Heart Health: Tips to keep you going strong
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Ireland:
Gateway to Italian:
A land of magic and beauty
Parli Italiano?
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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February 24, 2017
Vol. 34 No. 7
ADFD 2017 in Support of the NMCRS Kicks Off By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – For many, spring symbolizes a season of renewal. For service members, spring has also become synonymous with the Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD) in support of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS). The ADFD is held annually during the month of March to generate awareness of the programs and services offered by the NMCRS and to provide an opportunity for Sailors, Marines and civilians to donate. The Sigonella community has long been a generous supporter of the ADFD as evidenced by its designation as the
highest across the fleet and force in per capita donations. But many who give to the ADFD may not be aware of the impact their contribution can make. The NMCRS provides need-based financial assistance in the form of interestfree loans. Last year, the NMCRS provided $48 million in financial assistance to active duty service members and retirees. Locally, the NMCRS Sigonella provided $140,000 in assistance, helping 129 clients during times of need. “You can donate $10 a month and have a significant impact on the life of your fellow Sailors and Marines. In the aggregate of $120 per year, your donation might buy a new tire for someone, or cover the cost of a night in a hotel during emergency
Brittany Sadler, NMCRS director provides a briefing of the 2017 ADFD campaign to command leadership, Feb. 21 at the Duomo Conference Center. The ADFD in support of the NMCRS provides programs and services to active duty and retired service members. (Photo courtesy of Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society).
leave, or enable a Sailor to buy groceries when they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it,” said Shelley Marshall, Vice President and Chief Development and Communications Officer for the NMCRS. Marshall feels a personal connection to the NMCRS, having retired from the Navy after 26 years of service. “During my career it was about taking care of Sailors and Marines as a Naval officer and now this is a way to continue to serve those who wear the uniform. I like being able to honor their service and take care of their families, enabling them to focus on the mission.” In addition to financial assistance, the NMCRS operates the base thrift store and teaches a Budget for Baby workshop every third Wednesday of the month from 12:30 – 1:30 at the base library. The NMCRS relies on its team of 28 volunteers to keep the thrift store running, facilitate classes and even hand-knit baby blankets. The services provided by the NMCRS are not limited to Sailors and Marines. Airmen and Soldiers can also receive assistance at the Sigonella office. “Our door is open to all service members. We will connect with their aid societies and ensure that they get the assistance they need,” explained Brittany Sadler, NMCRS director. The 2017 ADFD in support of the NMCRS kicks off next week on Feb. 28 with a month filled of activities to help raise money toward this year’s goal of $117,000 for NAS Sigonella and the campaign-wide goal of $12.5 million. “Every dollar that is raised is going to go directly to a Sailor or Marine that needs assistance. Sigonella has a reputation for being the most generous installation and we hope to see that legacy continue,” said Marshall.
events Schedule Tuesday, Feb. 28: ADFD Kick-Off & Homerun Derby 1130-1300 NAS 2 Pavilion/field near gym
Wednesday, March 1: Burrito Sale 0630-0830 NAS 1 & 2
Thursday, March 2: Jail & Bail 0900-1300 NAS 2 Water Fountain Lunch Sale 1100-1300 NAS 2 Community Bank Parking Lot BINGO Food Sale 1800 NAS 1 Connections
Saturday, March 4: Commissary Bagging 1100-1600
USO Sigonella: Supporting the "Hub of the Med" By Stacey Geddings USO Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – It’s Friday morning and the sun slowly rises over Sigonella. The work day is just beginning for most service members but inside the NAS 2 air terminal, it’s been a whirlwind of activity for hours. The smell of fresh coffee permeates through the airport, drawing visitors to the newly opened United Service Organizations (USO) Sigonella. Passengers traveling to Rota, Spain and Norfolk, Va. are greeted by enthusiastic volunteers who arrived shortly after 3 a.m. to make preparations for the incoming flight. PO1 Brandon Livengood, a USO volunteer, enters the airport nursery – recently renovated with the help of volunteers – carrying a tray of snacks for the small guests inside. An animated movie plays on the television, much to the delight of both parents and children. “Our primary mission is to support the passengers traveling through Sigonella’s air terminal. We want to provide them comfort and enable them to stay connected with their families back home. We do this by providing more than just snacks and coffee – we have excellent WiFi service throughout the terminal and telephones available for them to make calls throughout Europe and back stateside,” explained USO Sigonella Center Manager James Hodges. Although the center has roughly 1,500 visitors each month, USO Sigonella’s efforts go beyond supporting flights. Among the most popular events is their Troop Luncheon, a complimentary lunch offered in the terminal every Tuesday from 11:00-12:30. “We all look forward to the weekly Troop Lunch. Besides the lunch itself, it’s nice to be able to relax for awhile and watch TV or surf the internet,” commented AM3 Kody Ragas who is not only a frequent visitor, but also a volunteer with the USO.
