Fuel for the Fleet
Sigonella Elementary School
November Update
Veterans Day Tribute
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PAGES 8-9
Safety Corner
N A S SIG O N E L L A
Safety Recognizes the CDSO of the Quarter
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
Vol. 34 No. 43
Reliant FPCON EX 2017: Keeping Sig’ Safe
SIGONELLA, Sicily (November 7, 2017) – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella security personnel respond to a simulated hostage situation during Reliant Force Protection Condition (FPCON) Exercise 2017. 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) By MC2 Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – On Nov. 7 a knife-wielding Master-at-Arms entered the Community Bank on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and took three hostages, stabbing two before being detained; all simulated, of course, during the Reliant Force Protection Condition Exercise (FPCON EX) 2017. Reliant 2017 consisted of a two-day
integrated exercise with multiple simulated threats ranging from a hostage situation involving mass casualties to an unknown vehicle conducting surveillance at the front gate. “This was a great opportunity for us as a department to evaluate ourselves on a large scale that included all of the divisions,” said Chief Master-at-Arms Damien Brehmer, Antiterrorism Officer for NAS Sigonella. “The exercise went very well, we identified areas of improvement and incorporated con-
SIGONELLA, Sicily (November 7, 2017) – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella medical personnel respond to a simulated mass casualty during Reliant Force Protection Condition (FPCON) Exercise 2017. 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)
tingencies to mitigate some of the challenges we’ve had in the past.” The exercise incorporated training for Navy Security Forces (NSF), Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), Military Working Dogs (MWD’s), Fire, Medical, and Italian agencies, and tested the ability of those departments to communicate with one another during each event. “This is one of the most beneficial exercises because it is all hands on deck,” said Brehmer. “We recall Security Force and Auxiliary Security Force personnel and have to overcome the hurdles associated with the increased number of personnel and security measures.” The exercise occurred on standard workdays during normal operations. Throughout the two days, NAS Sigonella’s FPCON escalated to FPCON Delta, the highest level of security. “NAS Sigonella’s Training teams plan, brief, execute, and debrief regular integrated exercises to test our antiterrorism and emergency management plans,” said Chris “Frog” Steinnecker, the Installation Training Officer for NAS Sigonella. “These exercises allow our tenant commands, fire responders, security forces, medical and incident management personnel to practice command, control and communications with the goal of improving our readiness to respond to, and recover from, potential attacks and natural disasters.” FPCONS are a system of protective
measures used by Department of Defense installations and organizations to guard against and deter terrorist attacks. Senior commanders assign FPCONs for their region, and installation commanders may raise FPCONs and tighten security measures based on local conditions. During FPCON Delta all nonessential activities and movements are suspended and resources are focused on defense against attack. This exercise focused on security, a key line of operation for Region EURAFSWA. Security, along with the seven other lines of operations: air operations, port operations, safety, housing, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), Fleet and Family services, and the core, are what enable installations to ensure U.S. and allied forces are able to conduct the full spectrum of operations throughout the region. Naval Air Station Sigonella: "The Hub of the Med," is a U.S. Navy installation and an Italian Air Force base in Sicily, Italy. 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. Through our lines of operation, our installations are force multipliers that maximize combat capability of operational units.
