Sigonella Ash Kickers: Prepares for first bout!
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Missoula :
FFSC:
Returns with Aladdin!
Emergency savings 411!
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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August 28, 2015
Vol. 32 No. 29
Staying seasonally safe in Sigonella By LT PAUL NEWELL NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Officer
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The Sigonella community is adjacent to an active volcano, situated atop active fault lines and is on an island in the middle of a large ocean area. Each of these truths brings its own unique environmental challenges and potential hazards. In the recent past, Sigonella has been subject to significant ash fall from Etna's eruptions, experienced earthquakes, and this December will mark the 10-year anniversary of a large flood, which severely hampered operations at NAS 2 and made Marinai Housing uninhabitable. Each hazard may result in blocked roadways, power and water outages, squalid living conditions, or traffic jams on local highways. There are a number of steps that you can take now to make sure you are prepared for any type of emergency Mother Nature sends your way. 1. Have a Plan: The basic tool you and your family need to prepare for possible emergencies is a family preparedness plan. Everyone in the family should understand what to do, where to go, and what to take in the event of an emergency. Your emergency plan should include how your family will communicate with each other, particularly if normal communication methods, such as phone lines or cell towers, are out. Have a contact person outside the area that each member of the family can notify that they are safe. Also, plan ahead for how you will evacuate the area and where your family will meet if you are evacuated separately. 2. Build a Kit: The best way to prepare for the unexpected is to create one or more emergency kits that include enough supplies, water, and medication for at least three days. Keep a kit prepared at home, and consider having kits in your car, at work, and a portable version in your home ready to take with you. These kits will enable you and your family to respond to an emergency more effectively. Your various emergency kits will be useful whether you have to shelter-in-place or evacuate. Be sure your kits address the needs of small children, individuals with special needs, and your pets. If you are asked to evacuate, remember to bring
U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Eight (EODMU-8), prepare to load their zodiac pontoon boat onto a trailer following an initial exploration of the Marinai Housing area on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. Continuous heavy rainfall since Dec. 13, 2005 resulted in flooding and power outages aboard NAS Sigonella and in surrounding areas, including government housing in Marinai. Six inches to three feet of standing water was reported. (U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 3rd Class Michael Lavender/Released) along items to keep your family comfortable, including bedding and activities. 3. Drive Safely: One of the biggest hazards we face at Sigonella is dangerous driving conditions. Two words of caution: SLOW DOWN! Most accidents are caused by excessive speed coupled with inattention
and unfamiliarity with Italian roads. During fall and winter months roadways can become very slippery, particularly during the first rains of autumn when oils and ash particles may rise to the driving surface.
"SEASONAL SAFETY" continued on Page 12
Q&A with Navy Pay and Personnel Support OIC
NAS Sigonella Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) conducts regular training to remain up-to-date on the latest information and to discuss customer feedback. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released) By nicole ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The Signature recently sat down for an interview with Lt. Bill Garcia, NAS
Sigonella PSD Officer in Charge, to discuss some of the ongoing changes in the way the Navy’s Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) is conducting business. During the discussion, Garcia spoke to a number of relevant topics and addressed questions
concerning Command Pass Coordinators (CPCs), how the Navy is moving toward personnel self-service and automation, and traveling with pets. Q: Why do we need to use Command Pass Coordinators (CPC)? Lt. Garcia: The use of CPCs is mandated by NAVADMIN 043/15 and MILPERSMAN Article 1000-021, which requires all commands supported by a Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) to designate a CPC in writing. Assigning an effective and proactive CPC (and secondary CPC) is as critical as other command collateral duties. For the majority of pay and personnel transactions, business between PSDs and commands should be conducted using electronic document transmission technology, encrypted e-mail, and web applications. Lack of support for and from the CPC is likely to result in inconsistent customer service and Sailor support that can have a direct impact on accurate pay and personnel records. Q: What kind of training do CPCs receive? Lt. Garcia: The CPC is a collateral duty and CPCs receive ongoing development and support. CPCs receive bi-weekly in-rate training and PSD is required to conduct monthly CPC training. These sessions provide information about the resources available to assist CPCs in
performing their duties, deliver training on specific personnel and pay topics, and present the opportunity to address local issues related to the shared responsibility of providing accurate personnel and pay support for service members. In fact, some of the trainings that we host at NAS Sigonella are being implemented Navy-wide. Moreover, many of the programs that come out in the fleet have been beta tested right here in Sigonella. We are a good platform for that because our numbers aren't too high that it is difficult to track, but at the same time they aren't too low. We are also trying to establish more incentives for CPCs and in doing so help to ensure that it remains an attractive collateral duty. Q: Why is it so difficult to get pets on and off the island? Lt. Garcia: We understand that some people have had difficulty getting their pets on and off the island and apologize for the inconvenience experienced during an already stressful time. As part of the check-out process, we encourage anyone preparing to PCS to attend the Arrivederci class hosted by the Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) at least nine months prior to their PRD. We hold cross-functional meetings with the FFSC on a monthly basis and they are very knowledgeable
"Q&A" continued on Page 15
THE SIGNATURE
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August 28, 2015
Direct Line
N A S SIG O N E L L A
Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Sigonella, Welcome newcomers! Everyone else, welcome back! I sincerely hope everyone soaked up some fun, relaxation, and reconnected with family or friends since wishing each other a safe summer back in June. Welcome to school year 2015-16 Jaguars and Knights, and a special shoutout to our Sigonella Class of 2016: Ashley, Jason, Austin, Micah, Nathan, Kimberly, Caylee, Jared, Vanessa, Caitlin, Cody, James, Lynda, William, Dylan, Crimson and Rose-Marie. Every school year is an opportunity to invest in our lives but none is bigger than Senior Year. Seniors, make great memories, great friendships, and turn great opportunities into your future. Know the whole community is with you every step of the way and can’t wait to read the future chapters of your lives as you write them. We believe in you. This year will pass much faster than you imagine, make each day your masterpiece. At 1300 today, I will join our DoDEA faculty to welcome new students and parents to our community, one of my greatest pleasures as CO. You might not know, but each year about 40% of the Sigonella population turns over. While it’s sad to part with our friends, colleagues, and neighbors, it pumps me up to meet new folks from countless backgrounds world over; each possessing unique talents, insights, and wisdom. NAS Sigonella exists for one reason – to support U.S. national security. Each Sig’ Citizen is in his or her own way critical to this cause. Sigonella is not only blessed to have each of you here to help secure our Nation and loved ones back home, we simply cannot do it without you. So as our newest Sig’ Citizens settle in, I am passionately interested to know how your transition is going. Did sponsorship, Indoc, Housing, and PSD meet your needs? What went well? What needs more attention? I can assure you not only I want to know, our exceptional service providers want and need to know. We're not perfect, but we are committed to you, our customers and improvement. Class of 2016, Sigonellans, this too is my ‘senior’ year as I ‘graduate’ next spring and turnover command of this most awesome base to a new captain. Please know I remain 150% committed to our mission, each of you. It remains my true honor and privilege to serve you as Base Commander. My foot will be pressing even harder on the accelerator to ensure we continue achieving greatness by every measure – each of you and our great nation deserve nothing less. Everywhere I look I see progress with more on the horizon. Stay tuned Sigonella, school year 2015-16 is going to be legit! Honor, Courage, Commitment, C.J. Dennis CO NAS Sigonella