Service members enjoy a complimentary luncheon provided by the USO Sigonella at the NAS 2 Air Terminal. (Photo courtesy of USO Sigonella)
Another popular event is the USO’s PT Drop, where staff and volunteers provide Powerade and Vitamin Water to service members during PT outside the NAS 2 gym. The USO also partners with other organizations to increase their impact around Sigonella. Thanks to MWR support, USO Sigonella has been able to provide support to the MWR tree lighting, and Take 5’s after-Thanksgiving event. An important part of the culture at the USO is their volunteer force. Since opening, USO Sigonella has
amassed volunteers who are both diligent and focused in their mission to support our troops and their families. Center Operations specialist Stacey Geddings offered praise to the volunteer team remarking, “We have the best volunteers in Sigonella. They’re the heartbeat of our organization; and we wouldn’t be successful without them.” For more information on volunteering with the USO, please visit volunteers.uso.org or on Facebook.com/ USOSigonella.
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February 24, 2017
Direct Line
Retired Capt. Shelley Marshall, Vice President, NMCRS Saluti Sigonella, What is philanthropy? A quick Google search (who uses a dictionary anymore?) rendered the following definition: “The desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed especially by the generous donations of money to good causes.” That sounded simple enough. Then I had to ask myself, “What is philanthropy to me?” That was a little more challenging. I talk to potential donors every day! Why couldn’t I just answer the question with a simple, textbook response? What I realized was that I can’t separate who I am from what I do. I like to take care of people, nurture them, and make them happy. In my Navy career, I tried my best to take care of the men and women I worked with, get to know their families and provide resources and support when they needed help. I also remember strongly encouraging several who were facing some very difficult personal and financial challenges, to go see the folks at the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) office. When the time came for the annual Active Duty Fund Drive in support of NMCRS, I had lots of first-hand knowledge about how the Society had helped someone I knew – and I gave generously to help my fellow Shipmates and Marines. What is philanthropy to you? Sailors and Marines assigned to NAS Sigonella and tenant commands are a very generous bunch! They’ve consistently ranked number 1 for the highest per capita contributions to the Active Duty Fund Drive in the Navy and Marine Corps. Maybe that’s because you’re all far away from home and really understand what it means to have each other’s back when times get tough. You give generously! As the 2017 Active Duty Fund Drive kicks off, know that your donations will make a difference for Shipmates and fellow Marines in need, around the globe. Be confident that your Shipmates and fellow Marines will have your back too if you ever need to get to the bedside of a loved one, repair a car so you can get to work on time, or need an interest-free loan to buy gas, food and lodging when you’re paycheck just didn’t stretch far enough. Give generously to a good cause! Thank you, Sigonella Sailors, Marines and families!
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 “MVRO Gas Coupons”:
I have had my coupons cut off twice in the past few months with no notification. When I called MVRO today, a man answered the phone with a simple “Hello.” There is no professionalism at all. Further, they are unable to provide any assistance over the phone. All around, very poor customer service. Sincerely, Ms. Grant
Response:
Thank you for notifying me of the poor customer service you received from MVRO. I have instructed MVRO personnel to review appropriate customer service procedures to ensure that this will not happen again in the future. Recently, all MVROs in the Region received a new program to manage the database. This new program is currently unable to notify personnel when their paperwork will expire. It is currently being addressed by the vendor and we hope to have a resolution very soon. That said, MVRO currently has 120-150 personnel each month with expiring documents and does not have the manpower to notify each and every person that needs to update their documents. Please review all of your required documents on a regular basis to ensure there are no documents needing to be updated. If you have any questions on when a particular document expires or your current status please feel free to come by MVRO and ask a representative. For any other questions or concerns please contact the Security Officer LCDR Chuck Cranston at Charles.Cranston@eu.navy.mil or 624-6392.