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
Direct Line
Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran, NAS Sigonella Executive Officer Greetings Team Sigonella, It has been more than three months since I checked aboard, and almost as much time since I took the opportunity to put something out in the Direct Line. In the first iteration I mentioned how happy I was to be here and what a great team that I was fortunate enough to be joining. That most certainly still holds true today - I am thrilled to be on such a great team in such a great place! I also mentioned that this isn’t the first time I’ve been given the opportunity to serve as an installation Executive Officer. In many ways my previous experiences have prepared me for the job. I have experience with the programs, I understand the missions, and if I am uncertain about something I know right where to look to find answers. That has made the transition here to Sigonella much easier. However, I must confess that there is something that I will never, ever, get comfortable with. That is the phone
calls I receive telling me that a Sailor, Marine, Airman, Soldier or any member of our team and our community has been involved in an accident. It is the worst thing to hear in any given situation. Unfortunately, I am one of the first to hear of all the mishaps and misfortunes that befall our team and our community. It is an inbuilt part of the job. Over the years I have been informed of countless on and off-duty traffic accidents, from simple fender-benders to horrific fatalities, and every conceivable typedescription in between. There are varying degrees of severity, and none of them are good to hear. I give a sigh of relief when the voice on the other end says “no injuries.” Unfortunately that is not always the case. The Signature publishes a weekly traffic report, tracking accidents and injuries for the past year. As of this week we are looking at 210 accidents, 32 injuries, and 1 fatality. Since the day I arrived on Sicily three months
ago our community has witnessed 55 accidents and 8 injuries. Earlier today (and not reflected in the current stats) I received two calls regarding two separate accidents, one with injuries, and no kidding, as I am writing this article now the CDO called to inform me of another one – thankfully with no injuries. One thing I am acutely aware of when I do get these calls is that I am not the only one who is going to receive the news. With each call I know there are ultimately family members, close friends, colleagues, and chains of command who will be severely affected by whatever news that follows. In many instances I am fortunate. I am relieved that the news will be somewhat happy and will be met with a “…..well, we are just so relieved you are OK.” Other times I get a call and I know that the days that follow will be full of apprehension and uncertainty for so many people as a loved one languishes in the hospital after a serious
accident. Most sadly of all, there are times I am faced with the reality that the next call that is made will be the worst one of all. It is mid-November and we are coming into the holiday season that stretches through to the beginning of the New Year. The holidays bring a chance to wind down, relax, and spend more down time with family
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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 “Bravo Zulu for Human Resources Office”:
The Housing Program would like to thank the Human Resource Office (HRO) for the support they’ve given us this last year. As the Housing Director I would like to thank Vittoria Cugnata and Rosanna Arico for all their support processing Housing Program’s Request for Personnel Actions (RPA) for all employees’ awards, evaluations, and our employee recognition program. They alone processed over 50 RPAs for the housing program last year. Urso Agatina and Sonya Sofia have processed more than 12 RPA’s for filling of job vacancies, reclassification of Position Descriptions, advertising of vacant positions and providing certificates to help the Housing Program fill its needs. Filling these positions was instrumental in improving Housing Program customer service. Antonella Randazzo has always been polite and very professional when answering the phone and e-mails, and following up with me by leaving messages for the HRO staff. The Housing program is just one program of many here at NAS Sigonella, so HRO has a continuous workload to deal with besides us. Currently the Housing program is partnering up with Violet Grima at HRO to streamline the utilities reconciliation process for civilians to improve a faster process. Mrs. Burnside from HRO has been extremely helpful in getting this process started. I just want the Commanding Officer and the base to know that the Housing Program really appreciates the great work that HRO does for us. Sincerely, Peter C. Faulk, Installation Housing Director
Response:
Thank you Mr. Faulk for your kind words and I will pass to HRO. Due to being the you Mr. Faulk for your kind words and I will pass them to HRO. Due to being the primary interface with the hiring/firing of personnel HRO sometimes receives some unwarranted negative feedback even though they are all doing their best to provide the best employees and work environment for all Sigonella Citizens. They are committed to the fair treatment of all and do their utmost to make sure we have the best possible employees to accomplish the incredibly important missions here at NAS Sigonella.
Comment regarding “Auto Skills Center parking”:
