The Signature, May 13, 2016

DoD Children: Imagine Dragons, Shawn Mendes, Nickelodeon show

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NAS Sigonella's Change of Command: Check out to see more photos!

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Prayer:

N A S SIG O N E L L A

NASSIG celebrates National Day of Prayer!

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May 13, 2016

Vol. 33 No. 19

N A S SIG O N E L L A

Capt. Christopher Dennis, left, and Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, walks through side boys following a change of command ceremony aboard NAS Sigonella, May 10, 2016. Trickel assumed command of NAS Sigonella from Capt. Chris Dennis in a ceremony attended by local Italian dignitaries and Navy personnel. NAS Sigonella enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia's (EURAFSWA) mission to provide services to the Fleet, Fighter, and Family. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

Capt. Brent Trickel Assumes Command of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Sailors, civilians, local nationals, family and friends gathered May 10 for a change of command ceremony aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Sicily during which Capt. Brent Trickel relieved Capt. Christopher Dennis as commanding officer of NAS Sigonella.

Base Chaplain, Lt. Cmdr. Edward Erwin, provided the invocation. Following, guest speaker Rear Adm. Rick Williamson, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia delivered remarks.

Williamson expressed his appreciation to Italy, the host nation, and to the Sailors aboard NAS Sigonella, noting his gratitude for the “professionalism with which you carry out your

responsibilities.”

After receiving his end of tour award, Dennis thanked the Sigonella community and his family in both English and Italian. He reflected on the highlights of his three years as commanding officer during which time the base hosted over 200 DV visits, and donated more than 20,000 community service hours helping the local community in 2015 alone.

“You truly are the ‘Hub of the Med.’ You keep the base secure, the water running, the planes flying… In a word, you do everything and you are awesome,” Dennis told the audience.

Capt. Christopher Dennis, left, and Capt. Brent Trickel, right, salute each other during the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's change of command ceremony held at NAS 1 Gymnasium, May 10. Capt. NAS Sigonella enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia's (EURAFSWA) mission to provide services to the Fleet, Fighter, and Family. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

Dennis will serve as Professor of Naval Science for the Naval Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) unit at the University of Michigan.

Trickel read his orders pronouncing himself the new commanding officer of NAS Sigonella and addressed the audience in both Italian and English.

"I look forward to taking the reins of Sigonella from Capt. Dennis and will continue to foster the wonderful sense of community and teamwork he has instilled and will take on board his tenets of Security, Resource Conservation and Health and Welfare. I will continue the out-

standing relationship with our Italian hosts, joint partners, and allies and I look forward to making Sigonella an even better place in conjunction with Col. Fedele."

Naval Air Station Sigonella: "The Hub of the Med," is a U.S. Navy installation and an Italian Air Force base in Sicily, Italy. NAS Sigonella is the Navy's second largest security command, second only to that located at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Because of its location near the center of the Mediterranean Sea, NASSIG is well placed to support operations by the U.S. 6th Fleet, other U.S. military units, and U.S. allies and coalition partners.

For more news from Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, visit www.navy.mil/local/ cnre/.

Capt. Christopher Dennis, right, puts the command ashore pin on Capt. Brent Trickel during the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's change of command ceremony held at NAS 1 Gymnasium, May 10. NAS Sigonella enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia's (EURAFSWA) mission to provide services to the Fleet, Fighter, and Family. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

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May 13, 2016

Direct Line

Fleet Readiness Director Paul Lopez Ciao Sigonella, When I was asked to pen this week’s Direct Line to explain what exactly is the newly established Fleet Readiness Department (N92) in Sigonella, I had to think about how I would explain the change given that many, or most, people may not even be aware of it.

Also, I am not new to the community so many of you know my family and I, and more than likely associate me as the MWR dude. However, late last year, I was appointed as the director of the Fleet Readiness Department (N92), whereby encompassing Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) including Child and Youth Programs (CYP), the Ristorante Bella Etna Galley, Navy Gateway Inns and Suites (NGIS) and all of the Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) back-of-the-house support functions such as Accounting, Procurement, Human Resources, Payroll, Marketing, Information Technology, Warehouse and Maintenance.

However, in making this change, there is a misconception that the establishment of the Fleet Readiness Department means that NGIS and the Galley now fall under MWR. That is not the case. These three service lines, including their respective programs and facilities, are separate entities that fall under the Fleet Readiness umbrella. In fact, the new MWR Director is Mrs. Amiee Mac Donnell. Additionally, the Galley is supervised by CWO3 Francisco “Jon” Marigundon; and NGIS is managed by Ms. Aprile Cason. Together we, and our respective colleagues, serve the Fleet Readiness goal of enabling high quality of life programs for those who serve the mission here in Sigonella, as well as their family members.