Comment regarding “NAS 2 Barber”:
I have been deployed here for two months now. Having gotten a haircut at the NAS 2 barber shop every week, I've noticed an unsatisfactory trend from a barber named Luigi Scalisi. He spends much more time and does a much better job on Italian personnel than Americans. While I can understand him going faster when the shop is full, there's still no excuse for unprofessional work. I've noticed it when I've either been the only customer present or behind an Italian customer in line. He has "finished" my hair multiple times with it noticeably uneven and unfaded, with me having to ask him to fix it, although he did a professional, thorough job on the Italian customer ahead of me. I would go to NAS 1 for a haircut every week if my work schedule was more accommodating. I don't usually
complain about services I receive, but I'm tired of wasting money and seeing my Marines waste money on sub-par haircuts as a result of favoritism. If possible, I would recommend discreetly supervising him when both American and Italian personnel are present in order to observe this trend. Respectfully, 1stLt Ethan Sarrell
Response:
1stLt Sarrell, First, thank you for taking the time to send in a comment regarding the NAS 2 Barber Shop. The Navy Exchange is dedicated to providing premiere customer service at every location to include our contracted services such as the barber shop. I have been in contact with the contractor of the NAS 2 Barber Shop and your concern has been addressed with not only NAS 2 but NAS 1 as well. The contractor has assured me going forward this issue will not occur again. Thank you for bringing your concern to me and know we are continually striving to provide the best in service to everyone in Sigonella. For future NEX-related questions, please contact the NEX General Manager John Sisson at 624-4379 or john.sisson@nexweb.org.
Comment regarding “Internet Service in Marinai”:
I would like to voice my displeasure over the steady decline of internet service in Marinai Housing. Since taking over the network from the base, the speeds have steadily declined over time while the cost has risen. Every night between about 7 pm and 9 pm the internet becomes completely unusable. This needs to be rectified. Many people have complained with no response.
Response:
Thank you for your concern about the internet quality in Marinai. The Navy Exchange in Sigonella as well as NEXCOM HQ is continuously working with our partners at Telecom Italia to improve the internet service in Marinai. Predicting bandwidth usage is a moving target. As online content streaming such as Hulu and Netflix increases, coupled with increased portable device usage, more bandwidth is required to meet the needs of the community. We are aware that an increase of bandwidth is necessary. Currently we have required Telecom Italia
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February 24, 2017
Comment regarding “Marinai House Painter”:
"ICE" continued from Page 2 to conduct a Traffic Study of peak hours of usage to determine the increase in bandwidth needed. NEXCOM HQ is closely monitoring this process and the bandwidth improvement will be evident very soon. As always, if you believe you have a specific issue, please call the Telecom Marinai Help Desk at +39-095-784-9191, Mon-Sat 0900-1800, and if needed, an appointment can be set, and a technician will do a site visit and assist in optimizing your service. In many cases, this process has proven to show positive results on the speed of the internet for our Marinai customers. For future NEX-related questions, please contact the NEX General Manager John Sisson at 624-4379 or john.sisson@ nexweb.org.
Comment regarding “BZ for Vodafone”:
I would like to recognize Francesco and Simona of the Vodafone office on NAS 1. They were extremely helpful and patient in solving a problem I had with my home server. I was hoping they would direct me to where I could get the problem solved. Instead they got to the source and straightened out the minor confusion with respect to whose name the server was under. Once that was done, they remedied the problem, all within a few minutes. Those two are courteous, patient, goodhumored and they really know how to get results. Those two are incredible!
Response:
Thank you for taking the time to pass along your appreciation to the Vodafone staff. I never tire of hearing about our folks delivering “CO Customer Service!” Your notes and those like them are a nice thank you to those meeting – and exceeding - our CO and Community expectations!
