Lady Jaguars Softball European Champions
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Sigonella
International Yoga Day
Scuba Dive Club Conducts Underwater Clean Up
Sunrise Yoga on the Turf Field
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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JUNE 16, 2017
Vol. 34 No. 23
Sigonella Hosts Joint-Agency Military Working Dog Training By MC2 Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Sailors on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella hosted joint-agency Military Working Dog (MWD) training with six local Italian agencies June 9. The training involved MWD’s from NAS Sigonella, Guardia di Finanza, Carabinieri, and Polizia. “The reason we’re doing this training is to not only increase the proficiency of our dogs, but also improve the host nation agencies that come out as well,” said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Joshua Sowa, the MWD joint-agency event coordinator, “We have some training aides they may or may not have, so we are creating an opportunity for them to progress their dogs, get them a new experience and increase their capabilities as well.” The training consisted of two courses for the dogs, either explosives or narcotics. In both courses, organizers strategically hid small training aids in trucks, trailers, cars, and small boxes. If the dog smells the training aid they will either sit or lay down next to it, giving the signal to the handler they found something. “This training is more geared toward the Italian’s working dogs,” said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mara Uriarte, the public affairs representative for NAS Sigonella’s Kennel. “What we have right here is just bringing it back down to basics since this is what our MWDs were trained to do before being sent out to the fleet. We use different training aides so it’s interesting to see how the Italians perform.” After a few hours of training, the Sailors and Italian agencies packed up their dogs and training aids and moved over to the kennel for a different kind of training. The handlers from both sides sent their dogs through an obstacle course, testing the dog’s abil-
ity to follow the handler’s instruction as well as show the small crowd what they were capable of. Later, the handler’s put on bite sleeves and again showed what the dogs were capable of, this time having the dog bark at or lunge for an “assailant.” “It’s absolutely a give and take training. Since we’re hosting we made it about the host nation agencies coming on and helping them out,” said Sowa. “We always learn something new from them so it was interesting to see what they brought to the table this time. Being canine handlers we’re a little competitive by nature also so there was a little healthy competition
going on as well.” Just as a ship performs lines of operation that provide a capability, Navy Region EURAFSWA bases perform the same eight lines of operation to provide capability to the fleet, joint and allied forces. These eight lines of operation are: air operations, port operations, safety, security, housing, MWR, Fleet and Family Services and what is called the core: the fuels, water and power that keep the bases running. This training directly supports the two lines of safety and security of our installation. “Not all bases have military working dogs, so it’s a benefit that we have this
asset to protect this installation,” said Uriarte. “If you have a package that could be an IED an MWD can go and respond.” According to OPNAVINST 5585.2C, MWD’s unique capabilities are used by naval security forces to defend bases and resources, and to assist with enforcing military laws and regulations. MWDs supplement and enhance the capabilities of military security forces and when integrated into existing military forces MWD teams enable those forces to perform their mission more effectively and in many cases with significant savings in manpower, time and money.
SIGONELLA, Sicily (June 6, 2017) –Brigadiere Carabineri Pierluigi Diamanti sends his Military Working Dog (MWD) to attack Master-at-Arms 1st Class Dustin Tyler during a joint-agency MWD training with local Italian agencies on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. NAS Sigonella is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed and when they are needed to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)
Congratulations to the Class of 2017; Sigonella High School Graduates 24 Seniors Twenty-four seniors from the Sigonella High School class of 2017 received their diplomas during a graduation ceremony held at the NAS 1 Courtyard June 9. Prior to taking the stage the seniors entered the courtyard, filled with family and friends, as the school concert band played the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance.” Kendra La Rocca, an English and History teacher at Sigonella Middle High School since 2002, served as the graduation speaker for the ceremony. In her address La Rocca first thanked the parents. “Congratulations to the parents of the graduating class,” said La Rocca. “Thank you for sharing your chilSIGONELLA, Sicily (June 9, 2017) – The Sigonella High School Class of 2017 dren with us and for allowing us to celebrates graduation by tossing their caps in the air. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCC help shape them into the people they Jessica Vargas/Released) are and will become.