Last week our installation received a visit from Mr. Ed Cannon, the CNREURAFSWA Fleet and Family Readiness Director (N9). Mr. Cannon is responsible for all MWR, FFSC and Housing Programs for the EURAFSWA Region. During his visit I gleaned some

insight from him on the diversity and importance of Fleet Readiness programs in our community. He described Fleet Readiness as a microcosm of CNIC in the sense that we have most of the components that will establish a tactically functional department…Human Resources-check, Maintenance-check, IT-check, Accounting-check, and so forth and so on-check. As a result of these enabling entities we offer services that enhance the capacity and capabilities of all the quality of life programs availed to the NASSIG community. Of course, these services were offered before but now the enhancements that Fleet Readiness provides to the community are streamlined with strategic planning, resource management and optimization of effort.

What’s more, following the re-organization in late 2015, the Fleet Readiness Department has been busy continuing focused service to our valued community. For example, the Galley has recently expanded its hours of operation as well as greatly enhanced its menu and food options. In addition, NGIS has just completed a renovation project on building 557 and will soon bring an additional 144 rooms online for a grand total of 583 rooms.

As for MWR, the Fitness Center on NAS 2 expanded its hours of operation in mid-April, whereby opening earlier and closing later every day of the week including weekends and holidays. These are just a few examples of the many great things happening in Fleet

Readiness with a culture that supports continuous improvement.

That said, the entire Fleet Readiness Department is committed to supporting and upholding the guiding principles developed by CNIC through a concerted effort of being oriented to “Service Through Action, Customer-Focused, Efficient, Effective and Responsive”. As such, I’m confident that through this newly streamlined organization and the many services the Fleet Readiness Department offers, we will continue to meet the intent and purpose of our mission here at Sigonella. Thank you for your time and “You stay classy, 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".

Occupational Safety and Health Specialist Antonino Russo Mr. Russo will be retiring at the end of this month after 38 years of faithful service to the U.S. Government. During his tenure in the Safety office, he has been involved in all aspects of safety and has devoted countless hours on- and offduty to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the NASSIG community and mission accomplishments of the installation.

Of his many accomplishments, it should be noted that he has effectively managed the workplace inspections program, the hazardous material management program, and developed the Monthly Safety Newsletter. His initiative, subject matter knowledge, dedication and dependability all made him an invaluable asset to the mission and safety program.

On behalf of the entire Sigonella family, we wish to extend our personal congratulations for 38 years of loyal service and wish you the very best on your future endeavors. Thanks for a job well done.

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May 13, 2016

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Patient Feedback Leads to Positive Change at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

THE SIGNATURE

BY JOE O’BRIEN

U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – “But that’s the way we’ve always done it,” is the last thing you want to hear if you have a suggestion for constructive change. Fortunately, that’s not the attitude fostered at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella through their Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) program.

Feedback and suggestions are the lifeblood of a healthy and responsive Medical Treatment Facility. In each department throughout the hospital and Flight Line Clinic, you’ll find ICE comment cards to solicit feedback from customers. Each card includes an online link so patients can respond at the time and place of their choosing.

Command Customer Relations Officer Lt. Nicole Martin oversees 46 customer relations representatives at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella and Flight Line Clinic, and additional representatives at Naval Branch Health Clinics Bahrain and Souda Bay. “I joined the military in part because I enjoy the ‘service’ component of the job,” Martin acknowledged. “Above all, the work of Navy Medicine is to serve active duty service members and their families. This job helps keep that goal in focus as we use patient feedback to make improvements to the system, to ‘right’ things that may need attention and ensure members of our community have positive experiences at our facility.

It also is great to share the positive care experiences here at Sigonella and recognize the staff members who do an exceptional job meeting patient care needs every day.”

Each ICE comment goes directly to Martin as well as the hospital CO and XO. One suggestion concerning handi-

Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Lt. Jake Barreiro jake.barreiro@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil

Workers apply a handicap decal to one of the new parking spots moved closer to the front entrance of the hospital; a response to a customer ICE suggestion. Rather than conventional paint, they used the latest in thermoplastic technology and bonded a ¼ inch thick decal to the road using heat. (Photo by Joe O’Brien)

cap parking spaces was deemed actionable. With the current seven spaces (two by the Emergency Room, two on the upper level by the EDIS building, and three across from the front hospital entrance) the hospital surpasses the number required by the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the three handicap spots closest to the front entrance have now been switched with the spaces on the far left traditionally reserved for the CO, XO, and CMC. In addition, a new 60-foot long walkway was created

leading to the hospital front door to improve facility access.

This is one concrete example of the hospital leadership’s desire to implement constructive change whenever possible.