Name: Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Dakota Arbogast Dept: Navy Munitions Command Detachment Sigonella Hometown: Roanoke, Va. Hooking up a $1 million, 3,500 lb. Tomahawk missile safely and correctly to a crane is no easy task, but Sailors like Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Dakota Arbogast take charge and make it look effortless. “I am a Team Lead (TL) for our Vertical Launching System (VLS) team, which means I guide where the missile goes, and direct the forklift driver or crane operator,” said Arbogast. “I like knowing what to do and taking charge.” In addition to being the TL, Arbogast is in charge of all of VLS equipment and is responsible for stowing, segregating, and issuing equipment. “There is a wide knowledge base required,” said Arbogast. “You have to study your publications and know what you’re doing. As the TL you have to be qualified and confident.” Additionally, Arbogast is a command fire warden, the Com-
I have been having issues with the Marinai house painters. They were scheduled to come mid-December; it's now midJanuary. I have tried to be accommodating by picking up dog feces from the backyard, tidying up and moving stuff that may be in the way. I have awkwardly caught the workers lounging/ smoking/on their phones numerous times, two of the times lasting from 3pm until 4pm when they packed up and left. I take very good care of our property and possessions and the workers have no regard for it. I have found cigarette butts in the grass, the mower pushed out from under the car port which was then rained on, the hose left on twice - the first time for about 24 hours, the second time was more than 48 hours and never put away. This has been going on for little over a week now and I would like to put our carport/yard back together. I only hope someone acknowledges how unprofessional this is and confronts these issues with the workers. Thank you.
Response:
Thank you for bringing this issue to my attention. Housing has spoken with NAVFAC and Pizzarotti. Pizzarotti has taken the following steps to include monitoring and educating all staff and subcontractors in professionalism and being mindful of tenant property. Pizzarotti has also educated all staff on the smoking policy and instructed that no smoking is allowed on occupied units. The Housing team (Pizzarotii, NAVFAC and Housing) will be monitoring all activities at Marinai to ensure all services are provided in a professional manner. Furthermore, all three departments will be meeting in an annual Partnership Meeting in March during which time we all will be addressing customer service, streamlining processes, quick response resolutions and identifying the needs of the community. For future Housing-related questions or concerns, please contact the Installation Housing Director Peter Faulk at 6244070 or peter.faulk@eu.navy.mil.
bined Federal Campaign coordinator and volunteers in the community whenever she can. “Sigonella was my first command and everything was new and challenging. I’ve had a lot of fun here in Sicily but I’m ready for a new adventure,” said Arbogast. Outside the Navy Arbogast wants to be a math teacher though she is still
on the fence about doing 20 years in the Navy or getting out after her second enlistment. “I want to get out and be a teacher but right now I think its best to stay in until I figure out a long-term plan,” said Arbogast. “I will wait until I get back stateside and reevaluate all of my options. That’s why the Navy is so great, you have plenty of options.”
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Michelle Sabangan Michelle.Sabangan@eu.navy.mil 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 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 handdelivered 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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February 24, 2017
Love Your Heart! Tips for a Heart Healthy Lifestyle
By Giuseppe Licari Health Promotion Department
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella's Health Promotion and Nutrition Department celebrates Heart Health Month each February. Heart disease remains the number one killer of both men and women in the United States. While heart disease is often viewed as a concern only for the elderly, an estimated 60% of preventable heart disease and stroke deaths happen to people under age 65. The good news is that heart health can be improved at any age by eating a nutritious diet that is low in saturated fat and sodium, taking part in moderate to vigorous physical activity most days of the week, maintaining a healthy weight, and refraining from tobacco.
Here are some heart healthy tips: - Commit to a tobacco free lifestyle - Work to achieve or maintain a healthy weight - Participate in 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, and include muscle strengthening exercises such as push-ups or lifting weights - Eat a diet with minimal amounts of salt and saturated or trans-fats that are found primarily in animal products, dairy products, and processed foods - Develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress such as physical activity or meditation
- Know your numbers; visit your healthcare provider regularly to discuss blood glucose and cholesterol levels, as well as your blood pressure! Health Promotion is promoting Heart Health Month with events and classes to teach you how to keep your heart healthy: March 2-3, 8am-2pm: The Healthy Weigh - The Hospital's two-day weight management and nutrition program, followed by weekly appointments for three months to hold you accountable to your goals! For more information please visit the Hospital's Facebook page (U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella) or call Health Promotion at 624-4710!
Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial: 095-56-2273, M - F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the Weekend, Holidays, or after office hours, please call the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider? Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)
February 24, 2017
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VLS Recertification for Tomahawk Missiles
Sailors from Navy Munitions Command Detachment Sigonella hook up a Vertical Launching System to a crane as part of a recertification for Tomahawk missiles. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)
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February 24, 2017
Agrigento Hosts Almond Blossom, International Folklore Festivals
The annual Almond Blossom and International Folklore Festivals return to Agrigento from March 4 – 12 celebrating the beauty of the early almond trees’ flower under the breathtaking backdrop of the Greek Temples and historic center. Folklore groups from around the world will showcase their heritage through traditional dance, music and costumes. (Photo by Sagra del Mandorlo)
story by alberto lunetta
The 72nd edition of the breathtaking Almond Blossom Festival and the prestigious International Folklore will be held in Agrigento from March 4-12. The Festival features amazing dance performances, folklore parades, arts and crafts, beauty pageants, concerts, delicious local food and entertainment. As the new name of the event suggests “Mandorlo in Fiore,” the festival is no longer regarded as a “sagra paesana” (a small-town festival) but an international celebration aimed at bringing together all the countries of the world and sending a global message of brotherhood and peace. This year, 23 folklore groups from around the world (Korea, Czech Republic, Spain, Iran, Slovakia, India, Latvia, Jordan, Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, Indonesia, Turkey, Palestine, Italy and Israel) will showcase their heritage through traditional dance, music, and costumes. During the festival, city balconies and windows will be decorated with colorful flowers and art exhibitions will be on display. Almond trees have been in full blossom in Agrigento, which, according to Greek poet Pindar, is the “most beautiful city of mortals.” Since the beginning of February the almond trees have been spreading their perfume in the air around the Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples), a world-renowned Greek archeological site which features traces of a proud and ancient civilization. Those beautiful trees provide a unique and breathtaking spectacle for the festival, annually drawing thousands of tourists from all over the world! The almond, which is considered a symbol of rebirth and beauty, is the first tree to bloom after the winter season. Almonds are native to central Asia and the Mediterranean, even though they are also cultivated in the Middle East, Italy, Spain, Greece, and California, which produces over 70 per cent of the world crop. According to legend, the origin of the almond tree is rooted in a Greek mythological story. It tells of the beautiful princess Phyllis who died of a broken heart after having been deserted by Demophoon, a Greek king whom she loved. Demophoon left Phyllis to return to Athens for a short visit but did not return for months. Phyllis’ tragic death moved the goddess to turn her into a barren almond tree which, when embraced by the grieving Demophoon on his delayed arrival, burst forth into full bloom. The tale is a true demonstration of undying love. The Valley of the Temples and the historic center of the
"FESTIVALS" continued on Page 15
February 24, 2017
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French Ship Forbin Assists in Maritime Rescue U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs
GULF OF OMAN (NNS) -- French Marine Nationale anti-air frigate FS Forbin (D620), assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50, assisted in the rescue of mariners from a sinking dhow Feb. 13. Having received word of a dhow taking on water, Forbin directed their helicopter, an NH90 which had been airborne, to find and investigate the dhow while Forbin altered course to head to the scene 40 nautical miles away. The helicopter found the dhow was severely listing and taking on water. Returning to the ship to configure for rescue and to bring aboard their rescue swimmer, the helicopter quickly returned to the dhow. Aboard the dhow were 12 personnel in need of immediate evacuation. The aircrew winched the rescue swimmer down to the ship and rescued the mariners, transferring them to a nearby merchant vessel who also responded to the distress call. It was only a matter of minutes after the last person was rescued the dhow capsized and sank. "We were happy to be able to assist fellow mariners in distress," said Capt. Chistophe Cluzel, commanding officer of Forbin. "It is a long and proud tradition that we were privileged to perform." Forbin was assigned as part of CTF 50, a Royal navy-led task force under the command of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. Forbin returned to French national tasking Feb. 14. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.