Sir, I just left the Auto Skills shop quite confused, and a little frustrated. I pulled into a parking spot labeled with an Auto Skills sign warning that fees may apply. I walked in and asked for a tool box to use in the parking lot, but the attendant informed me that the new procedures don’t allow tools to be used outside the premises. I questioned him further but he directed me to the shop manager Paul. I called Paul, who I'm familiar with, and he confirmed the new policy. Supposedly, the tools may not be used off premises, which include the parking spots. Keep in mind, they may charge you to park in these spots overnight, but still consider them "off premises". I've spent quite a bit of time and
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Equipment Operator
Constructionman Ian Wood Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina Department: Public Works Transportation
Throughout Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella most commands and departments either operate a government vehicle or at least check one out from time-to-time. Equipment Operator Constructionman Ian Wood is in charge of maintaining and washing most of those vehicles, keeping Public Works’ transportation assets in pristine condition. “I also am in charge of about 300 plus collateral pieces of equipment, including straps, chains, and chain binders, things like that,” said Wood. “In general if I wasn’t at this specific command I could be operating basically any construction equipment you would see at a construction site.” Wood washes around 25 vehicles weekly along with doing the general maintenance and upkeep. Additionally, Wood transports the required water purification materials between NAS 1 and NAS 2, but also assists in transporting other assorted equipment or necessary materials. “I love my job, being an equipment
operator is the best job you can do,” said Wood. “You just couldn’t pick a better group of people to work with—Seabees are some of the best people you’re going to meet.” On top of his work schedule, Wood volunteers his time doing Community Relation (COMREL) projects, helping out with Autumnfest and working with the Seabee Ball committee. “Seventeen other Seabees and I went out and cleared away a bunch of weeds and shrubs from an old house with the Boy Scouts,” said Wood. “We did a lot of dry wall and redid some of
"ICE" continued from Page 2 money at Auto Skills centers around the world, and this is highly irregular. I didn't read the new policy to see if Paul is misinterpreting it. If it's black and white, it should be changed. It's crazy to me that I can't tighten my valve cover that's leaking oil all over the place until John Doe is finished learning how to replace his breaks. Even worse, if I must take a bay to tighten my valve cover, then I'm blocking someone from using the lift. Also, Paul said this change was to increase the profitability of the Auto Skills shop which I would love to help with. I can hardly believe that reducing work areas will increase profits. This will reduce a bottleneck at the Auto Skills center, and promote the usage of its facilities while increasing its profitability. I realize this may be outside your immediate control, but you have quite a bit more weight than I do, and maybe a friendly suggestion would help. I hope to continue supporting and promoting this excellent resource in the future! Thank you. Sincerely, AS2 Reitz
Response:
AS2 Reitz, thank you for your feedback regarding the policies at the MWR Auto Skills Center. I hope this response will give you a better understanding of the policies. In order to check out a tool box or work in a bay, all patrons must complete the ASC waiver, which includes a safety brief about hazardous material, tool boxes, and other important information. The ASC keeps a record of what policies each person has reviewed during their safety brief. For safety reasons, the tool boxes should not be used outside the bays of the ASC
the house, it wasn’t in bad shape it just needed a little fixing so we helped out.” When he’s not volunteering or working, Wood can be found doing a wide variety of things, like playing video games, travelling around Sicily, going to the beach, hiking and fishing. He even says if he could spend every day out fishing he would in a heartbeat. “I’ve been all around Sicily and have taken a trip up as far as Palermo,” said Wood. “Next year I plan on taking trips off island and going to Denmark to visit a friend of mine, and also hopefully seeing all around mainland Italy.”
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil 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
facility, which is why the staff member informed you of that policy. The staff is required to ask all patrons to work on vehicles inside the bays, especially when dealing with oil and other hazardous materials, so that if there is a spill, it can be contained in the bay area. All hazardous material spills less than 5 gallons that occur outside the bays must be reported to the Environmental Office. You mentioned your valve cover was leaking oil all over the place, which I would also be concerned about if it was my vehicle. There were two bays available at the time of your visit, so you utilizing a bay was not an issue. I hope this helps clarify your confusion about the new Auto Skills policies. If you have any further questions I encourage you to contact our Auto Skills Center Manager Paul Blanco at paul.blanco@eu.navy.mil or 624-5171. Thank you again for your feedback.
Comment regarding “condition of roads”:
I know that NAS Sigonella has no control over the roads and infrastructure outside of base, but can you give us any information on SP 106? Before the new water pipeline construction began, the road condition was absolutely awful. Now it is just a long series of potholes. There are also a greater number of cars trying to pass in between the construction. The entire situation is dangerous. Is there a plan for the entire road to be repaved? Also, I know that SP 208 is off limits for us to transit through, but I have noticed more and more cars going in that direction. Is there a provision that will allow us to use that road temporarily? I believe any information would be helpful to the community.