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 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 Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publically 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 “UNSAT Barracks Living Conditions”:
I have had a terrible living experience during my two years in Unaccompanied Housing. I have suffered without AC in 100 degree weather; not had hot water in the winter; and been unable to place a single weekend trouble call. Often repair teams fail to fix the problems. I believe we should have hot water, air conditioning, and overall decent living standards particularly on shore duty. Instead of using our money on umbrellas and outdoor gazebos, why not sink money into quality-of-life improvements that really matter?
Response:
Thank you for the sobering report. We are in fact sinking $1.5M into Bldg. 170 and are accelerating this project for end-of-year completion vice spring of 2016. Each new section now enjoys AC, hot water, and improved living arrangements. Some continue to agonize and I have ordered each person suffering to be given AC, or moved – period. Also, based on your feedback (and many others’ as well) I will host a Barracks 170/623 Town Hall meeting at the base theater on Monday, Aug. 24 at 1630. This gathering will solicit barracks-related issues as well as any other topics you’d like me to answer. Questions or comments can be submitted via the NAS Sigonella Facebook page or at nassigpao@eu.navy.mil. Stay tuned for more info! In the meantime, anyone in anguish due to barracks’ living conditions should contact Unaccompanied Housing Director, Ralph Jackson, at 624-4075, or Ralph. Jackson@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “Base Shuttle”:
My family lives in Marinai without a vehicle and we rely on the base shuttle to get us between base locations. There have been multiple instances in which we’ve been unable to access the bus because it is completely full before it arrives to Marinai. Unfortunately I’ve missed medical appointments and my daughter has been late to work due to limited seating on the smaller shuttle. Many families depend on this service for various appointments, work commute, shopping, etc. Can the base please look into providing the bigger bus more often than the current twice-a-day format so all personnel can utilize it? Sincerely, Jennifer Grafton
Response:
Dear Jennifer, we’ve recently received several similar concerns regarding the base shuttle, which is why I’ve directed Public Works to perform a full transportation review. Please keep in mind while we’re 100% committed to doing our best to say “yes” to your inquiry we must also take Navy policy, and financial and logistics limitations into consideration. Thanks much for voicing the shuttle issue! I promise you we will keep the community posted with related developments.
THE SIGNATURE
August 28, 2015
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
SAMPLE RESULTS FOR NAS I, BLDG. 157, HAVE LEVELS OF BROMATE ABOVE DRINKING WATER STANDARDS Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella routinely monitors its water systems for the presence of contaminants. Recently, samples were taken from the NAS I, NAS II, Marinai, and Niscemi water systems. Results from the NAS I "Connections" building (Bldg. 157) indicated bromate levels above 10 micrograms per liter or parts per billion (ppb), which is the maximum contaminant level (MCL) allowed by Italian legislation and the DoD Final Governing Standards (FGS) for Italy. No other locations on any NAS Sigonella site exceeded these standards. 100% transparency and accountability to our public remains our commitment to you. As such, we keep the NAS Sigonella community informed of our water system status and actions to be taken to correct problems when they occur. Bldg. 157 test results received August 21, 2015, showed a range between 1.14 and 40.5 µg/L and an average bromate exceedance of 20 ppb. Bromate levels were below the MCL at the six other sample locations on NAS I; all seven sample locations on NAS II; both sample locations on Marinai; and the single sample location at Niscemi. What happened? This quarterly sampling event is a continuation of an investigative study into the root cause of bromate in the drinking water at Bldg. 157. Samples were collected at each cold water tap in the building in an attempt to identify affected locations. The results show that, while most of the sinks and fountains inside the building have elevated bromate levels, the treated water (coming in to the building from the distribution system) does not contain bromate. This is a positive step forward in our investigation, because it isolates the issue to the interior piping of Bldg. 157. Since our last public notice, in addition to this sampling event, the water lines of Bldg. 157 were pressure tested for leaks, and there was no evidence of gaps in the piping that could allow contaminants access into the system. NAS Sigonella also worked with lab chemists at NAVSEA and validated that all of the work done by the lab has been done correctly. The Sigonella community was previously notified of sampling results from the first round of samples where the bromate MCL was exceeded on Jan. 27, 2015, on Facebook and in the Jan. 30, 2015, issue of The Signature. During this first quarterly sampling event, the sample taken at Bldg. 157 tested at 34 ppb. In March samples were collected for NAS I, NAS II, Marinai, and Niscemi. Test results received April 2, 2014 showed bromate at 25 ppb for Bldg. 157, which again exceeded the MCL. Test results received June 11, 2015, showed bromate at 43.9 ppb in Bldg. 157. Consistently, no other sample across NAS 1 or any other NASSIG location has exceeded the MCL for bromate during this period of observation. What is being done? Base leadership and water-quality engineers continue to seek the root cause for the presence of bromate in the water and are taking the following steps to further investigate the issue: - Performing additional testing to identify bromate cause and, once identified, ensure corrections achieve bromate level reductions below the MCL. - Perform an in-depth building pipe material and cross-connection survey to determine if structural changes are responsible. At present, bromate exceedances limited to Bldg. 157 where they are expected to continue until the precise problem can be located. Signs have been posted in Bldg. 157 as a continuing reminder of this ongoing issue. The community will continue to be notified with compliance sampling results that exceed maximum contaminant levels. Moreover, we will keep the community informed about the latest developments in our efforts to identify and correct our Bldg. 157 bromate issue. For those interested in learning more about this ongoing issue, NAS Sigonella has a detailed water webpage, which can be found at: http://www. cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnreurafswa/installations/nas_sigonella/om/environmental_support bromate.html. What does this mean? Some who drink water containing bromate in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Bromate at the levels measured in the drinking water does not cause acute symptoms (i.e., stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea). However, bromate is classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a probable human carcinogen. What should I do? The levels of bromate found at Bldg. 157 do not pose an immediate health risk. At this time, you can continue to drink the water. If the situation changes, you will be notified. Of note, filtration systems will not remove bromate from the water. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor or the U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Medical Home Port at 095-56-4622. For more information, please contact: Rachel Methvin, P.E. NAS Sigonella Drinking Water Program Manager NAVFAC PWD Sigonella, Environmental Division DSN 624-7220 Commercial: 095-86-7220 rachel.methvin@eu.navy.mil Violation Awareness Date: 21 August 2015 Date Notice Distributed: 26 August 2015 Public Notification Certification: This public notification has been provided to our community in accordance with all delivery, content, format, and deadline requirements per DoD FGS for Italy and OPNAVINST 5090.1D.
