Local Couple Competes in International Duathlon
Navy Begins Program to Reassess Non-Deployable Sailors
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2018 AutumnFest FAQs
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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OCTOBER 5, 2018
Vol. 35 No. 37
A Day in the Life of the Fleet Mail Center By LS2 Andrea Tucker
Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Paul Nuttle sorts boxes after they pass through the x-ray machine at the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella Fleet Mail Center (FMC) while receiving and sorting the mail for further dispatch to commands at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and ships operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Andriana Genualdi/Released)
SIGONELLA, Sicily (October 2, 2018) Logistics Specialist Seaman Cheyenne Verdun moves boxes to be x-rayed at the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella Fleet Mail Center (FMC) while receiving and sorting the mail for further dispatch to commands at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and ships operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Andriana Genualdi/Released)
Logistics Specialist Seaman Dylan Capaldi scans boxes at the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella Fleet Mail Center (FMC) while receiving and sorting the mail for further dispatch to commands at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and ships operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Andriana Genualdi/Released)
“Mail Call, mail call!” Any day there’s a package with your name on it is a good day. Tracking numbers are golden as anticipation builds waiting for a recent order or that delivery confirmation of a care package from loved ones. The Fleet Mail Center (FMC), a function of U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella, operates as a well-oiled machine. On a day to day basis the FMC facilitates successful military mail movement. Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella is serviced by two military post offices operated by Sailors in the FMC division. The FMC team also services the all of the Navy units operating in the 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR). The day starts early for the FMC team—before sunrise each morning—as Sailors from the FMC meet the mail at the Catania Airport that has come from the Chicago International Military Service Center. The Sailors load all the mail that arrived in Catania the previous day into the Italian commercial box trucks to bring back to NAS Sigonella, where it will be unloaded and sorted at the FMC. The amount of mail received at this point sets the tone for the day. On average, the FMC receives 19,000 kilograms of mail per week depending on fleet operations. When there is a carrier strike group operating in the AOR, that number balloons to between 50,000 and 60,000 kilograms of mail daily, which is equivalent to the weight of an empty C-130 airplane. Back at the FMC, the postal team preps the warehouse for the mail truck delivery. The warehouse is divided into sections: Section 1 is mail for NAS Sigonella commands and Section 2 is for operational units in the U.S. 6th fleet AOR. Mail is unloaded from the Italian commercial box truck and loaded onto a conveyor belt. All incoming mail is x-rayed prior to being moved to its assigned section. Postal personnel enforce all United States Postal Service (USPS) and Italian customs regulations and prohibited items are processed according to postal regulations. During this process, the NAS I and NAS II post offices open for the day to customers needing USPS services and to mail order-
lies who are gathering mail for their commands. Throughout the day, the fleet mail team works with Air Cargo and Commander, Task Force 63 to move mail from the fleet mail center to Air Cargo, where it will eventually be dispatched to ships operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet AOR. Along with the physical task of processing mail, the FMC must also have seamless communication. All mail is scanned and tracked to completion at each point of mail delivery. Reports are generated with piece and weight counts of mail received and dispatched. Additionally, mail received and dispatched is also uploaded to the USPS and Military Postal Services websites for tracking and accountability. NAVSUP FLC Sigonella’s Fleet Mail Center has been a key player providing logistical support on and off base throughout Europe and Africa. FMC is always trying to identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and tackle logistical challenges. Chief Logistics Specialist Chris Strehl was asked his thoughts on what FMC provides the community and how his team ensures that the customers are getting the best service possible. “Mail is a very personal thing and is quite important to our customers, whether it is someone in the Sigonella community or a service member down range,” said Strehl. “Getting mail from loved ones back in the States or getting that package from Amazon, it is something that everyone looks forward to. The FMC understands the importance of getting our customers their mail in a timely and efficient manner, so we implement processes to deliver mail to the community in an efficient way. But we are always looking to better the process to support our customers.” Many customers have seen the changes in the NAS I Post Office with the installation of individual mail receptacles. For those on NAS II, receptacles are in the works, and the FMC team is working closely with the Public Works Department and the base community to relocate the facility to a larger location that can handle the modernization efforts. While full implementation of the NAS II receptacles won’t be completed this year, you will see and hear more on this effort as information comes available.
A view of the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella Fleet Mail Center (FMC) as shown while a carrier strike group operates in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility. (Photo by LSC Arthurlevy Agulto)
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OCTOBER 5, 2018
THE SIGNATURE
Direct Line
Capt. Brent Trickel, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer Hello Sigonella. As you know, Cdr. Moran recently provided information regarding changes to the Post-9/11 GI Bill Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB) rules and procedures. As directed in DODI 1341.13, as of 12 July 2019, any member who has greater than 16 years of service will no longer be eligible to transfer education benefits to their dependents, unless they are recipients of the Purple Heart. Another NAVADMIN just came out which includes Part 2 of the Post9/11 GI Bill changes. NAVADMIN 236/18 announces changes to the processes in OPNAVINST 1780.4 and BUPERSNOTE 1780 for submitting a Post-9/11 GI TEB request. This new process does not apply to Sailors who already have an approved TEB request in Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) milConnect or Sailors who wish to add a dependent to an already-approved TEB request or modify the months of benefits allocated to their dependents. The updated TEB process went
into effect on 01 October 2018. Going forward, an online, self-service Statement of Understanding (SOU) replaces the Administrative Remarks (NAVPERS 1070-613, or what most of us know as a “Page 13”). This SOU must be completed by all Sailors prior to submitting a TEB application. Sailors may access the SOU via MyNavyPortal or by using a Common Access Card via the My Education web site at https://myeducation.netc.navy. mil/webta/home. Upon completion of the SOU, Sailors will receive a link to DMDC milConnect portal to submit their TEB application. Enlisted Sailors must ensure that at least four years remain on their current enlistment contract, including any authorized extensions. Sailors with less than four years remaining to their End of Active Obligated Service (EAOS) or soft EAOS must take action to incur the required obligated service. Sailors should check their Electronic Service Record (ESR) to ensure that their EAOS accurately reflects eligible re-enlistment and/or ex-
tension dates. Upon completion of the new SOU, Sailors should follow the link provided to DMDC milConnect to submit the TEB application. Officers must complete the new SOU and then follow the link provided to DMDC milConnect to submit their TEB application. When transferring benefits to a spouse or child, the officer will incur an additional four years of required service. Although this NAVADMIN applies to Navy personnel, these changes will apply to the other services as well via their administrative chains. NAVADMIN 236/18 can be read in its entirety at: https://www.public.navy.mil/ bupers-npc/reference/messages/Documents/NAVADMINS/NAV2018/ nav18236.txt I have said this many times before and I will say it again: IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO TRANSFER YOUR POST-9/11 GI BILL BENEFITS AND YOU HAVE NOT DONE SO – DO IT NOW! Transferring the benefits does not mean your dependents have to use them and it does not mean the service
member can’t use them. It only means that your dependents are now eligible to use the benefits. If you get out of the service, accrue more than 16 years of service on or after 12 July, 2019, or if you pass away prior to transferring your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, then they are lost forever in regards to performing a transfer. My daughter is using my benefits right now and it is saving me a TON of money! Please, if you are eligible to transfer your benefits, do it NOW.