Official U.S. Navy file photo of the French Navy's Horizon-class air defense destroyer FS Forbin (D620) participating with Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) for a simulated maritime interdiction operation.
GHWBCSG Conducts Strikes from Mediterranean U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs
theaters, highlighting the flexibility of the Navy's globallydeployed force.
NAPLES, Italy (NNS) -- The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG) commenced strike missions in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) from the eastern Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 13. Carrier strike groups demonstrate the mobility, flexibility and power projection capability of the Navy's globallydeployed force -- anytime, anywhere. The GHWBCSG operations in the eastern Mediterranean Sea in support of OIR demonstrate the capability of the U.S. Navy to conduct precision strikes on Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) targets from multiple
Quotes: "The precision strike operations being carried out by the Bush Carrier Strike Group in the eastern Mediterranean Sea continue to demonstrate the tremendous warfighting capability and flexibility of the U.S. Navy. By defeating violent extremists in Iraq and Syria, we are simultaneously supporting two separate geographic combatant commands. We remain committed to defeating Daesh, committed to our allies and partners, and committed to global security." - Vice Adm. Christopher W. Grady, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet "The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group brings a
An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the "Black Lions" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 213 launches from the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The ship's carrier strike group is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Gaines/Released)
credible and mobile strike force that is trained and ready to operate and fight decisively from the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. The flexibility and lethality inherent to this strike group allows the theater commander to employ GHWB across a broad capabilities spectrum, from striking ISIL targets to reassuring allies and solidifying partnerships and ensuring freedom of maritime operations." - Rear Adm. Kenneth R. Whitesell, commander, Carrier Strike Group 2 Quick Facts: The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group entered the Mediterranean Sea Feb. 2, and will continue to provide support to allies and partners, deter potential threats and conduct strikes against ISIL operators and infrastructure in support of OIR. The GHWBCSG consists of flagship aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) with embarked staffs of CSG-2, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 and the squadrons of CVW-8; guidedmissile cruisers USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Hue City (CG 66); and DESRON-22 guided-missile destroyers USS Laboon (DDG 58) and USS Truxtun (DDG 103). The most recent aircraft carrier strike group to operate in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations was the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (Ike CSG). The Ike CSG conducted strikes in from the eastern Mediterranean Sea in support of OIR June 28-July 7, 2016, and Dec. 6-12, 2016, completing 1,899 sorties in support of OIR. Operation Inherent Resolve is the unwavering resolve and deep commitment of the U.S. and partner nations in the region and around the globe to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to the region and the wider international community. U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint and interagency partners in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.
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February 24, 2017
Ireland: A Land of M BY lt andriana genualdi NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Over Presidents’ Day weekend I took a trip to Ireland with some friends to see the Ring of Kerry. We had been told that, while nice, we didn’t need to spend a lot of time in Dublin. So, after flying into Dublin Airport we immediately rented a car and drove down to Killarney to check in to our hotel. We decided to drive ourselves around the Ring of Kerry instead of doing a bus tour so we could take our time and see the things that we were really interested in. Driving on the left side of the road is tricky, but with the whole car reminding the driver which side we needed to be on, we managed. Upon the advice of the hotel concierge we decided to go around the ring counter-clockwise. We got up early, enjoyed a “typical Irish breakfast” at the hotel, and headed out. Our first stop was Rossbeigh Beach by the town of Glenbeigh. We were lucky to get a mostly sunny day and the waters of Dingle Bay were beautiful. From there we moved on to Cahersiveen to see Ballycarbery Castle. The castle dates back to t1569 and you can walk right up to it and get a really good look around inside! After the castle we continued along to Portmagee to see the spectacular Kerry Cliffs. From here on a clear day you can see Puffin Island, and during the right time of year you can take a boat to Skellig Michael island where a scene from the new Star Wars movie was filmed. We stopped off for lunch in Waterville a little father around the ring, after taking advantage of some of the scenic viewing points along the way. The ring has many signs and pull-off areas along the road to allow sightseers to take in the natural beauty of the landscape. After stopping off to see a stone circle in Kenmare we headed back to Killarney for diner. The town has a lot to offer and we ended up going to an Irish restaurant above a pub, and then out for drinks. The following morning we headed to the famous Gap of Dunloe near Killarney to take a look. We parked and walked up to a bridge with a great vantage point before heading to Kerry Airport. We took a domestic flight to Dublin and managed to squeeze in a trip to the beautiful Trinity College to see the Book of Kells before they closed up for the evening. There is a lot more to see in Ireland, even on the Ring of Kerry, than we were able to cover on a short trip. I definitely recommend going and checking it out for yourself!