La Rocca went on to praise the graduating class and discussed what the true meaning of success means to her. "Congratulations to all of you, you should be very proud of yourselves for accomplishing this milestone. I know you must all be excited to get your hands on your diplomas and begin the next chapter of your lives," said La Rocca. "You will all take different paths. You will all experience the highs and lows of life, the difficult and the easy. Your true success will be defined by how you handle these moments. According to John Wooden, ‘Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of the self-satisfaction knowing that
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JUNE 16, 2017
Direct Line
Installation Energy Manager Antonio Piluso Buon Giorno Sigonella, My name is Antonio Piluso and I proudly serve as NAS Sigonella’s Base Installation Manager. Today I would like to talk to you about a new energy savings competition launched by Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia called Fuel for the Fleet. Fuel for the Fleet, which kicked off on April 21 in conjunction with Earth Day, is a continual energy awareness campaign and competition designed to foster a culture of efficient energy. It challenges each of us to improve EURAFSWA’s capacity to support the mission of the Fleet at sea through energy reduction ashore. Some of you may remember the previous annual competition called Energy Biggest Loser, which NAS Sigonella was able to win the last two years consecutively! This great achievement was accomplished thanks to everyone in the community
doing their part to reduce energy consumption. Here’s how the Fuel for the Fleet competition differs from the Energy Biggest Loser and what we can do as a community to ensure Sigonella comes out a champion again. Each installation in the region is represented by a virtual ship. The more energy efficient each ship operates, the further it travels. The actual energy saved each month is compared to the previous year’s energy savings and the difference becomes the gallons of fuel that supply the ship. Another aspect of the contest, that helps our virtual ship sail along to winning, is awareness of the campaign. Each quarter, the top three ships will receive an award, leading up to the annual awards in May 2018. The energy saved to move the virtual ship results in real time savings ashore, therefore increasing the operational capacity of our real time
sea missions. Energy bills are the single largest cost for U.S. Navy installations, reflecting about 28% of the Navy’s shore budget. By reducing energy costs ashore it helps improve the Navy’s warfighting capabilities at sea. What can Sig’ Citizens do to help save energy? We can all play a part in this competition, no matter how small. You can do your part by doing simple things such as making sure the lights are off when you are not in the office, turn off computer monitors and speakers when they are not in use, and never leave doors and windows open in a space with the air conditioner on. A big part of the energy competition is awareness and Region would like to know how we as a base are doing getting the Fuel for the Fleet message out. Please take a few mo-
ments to provide your feedback by taking the Fuel for the Fleet survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ BLH5367. Let’s all work together to help NAS Sigonella win the energy savings competition for the third year in a row!
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 Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “BZ for Barber Shop Employee”: I
would like to commend Davide for the outstanding service I receive from him each and every time I sit in his barber chair. Thank you! Sincerely, Joseph Craig
Response: Dear Mr. Craig, thank You very much for your kind words regarding NEX Barber Shop employee Davide. Davide takes great pride in delivering Premiere Customer Service on a daily basis to the patrons in the Sigonella Community. Your comments have been passed on. Thank You again for the recognition of his service. Comment regarding “Pets in the Food Court”: Today, I went to the Food Court to get lunch from Cafe Italia and, not for the first time, I changed my mind because there was a woman holding a dog at the counter. I realize that service dogs are allowed to be with their owners, but shouldn't they stay on the floor? It seems very unsanitary to me for a dog to be held over a counter where food is being served. Is this appropriate? If not, can there be signs put up, or some way of letting people know that dogs should not be held while standing at a food counter? Thank you, Tara Response: Dear Tara, thank You for bringing this to my attention as I have not witnessed this personally. Service animals are permitted within
Navy Exchange facilities, however they should never be at the food service counter level. We have executed training with all vendors within our food court regarding this expectation and this issue will not occur again. Thank You again for bringing this to my attention and helping the Navy Exchange provide Premiere Customer Service in all of its operations. If you have any further concerns please contact John Sisson, Navy Exchange General Manager at 39-095-56-4379 or email at John.Sisson@nexweb.org.
Comments regarding “Road Conditions in the Triangle”:
Recently there has been an influx of comments regarding the conditions of the roads between NAS 1 and 2 which I would like to take the time to address once again. I would like to remind the community that the local government is operating under tight budgetary constraints and while very much aware of the conditions of the roads under their jurisdiction; they do not have the funds to make all the repairs. The Italian base has direct input into the country’s governing bodies and they are the voice for infrastructure, such as repairing the roads surrounding NAS 1 and 2. The conditions of these small narrow country roads is in fact one reason the speed limit is only 30 KPH. I urge all of our Sig’ Citizens to moderate their speeds and drive defensively, not only in the triangle, but wherever they are. While a bit longer in distance, there is an alternate route between NAS I and NAS II via the SS 417 and SS 192 which both received recent upgrades/repaving. Again thank you for your comments and for voicing your concern.
JUNE 16, 2017
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mara Uriarte and Military Working Dog Barry Hometown: Indio, California
Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mara Uriarte is one of just a few Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers keeping Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella safe and secure. Not every base is lucky enough to have MWD’s, and it’s quite difficult for Sailors to achieve the NEC allowing them to work with the dogs. “I was the MA who stood out on the gates in Bahrain—I didn’t have the NEC I do now,” said Uriarte. “So I had to volunteer on my off time and go to the kennels there, then got a recommendation to go to dog school by the kennel master. It took me almost 2 years.” Uriarte patrols NAS Sigonella with her MWD, Barry, and also has a handful of collateral duties that keep her busy. “I am the public affairs officer for the kennels. I also deal with the vet, making sure all the MWD’s are deployable, making sure all their medications are given and they are weighed according to our instruction. I’m also the drug custodian; I make sure all the narcotics are all accounted for. Lastly I’m the career counselor for the kennel and a Field Training Officer.”