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Sug-
gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard
those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comments Regarding NAS I Food Court:
The food court on NAS I could use some improvement. I have witnessed poor customer service and many times they are out of food that is offered on the menu. It would be nice to have a more formal restaurant on NAS I. A colleague and I wanted to hold a business meeting over lunch the other day and we were unable to do so. We are trying to create healthy, friendly working environments and the existing food court doesn’t help with that. Please tell me what can be done.
Response:
Thank You for your comment regarding the NAS I Food Court. We have recently provided customer service training for all of our contracted food service vendors and their operations. Our goal is to always deliver quality service in every operation within the Navy Exchange umbrella. In regard to a more formal restaurant on NAS I, we are limited by our facilities as to what can be offered. In addition, we are limited to vendors who are willing to provide such services overseas and can justify it for their business model. However, we are working on improving the existing food operations on base. As soon as we receive Public Works approval, we will be transitioning one of our food operations into a more family oriented dining experience with gourmet burgers and grilled items such as salmon, with corresponding side dishes. We believe that this will resonate well with the community and offer something that is not currently available. Thank you again for your comment as it is honest and unbiased feedback that allows our organization to constantly improve. If, in the future, you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the General manager John Sisson at 624-4379, or via email at john.sisson@ nexweb.org.
Comment Regarding NGIS Window Screens:
Please install window screens on the windows at the NGIS. This is one of the few NGIS facilities that centrally regulates the air conditioning. During warm periods when the air conditioning isn't turned on people MUST open their windows to get any airflow. This allows bugs and mosquitos to come into the room. I have been eaten alive by mosquitos in my sleep on multiple occasions. Adding window screens seems like a pretty easy fix.
Response:
Thank you for submitting your comment about Navy Gateway Inns & Suites at Naval Air Station Sigonella. I apologize for the discomfort you experien-
ced during your stay with the NGIS due to the lack of or missing window screens. Our NAVFAC window screen project was recently approved and is now in progress. Please know that guest comfort, safety, and security is of utmost importance to the NGIS staff. In the future, please feel free to complete the NGIS comment card survey that is sent to the email address on file with the NGIS after you check out, this will allow them to directly address your concerns.
BZ for Auto Skills Center:
I wanted to take the time to say that I had an awesome experience today at the NAS Sigonella Auto Skills shop with Paul Nagle. From the moment I walked in, he was friendly, greeted me with a smile, and asked how he could assist me. I explained that on my drive into work, all of the warning lights came on at the same time like the lights of Broadway. Paul immediately sprang into action and began explaining what we could do to troubleshoot/mitigate the issue. He took the time to explain everything we were looking at and what we were doing and voila, the lights went out and I was back in business. Not only did he save me a trip to the shop, but he also provided me with several informational nuggets that I could stick in my toolbox for the future. When we were done, he seamlessly moved onto the next customer after thanking me for my business. He is a wealth of knowledge and I truly appreciated his personal attention, great customer service, and positive attitude. Bravo Zulu Paul! You made my day. Sincerely, Shannon Harden
Response:
Dear Shannon, Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to tell us about your great customer service experience. Paul is an outstanding employee, so it is always nice to hear that he is appreciated by customers. MWR hopes that you spread the word about the great service you received at the MWR Auto Skills Center.