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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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NEX Locations Closed On Thanksgiving Day From Navy Exchange Command Public Affairs
As in the past, NEX locations worldwide will be closed on Thanksgiving Day so military as well as NEX families can spend the day with loved ones. NEX locations will be open on Friday, November 24 so that customers can enjoy the NEX’s annual Navy Blue Holiday sales event. Special savings will be available on myNavyExchange.com starting at 12:01 a.m. ET on Thursday, November 23. All orders placed online and shipped to be picked up in store, either in the continental United States or overseas will be shipped for free. “Our ‘We Believe’ holiday campaign not only features the best savings of the year on the best brands throughout the store, it also serves as an opportunity for the NEX to recognize the most deserving customers in the world,” said Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer, Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). “It is our way of giving back to you and your family to recognize the selfless contributions you make every day to ensure we’re safe here at home. We believe in our Navy families and in the freedom your service affords this nation.” The NEX has many exciting events and
"DIRECT LINE" cont’d from Page 2 and friends. The season can also be a time of stress and distraction for many as service members and family are separated. Whether you are embracing the festive season during time off with friends and family, or experiencing moments of stress and anxiety I say this: Be Careful. Be careful when driving. Be cognizant of your surroundings and aware of your capa-
sweepstakes planned throughout the holiday season including: We Believe in granting wishes - customers can enter to win up to $1,000 towards their wish list at myNavyExchange.com. We Believe in random acts of kindness - customers can enter to win $1,000 NEX Gift Card for nominating military members. We Believe in surprises - random layaways will be paid off up to $1,000 for NEX customers. We Believe in family - customers can enter to win a $200 DeCA Gift Card for their holiday dinner. We Believe in heroes - enter to win $100 NEX Gift Cards for kids hero letters submitted. “Our NEX teams have worked hard this year with our vendor partners to ensure our stores have the best possible products and services at the best possible savings available to our customers this holiday season,” said Rich Honiball, NEXCOM’s Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer. “Military shoppers who visit a NEX or myNavyExchange.com will find amazing prices on their favorite brands, with tax-free savings. Thank you for shopping and supporting your NEX this holiday season.”
bilities. Reflect on what you are doing and how it may affect those around you. It has been expressed so often and in so many diverse and unique ways that it’s almost become cliché - - - Drive Safe…Don’t Drink and Drive…Arrive Alive – Drive 55, Don’t Let Your Last Text Be Your Last Words…. etc, etc...so on and so forth ad nauseam. Just know that in the worst cases that terrible call doesn’t only come to me, but also to those who care deeply about you.
NOVEMBER 17, 2017
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Response:
Thank you for your questions and voicing your concern over safety on the local roads. SP 106 has been undergoing installation of new water lines that will service the base from our water well located outside the fence line of the base. In order to reduce the amount of disruption to traffic flow, the roadway is being patched in the immediate area of the new trench. When the trenching and installation of the new line is complete that entire lane where the trench is will be resurfaced to follow the existing road profile. The opposite lane will not be addressed under our contract. Following the completion of this work the speed limit for the road will remain at its posted 30 KM. SP 208 has been closed to thru traffic by the Italian government. It is OFF LIMITS to drive on except to access the one Agriturismo business located there. There is NO provision that will allow us to use the road temporarily, as it has been deemed to be unsafe for thru traffic. If you would like to discuss this issue further or have any other questions please contact the Deputy Public Works Officer, Mr. Jonpaul Thomasseau at DSN 314-6242905 or by email at JonPaul.Thomasseau@eu.navy.mil and he will be happy to assist.
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Musumeci elected Sicily governor with 39.9% of vote Stories by ANSA/La Stampa/The Economist/The Italianinsider
Palermo, Sicily - Centre-right candidate Nello Musumeci, 62, is the new governor of Sicily after final results showed that he won 39.9% of the vote on Sunday. The anti-establishment 5-Star Movement's (M5S) Giancarlo Cancelleri was second with 34.6%. Center-left candidate Fabrizio Micari followed him on 18.6% and leftwinger Claudio Fava on 6.1%. The turnout was 46.75% (2,179,122 of the 4,661,111 eligible voted) compared to 47.41% in 2012. Musumeci will also have a majority in the regional assembly, after his center-right coalition was assigned 36 seats out of 70 following the vote count. Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia party is the center-right group with the highest number of regional deputies with 12. But the biggest single party in the new regional assembly is the 5-Star Movement with 19. The center left has 15 seats and Fava's left coalition just one. As reported by La Stampa; The importance of Sunday’s vote goes beyond the administration of the largest Mediterranean island. It marks the successful return of center-right Forza Italia leader Silvio Berlusconi from his scandal-tinted demise as prime minister, as well as the influence of far right and independent movements on the political scene. Berlusconi’s coalition partners in Sicily included the far-right Brothers of Italy (Fratelli d’Italia), stronger in southern Italy, and the anti-immigration Northern League, with a grip on the north. They all see their victory in Sicily as a springboard for their national ambitions. ANSA noted that: M5S leader Luigi Di Maio, on the other hand, said their cross-Sicily showing as the single biggest party is the start of a "wave" that will sweep them to power in the general election. He said that, even though they failed to land the governorship, "we