In addition, any complaint is guaranteed a follow-up within 72 hours and comments “requesting a response” are replied to as long as contact information is provided. Statistically there has been overwhelmingly positive feedback - over

"CHANGES" continued on Page 15

Sailor in the Spotlight Name: PS2 (SW/AW) Deanna Kinnard Dept: Personnel Support Detachment Sigonella Hometown: San Francisco, California Kinnard has lived in the Sig' community for more than two years now and couldn't be happier with the community she found. "I love how it's very family-oriented in Sicily. Every Sunday, I eat a big Italian lunch at my friend's mom's home."

The local community has been extremely helpful, even in light of the language barrier.

"Everyone is very helpful. If you are struggling out in town, they will jump in to help you out."

Outside of the local island, Kinnard has had the opportunity to experience different cultures throughout Europe such as: Spain, Germany, and mainland Italy.

One of the many things that Kinnard misses from back home is the California burritos and fast food drive-thru chains.

PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil MC3 Luke Askew lucas.askew@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 nonmerit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly

by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy.

Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands.

Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@ eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

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May 13, 2016

Imagine Dragons, Shawn Mendes, Nickelodeon Support Department of Defense Kids Overseas By economics class Sigonella Middle/High School

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Department of Defense (DOD)students from Sigonella Middle/High School were on top of the world last month as their favorite band, favorite new artist, and Nickelodeon rolled out the orange carpet as part of Month of the Military Child.

In what has become a must-see annual event, Sigonella Middle/High School’s Month of the Military Child show combined a mix of students, teachers, military community members and the entertainment industry.

Last year’s edition included a live link with CNN’s Carl Azuz and complimentary music for the entire school from recording artist Justin Timberlake. This year’s program, which also included some surprises for the students, was created over several weeks and then projected on the big screen to a packed house in Sigonella’s Knights Hall April 26.

Produced by teacher Shawn McCarthy in collaboration with the Armed Forces Network, the show kicked off with Sigonella’s NJROTC Unit presenting colors and high school junior Malana Giustina playing the national anthem on the flute.

After a brief introduction to the show and video messages from teachers and faculty thanking the students for their service, the student body erupted in cheers as their teachers danced to Silento’s Watch Me (Whip/ Nae Nae).

In addition to revisiting the 30-year history of the Month of the Military Child and the DOD Schools' 70-year history, students from the school’s Economics class spoke of student interests and contemporary pop culture.

This year’s program incorporated the Department of Defense Kids’ Overseas Awards which allowed students to vote online in categories from "Favorite Movie" to "Favorite Female Singer."

While voting for their favorite performers, the students also gave feedback on life on a military base overseas. For students who sometimes feel marginalized due to their distant

location from the U.S., the Kids’ Overseas Awards voting gave voice to the military and DOD students serving in Sigonella. The program also served as a platform for students to share their prose.

Three students were selected to read their poems about life as a military child overseas. Seventh-grade student Graham Dennis encapsulated many of the students’ sentiments: I’m a child of the United States Navy.

Raised on a plane over open ocean, Hopping from place to place my residence stays in perpetual motion.

That even though some days can be rough To not lose hope and to simply be tough, And while Navy life can be an ordeal I wouldn’t trade mine for the greatest of deals.

According to the students’ online responses and poems, their time overseas is overwhelmingly positive.

The students enjoy traveling, experiencing new cultures, and making new friends. However, the students also face challenges. More than half of them listed “missing family and friends” as the toughest part about living overseas. Others listed “starting all over” as their biggest challenge.

When the online voting for the Kids’ Overseas Awards concluded in March, many of the winning artists and entertainers were notified of their selection. This was to ensure the students’ voices were heard and to allow for the artists to possibly reciprocate the recognition.

Imagine Dragons, winners in the category of "Favorite Band," were so moved by the award they sent a video message to be part of the program.

Students responded with thunderous applause as lead singer Dan Reynolds appeared on screen, then sat spellbound as he addressed the students.

In his message to the Military and DoD kids serving overseas, Reynolds stated he was honored to receive the award “especially from those who are serving our country overseas and the families who are making that sacrifice.”

Recording artist Shawn Mendes,

Recording artist Shawn Mendes receives a Department of Defense Kids' Overseas Award from Sigonella students Camila Cardona, Averi Chandler, Vanessa Narvaez and Emmy McCarthy. (Photo courtesy of AG Artists)

who won "Favorite New Artist," also connected with the students. As part of the show, three students performed Mendes’ song “A Little Too Much.”

The song parallels many themes common to Military and DoD kids serving overseas, such as trying to be strong in difficult moments and helping peers through challenging times.

In the biggest surprise of the show, Mendes’ management team, AG Artists, sent a shockwave through the auditorium by inviting four students from Sigonella to personally present the "Favorite New Artist" Award to Mendes the following day in northern Italy.

After the families arranged for travel to the venue, Mendes’ management met the students with open arms. During a “meet and greet” the students presented Mendes with his Kids’ Overseas Award and one active-duty dependent presented him with the base challenge coin. New York-based AG Artists also arranged to have the students attend Mendes’ concert as VIP guests.