Comment Regarding Civilians Dining at Galley:
Question about civilians being restricted from the Galley except for special meals. Is there any possibility of rescinding this restriction? Since I have been here I have lost the ability to eat at Galley and just recently the Algese Cafeteria on the flight line closed as well. The available options for eating are now down to Subway, Big Al's and Chocks. I believe the Galley restricted access to civilians and local nationals to free up more seating for active duty members. As retired Navy I understand the thought process, but has there been a noticeable
"ICE" continued on Page 3
OCTOBER 5, 2018
THE SIGNATURE
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Justin Martini Department: U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Pharmacy Hometown: Wichita, KS Serving as the medical focal point for permanently stationed and deployed service members at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, the U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella is the primary source of healthcare and prescription medicine to the vast majority of the base population. It takes Sailors like Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Justin Martini to safely and efficiently dispense prescription medicine. As a medical technician, Martini has become an expert in calculating the proper dosage of medicine, making IV medications, and understanding how types of medications affect the human body. After completing the baseline corpsman “A” school, he also complet-
ed an additional six months of intensive training at pharmacy “C” school. This training gave Martini the same credentialing as his civilian pharmacy technician counterparts and prepared him for a variety of potential healthcare environments, from aircraft carriers and combat zones to traditional clinics. “Behind the scenes, a lot of people don’t see what we actually do. We have to be very meticulous and this is extremely important when it comes to prescription medication safety,” said Martini. His daily work hours revolve around the hospital’s outpatient hours, but he and other pharmacy technicians take turns being on call for after-hours support as well. During that time (and it happens several times per week), if a patient is admitted during the evenings or weekend, the on-call technician will be called in to accurately dispense the prescribed medications. Martini also has a significant collat-
"ICE" continued from Page 2 improvement financially or seating availability since the implementation of the restriction? Sincerely, Mr. Lew Biddlecome
Response:
Thank you for leaving us a comment, as we value patron feedback and suggestions to help improve overall galley services. The current policy for authorized galley patrons is set forth by CNIC Instruction 4061.1A, dated 1 March 2018. In that instruction, civilians are permitted to eat in the galley only once per month for special meals (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Service Birthday, and diversity-themed meals). There is no opportunity to make an exception locally, but our galley manager will forward your comment to the Galley Ashore Region Program Director (RPD), who is NAS Sigonella's representative voice to the CNIC Ashore
eral duty: he manages an approximately $2 million annual supply budget that is used to purchase prescription drugs at both Sigonella pharmacies and a satellite clinic in Souda Bay. USNH Sigonella is his second duty station in the Navy; the first was at USNH Rota, Spain. Because of his expertise, he expects to continue being a pharmacy technician in future tours of duty. But he looks forward to the unique healthcare environments that each duty station offers. He wants to continue serving overseas but hopes to be stationed on a ship next to get a new experience, hopefully in Japan. In the meantime, Martini is making the most of his experience at Sigonella and is taking advantage of opportunities like last week’s Fluex to gather more skills. This is the second time he’s assisted with the vaccination exercise. Mostly, he administered the vaccines, but he also assisted with cold-chain management of the vaccine supply so it stays effective. Together with the other healthcare staff, they achieved a 94% vaccination rate amongst active duty service members in just three days. In his free time, Martini is an avid runner and sometimes runs up to 20 miles at a time. He does it to stay fit but also to relax and have some time to be introspective. He was on call during last year’s famous “Base to Base” run but hopes to run it for the first time next year. And like so many other Sailors, he loves the opportunities for travel, going to great beaches, and eating great food in Sicily. Martini envisions sticking with the Navy for awhile longer. His five years overseas has given him a great life opportunity. “I enlisted because I wanted to make my own way and pave my own road. And because of that, I’ve learned and experienced a lot,” said Martini.
Galley Program Manager. The number of active duty on board at NAS Sigonella in the last few years has rapidly increased. For a galley with only 256 seats, they serve between 800 and 1,200 service members daily. As mentioned when the Galley restricted access to civilians nearly two years ago; its primary mission is to serve Rations In Kind (RIK) personnel that do not receive Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS); otherwise known as the food allowance. Additionally, CNIC only provides operational support funding for the allowed number of RIK personnel assigned. Due to the large increase in RIK personnel over the last few years the ability of the Galley to meet its primary mission was being impacted and thus, we had to restrict access to civilians. Again, thank you for your suggestion and if you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to the Food Service Officer directly at 624-5739 or jonathan.delacruz@ eu.navy.mil.
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday preceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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THE SIGNATURE
OCTOBER 5, 2018
NAVSUP Sigonella’s ‘Power Couple’ Competes in World-Renowned Duathlon By Matt Cipriano
While stationed at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, service members and their families are in an advantageous position to participate in events and activities throughout Europe that can enrich their tour experience. There are some who choose to explore new places, make friends with non-Americans, develop foreign language skills, and taste new foods. Oth-
ers look for opportunities to push the boundaries of their physical capabilities. Lt. Cdr. Brock Walaska, the Operations Officer at Fleet Logistics Center, Sigonella, and his wife Rae earned 11th and 19th place in their respective age groups during the 2018 Powerman Zofingen ITU Duathlon World Championship in Zofingen, Switzerland on Sept. 2. As part of Team USA, the duo com-
Lt. Cdr. Brock Walaska, Rae Walaska, and other members of Team USA compete in the 2018 Powerman Zofingen ITU Duathlon World Championship in Zofingen, Switzerland.
peted with hundreds of other athletes from around the world in a series of high endurance, long-distance challenges rivaling those of the Ironman Triathlon. “Being relatively new to the sport and having never done a race of this length, my goals were to complete the race under nine hours, finish strong, and represent Team USA well,” Walaska said. Brock competed in the long distance race involving a 10 km run, a 150 km bike ride and a 30 km run. He finished in 08:32:27. Rae competed in the short distance race that involved a 10km run, 50km bike ride and a 5km run. Both races led the Walaskas and the other participating athletes across and through miles of sharp turns, forest paths, steep climbs, and cobblestone roads that vary in elevation up
to 7,400 feet. During the race, hundreds of fans of the competition lined the course to cheer on the racers. “The Swiss came out in big numbers to cheer everyone on throughout the race,” Brock said. “In the local dialect ‘Hopp Hopp Hopp’ means ‘Go Go Go,’ and I can still hear them cheering in my head.” In the end, Brock said he knew he had achieved more than simply overcoming a test of his physical endurance. He discovered yet another way to represent his country. “I’m not an emotional guy, but when I crossed the finish line carrying the flag with the announcer calling my name and Team USA, the tears were welling up.” Congratulations to the Walaska family for their accomplishments at the 2018 Powerman Zofingen.