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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 Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@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 MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit 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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THE SIGNATURE
August 28, 2015
Sigonella Ash Kickers prepare for their first bout
August 28, 2015
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 5
MCT returns with Aladdin
Story by Alix michel Sigonella Ash Kickers
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Roller derby isn’t like people think. There isn’t punching, or fighting, or elbowing – and it isn’t like wrestling. Roller derby has evolved dramatically since the 1970s and today is a highly-athletic, competitive sport focused on camaraderie, healthy friendships and supportive networks. Modern day roller derby is barely recognizable from the traditional style that older generations remember – so much so that organizers of the sport have a view toward Olympic inclusion. Roller derby debuted in the 1930s, peaked in the 1970s, and enjoyed a reinvention and resurgence in the early 2000s. This birth of “Modern Derby” is credited to a team in Texas, but the sport continues to grow and evolve both nationally and internationally. In fact, some of the newest leagues are here in Italy! Even more exciting for our community is the growth of teams specifically on military installations around the globe – bases in the U.S., England, Japan and Sicily each with their own team. Having active teams for players to contact pre-PCS creates a feeling of continuity and security, helping to ease the transition to a new duty station. These existing teams also provide a supportive network for both female and male athletes – whether active duty, dependent or civilian – roller derby supplies a new group of teammates and friends to rely on at the new duty station. In addition, it is nice having a team already in place in a new city that shares the love of derby. Naval Air Station Sigonella’s team, the Ash Kickers, started over two years ago. Due to the PCS of founding members and some growing pains, the team went on hiatus. Now, with the addition of new transfer skaters from established teams in the States, and a fresh start, the team is once again active and growing within our military community and abroad. Players from the Ash Kickers have represented the military derby community across Sicily and Europe – participating in events in cities like Palermo, Milan, Rome, Stuttgart & London. Even more exciting, a team from Lakenheath is coming here to Sigonella Sept. 6 to participate in the first home scrimmage for the Ash Kickers. The match is at the NAS 1 Gym starting at 3:00 p.m. and is free to attend!
Players from the NAS Sigonella Ash Kickers have represented the military derby community across Sicily and Europe – participating in events in cities like Palermo, Milan, Rome, Stuttgart and London. They will host their first home scrimmage on Sept. 6 at 3:00 p.m. (Photo courtesy of Alix Michel)
About the game – roller derby is played entirely on skates otherwise referred to as “quads.” Games are called “bouts” and are divided into two-minute “jams.” There are four “blockers” and one “jammer” on the track per team. All active skaters on the track are called “the pack.” It is the jammer’s job to skate through the pack to score points by passing the opposing players and it is the blocker’s job to stop the opposing jammer from making it through the pack. Each position requires athleticism, skill and a little bit of nerve to be jostled around while on eight wheels. Of course, safety is paramount – each skater is required to have on a full set of safety gear and to have passed a minimum skills test. All of the Ash Kickers have passed the test, a result of the commitment to the twice-a-week training schedule. All in all, roller derby offers a unique experience for those involved in all aspects of the sport. It is a sport
that gives a community of transience a feeling of belonging. From spouses that move to a new place and have a hard time meeting new people, active duty members looking for an alternative workout, or new friends in a new place, this sport more than any other offers a level of acceptance and a “come as you are” ethos that has enriched the lives of its participants in countless ways. Please come out and support the team during their first match here in Sigonella. For more information, visit our facebook page at www.facebook.com/ ashkickerssigonella
Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) returned to NAS Sigonella for another dramatic performance on the stage of Sigonella's Knight’s Hall, Aug. 14. The return of MCT brought a new twist on the 1992 Disney classic, Aladdin, which follows the adventures of a street urchin who falls in love with a princess. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released) By mc2 ramon go NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) returned to NAS Sigonella for another dramatic stage performance in Sigonella’s Middle/High School auditorium, Knight’s Hall, Aug. 14. The return of MCT brought a new twist on the 1992 Disney classic, Aladdin, which follows the adventures of a street urchin who falls in love with a princess. Sixty-four Sigonella Middle/High School students were cast in the play by two MCT tour actor-directors, Blaire Smith and Rachel Bailey. The directors arrived in Sigonella Aug. 9 and began the auditions the next morning. Several children ranging in age from 5 to 18 were carefully picked to spend the next five days learning their character lines, movements and lyrics for the final show Aug. 14. “Although we had a limited amount of time to learn everything, it was easy to learn it all because of how natural the flow of the story was,” said Danny Hopkins who played the lead character, Aladdin. “I like how MCT adds a little extra something to the story plot, whether it’s adding random characters like penguins, changing names from Jasmine to Dory and more.” Smith and Bailey are just one of the 50 MCT teams traveling across all 50 states, 17 countries, and two U.S. territories. Each team is assigned with a different play and works alongside the school liaison to do a performance for the community within a week. MCT staff and Sigonella students perfected their lines and skits during two-hour rehearsals every day leading up to the final showing. “During the rehearsals, we saw many kids interact and help each other, whether it was the older students taking the younger kids under their wing or developing role models for the younger kids,” said Smith. “It’s a great way for them to meet new friends and build a sense of community.” Parents, families and friends arrived to the play to be entertained and show their support for the community. The audience displayed their enthusiasm with laughter and smiles as
"MISSOULA " continued on Page 8
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.