To finish out the Month of the Military Child, Sigonella Middle/High

School partnered with Nickelodeon to bring a 2016 Kids’ Choice Awards Viewing Party to the school, complete with the actual backdrop used on the Orange Carpet in Los Angeles. The Kids’ Choice Awards is an annual fixture on Nickelodeon and highlights American youth and pop culture.

McCarthy, who coordinated with Nickelodeon, was granted a license

by Nickelodeon to host viewing parties in Aviano and Vicenza in addition to Sigonella. The viewing parties were free in all three locations, as were posters and lanyards for all attendees.

Just before Sigonella’s Kids’ Choice Viewing Party began on April 29, a brief video message from Shawn Mendes was shown to the 300 family members gathered in Knights Hall.

His message was a perfect end to Sigonella’s Month of the Military Child celebrations. As he stood between four Sigonella students and held his Kids’ Overseas Award and base challenge coin, Mendes said “Thank you, Sigonella. I love you!” Based on the applause and screams from the middleschool girls when Mendes appeared on screen, the feeling is mutual.

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 the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider?

Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)

May 13, 2016

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Sailors with the Forward Resuscitative Surgical System-Shock Trauma Platoon stand for a group photo in the operating room aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, May 2. The mission of the FRSS-STP is to sustain life and limb, maintain a fighting force as a theater asset and respond to all medical calls.

(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell/Released)

Sailors Use Speed, Mobility to Save Lives

By Cpl. Alexander MitcheLl SPMAGTF-CR-AF-LCE Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – A specialized medical team for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa Logistics Combat Element (SPMAGTFCR-AF-LCE) is utilizing a system to dramatically decrease the amount of time it takes to get a person from the point of injury to a medical professional.

“Given our location, we can respond to Europe, we can respond to Africa,” said Navy Cmdr. Samantha Grillo, the officer in charge of the Forward Resuscitative Surgical System-Shock Trauma Platoon (FRSS-STP) and an orthopedic surgeon. “We can receive casualties here from either location, but at the same time we can be on an aircraft, packed and ready to go within an hour to either of those directions.”

The FRSS-STP works out of a small bay directly on the flight line at Naval Air Station Sigonella. In a job that counts minutes as precious, the location and specialties of the medical team can save hours for a patient with heavy wounds. The FRSS-STP touts the mobility and speed of their emergency and

operating rooms, which are strategically situated so that casualties can be brought from a plane directly into surgery if necessary.

“Each of the services has their version of a smaller or rapidly deployable unit,” said Grillo. “For us, with an orthopedic surgeon, a general surgeon and an emergency room physician, we have a greater capability of providing all types of care on or near the battlefield.”

Capabilities of the FRSS-STP include: basic trauma resuscitation with supplementation of fluids and blood products, basic general surgeries to stop internal bleeding and stabilizing fractures to prevent further injuries to a patient.

The mission of the FRSS-STP is to sustain life and limb, maintain a fighting force as a theater asset and respond to all medical calls.

The accomplishment of this mission is made possible because of the vast array of experience within the trauma team.

“The FRSS is a highly mobile, very specialized system for responding to trauma,” said Grillo. “It allows us to respond to injuries nearly immediately after they are sustained, so the patient can get care in that initial time period where life-saving is critical.”

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May 13, 2016

Gravina di Catania hosts WW2 Remembrance Event April 25 by alberto lunetta

April 25 marks the 71st anniversary of Italy's Liberation Day or Festa della Liberazione, which is a national Italian holiday commemorating the end of the Italian Civil War and the end of NaziFascist occupation of the country during World War II. On April 25 Mayor of Gravina di Catania, Dr. Domenico Rapisarda, assisted by the town’s Education and Culture Chairperson Patrizia Costa, the Rotary Club Catania Duomo 150 and the Cataniabased cultural organization “Associazione Dyogene & Athena” hosted a memorial event remembering the fallen Allied soldiers who fought during the war. The event was hosted at the town hall and was attended by local military and civilian authorities, leadership of the fraternal order Knights of Pythias, Catania-based honorary consuls of Malta, Turkey and Greece, and volunteer organizations such as FGCT-TEAM Italia led by Mr. Giuseppe Conte which are longstanding Sigonella’s COMREL partners.

At the center of the event was the memory of the sacrifice of those who answered the call of their country and died liberating Europe from evil dictatorship.

Those brave men were remembered through a poem titled “Freedom”, written by local poet Maurizio Catania and read with background music by Mariella Perconti who created a moving and dramatic atmosphere for the audience.

After remembering the contribution of the Italian partisans who fought in northern Italy while Allied troops were fighting their way up from the south of Italy, Ignazio Vecchio, a neurologist and History of Medicine professor at the University of Catania, pointed out the significant role played by the young brave men whose blood tribute was key to the final defeat of tyranny and the achievement of freedom and democracy.