OCTOBER 5, 2018
THE SIGNATURE
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FY19 Nato Forces Fuel Coupons Now On Sale By Mr. Bart Di Muccio, Foreign Tax Relief Program Director at Navy Region EURAFSWA
The FY19 NATO Forces petroleum product (POL) coupons for unleaded, diesel, and oil are now on sale at Navy Exchange outlets. The new coupons are valid from Oct. 1, 2018 through Dec. 31, 2018. New liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) coupons, valid from Oct. 1, 2018 through Sept. 30, 2019, are also on sale now. Expired FY18 POL and LPG coupons, valid Oct. 1, 2017 - Sept. 30, 2018, may be returned to the Navy Exchange for refund within 90 days of the expiration date. Expired coupons cannot be exchanged for new coupons. NATO Forces tax-free gas coupons must be utilized at authorized AGIP/ENI gas stations and LPG coupons must be used at AGIPGAS/ENIGAS dealers. A list of all authorized AGIP/ENI gas stations and AGIPGAS/ENIGAS dealers can be obtained from coupon sales outlets. P, G, and IT olio lubrificante coupons (special) are redeemable at AGIP/ENI gas stations in exchange for ENI I-Sint 10W/40 motor oil. P, G, and IT olio lubrificante coupons (super) are redeemable at AGIP/ENI gas stations in exchange for ENI I-BASE 15W/40 motor oil. The quantity in coupons given to gas station attendants must correspond to the number of liters issued at the time of sale. To facilitate this process, one and two liter coupons have been printed and are included in both 100 liter and 200 liter booklets. Upon request, customers are required to show
AGIP/ENI gas station attendants positive identification. In the event that authorized AGIP/ENI dealers refuse to accept valid NATO Forces coupons, please contact the CNREURAFSWA Foreign Tax Relief Program Office at +39 081-568-5349 or by email at CNREURAFSWA-FTRP@eu.navy.mil for reimbursement instructions. Tax-free gasoline and diesel coupon rations are authorized for the primary registered vehicles only and must be redeemed for the type of fuel printed on the coupon. The illegal use of tax-free fuel coupons is a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Italian law, which could result in legal penalties and the loss of tax-free benefits. For additional information please contact the CNREURAFSWA Foreign Tax-Relief Program Office at +39 081-568-5349 or by email at CNREURAFSWA-FTRP@eu.navy.mil.
Alcohol Risk Factors for Women From Naval Marine Corps Public Health Center/ Lt. Mark Knutson, USNH Sigonella
Research shows that women can be susceptible to alcohol-related problems at lower consumption levels than men. One reason is that, on average, women weigh less than men. In addition, alcohol resides predominantly in the body’s water, and pound for pound, women have less water in their bodies than men do. So after a man and woman of the same weight drink the same amount of alcohol, the woman’s blood alcohol concentration will tend to be higher, putting her at greater risk for harm. Other biological differences, including hormonal differences, may also contribute. Liver Damage: Women who drink are more likely to develop alcoholic hepatitis (liver inflammation) than men who drink the same amount. Alcoholic hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis. Heart Disease: Among heavy drinkers, women are more susceptible to alcohol-related heart disease than men, even though on average, wom-
en drink less alcohol over a lifetime than men. Breast Cancer: Women who consume about one drink per day have a 10 percent higher chance of developing breast cancer than women who do not drink at all. That risk rises another 10 percent for every extra drink they have per day. Pregnancy: Any drinking during pregnancy is risky. A pregnant woman who drinks heavily puts her fetus at risk for learning and behavioral problems and abnormal facial features. Even moderate drinking during pregnancy can cause problems. Drinking during pregnancy may also increase the risk for preterm labor. If you would like more women’s health resources, stop by or call Health Promotion and Wellness at 624-4950, Midtown, 2nd deck room 1041.
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Last Weekend for Bronte Pistachio Festival
THE SIGNATURE
OCTOBER 5, 2018
Sigonella Marines Help Sicilian Students Learn English
By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
If you like pistachios, you must attend the 29th annual Sagra del Pistacchio (Pistachio festival), an amazing food festival that began last week in the town of Bronte. The festival ends on Sunday, Oct. 7, so this weekend is the last opportunity to visit this famous festival. Bronte, a town located on the western slopes of Mt. Etna, has always been a mecca for pistachio lovers and has been dubbed the “Italian capital of pistachios.” In fact, Bronte boasts a production of nearly three million kilograms of pistachios, representing one percent of the total world production. Bronte is therefore considered the leader of pistachio production in Europe. In Sicily, this precious seed fruit is nicknamed “green gold.” Local media claim that Bronte’s pistachios are so delicious that Japanese restaurant owners paid up to 200 Euros per kilogram for the delicacy. Romans first introduced the cultivation of pistachio in Sicily after importing it from the Middle East. However, it was the Arabs who actively grew, processed, and exported pistachios during the high middle ages. This is also shown by the way Sicilians reference the pistachio plant. The Sicilian words for the pistachio seed (frastuca) and the pistachio plant (frastucara) derive from the Arabic words fristach and festuch, respectively. In the Catania province, pistachios have been cultivated in the high-mountain fertile volcanic soils of Etna since the second half of the 19th century, thanks to the crop’s resistance to extreme weather conditions. Over the centuries, local pistachio growers have been living symbiotically with the volcano, fearing it but at the same time enjoying the fertility that it provides to the crops at the end of an eruption. Local farmers have worked the harsh volcanic soil of Mount Etna and turned it into a green land. They continue to stubbornly grow pistachios the old fashioned way, making it a truly organic product. Pistachios are harvested every two years between August and September. Festival-goers browsing through the stalls can sample a variety of pistachio-based sweet dishes such as desserts, cakes, ice cream, honey, Nutella, pistacchiella (pistachio spread) and pastries; savory dishes such as tagliatelle, penne, and macaroni homemade pastas with pesto sauce--made as the usual pesto but replacing the basil with pistachio--ravioli, salsiccia (pork sausage), arancini (breaded rice balls filled with meat sauce and cheese) and even pistachio pizza. Visitors can also enjoy pistachio vino, a dessert wine, and pistachio liquor. The festival also features over 100 booths of arts and crafts (lava stone, wood) and other local produce such as cheeses, salami, and sweets including fillette (circular shaped confections made with flour, sugar, and eggs that is cooked in a frying pan) and nucatuli that are made with flour, sugar, lard, eggs, vanilla, ground pistachio, cinnamon, and rose water. Festival Highlights Friday, Oct. 5: Today, the sagra kicks off at 10 a.m. in the main square. Highlights will include: • Entertainment show by “Smile Animazione” (Piazza V. Castiglione, 11 a.m.) • Pistachio ice cream offered to children (Piazza V. Castiglione, noon) • Photo and art exhibit by “Art Galleria – Charm of Art” (Via Capizzi # 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; 5 p.m.