February 24, 2017
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Magic and Beauty
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February 24, 2017
NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE VEHICLE SAFETY TIPS
All Hands News Bulletin:
YOUTH BASEBALL COACHES NEEDED
Command, Department or Organization: Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Point of Contact Name: Inv. Christopher Knight Point of Contact Phone Number: +39-366-638-7196 Point of Contact Email Address: Christopher.knight@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: NASSIG CRIME PREVENTION NOTE: Since 04 January 2017 there have been 17 reported vehicles that have been broken into with the biggest amount being in Motta S. Anastasia/Belpasso area. If you are a victim, report the break in to Security. You will also be asked to file a denuncia with the local Carabinieri station so that the matter can be investigated further. All residents are being asked to write down the serial numbers of your gas coupons, which is a large majority of what is being stolen. When the gas coupons are used at a gas station, they may be able to be tracked to what gas station they are being used at and from there Carabinieri can obtain surveillance footage from the gas station.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services
Command, Department or Organization: MWR Date of Event: 17 APR 2017 Location of Event: Marinai and NAS 1 Point of Contact Name: Eric Barge Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-1750 Point of Contact Email Address: eric.barge@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: MWR Youth Sports is looking for energetic, dedicated, and knowledgeable volunteers to coach youth baseball teams during the upcoming season. The season will run from 17 April to 3 June 2017. Practices will take place either on NAS 1 or in Marinai twice per week in the evening with games taking place on Saturday mornings. If you or someone you know is interested in coaching or want more info, please contact Eric Barge. Background checks are required and will be conducted before the season on all potential coaches.
Weekly Traffic Report: Feb. 13 -Feb. 20, 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
NAS 1
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
NAS 2
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.
February 24, 2017
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Gateway to Italian: Open a World of Possibilities with Free Italian Classes
By Patrizia Tedesco Central Texas College
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Have you ever felt frustrated while looking at the menu of an Italian restaurant out in town because you have no idea what anything means? Would you like to understand the text messages you receive from your mobile phone company—is it something important? Do you wish you could talk with your Italian coworkers or landlord? An Italian proverb claims, “Chi lingua ha, a Roma va.” Literally translated the proverb states, “He who has a tongue will go to Rome.” In other words, a person who is able to speak will be successful. Learning some of the basics of the Italian language will help make your tour in Sigonella more successful and more enjoyable. The Gateway to Italian language program offered by Central Texas College (CTC) provides U. S. and NATO personnel and their dependents stationed in Sigonella the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of the Italian language and culture. According to the CTC website, the main objective of the Gateway program is to “foster good relations between international staff assigned to an Italian site and the local community as well as offer quality language instruction at a reasonable
cost.” The Gateway program offers six levels of conversational Italian instruction. Each level consists of a 40-hour class that normally meets twice a week for eight weeks, with different sections of each level being offered either in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the early evening. The Gateway to Italian courses do not grant college credit, so students can attend these classes and learn Italian without the pressure of exams and grades. During the past six months, the Gateway program in Sigonella has received enthusiastic support. It currently offers more than 15 classes at three different levels. More than 150 members of the Sigonella community participate in these classes. Discussing the impact of these classes, Eliana Seminara, one of the local Gateway instructors, explains, “Living in Italy as an American is a great chance to understand the Italian culture. Learning a new language is really a way to gain another soul, to enter a new world. I tell my students that learning another language means seeing things with different eyes.” Seminara goes on to say, “Many of my students tell me that they feel more comfortable and enjoy their life in Italy more since starting the Gateway classes.” The Navy recognizes the importance for its person-
nel to learn the language and culture of the countries where they are assigned. In its vision statement, the Navy Center for Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture (CLREC) states its goal of having “Naval forces capable of applying regional knowledge, understanding of foreign cultures, and foreign language skills to promote peace and prevail in conflict.” Because of its mission to deliver foreign language instruction to prepare Navy personnel for global engagements, CLREC will fund the cost of the Gateway to Italian classes for active duty personnel. If you would like more information about the Gateway to Italian program and the upcoming schedule of classes in Sigonella, contact Central Texas College at 624-4306 or sigonella@europe.ctcd.edu.