At the end of the event, the NASSIG delegation, led by Lt. Scott Jackson and other authorities were presented with a copy of the poem, which was also translated into English for the American guests.

“It was a great opportunity to commemorate Liberation Day with our US Navy friends whose predecessors played a major role in the outcome of World War II and with whom we enjoy a great community relations partnership,” Mayor Rapisarda said.

Infiorata Flower Festival to be held in Noto by alberto lunetta

From May 12-15, the 37th edition of the “Infiorata” Festival (which in Italian means decoration with flowers) will be held in Noto, the magnificent Baroque city located in the southern slopes of the Hyblaei Hills, southwest of Syracuse.

The tradition of decorating the main streets of the city was originally imitated from an annual festival organized in Genzano, a small village located in the center of Italy. In Genzano, petals were traditionally spread to decorate the itinerary of the procession that was covered by the devotees who celebrated the Virgin Mary. This colorful “carpet” was later destroyed by the passage of the procession.

In 1980, thanks to the artistic sensitivity of the administrators of the time, it was decided to start this festival by inviting the masters from Genzano to “paint” with flowers for the first time. Thus, the Sicilian artists were able to learn the techniques of this ancient art and later on to reproduce these artworks. Every year, the city administration, after announcing what will be the theme of the year (this year it will be mythology) organizes a competition for the best sketches. An award is given to the best three drawers.

On May 12 at dawn, the “Infioratori,” (which in Italian means the ones who decorate with flowers) start to fill the drawings with petal colorful plants.

Via Corrado Nicolaci, one among Noto’s main streets, will be covered by a mantel of flowers although there will be smaller decorations in some adjoining roads, courtyards and squares.

Through to the balconies of Palazzo Villadorata, the simplicity of the Montevergini church and the elegance of the other aristocratic palaces of Modica and Giunta, Via Nicolaci offers an unique perspective of the historic center of Noto. This is the reason why it was preferred to the main road named Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

Complementing the "Infiorata," is a spectacular parade, named “Corteo Barocco” (which in Italian means Baroque parade) of 200 people dressed as 18th century nobles, knights, dancers, musicians, flag waivers will be held tonight (May 13) on at 6 p.m. in the main roads of the historic center.

The performers, which will leave from Piazza Mazzini, will carry the banners of the most famous aristocratic families of Noto like the Nicolaci, Landolina, Trigona, Impellizzeri, Rau, Astuto and Di Lorenzo.

"INFIORATA" continued on Page 15

Gravina Mayor Rapisarda presented Lt. Scott Jackson with a copy of the poem “Freedom” by Maurizio Catania during the April 25 Liberation Day event. The poem remembers the Allied heroes who fought during WW2. The event was attended by local military and civilian authorities, the leadership of the fraternal order Knights of Pythias , the Catania-based honorary consuls of Malta, Turkey and Greece, and volunteer organizations (Photo by Rotary Club Catania 150 Press Office)

U.S. NAVY HEADLINES May 13, 2016

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Steps to Fixing Your Record and Communicating with the Selection Board

By Terrina Weatherspoon, Defense Media Activity; Master Chief Yeoman Charles Hester; Master Chief Legalman Karen Colaiacovo; and Chief Hospital Corpsman Marlene Rivera

Keeping up with administrative requirements in the Navy may just be the toughest job each Sailor has.

In a perfect world, every Sailor is keeping multiple copies of their awards, evals, qualifications, degrees and are checking their record regularly to make sure that everything is being correctly documented and if not, is taking immediate action to rectify the situation.

In reality, many Sailors will wait until they find out they are chief petty officer selection board eligible.

Then they will submit a package to the board with 150 documents and will spend the next three months trying to contact old commands to get copies of evals that never made it into their record.

Having a jacked up record is a sure fire way of ensuring you are not selected. If you cannot take care of yourself, how on earth can the board trust you to take care of your Sailors?

But not to worry. This article is going to break down the process of submitting a package to the board and correcting your records. So let us begin.

First, review NAVADMIN 014/16 http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/reference/ messages/Documents/NAVADMINS/NAV2016/ NAV16014.txt EVAL CONTINUITY The first thing you want to do is make sure that you do not have any missing evals in your record. There is a very easy way to do this.

1. Using your CAC, log onto https://www.bol.navy. mil/ 2. From the center menu click CCA/FITREP/EVAL Reports 3. Under Reports click the highlighted Performance Evaluation Continuity Report 4. Scroll to the bottom. Under Missing Periods you will see any evaluation gaps you have. Even if you don't appear to have any gaps, go line by line through the report, just to verify. If you do have gaps and do not know the location of a reporting senior, or need other assistance in resolving these missing periods, contact the Navy Personnel Command Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC. Evaluations, correction letters, extension letters and statements in lieu of evaluation must be sent to NPC, PERS-32.