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THE SIGNATURE
August 28, 2015
U.S. NAVY HEADLINES August 28, 2015
THE SIGNATURE
PAGE 7
Navy signs agreement for largest purchase of renewable energy
UNESCO grants World Heritage status to Palermo sites Story by Timesofsicily online magainze
Last month, seven artistic jewels of Palermo, Cefalù and Monreale were chosen as part of United Nations sites of “outstanding importance to human heritage.” Town of Monreale tourist officials recently told Sicilian media that their world-renowned Byzantine cathedral has attracted nearly 100,000 visitors in three months and announced that they plan a plethora of events to celebrate this prestigious recognition. A double dream. So was born the story of Palermo, Monreale and Cefalù. A dream lasting more than eight hundred years. In 1171 William II, after a hunting expedition, fell asleep under a carob tree on a mountain above Palermo and dreamt of the Madonna. She revealed to him the place where a treasure of golden coins was hidden with which the Norman king would have to build a shrine dedicated to the Madonna herself. The king found the treasure and constructed the marvelous Cathedral and cloister of Monreale. Eight hundred and forty-four years later, Palermo, Cefalù and Monreale have also been able to fulfill another dream. After some years of preparatory work, a visit from the technical delegation of UNESCO in September of 2014, and after the preliminary phase concluded with favorable opinions in March 2015, finally in Bonn on July 3, 2015 the three-town seat of Arabic-Norman architecture became a UNESCO Work Heritage Site, the only Italian one approved in 2015. “There was only one conflicting opinion, the ambassador of Japan, who lamented the lateness with which UNESCO decided to approve the proposal,” reported Leoluca Orlando, Mayor of Palermo and president of the UNESCO candidature pilot committee, during the presentation on July 6, 2015 in the Castello della Zisa in Palermo. He added: “This recognition is a cause for pride and a great joy for Palermo and Palermitans, but also for all Sicilians. The placing of the Arabic-Norman itinerary on UNESCO’s World Heritage list, with seven of the nine monuments in Palermo, is an international confirmation of the cultural, artistic and historical beauty and grandeur of this city, a heritage for one and all, and it will certainly lift tourism and new economic development in Palermo and the entirety of Sicily.” The Arabic-Norman itinerary, recognized by UNESCO, is made up of nine monuments, seven of which are in Palermo, such as the Royal Palace with the Palatine Chapel, the churches of San Giovanni degli Eremiti and Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio (known as the Matorana), the church of San Cataldo, Palermo Cathedral, the Zisa Palace and the dell’Ammiraglio Bridge (Admiral’s Bridge). The final two are the cathedrals, with their respective cloisters, of Cefalù and Monreale. The UNESCO recognition is added to the six
Last month the breathtaking Monreale Cathedral was added to the United Nations World Heritage list and thanks to this prestigious achievement has so far gained a 20% increase of visitors compared to last year from all over the world. (Photo by https://hotelsitalyonline.files.wordpress.com) UNESCO sites already instituted in Sicily: the late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto, Syracuse and the Necropolis of Pantalica, Mount Etna, the Roman Villa Casale, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Aeolian Islands. The Puppet Theatre (Opera dei Pupi), the vines of Pantelleria and the Mediterranean diet are the three other more intangible sites found in Sicily. Italy, followed by China, holds the world record with 51 World Heritage sites. The Palermitani had a dream, they have achieved it, and now the city will be working to ensure that the recognition becomes a driving force for tourism, our true treasure, our golden hoard, buried for a long time and now retrieved. Ninety per cent of registered accommodation is sold out and a thirty per cent increase in tourism is forecast. But the recognition is not only an opportunity for the territory to grow tourism and its economy. The Mayor of Palermo concluded with this: “We will continue to guard
and undertake the protection of this heritage, so that it can be passed on intact to future generations. This recognition, if that’s possible, is still more significant and important, just at a time when Islamic fundamentalism has been carrying out atrocities and would like to push us into a clash of cultures, because it reminds us that diverse cultures and religions, like those of the Arab, Norman and Byzantine, can live together, influencing each other in a reciprocal crossfertilization, as happened in the past, and as is the case today in Palermo, a city of peace and dialogue between peoples, where, last March, we signed the Palermo Charter, at the end of the International conference: ‘I am a person, from migration through suffering to mobility as a right.’ The EU institutions should reflect on the profound message that comes from UNESCO’s choice here.”