are very satisfied...from here a wave is starting that in four months can take us to 40%." He said "we have a free, aware vote" and "we must communicate this vote to those who have abstained, many of them will be sorry in the next 2-3 months, when they see those who have speculated this far at work again". Di Maio said he was "convinced" that after the general election, the M5S "will be able to ask the Italian president to govern". Meanwhile Cancelleri, the losing M5S candidate, said he would not call Musumeci to concede defeat because his center-right man's victory was "contaminated by “unpresentable people”and by the complicity of the national media." Cancelleri reiterated the win was "contaminated by Nello Musumeci who candidated unpresentables". According to The Economist: the most striking outcome of the vote was nevertheless the disastrous performance by the centre-left Democratic Party (PD). Its candidate, Fabrizio Micari, won a mere 18.7%. While it would be unwise to draw too many conclusions from a ballot from which more than half the electorate abstained, it is clear the left is paying a price for its disunity. A candidate representing more-radical groups that have split from the PD took more than 6%. The days following Sicily’s elections were even full of more surprises, the Italianinsider reported that: “the first arrest has been made in Sicily of the local politicians the M5S branded “unpresentable, ” as the new regional deputy of Messina, Cateno De Luca, was put under house arrest by financial police on suspicion of promoting significant tax evasion of around 1.75 million euros. Investigators have stated that the new deputy, along with the president of the entrepreneurial group Fenapi, Carmelo Satta, has been using a fictitious set of invoices for some time to avoid paying direct and indirect taxes. "The evasive scheme has emerged implying non-existing costs by the National Federation for the benefit of the Fenapi, identified as the main center of the economic interests of the criminal association." De Luca was elected to his position as the centrist UDC party candidate with 5418 votes in the Sicilian election. The actions of "ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
Sigonella Marines and Battisti students raise awareness on domestic violence Photo story by Alberto Lunetta
CATANIA- SicilyLast Monday, a delegation of Sigonella CLB-6 Marines, led by Chaplain Mark Coker and the students of the Catania Istituto Comprensivo “Cesare Battisti” middle school teamed up to conduct an event aimed at raising awareness on domestic violence and “femminicidio” which in Italian means “the murder of a woman by her partner, husband or boyfriend.” It is a phenomenon, which, according to the statistics of Italy’s Interior Minister, is on the rise in the country. The event was part of the ongoing NASSIG PAO COMREL program that brings together the Sicilian and the American cultures. Guest speakers of the event, which was opened with a panel moderated by Principal Maria Paola Iaquinta, were Vera Squadrito and Giovanna Zizzo, two mothers of female homicide victims, who enlightened students about the warning signs of domestic violence saying love is about giving freedom and not hurting, controlling or abusing your partner. The event continued with a “red chair” painting project to remember the blood shed by the victims of intimate partners. Female students and Marines painted two chairs of the school’s library red to honor the victims of spousal violence. Other students and Marines conducted a volunteer cleanup of the school grounds.
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NAVY ACCEPTS DELIVERY OF FUTURE USS RALPH JOHNSON From Team Ships Public Affairs
PASCAGOULA, Miss (NNS) -- The Navy accepted delivery of future guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) from shipbuilder Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) Nov. 15. In early September, DDG 114 successfully demonstrated its ship's systems and readiness during a series of at sea and in-port trials for the U.S. Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV). Due to the success of the trials, INSURV recommended the ship be accepted for delivery to the U.S. Navy. "The namesake of this ship is a true American patriot who sacrificed his life for the safety of his fellow Marines and his country," said Capt. Casey Moton, DDG 51 class program manager, Program Executive Office Ships. "We're looking forward to commis- GULF OF MEXICO (July 27, 2017) Ingalls Shipbuilding completed builder's sea trials on the future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile sioning a ship that will not only destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114). (U.S. Navy photo by Andrew Young/Released) honor the legacy of one of our HII's Pascagoula shipyard is currently in profinest Marines but also provide today's Sailors and stroyer and the third of the DDG 51 Flight IIA Marines with one of our most capable warfighting restart ships to deliver. The ship is equipped with duction on future destroyers Paul Ignatius (DDG Aegis Baseline 9 combat system, which includes 117), Delbert D. Black (DDG 119), Frank E. Peassets." DDG 114's namesake, Pfc. Ralph H. Johnson, an Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) tersen, Jr. (DDG 121) and Lenah H. Sutcliffe Higreceived the Medal of Honor for his actions during capability incorporating Ballistic Missile Defense bee (DDG 123). Additionally, HII is under conOperation Rock in the Vietnam War, 1968. John- (BMD) 5.0 and Naval Integrated Fire Control- tract for the future USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125) son jumped on top of a tossed grenade to spare his Counter Air. Aegis Baseline 9 IAMD destroyers which will be the first Flight III ship. As one of the Defense Department's largest acfellow Marines from the blast. The heroic action have increased computing power, along with radar took Johnson's life but saved the lives of his broth- upgrades which improve detection and reaction quisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible ers in arms and undoubtedly prevented the enemy capabilities against modern anti-air warfare and for executing the development and procurement BMD threats. These capabilities are designed to of all destroyers, amphibious ships, special misfrom penetrating his sector of the perimeter. DDG 114 is the 64th Arleigh Burke class de- provide the Navy with a 21st century fighting edge. sion and support ships, boats and craft.