When she’s not doing one of her many collateral duties or working with Barry, Uriarte does volunteer work and demonstrations with the community, spreading awareness about their job and educating people. “When I’m not working or volunteering I’m going to school,” said Uriarte. “Right now I’m taking two classes, which is not a lot, but we work 5 days a week, 11 hours a day, so it can be a lot sometimes. Other than that I like to travel, try to see the sights around here.”
Uriarte’s busy schedule doesn’t give her much time for hobbies or free time, with most of her time being spent on homework. When she does find time, Uriarte enjoys reading and travelling. “I actually like Sigonella, I was stationed in Bahrain before and that’s a much heavier pace, you’re standing out at the gate, it’s hotter, you cant really travel anywhere,” said Uriarte. “Here in Sigonella I think the chain of command is amazing, they’re really good at giving us days off all the time. It’s really cool and builds moral.”
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887
SIGONELLA, Sicily (June 9, 2017) – Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mara Uriarte and Military Working Dog (MWD) Barry search for training aides during a joint-agency MWD training with local Italian agencies on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. NAS Sigonella is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed and when they are needed to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)
SIGONELLA, Sicily (June 9, 2017) – Master-at-Arms 1st Class Joshua Sowa guides Military Working Dog (MWD) Ciro through a training course during a joint-agency MWD training with local Italian agencies on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. NAS Sigonella is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed and when they are needed to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy. mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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JUNE 16, 2017
Lady Jaguars: Softball European Champions By Steve Larson, Sigonella Softball Coach
After a fast start to the 2017 softball season, it looked like the Sigonella Lady Jaguars were on their way to another shot at the DII/III European Championship title, considering they left Naples with a 4-0 record and impressive wins over division rival, Aviano and Division I Vicenza. After a poor showing at Naples, and an equally poor showing at Aviano, and a couple of losses at home, the Lady Jags were 4-6 and stumbling into Champs. To say this team peaked at Europeans would be an understatement. They started fast out of the gate with a 20 to 0 no-hit drubbing of Bitburg. Hanna Barnes pitched a no hitter and also hit a homerun into the leftfield scoreboard. Speaking of Hanna Barnes, this would be the first game she had pitched since last year’s European Championships. Hanna sustained a serious knee injury in December while playing basketball and had major reconstructive knee surgery. For her to come back and pitch a mere five months later was a major accomplishment and showed her commitment to the team. Shaina Lucio hit a double, scored three runs and drove in five. Kisiah Chandler drove in four runs, and Hanna Barnes hit a homerun and drove in three. Our second game was against our Southern Division/Divison II/III rival and defending Division II/III champion, Aviano. Both teams scored seven runs in their halves of the first inning and were held scoreless in the second inning. Sigonella held on and won 14 to 13. We played our third game against Hohenfels, the team that knocked us out of our championship run last year. After a slow start for both teams, Sigonella eventually pulled ahead and won 8 to 4. Hanna Barnes pitched a masterful game allowing 4 hits and no walks. Elizabeth Camus was the offensive star of the game going two for four with two doubles and three runs batted in. Rota, an unknown, due to their remote geographic location, was on tap
The Lady Jaguars pose for a group photo after winning the DII/III European Championship Title. (Photo by Ed Lucio)
for our fourth game. Hanna Barnes allowed only 5 runs, all in the third inning, and Sigonella pulled away for a 11 to 5 victory. Hannah Davis was stout at catcher and went two for two with two doubles and two runs batted in. In a game of little consequence (we were already in the Championship game), Sigonella had a bit of a letdown at the beginning against AF North. We were 4-0 and AF North was 0-4 coming into the game. AF North scored 5 runs in the first inning, were held scoreless in the second and rallied in the third inning with 8 more runs. Sigonella scored three in the first, four in the second, and won a thriller with seven runs in the bottom of the third to pull out a 14 to 13 victory. Hanna Barnes pitched in relief and secured her fifth straight win for the tournament. Kisiah Chandler hit a bomb over the center field fence and added three runs batted in. Hannah Davis continued her hot hitting ways by lacing a double, scoring three runs and driving in two.
The championship game featured a rematch with Bitburg.. Their starting pitcher threw hard, which is what our girls excel at hitting. We were held scoreless while Bitburg scored two runs. We put four runs on them in the top of the second while holding them in check the bottom of the second. Unfortunately, Martina Raco went down with a knee injury on a play at the plate in the second inning and, although safe at home, was out of the game. We tacked on three more runs in our half of the third while holding Bitburg scoreless in their half. We only mustered one run in the top of the fourth, but so did Bitburg, making the score to 8 to 3. They held us scoreless in the top of the fifth and put up a fight in the bottom of the fifth. • Their first batter hit a hard ground ball to shortstop which was fielded cleanly by Elizabeth Camus, who threw to first for out number one. • Their second batter was walked. • Their third batter hit a sharp single to right, thus enabling the runner of first to move to third.