February 24, 2017
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February 24, 2017
GAMEZONE
Shakespeare: Macbeth
MENTEITH MURDERERS NORWAY PORTER PROPHECY QUEEN REGICIDE ROSS SCONE SCOTLAND SEYTON SIWARD SLEEPWALKING SOLILOQUY THANE WEIRD SISTERS
MEDIUM
DUNCAN DUNSINANE ENGLAND FLEANCE GENTLEWOMAN GLAMIS GUILT HEATH HECATE INVERNESS IRELAND LADY MACBETH LADY MACDUFF LENNOX MACBETH MADNESS MALCOLM
EASY
ANGUS APPARITIONS BANQUO BIRNAM WOOD BLOOD CAITHNESS CAPTAIN CASTLE CAULDRON CAWDOR COLMEKILL CONSCIENCE CUMBERLAND DAGGER DOCTOR DONALBAIN
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the words relating to Macbeth hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a quotation from Macbeth.
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"FESTIVALS" cont'd from Pg. 6 town is a perfect backdrop for this worldwide celebration of brotherhood. The origin of the festival dates back to the 1930s. Every year, at the beginning of February, the farmers of Naro, a small village in the Agrigento province, used to celebrate the early almond blooms with songs, dances and float parades. The festival also helped to promote the local community's produce. Through the years, the festival, which moved to Agrigento, earned an international reputation as a celebration of peace and friendship, with folklore groups visiting from all over the world. This year’s festival highlights will include live music by “Qbeta live” featuring Lello Analfino and Teresa Salgueiro and a “Children of the World Festival.” The last day of the festival (Sunday, March 12) will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a folklore show leaving from piazza Pirandello and heading toward the Esseneto Sports Stadium. It will feature the final award show around 2 p.m. at the enchanting Valley of the Temples. The archaeological area in Agrigento, Sicily, known as the Valley of the Temples, is one of the most important archeological sites in the world and has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1998. The temple of Concord can be seen just peeping out from the southern extremity of the green, flower-covered plain. The ruins of all the sacred buildings are situated in the line of temples. If you look eastward, you can even see a few ruins of the temple of Juno. Most of the landscape has remained unchanged since Goethe's admira-
tion of the plain in 1787. The Valley of the Temples remains the most famous and praised part of Agrigento. Inside the Valley of the Temples there are different monuments; they are what is left of the ancient city of Akragas that was founded during the sixth century B.C. by settlers from Gela. In 100 years it has become "the finest city of mortals" (Pindar). The Timoleontesins re-founded Agrigento in 340 B.C. after its destruction by the Carthaginians in 406. It had a few moments of splendor before heading toward decline brought on by the Byzantines. After the Arab conquest the ancient part of the city was abandoned during the ninth century and the urban nucleus was restricted to a hill named Gergent. Then the Normans conquered it and the city became a diocese and different churches were built upon it. Buildings and monuments were made during the 14th and 15th centuries and again during a period between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. In 1927 the city took the name of Agrigento . Today it has 56,000 inhabitants. The great temples of ancient Akragas include the following sites: Hera (Juno) Lacinia, Concordia, Heracles (Hercules), Olympian Zeus (Jupiter), Castor and Pollux (Dioscuri) and Hephaistos (Vulcan). On the bank of the Akragas river near a medical spring stood a Temple dedicated to Asklepius (Euscu-
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PAGE 15 lapius), the god of medicine. At the mouth of the river there was the harbor and “Emporion” (trading-post) of the ancient city. Tickets are required to attend some events such as concerts and some folklore shows. For more information, visit http://sagradelmandorloinfiore.com/ The festival’s schedule is available at the following address: http://sagradelmandorloinfiore.com/ wp-content/uploads/2017/02/programma-mandorlo2017-15-02.pdf
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February 24, 2017