Online Retirement Requests Ready From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -The Navy announced a self-service function for Retirements and Separations within Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) in NAVADMIN 273/17 Nov. 15. According to NAVADMIN 273/17, the functionality allows members to initiate requests electronically using NSIPS self-service, route them through their chain for review and recommendation and then electronically route the request to Navy Personnel Command for a decision. This new capability is another interim enhancement to our legacy systems while the new systems and processes of Sailor 2025 are finalized.
"The process was originally announced in NAVADMIN 133/16 when we ran a successful operational evaluation in four regions," said Capt. Vince Smith, director, personal performance and career transition division. "The ability to submit online retirement and separation requests allows for online verification and will increase transparency of the application process for Sailors, their commands, personnel support detachments and Navy Personnel Command." Commands with access to NSIPS Web must set up their command hierarchy prior to the Jan. 1, 2018. Directions for setting up the hierarchy is posted on the NSIPS main page beneath the Training section, titled "User Productivity Kit (UPK)." In the UPK
section, select "RnS Training," then "Command Setup Training." The NSIPS Web-Afloat implementation timeline depends on each ship and where it is in the modernization process. NSIPS-Web Afloat is scheduled to be completed in approximately 24 months. Beginning Jan. 1, 2018, officers will submit their voluntary resignation or retirement requests, and enlisted personnel will submit their requests to transfer to the Fleet Reserve using NSIPS. Deployed Sailors without access to NSIPS Web will submit their requests to their shore-based chainof-command. Sailor 2025 is a modernization of the Navy's personnel system that is
focused on adapting the Navy's workforce to new and evolving threats while continuing to attract and retain the best Sailors in a competitive talent market. Today, Sailor 2025 features 45 initiatives built on a framework of three pillars: a modern personnel system, a career learning continuum and career readiness. For more information, read NAVADMIN 273/17 at www.npc.navy.mil.
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
SIGONELLA ELEME VETERANS D We Share America, a
Photos by Ra
NOVEMBER 17, 2017
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ENTARY SCHOOL'S DAY TRIBUTE musical performance
andy Latimer
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:
U.S. Tourist Passport Renewal Process
RECONNECTION WORKSHOP SESSIONS
For personnel using Palermo Consulate for passport services: if you are renewing a valid adult U.S. TOURIST passport issued less than 15 years ago (Form DS-82) YOU MUST USE THE PASSPORT-BY-MAIL OPTION.
Command, Department or Organization: American Red Cross and Fleet and Family Services Date of Event: Nov 16 and Dec 28 Time of Event: 1000 - 1200 Location of Event: Fleet and Family Service Center (Bldg. 319 NAS 1 First Floor) Point of Contact Name: Andrea Taylor-Craft Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4900 Point of Contact Email Address: andrea.taylor-craft@redcross.Org Additional Information: Fleet and Family Services in partnership with the American Red Cross is offering 2 hour discussion based workshops lead by a trained behavioral health professional; designed specifically for military families and the stresses they face. The discussion topic on November 16 is "Working Through Anger" and on December 28 we will tackle "Identifying Depression". The sessions are anonymous and there is no need to sign up in advance. While they do not replace therapy, they can help provide tools for success.