• The fourth batter was hit by a pitch, thus loading the bases. • Batter number five it a ground ball to second base, which went under our second baseman’s glove, allowing two runs to score, making the game 8 to 5. • The sixth batter hit a pop fly to first base which was easily caught by Kisiah Chandler for the second out • Hanna Barnes reared back and struck out their leadoff batter and seventh batter of the inning. Olivia Soper, in for a dehydrated Hannah Davis at catcher, held on to the third strike, and Sigonella was victorious! Hanna Barnes was the MVP of the European Championship Kisiah Chandler and Hannah Davis made the All-Tournament Team. This would prove to be the first softball championship in Sigonella history, and what history we made. We could not have done it without the administration, the coaches (Larson, Tim Barnes, Melissa Barnes, Chad Davis, Britt Conner and Trish Van Wagner), the parents and the players.
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Vino e Birra: What to Know Before You Go By Tia Nichole McMillen, NAVSUP Public Affairs Officer
The Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella is in charge of all household goods operations throughout the 6th Fleet area of operations. As PCS season looms closer, many of you are asking how to ship those bottles of wine collected on myriad MWR trips over the years. Your Responsibilities: 1. Research all requirements to ship alcohol to the U.S. 2. Contact the state Alcohol Beverage Control Board (ABC) for shipment destination and obtain your state’s permits/exemptions (in writing) or pay required state taxes for shipment, when required. 3. Pay ALL Federal Internal Revenue Tax (IRT) and state taxes on all alcoholic beverages BEFORE it is picked up at origin OR upon arrival of shipment in the U.S. 4. Acquire appropriate importation permits or license when required. 5. Comply with all federal and state alcohol beverage shipment laws. 6. Provide accurate inventory to local Personal Property Office. 7. Complete the Alcohol Shipping Counseling Worksheet and turn into the Personal Property Office. 8. After obtaining information from your destination state, you MUST contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection at port of entry with the following: a. Who you are b. Why you are requesting permit c. Address at final destination d. Accurate email address e. Copy of permit from destination state f. Copy of detailed alcohol inventory Note: Failure to comply with these responsibilities could result in refusal of a government arranged shipment. Before You Ship: Prepare an accurate inventory spreadsheet of the shipment, to include: a. Description (Producer/Vineyard) b. Type of alcoholic beverage (red, white, sparkling, beer, etc.) c. Year of vintage d. Liquid content of each bottle (750 ml etc) e. Alcoholic content by volume (percentage) f. Quantity of each type g. Total value each bottle in U.S. $$$ h. Total (overall) value in U.S. dollars i. Origin (Ex. France, Spain, Italy, etc.) Obtain signed Power-of-Attorney giving Transportation Service Provider (TSP aka moving company) agent authority to act as clearance agent with U.S. Customs at port of entry. NOTE: If TSP requires a brokerage service, this cost is included as part of the shipment service. Service members and employees ARE NOT required to pay brokerage fees, if requested by TSP. USMC Policy: 1. Alcohol WILL NOT be shipped as part of the
HHG shipment or any other government arranged shipment. 2. You may ship alcohol as a Personally Procured Move (PPM) and seek reimbursement from the Transportation Voucher Certification Branch (TVCB). 3. Follow instructions in MCO 4600.39, Chapter 3, para-graph 1, subparagraph g(4) for proper submission of a PPM claim. 4. The weight of any alcohol shipments counts toward the overall maximum authorized weight allowance.