-10 p.m.) • Music show “La Giostra del Gufo” (Piazza Rosario, Piazza Spedalieri, 7 p.m.) • Soap Bubbles show (Piazza Piave, 7:30 p.m.) • Dancing night by “Accademia del Balletto Siciliano – Antonio Lombardo” (Piazza Rosario, 9 p.m.) • Cover band “Linvenditti”(Piazza E. Cimbali, 9 p.m.) Saturday, Oct. 6 • Drummers from Buccheri (Corso Umberto, Piazza E. Cimbali, Piazza Rosario and Piazza Spedalieri, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.) • Contemporary, abstract and figurative art exhibit “Sicily, Sea
SANT’AGATA LI BATTIATI, Sicily – On Sept. 29, Sigonella CLB-2 Marines read to children at Sant'Agata Li Battiati Circolo Didattico Elementary School as part of the ongoing Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella community relations program. Marines spent the morning assisting English teachers and helping their students with English language pronunciation. (Photo by Alberto Lunetta)
and Earth” by Don Gaetano Puleo (Instituto San Vincenzo De Paoli, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 4:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.) • Music shows (Piazza Rosario, Parco Urbano– Piazza Piave and Piazza E. Cimbali, 7-9 p.m.) • “Pistachio Dance” (Piazza Rosario, 11 p.m.)
Sunday, Oct. 7: The last day of the festival will feature the following highlights: • Live painting contest (Liceo Classico, 9:30 a.m.)
"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14
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Navy Announces Deployability Assessment and Assignment Program From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In an effort to maximize warfighting effectiveness and lethality across the force, Navy announced implementation of its Deployability Assessment and Assignment Program in NAVADMIN 239/18, released Sept. 25. The program will ensure the timely disposition, processing, and accountability of all Active Component, Full Time Support, and Selected Reserve Sailors who are either medically, legally or administratively limited from deployment. The Deputy Chief of Naval Personnel (DCNP) is the single process owner of the program. "The Navy the Nation Needs is a talented, ready and lethal active and reserve force, and we need deployment-ready Sailors to accomplish the mission," said Rear Adm. Jeff Hughes, DCNP. “While command leadership is responsible for overall personnel readiness, our Sailors bear the ultimate responsibility for their individual readiness and deployability status, and this new program is designed to help our force successfully achieve both goals.” Starting October 1, 2018, Sailors
who have been non-deployable for 12 consecutive months will be notified of mandatory processing for administrative separation or referral to the Disability Evaluation System (DES), as appropriate. The policy applies to all Sailors, regardless of current duty type (operational or non-operational). Military treatment facilities and Sailors’ commands will make deployability assessments by determining a Sailor’s ability to perform appropriate military duties commensurate with his or her office, grade, rank, or skill in light of ongoing medical treatment or administrative limitations. Commands will use written counseling and performance evaluations to document a Sailor’s knowing failure to comply with responsibilities to maintain individual readiness (e.g., missing medical or dental appointments or intentional failure to disclose status affecting deployability). Sailors who fail to comply with this policy could ultimately receive administrative separation. “Sailors who receive notifications will have the opportunity to be consid-
SAN DIEGO (Jan. 5, 2018) U.S. Navy Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) man the rails as the ship departs its homeport of San Diego. The Carl Vinson Strike Group is operating in the Pacific as part of a regularly scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Eleanor D. Vara/Released)
ered for retention by the Secretary of the Navy,” said Capt. Chris Harris, director, distribution management division, career management department, Navy Personnel Command. “All retention determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis.” Retention may be granted if determined to be in the best interest of the Navy. A Sailor who is unable to deploy for administrative reasons must personally submit a retention request. A medical evaluation board may recommend retention on behalf of a Sailor who is unable to deploy for medical reasons, if it is likely that the Sailor's medical con-
Dunford Pleased DOD Enters Fiscal 2019 With Budget
By Jim Garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity
MADRID, Spain --For the first time in a long time, the Defense Department entered the fiscal year with a budget, and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said troops should be extremely pleased with the development. “What the troops have seen is a commitment from the executive and legislative branches of government to give them the wherewithal to do their jobs,” Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford said during an interview with reporters traveling with him. President Donald J. Trump signed the appropriations bill on Friday meaning the Defense Department starts fiscal year 2019 with money in the bank. The president signed the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act in August. Both bills must be passed before DOD can operate. Defense leaders had made the case for the budget through “identifying the challenges we face and also the
demonstrated performance of our men and women in uniform every day,” Dunford said. Congress understood that the U.S. military needs these capabilities, “and we can be entrusted to make good use of them.” His message to Congress and the American people this year is for an appropriate, sustained level of funding. “It took us years to get into this problem and you don’t spend money efficiently, you don’t spend money as good steward, if you lurch from year to year,” he said. “You can’t plan a program and develop capabilities over time.” Predictability will allow the department to build effective partnerships with industry. This will allow companies to deliver capabilities on time and on cost. “We need to have predictability to properly prioritize what we are going to invest in,” he said. “Every year, no matter how big the budget is, you have to make choices. We are much better at making choices if we are informed by a three-to five-year look ahead and predict what level of funding we will have.”