Mail the application package to: American Consulate General, CIT/PPT section PSC 817 Box 64 FPO AE 09622-0064 If you prefer to use DHL/FedEx at your own expense a local Italian address is required. Send to American Consulate General, PPT section, Piazza Della Repubblica, 80122 NAPOLI. Include: -One passport photograph taken within the last six months; size 2x2, color, white background (No eyeglasses) -Completed and signed form DS-82 -U.S. Postal Money order-$ 110 made out to U.S. Consulate General, Naples -Current or expiring TOURIST passport (Will be cancelled &returned to you)
NAS 1 Mondays AA Meeting:
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services 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
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
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
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Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . 1800-2100
Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . 1800
Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900
Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS):. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1045-1200
Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2000 Roman Catholic Mass NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon) - NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . 1300 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS II Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800
Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200
Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600
Weekly Traffic Report: Nov. 6 - Nov. 13, 2017
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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Wooden artifacts can draw unwanted guests By Robert Szostek U.S. European Command Customs Public Affairs Office
WIESBADEN, Germany — People who buy antiques sometimes get more than they bargained for when buying artifacts or furniture at antique shops, flea markets or swap meets. Wooden objects left outside on your patio can also attract wood boring insects. “Antique furniture and ornamental wooden items are sometimes infested with wood boring insects such as wood worm, termites or powder post beetles,” said Julie Aliaga-Milos, USDA adviser at the USEUCOM Customs and Border Clearance Agency. “Examine any such item carefully for evidence of wood borer infestation before buying it.” Holes or chambers on the wood surface that appear to be recently hollowed out mean you may have an insect problem. Traces of wood powder or sawdust in and around those holes are further signs of infestation.
Taking these items home can cause the pests to infest your other furniture. It could also mean that border clearance agents will flag your household goods for closer inspection and possible fumigation when it is time to move back stateside. U.S. laws ban harmful insects that are considered economic or agricultural pests from entering the States. People with wood items that show signs of wood-boring damage will most likely be required to have them fumigated using an approved USDA treatment method before shipping them to the U.S. However, this can be very costly and may only be worth the effort for valuable pieces. Aliaga-Milos recommended that any wooden item you want to ship to the United States be kept indoors because insects can easily infest objects that are left outside. Enjoy shopping for that unique addition to your home, but look for the clues that you might also be acquiring some annoying and expensive houseguests.
NOVEMBER 17, 2017
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NOVEMBER 17, 2017
GAMEZONE Thankful For...
GRANDPA HAPPY MEMORIES HEARING HOLIDAYS HUMOR INTERNET LAUGHTER LIFE LOVE MUSIC NURSES PARENTS PEACE
PETS RAINBOWS SCHOOL SINGING SISTERS SMART PHONES SMILES SUNSHINE TEACHERS TELEVISION VOLUNTEERS WARM SHOWERS
MEDIUM
ELECTRICITY EYEGLASSES EYESIGHT FAITH FAMILY FLOWERS FOOD FREEDOM FRESH AIR FRIENDS FUN GOOD HEALTH GRANDMA
EASY
ACTS OF KINDNESS A PLACE TO LIVE BEACHES BEAUTIFUL NATURE BLESSINGS BOOKS BROTHERS CARE GIVERS CHILDREN CHRISTMAS CLEAN WATER CLOTHING COMPUTERS
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the people and things to be thankful for. The remaining letters spell a secret message.
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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 6 the deputy, a supporter of the recently elected president of Sicily Nello Musumeci, have been questioned before. In protest against a decision made by the Sicilian Regional Assembly (ARS), De Luca removed his clothing. He has also been in trouble with the law before. De Luca was arrested in June 2011 on charges of attempted bribery and abuse of office, and the trial is still ongoing.”