Prohibited Items in Alcoholic Beverages: • Beverages containing wildlife/wildlife parts, such as snakes, scorpions, etc. • Beverages with agricultural products, such as root products, etc. • Beverages carbonated or under pressure to include champagne, pressurized beer products • Open containers Federal IRS Excise Tax Rates on Alcohol and Beer: (FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY MAY VARY) <14% ALCOHOL $0.21/750ml Bottle 14-20% ALCOHOL $0.31/750ml Bottle 21-24% ALCOHOL $0.62/750ml Bottle Naturally Sparkling $0.67/750ml Bottle Beer (Regular Rate) $0.05/12 oz. Can Disclaimer: Customs and Border Protection district directors have wide discretion whether or not a particular shipment is in fact, for personal use only. Helpful Links: State Alcohol Beverage Control Boards: www.ttb. gov/wine/state-ABC.shtml US Customs and Border Protection: help.cbp.gov/ app/answers/detail/a_id/356/kw/household%20goods/related/1 US Ports of Entry Contacts: BALTIMORE: (410) 865-2020 / Fax: (410) 865-2025 CHARLESTON: (843) 579-6533/6524 LOS ANGELES: (562) 366-5712 / Fax: (562) 628-7902 / Email: la_app_712@cbp.dhs.gov NORFOLK: (757) 858-6196 / Fax: (757) 858-6274 Contact information: Navy Assistance: Email: householdgoods@navy.mil Customer HHG website: https://www.navsup.navy. mil/household Customer Contact Center: 855-HHG-MOVE (855-444-6683) Marine Corps Assistance: usmcpersonalproperty@usmc.mil Social media links: www.facebook.com/navyhhg www.pinterest.com/navyhhg www.youtube.com/navyhhg www.twitter.com/navyhhg
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JUNE 16, 2017
St. John the Baptist Festival in Acitrezza June 23-25 Story by Alberto Lunetta
It’s that time of the year again! Once again, “Trizzoti” (Acitrezza townspeople) will keep alive an ancient tradition displaying deep religious devotion and showing the special bond that the town has with the sea. “San Giovanni Battista” or St. John the Baptist has been venerated in Acitrezza for over 300 years through a spectacular festival that is typically held from June 23 thru 25. Highlights include religious processions that will be held throughout the historic center and along the seaside. Spectacular performances such as the “U pisci a mari” pantomime and the “Calata dell’Angelo” (Descent of the Angel) will also be staged. The festival revolves around the “Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista” (St. John the Baptist Parish) that hosts both the wooden statue depicting San Giovanni Battista and the saint’s relics. Prince Stefano Riggio, the founder of Acitrezza, built the “Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista” in 1693 to replace another church erected in 1678 and dedicated to San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph) that was destroyed by a violent earthquake. Shortly after the erection of the church, the people of Acitrezza asked for the making of a statue depicting San Giovanni Battista. Historians have conflicting opinions on who carved this beautiful sculpture. Some believe that the sculptor was a “trizzoto” named Castorina or Lo Faro. Legend has it that the artist shut himself up inside the “Palazzo del Principe di Acitrezza” (Palace of the Prince of Acitrezza) for three months and carved the statue taking as a model a member of the Giletti family from Acitrezza. Stories also say that the eccentric sculptor would accept food only if it was lowered from the palace’s roof whose tiles were temporary removed. Therefore, nobody saw the “statua” (statue) until it was completed. When the sculpture was finished, it was placed in small niche above the main altar named “Cammaredda” where it is still preserved up to today. The statue is over 300 years old but it is still perfectly preserved, a detail that has contributed to the mystique surrounding this amazing piece of art. Recently, historians have indeed attributed the statue to an anonymous sculptor of the second half of the 17th century Neapolitan school. Festival schedule On June 23, the eve of the main festival day, Holy Mass is celebrated at 7 p.m. In the evening, the saint relics are brought in procession, (around 8 p.m.) escorted by the town band and the Malta Knights, through the historic center. A music show will end the first day at 9 p.m. June 24 is the climax of the celebrations. Festival starts at 10 a.m. with the moving unveiling of the statue. Later at 10:30, the bishop of Acireale celebrates a solemn Holy Mass at the St. John the Baptist Parish. In the afternoon, after the town band performance at 4 p.m., the “U pisci a mari” performance begins at the “Barriera” district at 5 p.m. with a group of fishermen in castoff clothing (a straw hat, a red shirt, tattered shorts, and a yellow sash; yellow and red are the colors of the saint) tied together by a rope walking towards the pier while dancing and singing among a large crowd. Three performers jump on a boat that is decorated with flowers, and yellow and red ribbons. The fourth actor a skilled swimmer, who plays the swordfish, dives into the water. The fifth performer plays the Raisi or crew leader. He places himself on the highest point of the pier giving directions to capture the fish. Once the swordfish is sighted, the Raisi shouts phrases in ancient Sicilian inciting the fishermen to catch it. After several attempts, the fish is eventually caught. The fishermen hoist it aboard and try to butcher it. But the swordfish manages to escape twice. The fishing goes on and the fishermen capture the swordfish again (this time it is a real one, usually a dead shark or tuna fish). But once again, while the fishermen are about to praise the tastiness of the fish, it escapes disappearing into the sea. The fishermen give up in despair, argue and overturn the boat. The pantomime is over. Later at 7 p.m., a solemn procession (Trionfale uscita del venerato simulacro del Santo Patrono) starts from piazza Giovanni Verga. Devotees screaming: “Viva San Giovanni” (Long live St. John) accompany the statue depicting the saint through the streets of the southern part Acitrezza.