dition will ultimately permit a return to a deployable status. The Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery is proactively realigning resources and focus to support Sailor readiness and deployability, especially in Fleet concentration areas. However, in some cases, Sailors must be referred to civilian medical networks for followon referrals or appointments. Navy leadership is cognizant of the delays outside of the control of individual Sailors and this factor will be considered in the retention determination process. Pregnant and post-partum Sailors are exempt from this policy. No other Sailors are exempt, but special categories for retention consideration include combat wounded members, Sailors who will be non-deployable for 12 months or longer due to administrative reasons, and Sailors who have attained such years of creditable service so as to be within three years of qualifying for retirement. This policy supports Defense Secretary Mattis’ guidance to maximize the lethality and readiness of the joint force, and the release of DoD Instruction 1332.45. More information on deployability can be found at the following websites: http://www.public.navy.mil/bupersnpc/career/LIMDU/Pages/default.aspx https://www.med.navy.mil/sites/ nmcp/Branch/SitePages/Norfolk/DeploymentHealth.aspx Read NAVADMIN 239/18 on the NPC website at www.npc.navy.mil.
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2018 AutumnFest FAQs As NAS Sigonella and its community friends prepare to celebrate AutumnFest activities, we are providing information and guidance to ensure a great event. Here is an FAQ of main questions for visitors. Q: Is this year’s AutumnFest a two day event? A: No. AutumnFest this year is a one day event and will be held on Saturday Oct. 20. However, on Friday, Oct. 19 MWR will be hosting its first ever Oktoberfest event which is open to DoD ID card holders only. Reservations for the Oktoberfest event can made at the Community Recreation office on NAS 1. Q: As a base employee, how many guests can I bring to AutumnFest? A: All adult U.S. ID card holders are allowed to sponsor up to five (5) guests who do not have Department of Defense (DoD) Identification. In addition, base employees (both U.S. and local nationals) are also extended authorization to sponsor up to five (5) guests who do not have Department of Defense (DoD) Identification. Sponsors should personally know the guests they are bringing to the AutumnFest event. Do not sponsor people you don't know well. Q: How do my guests gain access to the base? A: Sponsors and all guests must bring valid photo identification to the annex gate, which will open at 1700. The main gate will be open to DoD ID card holders only. Any guest who does not provide photo identification will not be allowed access to AutumnFest. Guests will also not be allowed access without their sponsors. Q: Will there be a guest list so my guests can access the base without their sponsor? A: No. Guests must be accompanied by their sponsor. If the sponsor is not present, guests will be turned away. Assuring that guests are not left stranded at the gate is another reason we strongly encourage sponsors to carpool with their guests. If this is not possible, sponsors should plan a designated meeting place away from the annex gate. Q: Do base employees have to stay with their sponsored guests during the event? A: Yes. Both U.S. and local national sponsors will be held responsible for the conduct and whereabouts of their guests. Q: Will non-ID holders be able to enter the NEX and Commissary? A: No. Non-ID holders are not allowed to purchase NEX or Commissary items. Q: Will parking be provided inside the base? A: No. Only DoD card holders will be permitted to park on base via the main gate. Q: When will the parking lots on base be secured in preparation for AutumnFest? A: The following is a list of NAS I parking lot closure dates and times in preparation for the event: - Fitness Center/Midtown parking lot: Sunday, 14 OCT at 2300 - Community Recreation parking lot: Monday, 15 OCT at 2300 - Child Development Center (CDC) parking lot: Monday, 15 OCT at 2300 To help those who rely on parking that will be closed during event preparations, preferred parking on NAS 1 will be temporarily available to all. Vehicles parked in secured locations after the times listed above will be towed at owner’s expense. These areas will be secured until after the event has concluded and the parking lots have been cleaned. Q: Where can guests find event parking outside the base? A: For a small fee, business owners directly across the NAS I Main Entrance have agreed to provide parking in their lots. Do not park on SS-192, the street that runs in front of the NAS I installation. Q: What are the base entry restrictions? A: Pets, glass bottles, containers, backpacks, and contraband (including box cutters or other sharp objects) are STRICTLY PROHIBITED from being brought onto the base. Q: What is considered contraband? A: Knives of any size, BB guns (Air Soft), sling shots, fireworks of any kind, drugs, and any other items the CO deems as contraband on the installation. We require guests to use common sense. If the item presents a potential threat to the base, do not attempt to bring it to the event. Q: What kinds of bags are not allowed on base? A: Coolers, backpacks, and bags exceeding 12"x 6"x 12" dimensions are pro-
hibited. Authorized bags will be only allowed after they have been screened. Q: What about strollers and diaper bags for those with small children? A: Strollers will be allowed for caretakers of small children, subject to screening. Small diaper bags are allowed as long as they are not in exceedance of the 12"x 6"x 12" (30.5cm x 15.25cm x 30.5cm) dimensions Q: Will alcohol be served? A: Yes. However, please know that random blood alcohol content tests will be administered to guests leaving the gate. Legal actions will be taken against those who are driving and have exceeded the legal limit of alcohol intake. Simply stated, if you are driving, do not consume any alcohol. Q: Will smoking be permitted at the event? A: Yes, however smoking is limited to the designated smoking area located between the Commons and Midtown, across from the movie theater exit. Signage will be placed throughout the event designating the main event as a smoke-free zone and re-directing customers to the designated smoking area. Q: Will restrooms be available at the event? A: Yes, and their locations will be identified on the event map. Q: Will shuttle services run in the triangle? A: Yes. Shuttle service will be provided throughout the event. For specific departures of the shuttle bus, please refer to the schedule posted in the bus stops. The shuttle will pick up and drop off riders at NAS I in the loop near the DoDDS School; at NAS II in front of the Flight Line Clinic; and at Marinai near the Youth Center. Please use caution while transiting to and from NAS I as there will be increased traffic and parked vehicles outside of the installation. For more event information, please visit www.navymwrsigonella.com or call 624-4777 (+39-095-56-4777).
