired delivery date (DDD) on the shipment application, during counseling. Remember, the DDD is only an estimate and the “actual” RDD is printed on the government bill of lading for the shipment. The moving company will provide the member with a copy of the bill of lading, either electronically or hardcopy, no later than the pickup date. If serving an accompanied tour, encourage your spouse to participate in the (self) counseling and pre-move survey process. After all, in most instances the spouse at home will be the one coordinating when the moving company shows up. Together, a sponsor and spouse are more likely to communicate all their moving needs. If a spouse or sponsor is not available to supervise the move, then the one available will be prepared to supervise the move in the event of an absence of either one. Members and their spouses should know about all moving documents they must receive, review, sign, and why these documents are important for a successful move. Both spouse and sponsor should know what actions to take in case of difficulty during a move and know their personal responsibilities in releasing and accepting shipments to the moving company. Moving weight allowances are determined by the member’s grade in accordance with applicable Joint Travel Regulation. Ultimately,
members are responsible for keeping personal property items within their weight allowances. To avoid possible excess costs, take the time early in advance of the move date to estimate your shipment weight. You will then have sufficient time to dispose of personal things you no longer use to reduce your potential excess costs. Should you decide to keep all your household goods and possibly ship above your weight allowance, you need to budget to pay the excess cost, which can be quite substantive in most cases. To estimate the weight of household goods, start with the net weights of all shipments of your last move. Normally your shipment documents from your previous move will indicate the total weight shipped to your current duty station. Be sure to include all shipments at government expense still in storage, if applicable, as well as weights for any personally procured moves. Add weights for all household items you acquired since you last moved, such as furniture, hobby equipment,tools, books, collectables and electronics. Many Service members are familiar with the “1,000-pounds-per-room” estimate. Unfortunately, families often forget to include rooms such as storage sheds, large closets, yards, garages, carports, basements, and other hidden areas. This is why it’s best to start your move estimates with all weights from your last move, and then adjust for what you recently acquired. Remember, an estimate is simply that a “best guess” estimate of what you intend on shipping. It’s not an official weight, until the movers provide an official the shipment weight to the PPSO and a Government Bill of Lading is created. If weights are close to maximum after packing, request an official reweigh through your DPS account or the servicing PPSO. Another way to control your shipment weight is to estimate weight for the member’s and Spouse’s Professional Books Papers and Equipment (PBP&E) or PRO-gear, if any. Service members and employees PRO-gear allowance is limited to 2000 pounds (no waivers) maximum. An Employee’s PRO-gear is part of weight allowances for shipment purposes. Civilian spouses are not entitled a spousal pro-gear (S-PRO) shipment entitlement in accordance with the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR). PRO-Gear are articles of household goods in a member’s possession needed for the performance of official duties at the next or later destination. Some examples of PBP&E are: reference materials; equipment peculiar to technicians; mechanics; specialized clothing such as diving suits, astronaut' suits, flying suits and helmets, band uniforms, chaplains' vestments, and other specialized apparel not normal or usual uniform or clothing in the member’s possession needed for the performance of official duties. The weight of M-PRO is not counted against member’s weight allowance but to be validated, sponsor must: a) Declare PRO-gear during counseling; b) Separate Pro Gear during packing by the movers, and c) Ensure movers weigh PRO-gear separately and clearly mark boxes as PRO-gear on the shipment inventory, before signing shipping documents. Spousal Pro-Gear (S-PRO) is limited to a maximum of 500 lbs. S-PRO gear are those items for the spouse’s professional employment, such as ombudsman, lawyer, doctor, nurse, teacher, chef or community support activities at the next destination. Spouse Pro Gear does not include commercial products for sale/resale used in conducting business; sports equipment or offices; household or shop furniture and fixtures such as desks, cabinets, and racks etc. Privately Owned Vehicle (POV): By now, service members have heard through social media stories about POV delays. However, current trends indicate, contractor performance is better overall since inception. Be sure to get the proper counseling on POV shipment before going to the Vehicle Processing Center. Some destinations have restrictions on POVs or certain POV features. Consult your “It’s Your Move” shipping responsibilities brochure for more information or visit the POV shipping contractor, International Auto Logistics (IAL) website at www.pcsmypov.com. If your POV is not delivered on the required delivery date, talk to a personal property shipping office counselor or visit IALs website for POV tracking, claims information and claims processing on missed required delivery date of POV shipments. Creating Your Move Application: Contact your local personal property staff or “selfcounsel” within DPS. If you plan to move soon and have your official Permanent Change of Station orders, don’t wait, get started now. DPS online is available 24/7 for you to initiate your moving application. Just go to the DPS website at http://www.move.mil/index.cfm . A user identification and password is required for self-counseling access. DPS has been extremely innovative in that it allows member to manage their move from origin pickup to destination delivery. Additional features of DPS are online claims functionality, frequently asked questions, and the Customer Satisfaction Surveys (CSS). Of course traditional appointments can still be coordinated with your local Personal Property Shipping Office. Make your move, a stress free move this summer. Additional resources can be found at the official Navy’s Household Goods & Personal Property website at http://navsup.navy.mil/household . Contact your local personal property shipping office at email: ppso-sigonella@eu.navy.mil, phone DSN: 624-9440 or commercial (095) 86-9440 for additional information.
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