"FESTIVAL" continued on Page 14
Make sure you mark on your calendar for the spectacular annual religious festival honoring St. John the Baptist that will take place in Acitrezza from June 23-25. Celebrations include processions, arts and crafts as well as the spectacular pantomime named “The fish in the sea.” (Photo by http://www.festasangiovanni.it)
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USS Gabrielle Giffords Commissioned in Galveston From Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs
GALVESTON, Texas (NNS) -- USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10), the Navy's newest littoral combat ship, was brought to life by her crew before a crowd of nearly 2,500 guests at Pier 21 at the Port of Galveston, June 10. Adm. William Moran, Vice Chief of Naval Operations, delivered the ceremony's principal address before officially commissioning the ship into service. "As we man the rails today, blood gets pumped, the ship comes alive, and the heart begins to beat," said Moran. "It's the blood that is infused by the spirit, the attitude, and the courage of its namesake. We are so proud to be part of Gabrielle Giffords' legacy to the
United States." Following the commissioning, Dr. Jill Biden, the ship's sponsor and wife of former Vice President Joe Biden, gave the time-honored Navy tradition of ordering the crew to "man our ship and bring her to life!" The crowd sounded its approval as the crew ran aboard the ship to man their assigned stations and complete the ceremony of bringing the ship into active service to end a story that began more than five years ago. In 2012 the Secretary of the Navy announced th future ship's name, and USS Gabrielle Giffords became the 16th ship to be named for a woman and only the 13th ship to be named for a living person since 1850.
GALVESTON, Texas (June 10, 2017) The littoral combat ship USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10), the Navy's newest littoral combat ship, was brought to life by her crew before a crowd of nearly 2,500 guests at Pier 21 at the Port of Galveston. In 2012 the Secretary of the Navy announced the future ship's name and USS Gabrielle Giffords became the 16th ship to be named for a woman and only the 13th ship to be named for a living person since 1850. The ship is commanded by Cmdr. Keith Woodley, a native of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, who leads the core crew of 50 officers and enlisted personnel. The 3,200-ton Gabrielle Giffords was built by Austal USA in Mobile, Ala. The ship is 421 feet in length, has a beam of 103 feet, and a navigational draft of 15 feet. The ship uses two gas turbine and two diesel engines to power four steerable waterjets to speeds in excess of 40 knots. USS Gabrielle Giffords will depart Galveston and begin her transit to her homeport at Naval Base San Diego. (U.S. Navy video frame grab/Released)
The ship is commanded by Cmdr. Keith Woodley, a native of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, who leads the core crew of 50 officers and enlisted personnel. During the ceremony Woodley praised the crew for their dedication and hard work in getting the ship ready for service. "This is not just a new ship. This is a new class of ship and that makes it even more challenging for the crew," said Woodley. "They have risen to that challenge and performed exceptionally well in getting this ship ready for service." Most other Navy surface combatant ships have a crew of 300 or more Sailors, but littoral combat ships like Gabrielle Giffords have more automated systems and much smaller crews than their counterparts. Gabrielle Giffords' crew is just 73 at the ship's commissioning. "It's not easy being an LCS Sailor," said Gunner's Mate 1st Class Mark Dobrinin. "We have to wear so many hats and be trained on systems and duties outside of our normal job specialty due to the small crew size. Every enlisted Sailor here volunteered for the program and we're excited to serve on USS Gabrielle Giffords." The 3,200-ton Gabrielle Giffords was built by Austal USA in Mobile, Alabama. The ship is 421 feet in length and has a beam of 103 feet and a navigational draft of 15 feet. The ship uses two gas turbine and two diesel engines to power four steerable waterjets to speeds in excess of 40 knots. Littoral combat ships are fast, agile, mission-focused platforms designed to operate in near-shore environments, while capable of open-ocean tasking, and win against 21st-century coastal threats such as submarines, mines, and swarming small craft. A fast, maneuverable, and networked surface combatant, Gabrielle Giffords is capable of operating independently or with an associated strike group. It is designed to defeat growing littoral threats and prvide access and dominance in coastal waters. USS Gabrielle Giffords will depart Galveston and begin her transit to her homeport at Naval Base San Diego.
Retirement Comparison Calculator Officially Released From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy announced Tuesday in NAVADMIN 133/17, the official release of the DoD Blended Retirement System (BRS) Comparison Calculator on the Military Compensation BRS web page, and reminded Sailors to take the mandatory BRS OptIn course on Navy eLearning. The BRS Comparison Calculator is designed to assist eligible service members in comparing the legacy military retirement system and BRS and used in conjunction with the mandatory BRS Opt-In Course. It can be found at http:// militarypay.defense.gov/Calculators/BRS/.