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NAS Sigonella Participates in Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Run Photos by MCC Jessica Vargas NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: RLSO AND U.S. CONSULATE PROVIDING PASSPORT, NOTARY, AND NATURALIZATION SERVICES ON OCTOBER 19 Command, Department or Organization: Region Legal Service Office EURAFSWA Det Sigonella Dates of Event: 19 October 2018 Location of Event: Region Legal Service Office Sigonella NAS II (Bldg 564) Point of Contact Number: 624-2953
- Adult passport first time - Form DS-11 - USD $145 - Adult passport renewal - Form DS-82 - USD $110 - Minor passport - Form DS-11 - USD $115
1) PASSPORT APPLICATIONS (FIRST TIME PASSPORTS / RENEWAL PASSPORTS / MINOR PASSPORTS) On Friday 19 October 2018 from 0930 until 1600, the US Consulate will accept tourist passport applications and will provide unlimited notary services to all US Citizens, regardless of their DoD eligibility at the Legal Office on NAS 2.
If you wish to receive the passport card, USD $30 for adult, USD $15 for minor need to be added to the payment. To schedule an appointment, please call our office at 6242953/5258
**Please Be Advised That Appointment Blocks Will Be Limited. Once All Availability Has Been Booked, Members Will Have The Option To Be On A Stand-By Waiting List But It Is Not Guaranteed That You Will Be Seen. ** Applications for adult passport first time, adult passport renewal and minor (<16 years old) passport will be processed and notary services will be provided for all U.S. citizens. All applicable forms can be found at: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/ en/passports/forms.html Completed forms along with all original documents AND copies of original documents are required for the appointment. Only US Postal money orders (NO cash or cards) made payable to "US Consulate Naples" and issued at the US Postal Office or at the Bank on base will be accepted.
2) IMMIGRATION and NATURALIZATION BRIEF On Friday 19 October 2018 at 1400, Department of State Representative will be at the Legal Office on NAS 2 to provide in-person presentation on Immigration and Visas. There will be a Q+A session to follow the presentation and the Department of State Representative will be on hand to answer individual questions. 3) NOTARY SERVICES FOR ALL US CITIZENS On Friday 19 October 2018 from 1200 until 1530, the US Consulate will provide unlimited notary services to all US Citizens, regardless of their DoD eligibility. Walk-in services will be accepted first come-first served from 1200 till 1530 A USD $50 US Postal money order made payable to "US Consulate Naples" and issued at the US Postal Office on base are required for each signature that needs a notary.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 1130-1200 Daily Mass: Chapel Youth Middle School: 1445-1615 AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:
0600-0700 1130-1200
Thursday Chapel Youth High School: 1330-1500 Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday Daily Mass: 1130-1200 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830
Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel
Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:
1100-1200
Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 1045-1200 Catholic Religious Education: Protestant Service: 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600
NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:
1130-1200
Weekly Traffic Report: September 24 - October 1, 2018
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
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GAMEZONE FEAST FROST HALLOWEEN HARVEST HAYSTACK HICKORY NUTS LONGER NIGHTS NOVEMBER OCTOBER ORANGE LEAVES PIE PUMPKIN
RAKE RED LEAVES SCARECROW SCHOOL SEASON SEPTEMBER SHORTER DAYS SQUASH SWEET POTATOES THANKSGIVING TURKEY WINDY YELLOW LEAVES
MEDIUM
ACORN APPLE BIRD MIGRATION BLOWING LEAVES BLUSTERY DAY CANNING CHESTNUTS CHILLY COLD CROPS EQUINOX FALL FARMING
EASY
Find and circle all of the Autumn words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a secret message - an Albert Camus quotation.
DIFFICULT
Autumn
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PAGE 14 "ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 • Band of Bersaglieri dell’Etna – Corso Umberto (Piazza E. Cimbali, Piazza Rosario and Piazza Spedalieri 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.) • “Pistacchio Volley Trophy” (Scuola Media Statale L. Castiglione, 4 p.m.); • Children’s entertainment show “Green Fest” (Piazza Piave, 5 p.m.); • “Pistachio cake tasting” by “CONPAIT & Caffetteria Luca” (Piazza V. Castiglione, 6 p.m.) • Music shows (Piazza Rosario, Piazza Piave, Parco Urbano and Piazza E. Cimbali, 7-9 p.m.) Sightseeing tours will be offered by the local tourist office, Pro Loco Bronte. For reservations, call 348 641 1997. A courtesy shuttle bus will take visitors to the festival’s area. For more information visit http:// www.expodelpistacchiodibronte.com
Various types of pistachio pasta dishes can be found at Bronte’s pistachio festival this weekend. (stock photo)
Italian Region Passes Law Forbidding All Outsiders From Buying Holiday Homes Including Other Italians From The Telegraph
Hospitality apparently has its limit in Italy’s spectacular South Tyrol region, as political leaders are moving to clamp down on property purchases by outsiders in the name of “defense of the homeland”. The province of Bolzano in the northeastern Italy has banned both foreigners and Italians from outside the largely German-speaking region from purchasing holiday homes in the area, after concluding they were driving up house prices beyond the reach of the locals. Second homes will now be restricted to residents who have spent at least five years in the region or those who work in the area. Provincial Governor Arno Kompatscher reportedly said the move was “for the defense of the Heimat” - or “defense of the homeland” - after the council approved the latest move to protect the popular tourist destination from an excessive number of outsiders. The council says the Dolomite mountain range, a World Heritage site which dominates the region, is a big draw for hikers and leisure seekers but that the demand for housing and land purchases was making it too hard for residents, in particular young people, to be able to afford a house. Council deputy president, Richard Theiner, told local media: “This phenomenon, with a consequent increase in the consumption of land and building areas, makes it very difficult for residents to access a house at an affordable price.” But real estate agents in the region, which is also known as Alto Adige, are furious at the council move. Carlo Perseghin, who owns his own agency in