"WORLD HERITAGE" continued on Page 12
FROM THE NAVY OFFICE OF INFORMATION CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- The Department of the Navy (DON), Western Area Power Administration (Western), and Sempra U.S. Gas & Power hosted a ceremony Aug. 20 at Naval Air Station North Island, California, commemorating an agreement to construct a 210 megawatt (MW) direct current solar facility to benefit 14 DON installations. The agreement, signed last month, is the largest purchase of renewable energy ever made by a federal entity. Adding solar power to naval installations will help diversify the DON's shore energy portfolio and provide long-term cost stability, which ultimately contributes to the DON's energy security priorities. In May 2014, the DON and Western signed an interagency agreement that allowed Western to issue a request for proposal (RFP) and then select Sempra U.S. Gas & Power's Mesquite Solar 3 project, a solar plant located 60 miles west of Phoenix, Arizona. More than 650,000 photovoltaic (PV) panels on ground-mounted, horizontal single-axis trackers will be installed, providing a third of the energy needed to power 14 Navy and Marine Corps installations. Construction of Mesquite Solar 3 begins
this month and Sempra U.S. Gas & Power expects the project to be complete by the end of 2016. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, who hosted the ceremony with Western and Sempra U.S. Gas & Power, emphasized the importance of the agreement. "The collaboration on Mesquite Solar 3 is a triumph of innovative problem solving, and will help to increase the DON's energy security by diversifying our power portfolio and improving energy efficiency," said Mabus. "This agreement is also projected to save the DON at least $90 million over the life of the project." In addition to the energy security benefits to the DON, the Mesquite Solar 3 project will help the 14 installations comply with California's Renewable Portfolio Standard. At 210 MW, the solar facility will contribute 21 percent of the power needed to meet Secretary Mabus' goal of bringing one gigawatt of renewable energy into procurement by the end of 2015. "We are pleased to partner with both the DON and Western to help contribute to the DON's renewable energy portfolio and to expand out Mesquite Solar complex," said Patti Wagner, president and CEO of Sempra U.S. Gas & Power. "The development of Mesquite Solar 3 will continue to stimulate the local economy in the region and would not have been possible without the strong support of neighboring communities, regulators and local, state and federal officials." Western's Senior Vice President and Desert Southwest Regional Manager, Ronald Moulton, also commended the project. "The powerful collaboration between all parties made this project possible. We look forward to facilitating similar agreements with other Federal agencies, helping them meet their renewable energy goals, and building more partnerships for powering the energy frontier," he said. In 2009, Congress mandated that the Department of Defense (DoD) produce or procure 25 percent of total DoD facility energy from renewable sources by 2025, with each service responsible for generating a portion of that renewable energy. Mabus accelerated that goal, directing the DON to procure one gigawatt (GW) of renewable energy by the end of 2015. With the signing of Mesquite 3 (210 MW), the recent groundbreaking at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, (17 MW) last month and upcoming groundbreaking at Kings Bay, Georgia, (42 MW), the Navy is on track to meet that goal with a total 1.2 GW of projects in the pipeline. The list of installations that will be provided solar energy from the Mesquite 3 Solar farm include: Naval Base (NB) San Diego, NB Coronado, NB Point Loma, NB Ventura County, Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Monterey, Naval War Station (NWS) Corona, NWS Seal Beach, NWS Fallbrook, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) 29 Palms, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) Barstow, Marine Corps Recruitment Deport (MCRD) San Diego and Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center (MCMWTC) Bridgeport. For more information about the DON's Renewable Energy Program Office visit http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/energy/repo/ For more information about the Navy's energy programs and initiatives visit http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/energy/ For more information on Western visit http://www.wapa.gov/ Pages/Western.aspx For more information on Sempra U.S. Gas & Power visit http:// www.semprausgp.com/
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"MISSOULA " continued from Page 5 actors and actresses made puns and jokes with their characters. “My favorite part was when the pizza showed up to the scene along with the other six old wonders and said ‘va bene'’’ said Chief Aviation Support Equipment Technician David Waller. “I’m very grateful that MCT came out here and did this for the children and the community. It also allows the children to build their self-confidence, improve their communication skills and show off their acting talents.” MCT visits NAS Sigonella twice a year at which time, the students, parents and families look forward to seeing what new twist will be unveiled in the upcoming performance. This is my third time taking part in an MCT play and it’s always fun,” said Hopkins. “When it’s all over, you feel good but you also feel sad that it’s over already.”
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That's NOT "What Right Looks Like"
August 28, 2015
Ristorante Bella Etna
The Signature has established the "That's NOT - What Right Looks Like" section in order to make the NAS Sigonella community aware of how the command is prosecuting improper behavior, along with the hope of deterring future bad decisions. At approximately (approx.) 1125, on Aug. 13, a Sailor met with an NAS Security patrolman to report a larceny of personal property which occurred at Capanini Night Club, on Catania's oceanfront. At approx. 1128, the Sailor met with a patrolman and provided a sworn typed voluntary statement. The following is a brief summary of his statement. The Sailor stated at approx. 0200, while he was at Capanini Night Club, he was paying for a drink when he was approached by an unknown group of four (4) males and one (1) female who asked him to purchase their drinks, at which point the Sailor replied "no." The Sailor then stated he paid for his drink and put his wallet in his back pocket. The Sailor felt a hand reaching into his pocket multiple times, he turned around and confronted the group who denied the accusations. The Sailor stated he left and approx. 20 minutes later, he checked his pocket and realized his cell phone and wallet were missing. The Sailor stated the following items were taken from him: one driver's license, one Navy Federal debit card, one Navy Federal credit card, one DOD CAC card, $50 and one Italian translation drivers license. The Sailor also stated that someone had used his e-mail account and contacted an unknown person. The Sailor stated he then changed his password and cancelled all of his Navy Federal cards. At approx. 1235, the Sailor reported to the Security Liaison Office and filed a denucia to the local carabinieri.