OMPF 1. Using your CAC, log onto https://www.bol.navy. mil/ 2. From the center menu click on your OMPF This is your record. The board will see everything in field codes 30 through 38. This includes enlistment and reenlistment contracts, history of assignments, administrative remarks, DD-214s, miscellaneous professional service history, evaluations, training and education, decorations and awards and all adverse information.

Make sure your evals are readable, that they reflect the correct social security number, the correct spelling of your name and properly documented PFA scores.

While in BOL, go to the 'ODC, OSR, PSR' tab and open your PSR. The board will see PSR part I, II, and III. Review those so you know exactly what the board is seeing.

LETTER TO THE BOARD So you've checked your record and one of two things happened. Either everything was in there and you are good to go, or you have things you need to add or correct. If everything is good to go, you may still choose to send a letter to the board notifying them that you have checked your record and have found no discrepancies.

However, this is not mandatory or even necessary.

If there were things you needed to have added to your record, you may choose to send those things to the board, despite having taken measures to correct them.

This will ensure the board sees them and considers them.

If you have accomplished significant achievements since your last evaluation that you want the board to consider, then you will need to write a letter and submit a package.

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR PACKAGE Please include any awards, degrees, qualifications, and achievements that are not yet in your record and that you would like the board to consider. It is critical to make sure your SSN is documented in the upper left corner of every page you submit. Do not be redundant. There is no reason to submit your history of assignments, your qualification sheet, your awards print out or anything else that can be found in your record.

Your job is only to ensure your record is an accurate reflection of your career, fix any discrepancies, and send the board a letter with significant information you want them to consider. **Remember that just sending this information to the board is not going to get it updated in your record.

HOW TO SEND YOUR PACKAGE The preferred method for submission of a LTB is by encrypted email to cscselboard@navy.mil. E-mailed LTBs must be encrypted to protect personally identifiable information (PII). Trouble with file encryption or certificate issues does not justify a late LTB. If the candidate is unable to send an encrypted e-mail, they may utilize the safe access file exchange (SAFE) website at https://safe.amrdec.army.mil/safe to transmit their LTB to cscselboard@navy.mil. In order for the LTBs to be considered by the board, the NPC CSC must receive the e-mail notification of the file upload from SAFE before the LTB deadline.

If unable to email or use the SAFE website, candidates may use regular mail to the addresses below: (1) SELRES/Mobilized E7 Board: Navy Personnel Command Customer Service Center President FY-17 Reserve E7 Selection Board #335 5720 Integrity Drive Millington, TN 38055 (2) FTS E7 Board: Navy Personnel Command Customer Service Center President FY-17 Reserve E7 Selection Board #336 5720 Integrity Drive Millington, TN 38055 (3) Active E7 Board: Navy Personnel Command Customer Service Center President FY-17 Active E7 Selection Board #360 5720 Integrity Drive Millington, TN 38055 UPDATING YOUR RECORD: The information you sent into does not go into

your record. You must do the following to update your record.

EVAL/FITREP Generally, performance evaluations should be submitted by the command who issued the report to the member. The command's administrative officer should be contacted to ensure proper and timely submission of performance evaluations. When submitting missing performance evaluation(s) directly to PERS 32 mail a copy to the following address: The copy must display all required signatures, initials, dates, and social security numbers. If member is part of a summary group all reports in the summary group must be received in order to process the reports.

Commander Navy Personnel Command Pers 32 5720 Integrity Drive Millington, TN 38055-3201 AWARDS 1. Go to https://awards.navy.mil/awards/webapp01. nsf/(frmQPersAwards)?OpenForm 2. Fill out the top of the form and hit search in the right hand corner.

Are all your awards there? Do you have copies of what's missing? If so, take those copies to your NDAWS Authority so they can verify authenticity and submit them electronically.

NDAWS will only reflect Combat Action Ribbons or higher, so if you have FLOCs, MUCs, Pistol quals, etc., you can verify those in NSIPS. https://nsipsprod.nmci. navy.mil/nsipsclo/jsp/index.jsp (CAC enabled website) How do I get an award certificate into my OMPF? Here are the steps, 1-2-3 http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/career/ recordsmanagement/Pages/AwdDecorMedal.aspx 1.Check to see that the award has been entered into the Navy Department Awards Web Service (NDAWS) at https://awards.navy.mil. Select 'personal awards,' then 'personal awards query' on the right.

2.If it is reflecting accurately in NDAWS, print your full SSN in the upper right corner of the award, and send a copy to PERS-313 (Navy Personnel Command, PERS-313, 5720 Integrity Dr. Millington, TN 38055), or ask your command to mail it. That's it!