Another tool for Sailors to help select which retirement system works best for them is the Navy Financial Literacy app. It's designed to provide Sailors with access to both training and resources that are especially critical during the transition to BRS. The free app is available for download at the Google Play and iTunes app stores. To find the app, search "Navy Financial Literacy" in the app store or in your web browser. The decision to stay in the current retirement system or opt into BRS is an important and irrevocable decision that eligible Sailors must make based on their own individual circumstances. The BRS Comparison Calculator and the mandatory
Opt-In Training are tools designed to help opt-in eligible Sailors make this crucial decision. Along with the BRS Opt-In training and Comparison Calculator, Sailors can seek financial information and counsel from their command financial specialists, or personal financial managers at Fleet and Family Support Centers. Military OneSource personal financial counselors are also available to assist on line at http://www.militaryonesource.mil/ or via telephone at 800-342-9647. The mandatory opt-in training for those opt-in eligible mem-
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WASHINGTON (June 6, 2017) The official Department of Defense Blended Retirement Comparison Calculator is now available. Users can access the calculator at http://militarypay.defense. gov/calculators/brs. (U.S. Navy graphic/Released)
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Congratulatio
1 , 2 and 3 C st
nd
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ons to the Newest
Class Petty Officers
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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: PROFESSION OF ARMS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE (PACE) EVENT
(ARC) VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION
Command, Department or Organization: Sigonella Top IV Date of Event: June 30 Time of Event: 0730-1200 Location of Event: NAS I Midtown Theatre Point of Contact Name: Sigonella Top IV Point of Contact Email Address: david.sykes@us.af.mil Additional Information: Profession of Arms Center of Excellence (PACE) presents Professionalism: Enhancing Human Capital seminar with guest speaker SMSgt Keith Castille at the NAS I Midtown Theatre. Open to all ranks/branches, and sponsored by the Sigonella Top IV committee.
Command, Department or Organization: American Red Cross Date of Event: June 21 Time of Event: 12:00pm-12:30pm Location of Event: Red Cross Classroom Bldg. 318 2nd Floor Point of Contact Name: American Red Cross Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4900 Point of Contact Email Address: Sigonella@RedCross.Org Additional Information: The American Red Cross is conducting its pre-requisite Volunteer Orientation for anyone interested in becoming an American Red Cross Volunteer. T he course covers how to log volunteer hours, sign up for shifts, and familiarization of the American Red Cross. No previous training or requirements expected.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services
Weekly Traffic Report: June 5 - June 12, 2017
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
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Mondays AA Meeting: . . . . . 1800-1900 Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . 0900-1100 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . 1130-1230 AWANA: . . . . . . . . . 1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . 1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: . 0600-0700 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): . 1600-1800 Thursdays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . 1200-1530 Choir Practice: . . . . 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2030 Fridays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . 1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1830
Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): . . . . . . . . 1045-1200 Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600
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Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . . 1800-2100 Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . 1800-1900 Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . 1800-2000
Ristorante Bella Etna
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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Sigonella Dive Club and the Handicapped Scuba Association Partner to Complete Underwater CleanUp
A member of the Sigonella Scuba Dive Club picks up trash during an underwater clean up at Santa Maria La Scala in Acireale. This is the 13th underwater cleanup project that the Sigonella Dive Club and Handicapped Scuba Association have completed together. (Photo by Alfio Balsamo)
Carmelo La Rocca, President of the Sigonella Scuba Dive Club, instructs Sigonella Dive Club members prior to beginning an underwater cleanup project at Santa Maria La Scala in Acireale. This is the 13th underwater cleanup project that the Sigonella Dive Club and Handicapped Scuba Association have completed together. (Photo by Alfio Balsamo)
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GAMEZONE The Beach
STARFISH SUNGLASSES SUNSCREEN SUNSHINE SURFBOARD SURFING SWIMMING SWIMSUIT T SHIRT TOWEL VOLLEYBALL WADING WATER WAVES
MEDIUM
SEASHELL SEASHORE SKY
EASY
BARE FEET BEACH BALL BOAT CLOUDS DRIFTWOOD HAT KITE LIFEGUARD OCEAN PAIL PIER SAILING SAND SEAGULL
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the beach words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell an additional beach word.
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"FESTIVAL" cont'd from Pg. 6 At 8:30 p.m. and later at 10:30 p.m., the “Calata dell’Angelo” (Descent of the Angel) is staged in piazza delle Scuole. This performance, which is accompanied by music and fireworks in the background, features the descent of an angel that pays homage to the touring statue of the saint on behalf of the city districts. A concert of the Italian Army brass band (Fanfara Bersaglieri dell’Etna) will be held at 9 p.m. in the main square. At the end of the tour (around 11:30 p.m.), devotees perform the “Cussa” (the run) that consists of covering the last route of the procession (via Provinciale) running while carrying the statue. A firework show ends the festivities while the statue is placed back into the Parrocchia di San Giovanni. On the last day of the festival, June 25, holy mass is celebrated at 11:30 a.m. at the St John Parish. In the evening at 7 p.m., a procession leaves from piazza Giovanni Verga and proceeds through the northern part of the town until late at night. During the procession at 8 p.m., the “Calata dell’Angelo” show is replicated in via Provinciale. A breathtaking midnight fireworks show, by world-renowned company Vaccalluzzo, will be staged around midnight. The festival will then end with the “Cussa” performance. For detailed schedule visit http:// www.festasangiovanni.it/ or www.parrocchiaacitrezza.it