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
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.
• 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.
Friday, Aug. 28 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Grilled Turkey Sausage Links Lunch: Turkey Pot Pie, Blackened Cat Fish Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Salisbury Steak, Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Marinara Sauce
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
Saturday, Aug. 29 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Baked Chicken Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Oven Fried Chicken Fillet
Chapel Offices: NAS 1 095-56-3975, NAS 2 095-86-9049, 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
Sunday, Aug. 30 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage, Oven Fried Bacon, Roast Beef Dinner: Veal Parmesan, Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta Monday, Aug. 31 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef Lunch: Oven Roasted Pork, Lemon Baked Fish Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Baked Beef Ravioli, Oven Baked Chicken Tuesday, Sept. 1 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Turkey Sausage Links, Sausage Patties Lunch: Simmered Corned Beef, Shepherd's Pie Speed Line: Meatball Subs Dinner: Fishwich, Home Made Lasagna Wednesday, Sept. 2 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast Lunch: Roast Turkey, Oven Baked Catfish Speed Line: All American Grilled Burgers Dinner: Fried Shrimp, Home Made Meatloaf Thursday, Sept. 3 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Lunch: Baked Herbed Chicken, Cantonese Spareribs Speed Line: Pasta Bar with choice of Freshly Made Pasta Sauce Dinner: Spaghetti Alfredo, Chicken Fried Steak w/ Brown Gravy Friday , Sept. 4 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Turkey Sausage Links Lunch: Grilled Pork Chops w/ Mushroom Sauce, Baked Fish w/ Cherry Tomatoes Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Pasta al Forno, Oven Fried Chicken Fillet Sandwich 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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"WORLD HERITAGE" continued from Page 6
Quick reference emergency guide Emergency numbers: NAS Sigonella Security Dispatch: 624-1911 (DSN) or 095-86-1911 (off-base) U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Quarterdeck: 624-3842 (DSN) or 095-56-3842 (offbase) Local Italian Police, Fire, and Hospital numbers: ____________ Have a plan: When a disaster happens, your family may not be together in one place. You need to pick places to meet, have contact information for everyone, and discuss in advance what you will do during various types of emergencies. Making a plan includes two main components: (1) a written emergency plan and (2) a written communication plan. Emergency kit necessary items: -Water—at least one gallon per person per day for 3-7 days -Food—nonperishable food to support everyone in the household for at least 3 days (Include canned goods with low salt and high liquid content) -Manual can opener -First aid kit -Prescription medications—enough for at least three days -Dust masks or cotton t-shirts for every member of the household to help filter the air -Personal sanitation supplies—items such as moist towelettes (one container for every two people in the household), garbage bags, and plastic ties -Flashlight—one flashlight for every two people in the household -Battery-powered or hand-crank radio -All-hazards NOAA weather radio -Extra flashlight and radio batteries -Money (at a minimum, $100 in local currency, small denomination bills) -Wrench or pliers for turning off utilities -Local maps and your family emergency plan -Your command muster information -Important personal and financial documents—printed copies or electronic copies on a durable storage media such as a thumb drive and stored in waterproof container NASSIG media outlets to inform our community: • Register on CDNS to get emergency bulletins sent to your media devices • AFN Sigonella Radio (FM 105.9) • The Signature newspaper • NASSIG Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nassigonella • NASSIG Red Cross: https://www.facebook.com/ARCSigonella
The amazing seven wonders of Palermo The Palazzo dei Normanni (Palace of the Normans or Royal Palace of Palermo) was originally an ancient Punic-Roman fortress rebuilt as a palace in the 9th century by the Arabs and then chosen as the main residence of the Kings of Sicily during the Norman rule. Today, the palace is the seat of the Regional Parliament of Sicily, Europe’s most ancient parliament. The Cappella Palatina (the Palace Chapel) built by the Norman King Roger II within the Royal Palace is a beautiful chapel dedicated to St. Peter decorated by Arab and Byzantine artists. The mosaics of Christ the Pantocrator and other religious images on a gold background are artistic masterpieces. Byzantine images blended with Arabic designs create an ecumenical fusion of Catholic, Islamic and Byzantine culture, literally under one roof. The Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti dates back to the 6th century and was converted into a mosque after the Islamic conquest of Sicily then restored to its Christian origins during the Norman domination. The church is notable for its brilliant red domes which clearly show the persistence of Arab influence in Sicily. The Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio is also known as the Chiesa della Martorana after a convent of Benedictine nuns was founded on adjacent property by Eloisa Martorana. The nuns of the Martorana were well-known for their fruit-shaped sweets made of marzipan. The frutta di Martorana is still known as one of Palermo’s most famous and distinctive specialty. The Church of San Cataldo located on the central Piazza Bellini is annexed to the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio. The church is a typical example of Arabic-Norman architecture, unique to Sicily. The plan of the church shows the simple and severe Norman forms but at the same time it shows features of Islamic and Byzantine architecture such as cubic forms and typical spherical red domes on the roof. The Cathedral of Palermo was founded by the Archbishop of Palermo in 1184 on the site of a Muslim mosque. His main aim was to exceed the glory of the magnificent cathedral of nearby Monreale. The most prominent characteristic of the Cathedral is its many architectural styles due to its history. The exterior shows the 13th and 14th centuries’ Gothic style. The south porch is a masterpiece of the Catalan style while the Norman style can be seen through a decorative Islamic overlay. The four bell towers date from the 14th century and the dome from the 18th century. Inside, the cathedral is a royal pantheon where many tombs of Sicily’s kings are kept. The Zisa Palace or Castel was constructed in the 12th century for King William I of Sicily. The castel was conceived as a summer residence for the Norman kings as part of a large hunting resort known as Genoardo (Paradise on Earth in Arabic). The Normans were fond of the Arabic culture and lifestyle, therefore they wanted to emulate the richness and splendor of the emir residences. Today the Zisa Castel is the site of the Cantieri Culturali della Zisa that hosts various cultural events. Ponte dell’Ammiraglio (Admiral’s Bridge) erected during the reign of Roger II (between 1130 and 1140) testifies the professional skill of the Arab and Norman engineering supported by Byzantine bridge-building experience. The seven main pointed arches alternated with five smaller ones, gave the bridge sturdiness but at the same time lessened the pressure of the river water on the structure. Because of the numerous overflows, in 1938 the Oreto River was diverted and a beautiful garden has taken its place. With the opening of the “Linea 1” of the Palermo tram the site can be easily visited.