3.If it has not been entered into NDAWS, or is in error, ask your admin office to contact the NDAWS authority for your command (or your command may be an NDAWS authority) for assistance. The NDAWS authority will authenticate the award with the assistance of you and your command by following the policy guidance provided on the NDAWS Authority page of the website then they will mail a copy to your OMPF. DEGREES 1. Go to https://jst.doded.mil/smart/signIn.do (CAC enabled website) 2. Register for your Joint Services Transcript.

3. Click Transcripts at the top.

Is your degree there? If not, you will need to contact the college and have them mail your official transcripts to: NETPDTC, Joint Services Transcript (JST) ATTN: JST Operations Center N615 6490 Saufley Field Road Pensacola, FL 32509 This needs to come from your college. You cannot mail this in yourself.

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All Hands News Bulletin: Federal Benefits Unit - U. S. Embassy - Rome Representatives from the U. S. Citizens Service; Social Security and Federal Benefits Unit - U. S. Embassy in Rome, will be available to answer community members questions and assist with applications for various benefits.

DATE: Tuesday, May 17, 2016 TIMES: Session #1: 0900 - 1030 Session #2: 1300-1430 PLACE: MWR Midtown Classroom - 2d Floor above the Piazza Pizza/Theatre Seating limited to a maximum of 60 personnel per session. Reserve seats by calling FFSC at 624-4291 no later than May 13, to ensure enough materials are available for all participants.

FOR THOSE WHO ARE THINKING ABOUT RETIRING *How to request a Social Security Statement

May 13, 2016

*How to use the online retirement estimator *What do you need in order to apply *How to apply online *What does "Offset Amount" mean and how is it calculated *Retirement Benefits Estimator *How to apply for Retirement, Spouse, Medicare Only or Disability *What happens after you apply PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE AT MARINAI HOUSING This is to inform Marinai Residents of upcoming preventive maintenance inspection (PMI) in their homes. PMI will start on April 15 through June 13 and will be performed on A/C system, washer, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, smoke, gas/carbon monoxide detectors by the Pizzarotti contractor.

Flyers will be e-mailed and placed at the resident's door indicating date and time frame of their scheduled PMI. Residents are reminded to be home since PMI is mandatory and appointments cannot be rescheduled. PMI will only be canceled if inclement weather should arise.

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services 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 ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2 PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall

Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel

PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049

CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group - Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group - Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home

NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel

Weekly Traffic Reports: May 2 - 9, 2016

Ristorante Bella Etna

Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.

Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4 - 6 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.

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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Simple Steps to Achieving Your Goals From Fleet and Family Support Center

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Yes, I’ll admit it, DIY projects used to scare me to death.

I have moved so many times and donated enough unique pieces of furniture and decorative items that I could have started my own consignment store. I did not understand why my mom was constantly sewing patches on our jeans or painting my older brother’s bike pink and putting a basket and a bell on it to make it a “new” girls’ bike for my Christmas present. Now, looking back and having three children of my own to provide for, I realize that I could have found a better use for the items that I gave away if only I had the confidence to add some creative touches to make them fresh and different.

Thanks to a great role model (my imaginative and inventive mama who was a Gifted and Talented Elementary school teacher for 33 years) I am in the middle of patching up many clothing items and reusing toys and furniture items for other purposes. Old picture frames can be touched up with a little paint, sanded down and revitalized. I recently cut up an old sweater and made it into a Barbie dress for my daughter, and it made it all worthwhile just seeing her reaction. It’s important for me to break out of my shell and make them “new.”

What I am finding along the way is that after every touch of paint or stitching, I feel more and more confident in my ability to get my projects done. Some projects may have some minor mistakes, but hey, it’s done with a lot of love for my little ones!

What does goal setting mean to you?

While my example is about making things new through home projects, these tips can include personal goals for organizing a space, stopping a bad habit, or even starting a small business! Remember a goal is a goal, no matter how big or small. Other tips for goal setting include:

• Find Support: First, everyone needs their own “imaginative and inventive mom.” In other words, find a teacher, friend, or mentor for projects that may intimidate you. Allow yourself permission to call this person anytime you need them.

• Set Small, Achievable Goals: If I think about the entire project at once, my negative self-talk sets in and I want to forget the whole thing. However, if I concentrate on one piece at a time (find the right button or paint color first) then I feel more confident and even some relief. Baby steps, with one small, achievable goal at a time! For some, it may be more appropriate to set time goals, such as not smoking for five days, then 10, and so on.

• Practice Using Positive Self Talk: With practice it will get easier. Believe me, I know how we naturally tend to “beat ourselves up” with negative self-talk. It’s easy to beat yourself up when attempting something that is difficult for you. Negative self-talk can sound like “I am terrible at doing this,” or “I always mess things up, so why even try?”

Instead focus on positive self-talk, which sounds more like “I’m actually doing this!” and “I’m impressed with how well I did. I only made one mistake today!”

• Reward Yourself: Go ahead and reward your efforts in working toward your goal! I suggest smaller rewards at the end of each small or short-term goal (such as saving for a trip in a month) and a great, big reward for full completion of your long term goal (such as earning a degree).