Mafia boss's (proposed) early release to 'die with dignity' angers families of his victims Story by Reuters/IANS/AKI Italian politicians and relatives of victims of organized crime have voiced anger at a court ruling that opens the way for an ailing Mafia boss known as “the Beast” to be freed to “die with dignity”. Salvatore “Toto” Riina, from the Sicilian hill town of Corleone made famous in The Godfather movies, was
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jailed in 1993. Known for his exceptional brutality, he was for years the Sicilian Mafia’s “Boss of all Bosses”. Riina declared a “war against the state” and ordered the killings of magistrates Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino in 1992. Both were blown up by bombs in attacks that left nine others dead. Responding to a request by Riina’s lawyers, Italy highest court ruled late on Monday he had a right to “die with dignity” under house arrest like any other terminally ill prisoner. He is believed to have cancer, heart problems and Parkinson’s disease. The final decision rests with a parole board in the northern city of Bologna, near Parma, where Riina, 86, is being held. Last year it dismissed a petition for his release and it was unclear when it would review its decision following the high court’s ruling. “The court should have remembered that the person before them is same one who blew to bits servants of the state and ordered that a little boy be dissolved in acid,” said Salvatore Borsellino, brother of the slain magistrate. Borsellino, who made the comment in Corriere della Sera newspaper, was referring to 13-year-old Giuseppe Di Matteo. He was strangled and his body dissolved in acid in 1996 to punish his father, an ex-member of the Mafia who collaborated with police. Leaders across the political spectrum agreed Riina should spend his final days in prison. “I am speechless,” said Matteo Salvini, head of the right-wing Northern League. “The dozens of victims who should weigh on his conscience and were brutally killed, including women and children, should have had the right to die with dignity,” he said. “We will not allow Riina to return to Corleone,” said Carmelo Miceli, head of the centre-left Democratic Party in the Sicilian capital, Palermo. Ailing Sicilian mafia ‘boss of bosses’ Salvatore ‘Toto’ Riina, is “perfectly lucid”, prosecutor Nino Di Matteo on Friday told a trial on alleged negotiations between the Italian state and the mafia to halt a deadly bombing campaign in the early 1990s.
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"CONGRATULATIONS" cont'd from Pg. 1 you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming.' So as you move forward in the next chapter of your lives, put forth your best self and take some advice from Walt Disney. 'All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them." The 2017 class Valedictorian was Hanna Barnes and during the address, she urged her fellow classmates to embrace the future and the changes ahead. “Class of 2017, we made it,” said Barnes. “Throughout our childhood we questioned what we wanted to do when we grow up or who we want to be. No matter the course you take, college, military or the workforce, changes will come that may challenge your perseverance and integrity. For instance, you may begin working towards a major and realize that your passion lies elsewhere. You may have disregarded the idea of joining the military, but later see the value of defending your country. Each of us will face great change. Living on our own and jumping in
"CALCULATOR" cont'd from Pg. 7 bers is available on Navy eLearning at https://www.aas.prod.nel.training. navy.mil/ELIAASv2p/ or Joint Knowledge Online (JKO) at https://jkodirect. jten.mil/html/COI.xhtml?course_ pre f i x = J 3 O & c ou rs e _ nu mb e r = PUS1332 (course #: J3O P-US1332). Commands can also request no cost DVDs through the Defense Imagery Management Operations Center at http://www.dimoc.mil/customer/contact.html. In the order forms comments
to adulthood. I urge you to welcome these changes with open arms and embrace them.” Barnes went on to discuss the value of hard work and the importance of never forgetting where you came from. “Whatever path you take, with determination and hard work you will be led to great places. However, wherever you go, always remember your roots. It is vital to remember the people and places that shaped you, because without them we would not be where we are today,” said Barnes. “When you remember Sigonella, remember the acceptance, compassion and patience it taught us and apply it to everyday life. Stay motivated and hungry for knowledge. There is much more to be discovered and done in this world and we have the ability to make great change.” After the presentation of diplomas and certification of the Class of 2017 by Sigonella Middle High School Principal Phyllis Fuglarr, the graduating class concluded the ceremony by tossing their caps in the air. section include Course Title (J3OPUS1332 Blended Retirement System Opt-In (2hrs)), Pin Number 505679, quantity (provide justification if ordering over 50 copies), branch of service, and shipping address including name of person receiving the package. For the most up-to-date information on BRS and links to training go to the Uniform Services Blended Retirement web page at http://militarypay. defense.gov/BlendedRetirement/. NAVADMIN 133/17 can be read at www.npc.navy.mil.
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International Day of Yoga By LT Katrina Lutfy, Sigonella Health Promotion
The United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014. Every year, the International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga, an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India. This year, MWR, the USO, and Health Promotion are teaming up to bring
the International Day of Yoga to Sigonella! On June 21, from 0600-0700 on the NAS II turf field, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll sweat together as the Sun rises for the Summer Solstice! Our invigorating, one-hour yoga practice will be led by MWRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fantastic Heather Jones-Proctor. Active duty service members and their family members are welcome! If you have your own yoga mat and water bottle, please bring them. We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, June 21, at 0600. Namaste!
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