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GAME ZONE Back to School
Find and circle all of the school related words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a Mark Twain quotation.
ASSIGNMENTS BACKPACK BATHROOM BELL BINDER CAFETERIA CHALKBOARD CLASSROOM CLOCK COURSES DESK DOORS ENROLL ERASER EXAMS FIRST DAY GYMNASIUM
HALLWAY HOMEWORK INTERCOM JANITOR LANGUAGE ARTS LEARNING LIBRARY LOCKER LUNCHROOM MATH NEW FRIENDS NOTEBOOK NURSE OLD FRIENDS PADLOCK PAPER PENCILS
PENS PRINCIPAL QUIZZES ROLL CALL RULES SCHOOL BUS SCHOOL OFFICE SCHOOLYARD SCIENCE SECRETARY SEPTEMBER SOCIAL STUDIES STUDENT STUDY TEACHER
DIFFICULT
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MEDIUM
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Drive slowly through large puddles or drive around them if safe to do so. Remember, your car is not a submarine! Don't pass unless absolutely necessary. The few seconds you might gain toward your destination aren't worth the risk of injury or damage to your vehicle. Anticipate other drivers' actions. During any time of year you may see sheep and goats being herded on roadways. Expect the unexpected and remember to always leave plenty of room between you and the car in front. DON'T TAILGATE. Report accidents immediately to NASSIG Emergency Dispatch at 624-1911 on-base or 095-86-1911 off-base. • Some additional tips to help mitigate the problems that might arise in dealing with seasonal hazards unique to this area include: First and foremost, regardless of the season, all active duty and civil service personnel are required to register with both the Computer Desktop Notification System (CDNS) and the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS). The CDNS system will immediately notify you via your work computer, cell phone and work phone (or other phone number and email address you designate) during an emergency. Don't delay your registration. NFAAS also provides accountability for you and your family during emergencies and includes detailed address and telephone information for official use. The CDNS and NFAAS links are listed at the end of this article. • As you are well aware by now, Sicily gets hot, especially in the lowland areas where NAS Sigonella is situated. HYDRATE! Dehydration can cause dizziness, nausea, weakness, chills, light headedness, headaches and unconsciousness. If personnel are performing strenuous activities in these temperatures, along with improper hydration practices, heat exhaustion could be a result. Exhaustion from heat can be fatal if left untreated.Smaller children, especially newborns and infants, are not as adaptable to temperature change. When babies are too hot or cold, their body uses more oxygen to compensate. Make sure to limit their exposure to extreme temperatures, and never leave your child in your vehicle unattended!! • In Sicily, Fall/Winter is the rainy season and we have a history of flooding. Again, make sure to register in CDNS and NFAAS. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued, CDNS will notify Sigonella community members through your media devices so you stay plugged in for procedures pertaining to all hazard and emergency response. Because of flooding and other road hazards always know at least two routes to work and where you live. Don't drive through large puddles. Drive around puddles if safe to do so, or choose another route to your destination. • The holiday season is still months away, but for those with fresh-cut Christmas trees, make sure your tree stays green, that the needles are hard to pull from branches, and that the trunk bottom is sticky with resin. If your tree is bounced on the ground, a shower of falling needles means it is time to discard the tree. Above all, keep your tree away from flames! Helpful emergency preparation web sites: • • •
•
NFAAS login site: https://navyfamily.navy.mil CDNS: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/content/dam/cnic/cnrj/cfa_tokosuka/Public-Announce ments/(CDNS)%20AtHoc%20Self%20Service%20User%20Guide_ENG.pdf (CDNS selfregistration guide) Ready Navy: http://www.ready.navy.mil/ (Ready Navy is an official CNIC sponsored emergency preparedness program) Ready.gov
EASY
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Make back-to-school easier with patience and planning By fleet & family support center Sigonella From Militaryonesource.mil
For many students, a new school year is just around the corner, and with it comes the return of an organized academic schedule. Here are some tips on how to re-establish routines that may have been lost over the summer without the structure of a school day. Plan daily activities. Help your child plan for the day ahead. Let him or her pick out clothes for the next day, plan and pack lunches, and make a schedule of the day’s activities. Re-establish bedtime and mealtime routines. During the summer, your child may have had the freedom to go to bed a little later and have meals anytime during the day. Explain to your children that a consistent bedtime and mealtime will help them feel better and make it easier to balance homework and other school activities. Encourage activities that inspire learning. One of the easiest ways to get your child focused on school again is to introduce activities that will help him or her learn. Limit technology time and encourage your child to read, do puzzles or complete an art project to reinforce a learning mindset. Take a school visit and discuss the first day. If school has not started in your location, help your child get more comfortable in his or her environment with a visit to school before the first day. Together, you can find your child’s classroom, meet teachers, and locate key areas, such as the lunch room or a hall locker. A familiar environment can help children be less apprehensive about their first day. Emphasize the positive things about going back to school. A new school year is a chance to reconnect with old friends and get involved with sports and other activities. For students attending a school for the first time, it’s an opportunity to meet new people and try different things. If your child seems nervous, listen to those concerns and address them in a constructive way. For children with special needs, it’s also important to make sure you have an updated version of your child’s individualized education plan. The IEP should include accurate reflections of your child’s needs and abilities with positive, strength-based objectives. You may also consider ideas such as a meet-and-greet page that highlights your child’s abilities. Let your child contribute as much as possible with information on his or her strengths and motivational tools to help get through the day. A new school year is the perfect opportunity to create healthy routines for your family and set your child on the path for success all year long.