I hope you find these tips valuable in taking “baby steps” toward your own personal goals. If interested in taking classes to help you work toward achieving your goals (including Life Skills classes, Personal Financial Management, Transition Goals Plans Success, or Accessing Higher Education among others), call the FFSC at 624-4291 today.

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GAMEZONE Flowers

GOLDEN ROD HEATHER HOLLYHOCKS HYACINTH HYDRANGEA IRIS LAVENDER LILAC LILY LISIANTHUS MARIGOLD

ORCHID PANSY PEONY PETUNIA ROSE SNAPDRAGON STATICE STOCK SUNFLOWER TULIP VIOLET YARROW

MEDIUM

CORNFLOWER DAFFODIL DAISY DELPHINIUM FORGET-ME-NOT FOXGLOVE FREESIA FUCHSIA GERANIUM GERBERA GINGER GLADIOLUS

EASY

ALSTROEMERIA AMARYLLIS ANTHURIUM ASTER BABY'S BREATH BELL FLOWER BIRD OF PARADISE BOUVARDIA CALLA CARNATION CHRYSANTHEMUM CLEMATIS

DIFFICULT

Find and circle all of the flowers that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell a secret message - a quotation from Romeo and Juliet.

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May 13, 2016

Sigonella Celebrates National Day of Prayer

NAS Sigonella community celebrates the National Day of Prayer at Ristorante Bella Etna for prayer and meditation, May 5. The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lucas Askew/Released)

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"INFIORATA" continued from Page 6 On Sunday, May 15, the Baroque parade will be repeated at 3 p.m. in the following roads/squares: Piano Alto, via Cavour, Corso V. Emanuele and piazza Municipio. Musicians will accompany the parade playing Baroque minuets.

Other highlights include: food booths that will be selling fresh local agricultural products in piazza San Camillo and antique fair at the "Villa Comunale" (public gardens) and much more!

Visiting the Infiorata, is also a great occasion to see one of

the most beautiful Baroque cities in the world which was denominated as “garden of stone and gold,” for the yellowish-rosy color of its buildings and monuments. Noto is not only the Baroque capital but a town where no one is a stranger. "Let yourself be seduced by the beauty, the history and the magic atmosphere of the May nights during which the streets of the city become flower carpets”, Noto Mayor Corrado Bonfanti said. Noto is located 32 km from Siracuse. The city was built next to the river Asinaro

in 1703 on the ruins of the ancient Roman City of Netum, which was destroyed in the earthquake of 1693.

Noto is the capital of the 18th century Sicilian and European baroque, and its religious and civil monuments are among the most valuable examples of the skills of talented artists of the time such as Gagliardi, Sinatra, Labisi.

Graceful curves of floral interfacings, of foreshortened views of palaces, gardens, and capitals and of putts decorate the facades of churches and buildings like the Church of San Francesco, San Domenico, Santa Chiara, the Franciscan Convent and the Salvatore Benedectine Monastery.

Among the aristocratic palaces, Palazzo Ducezio is worth to be mentioned. The architect Vincenzo Sinagra designed it.

Beautiful neo-classical style frescoes by Antonio Mazza decorate the interiors.

For more information and full festival schedule, visit http:// www.infioratadinoto.it

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"CHANGES" continued from Page 3 99% of the Naval Hospital’s customers are satisfied.

To acknowledge staff who receive multiple positive comments each quarter, senior leadership presents a “Shining Star” certificate and silver star to wear on their identification badge.

Lt. Cari Cross, a nurse at the OB/GYN General Surgery Clinic has enjoyed being a customer service representative for the past 2½ years.

“We like to hear the positive comments,” she noted, “and especially the suggestions where we can evaluate policies or implement important changes.”

Other recent ICE suggestions have already been put into effect: • Pharmacy went to automated refill by phone following comments about wait times and inconvenience of pick up.

• Overseas Screening Office website now has all relevant documents and instructions for medical screenings to reduce need to come to the hospital for paperwork processing; OSS Coordinator contact info also listed.

• Increased coordination between Base Security and Emergency Room for improving ambulance response times.

“I’m very proud of our ICE Program and our cus-

tomer relations representatives,” said Capt. William Davidson, Commanding Officer, USNH Sigonella. “Moving handicapped spaces closer to the front entrance of the hospital and creating an additional walkway was an ICE suggestion that we could accommodate. Our goal is to be responsive to the needs of all our patients.”

The ongoing success of the ICE program depends on the interaction between customers and service providers.

Comments can be made online at https://ice.disa.mil and search “U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella.”

Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) allows customers to rate services provided by U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella.

Your comment card ratings are used to improve the products and services available to you. To find the appropriate service on which to provide your feedback, scan the Quick Response (QR) code using a QR reader app on your smartphone.

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