Venice mayor hits back at ‘cheapskate’ tourists over price complaints Story by The Local The mayor of Venice has criticized visitors who complain that the city is too expensive, accusing them of being cheap. “You’re welcome but you have to spend,” Mayor Luigi Brugnaro told tourists after a series of incidents in which foreigners claimed they were ripped off at restaurants in the centre of Venice. He called a British family who said they were recently charged more than €500 for lunch near St Mark’s Square “cheapskates” for disputing the bill. “What they paid was fair,” Brugnaro told Sky TG24 when asked about the story, which came to light when one of the tourists wrote to the mayor’s office to complain. “In fact I applaud the restauranteur who issued the bill, it shows once again that in Venice things are done legally. “If you come to Venice, you should know that you’re Venice, you have to spend some money. In fact, leave a tip for all the people who are there working for you.” British tourist Luke Tang accused the Trattoria Casanova of taking advantage of the fact that neither he nor his parents speak Italian to bring them several expensive seafood dishes they hadn’t ordered, racking up a bill of €526. He paid in full but wrote to Brugnaro to highlight “a kind of behaviour that risks ruining Venice’s reputation”. His letter of complaint was “returned to sender”, according to the mayor. “Someone eats and drinks, then says they don’t understand the language,” Brugnaro said. “But if you come to Italy you should learn Italian, a bit of Venetian wouldn’t hurt either.” Venice is not alone in charging premium prices, Brugnaro insisted. In a tweet on Sunday, he posted a photo of an €11 bill for four coffees from a café in Austria, asking: “Who should I write to about this bill standing at the bar in Vienna airport!?” While the mayor remains defiant, a citizens’ group lamented his attitude to Venice’s millions of visitors. The city’s leaders are “selling Venice by the pound,” said a statement from the April 25 Group, a collective that claims to represent ordinary Venetians. “By mocking a British citizen for not speaking Italian or Venetian, as if this could be an acceptable alibi for ripping off our visitors, this mayor may give the impression that this is common practice in Ven-
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ice – which is not the case – and cannot speak in our name,” the group said. Tang’s was the second incident to come to light in the space of a week. Earlier this month, a Japanese couple complained that they were charged €120 for a plate of lobster pasta at another trattoria in central Venice, accusing the restaurant of taking advantage of the fact that the price was calculated by weight to overcharge them. With the help of another customer, they eventually got the bill reduced by 40 percent. In the past, tourists have been the ones accused of bad behavior in Venice, including driving in the car-free center, bathing in its historic fountains, and urinating in public. Brugnaro came to power on a promise to rein in Venice’s vast tourism industry, which residents have long complained makes the city unlivable. Earlier this year he introduced a swathe of measures designed to reduce the crowds that flood its most popular sites, ranging from limiting tourist accommodation to installing automatic people-counters in high-traffic areas. Last week Italy's national government approved plans to ban cruise ships from the center of Venice.
4 Italian cities top world destinations Story by ANSA (ANSA) - Rome, - Rome was the world's 12th most-visited city in 2016, one of four Italian cities in Euromonitor's top 100 city destinations ranking presented on Tuesday at the World Travel Market event in London. Italy's most-visited cities also included Milan in 27th position, followed by Venice in 38th and Florence in 44th, according to the ranking drafted by the leading market research provider. Hong Kong conquered the top spot with 26.5 million visitors in 2016, followed by Bangkok and London. Although no Italian city won one of the top 10 spots and Rome received less than half of London's international arrivals, Italy was the European country with the highest number of cities in the ranking. The other top 10 most-visited city destinations included Singapore in fourth position, followed by Macau, Dubai, Paris, New York, Shenzhen and Kuala Lumpur. London was the European city most visited by international tourists with 19.8 million arrivals last year, the only British city among the 100 top destinations. Spain's Barcelona, which ranked 23rd and Madrid 39th, attracted a little over 12 million visitors. In France, Paris and Nice (in 93rd position) attracted 16 million international visitors. Wouter Geerts, a travel analyst with
NOVEMBER 17, 2017 Euromonitor International, said that "terror attacks in the Middle East and North Africa, in particular in Tunisia and Egypt, as well as in European cities like Paris and Barcelona, have favored the rising number of arrivals in destinations with similar offers, like Greece and Italy". According to Euromonitor, tourism in Italy will continue to rise with a total of over 60 million international arrivals expected by 2022. International visitors in Rome are expected to exceed 10 million by 2020, Euromonitor said. "Italy is one of the most-visited countries in the world by international tourists", said Geerts. "The number of arrivals in Italian cities is constantly rising as they offer a unique mix of art, wine and food, culture, nature and architecture that attracts tourists from around the world". "However, the success of a destination also depends on other factors like infrastructures, economic appeal, new technologies and security", he said.
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Collateral Duty Safety Officer of the Quarter
Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, presents Engineman 1st Class Dejan Lovric a Collateral Duty Safety Officer of the Quarter certificate. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Christopher Gordon/Released)
Safety Tips for Flooding Season Before a Flood • Construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering your home. • Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage. • If a flood is likely in your area, listen to the radio or television for information. • Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. A watch means flooding is possible. A warning means flooding is occurring or will occur soon. When a Flood is Imminent • Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Don't forget to include needed medications. • If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately. • If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. • If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor. • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. During a Flood • Do not walk through moving water. As little as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of moving water can make you fall. • If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you. • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. After a Flood • Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink. • Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. • Avoid moving water. • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. • Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company. • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards. • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals. For more information please call the safety office at 624-5630 or 624-6261
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