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Emergency savings 411 from fleet & family support center sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - When preparing ourselves and families for emergency readiness, we have a pretty good idea of what we should be doing such as having a three - four day supply of water and a designated emergency kit with simple food rations, a first aid kit and flashlights with extra batteries. I encourage you to use ideas found in this issue of the Signature and to consult other community services for more information. It is equally important to consider the unexpected financial emergencies that can suddenly impact our well-being. One of the fastest ways to upset our financial stability is when bad things happen unexpectedly. From time to time we might experience financial urgency by major car repairs or costly home maintenance. These examples show why having emergency savings reserves as part of your net worth is so important in preventing financial hardship. The key to maintaining an emergency savings account is this; do not touch these funds for any reason except for a defined emergency. The other essential ingredient is a consistent behavior pattern of saving money, and there is no easier way than doing it automatically. Ready? Here are a few ideas to help you take action and get the ball rolling: • Add an allotment through myPay to an Emergency Fund savings account. Start small but see how fast you can get to $500. Saving automatically makes it so much easier. • Determine your monthly living expenses by documenting 100% of your spending for a month. Evaluate, and then set goals to reduce you spending. In turn, you will increase your cash flow and gain savings momentum. • Save more to reach a target goal of cash reserves equal to at least three months of your living expenses. • Enjoy the Reward – Once you reach your target it feels great having the confidence that you are prepared to cope with potential financial emergencies in the future. You can then put those monthly savings to additional goals. Financial security is determined by our money management behavior. You have resources to guide your effort and success. For more ideas to take positive action, contact your Command Financial Specialist or make a personal appointment with me at 366-638-7210 or troy.pepito@eu.navy.mil
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"Q&A" continued from Page 1 on the latest airline regulations related to traveling with pets. Delta Airlines is the contract carrier for the Navy and Delta dictates the governing policy for traveling with pets on commercial flights; these are not dictated by PSD, or the Command. Regarding AMC flights, the number of pet spaces available is not dictated by PSD, NAVPTO nor the NASSIG Air Terminal. TRANSCOM allows, as a courtesy when possible, the movement of pets on AMC flights. Please keep in mind we are competing with Rota, Bahrain and Djibouti for these limited spaces. Service animals have priority and then if there are spaces left, each stop on the AMC gets an opportunity on a first come, first served basis. We have seen months with eight spaces available for Sigonella, and we have seen months with zero pet spaces. There are other factors that go into the process such as size and breed restrictions, heat and weather factors, etc. NAVPTO will always try to get a PCSing member on the AMC first, before going to COMMAIR. Again, this is a courtesy that TRANSCOM dictates. We can't stress enough the need to be prepared and flexible when planning a PCS move. For those with pets, this rule applies two-fold, especially while stationed here. Q: What other resources do I have to ensure a seamless PCS or check-in? Lt. Garcia: In addition to your CPC, Sailors can find information regarding PCS, check-in and more on the NPS website. This portal provides valuable information on SOPs which are the same SOPs that PSD follows. In the past, the check-in procedure in NAS Sigonella could differ from that in Whidbey Island or any other duty station. Now, everything is standardized and helps us to ensure a level of consistency Navy-wide, which helps to eliminate confusion and improve efficiency and customer service. We currently have a 97% satisfaction rating which is based off of combined NASSIG PSD and PSD Sigonella ICE stats (as of last week on Thursday) and I think the low number of ICE complaints we receive is a testament to that. Q: What if I have an emergency and there are no appointments available? Lt. Garcia: Everybody's case is different and there are times when a face-to-face is required or an emergency situation arises and there are no available appointments. We never turn anybody away. Walk-ins are provided during the following times, on a first come, first served basis: Monday-Friday 0830-0900 1230-1300 1530-1600 Weekend service is available upon approval by the Officer in Charge (OIC). After Hours: If there is a CAC card "lockout" or if your certificate expires, you may also visit the self-help website at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/self_service/ This may save you time and frustration and depending on the situation it empowers the Sailor to remedy their own issues. Q: Why is the PSD function becoming so automated? Lt. Garcia: In our world, technology is enhancing our lives and improving efficiency through automation; PSD is no different. As our activities become increasingly automated, PSD is evolving into more of a processing center, similar to the IRS. CPCs are the collection point of everything and they need to feed it to PSD to process it in an accurate and timely manner. As stated previously, this helps to increase efficiencies, maximize manpower and create standardization and consistency Navywide. That said, we still believe in a personal touch and the value of face-to-face communication and we will make ourselves available when needed. Q: How are complaints against PSD handled? Lt. Garcia: If someone has a problem, I encourage them to come in and talk to PSD and we will find a solution together. We have a customer feedback box in the PSD office and we personally respond to each and every ICE comment we receive, positive or negative. I actually like when we receive a negative ICE comment with some vitality in it because then we can address it. We have twice-weekly trainings which we adjust according to feedback we receive through ICE, the feedback box or people coming into PSD. Q: What are some of the things that PSD is most proud of? Lt. Garcia: We have a highly-competent, customer-focused group at PSD as evidenced by the fact that we are ranked 13th Navy-wide among PSDs and CSDs. We are the most accurate and timely in the fleet for paying out TLA and boast one of the best legal teams in the Navy with a one-day turnaround and 100% accuracy rate. Last quarter we were in the top third in terms of overall accuracy and timing in the fleet for everything PSD. I tell my Sailors I am more concerned with accuracy than timeliness, within reason. It's important to be on time, but it's also important for it to be done right the first time and we are putting a lot of emphasis on doing it right the first time.
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