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Bolzano and is president of the Italian federation of real estate agents (Fiaip), said it would impact interest from abroad and other parts of Italy. “The new law is madness,” he told The Telegraph. “In Europe there is free circulation of financial resources and people, with the complete deregulation of all sectors. Why should someone from Trento, for example, be allowed to buy a house in Berlin but not in South Tyrol? Whoever buys a second home in Alto Adige sets in motion a positive mechanism that contributes a great deal economically to its residents. The future is not about closure, but openness.” Michaela Biancofiore, an MP for the centerRight Forza Italia party, said the new law promoted “a new kind of apartheid” and she planned to appeal to the European Parliament to change it. “This initiative will bring the real estate sector to its knees and homeowners will be forced to sell,” she said. “It will cause enormous damage to residents.” A council statement named the 25 towns and 26 villages that would be affected by the new law, which was passed by the council in July and went into effect this week. Regular checks will be carried out on second homes to ensure the law is being upheld. In towns and villages where the number of second homes exceeds 10 percent, 100 percent of new or converted homes will be reserved for residents, the council said. With its Gothic churches and German street signs and restaurants filled with apple strudel and Wiener schnitzel, South Tyrol seems the least Italian part of Italy. The province of Bolzano is just 70 miles from the Austrian border and two thirds of the population in South Tyrol speaks German. Many residents have never accepted the region’s annexation from the Austro-Hungarian empire in 1919. Federico Guiglia, journalist for the Venetian daily Il Gazzettino, criticized the move as a ploy to gain votes ahead of regional elections in October and questioned why the council had not applied it to all 116 municipalities in the province. “It applies to the high tourist density municipalities with the most beautiful places that are visited,” he said. There were also concerns that the law may be in breach of the Italian constitution, but Mr Theiner said the national government had examined the new provincial law and decided not to challenge it in court.
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The Power of Sleep By MWR Sigonella Fitness
Are you guilty of pushing your bedtime off to watch Netflix? Or scrolling social media pages while you are in bed trying to fall asleep? Maybe you toss and turn in your bed and wake up still feeling tired. Sleep plays a crucial role in the repair and maintenance of all systems of the body. When you are sleeping, your body is hard at work in a productive process repairing, recovering, building, strengthening, growing, and defending. If your body is underrested it cannot function properly and quickly leads to a downward spiral to poor health. The preferred sleep environment will vary for each individual; however, it is recommended to take the following actions to improve your rest: 1. Turn off, silence, or remove all electronics and cover the alarm clock an hour before bed to avoid disrupting the circadian rhythm. 2. 2. Make the room as dark as possible and a comfortable temperature. 3. Evaluate the noise level or add a white noise machine or fan. There are also several behavioral tricks you can follow to improve sleep: 1. Develop a routine where you integrate relaxing activities at least an hour before bed like meditating, reading a book, doing yoga, listening to calming music, etc. 2. Incorporate physical activity during your day; it naturally promotes better sleep. 3. Monitor and reduce caffeine intake. Having your first jolt of caffeine too early in your day can disrupt the body’s normal cortisol rhythm and disrupt sleep later on. Further, caffeine also interferes with adenosine (another ingredient that promotes restful sleep), so it is recommended to avoid caffeine at least six hours before bed. 4. Limit alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant that has sedative-like effects, but it also causes an individual to wake often during the night. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages late in the evening for improved sleep. Hopefully these tips and tricks help your nighttime routine. Happy sleeping!
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The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug: A New Pest for Europe and the U.S. By U.S. Army Customs Agency-Europe
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) (Halyomorpha halys) is an invasive species and a serious pest of fruits, vegetables, and other crops. It is also a nuisance pest of homes as it is attracted to the outside of houses on warm fall days in search of protected, overwintering sites and can enter houses in large numbers. This insect is considered a quarantine pest in the U.S. BMSB is an East Asian species now partially established across North America and Europe. In the United States and Italy, it is causing significant economic losses to agriculture. BMSB plant feeding has resulted in significant economic impacts to growers; a one-year loss in excess of 37 million USD across the midAtlantic in apples alone, as well as 100% losses to peaches in Maryland, and 60–90% losses of peaches in New Jersey during a BMSB population outbreak in 2010. The first detection of BMSB in Europe was in Zurich, Switzerland in 2007, and soon after it was detected in several locations throughout Switzerland. Across Europe, there are now established BMSB populations in Switzerland, Italy, France, Greece, Hungary, Serbia, and Romania, with very recent detections also in Bulgaria, Russia, the Republic of Georgia and the Autonomous Region of Abkhazia (ARA). Adults are approximately 17 mm (0.66 in) long and are shades of brown on both the upper and lower body surfaces. They are “shield” shaped like other stink bugs, almost as wide as they are long. The name “stink bug” refers to the scent glands located on the dorsal surface of the abdomen and the underside of the thorax. In addition to plant damage, BMSB is con-
sidered a significant nuisance pest because of its tendency to use homes as overwintering sites. Although stink bugs are not a direct threat to humans; however, if disturbed, the insects will release a strong, unpleasant odor, hence their common name, stink bug. BMSB often move as hitchhikers on vehicles and machinery. They have been found in military preclearance programs Vehicle Processing Centers, particularly in Northern Italy. Because the BMSB is considered a quarantine pest for the U.S., special attention should be placed during inspection and cleaning of personal vehicles as well as all military cargo outbound for CONUS from infested areas.
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is considered an invasive species in the U.S. and Europe, and care should be taken in shipping goods and vehicles to prevent introducing them to other locations (Photo courtesy Wikipedia Commons)
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