Swordfish:
Romania:
Water Samples:
Going the distance!
More than Dracula!
Learn more about the results
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November 27, 2015
Vol. 32 No. 45
(Far from) home for the holidays: How Sigonella celebrates Thanksgiving By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS Sigonella, Sicily – For many Americans, Thanksgiving evokes images of family and friends gathered around a large dining table, football, and tryptophan-induced food comas. But for the thousands of service members and family members stationed at NAS Sigonella, many miles from their loved ones and the comforts of home, a little extra effort is required to make the holidays festive. Even so, while the people around the table may be different, Sigonellans strive to hold on to their Thanksgiving traditions. “This will be my fourth Thanksgiving away from family and my third Thanksgiving in Sigonella. We usually celebrate by hosting a potluck with our close friends. It's a great way to incorporate our family traditions while learning about new ones. Our Sigonella friends are our family away from home, not only during the holidays, but every day. They are the ones who we share our daily life with and they make the holidays special,” said Lt. Amanda Boudreaux, Occupational Audiology DIVO. While some choose to celebrate with their military family, others like HM3 Eric Morera prefer to keep to themselves during the holidays. “I prefer not to do much for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Don't get me wrong, I love the holidays – the atmosphere is so warm and heartfelt, and of course the decorations are spectacular. I've come to realize that the holiday season isn't lonely simply because you’re alone but rather because we tend to forget the good memories we made throughout the year. So no matter where I am, it's the memories of my family, previous and current friends, that represent the holidays for me,” said Morera. On Nov. 26, the Galley hosted a Thanksgiving meal with traditional dishes for NASSIG service members. Volunteers from the community helped to serve the meal, providing a sense of home for
those celebrating the holidays far from family and loved ones. FSO Lt. j.g. Micah Wallin explained that the Galley took a different approach to Thanksgiving this year, attempting to create a festive atmosphere instead of simply serving food. “We're one big family. People come to the Galley, have a hot meal and there are always people to talk to and joke around with. You’re guaranteed to make new friends and family, and that’s exactly what we want to do and provide over here at the Galley,” explained Wallin.
Other members of the Sig’ community spent the holidays in Tuscany, as part of the MWR tour to Florence, Siena, Pisa and San Gimignano. The tour included stops at the Verrazzano Winery for Thanksgiving lunch; a walking tour of Florence; a visit to the city of medieval towers, San Gimignano; and Piazza del Campo in Siena. While the faces around the table may be different and the dishes might not taste like Mom’s, Sigonellans still found meaningful ways to give thanks this year, while stationed overseas.
Sig’ Citizen profile: Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Gerardo Preciado By LT Paul Newell NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Officer
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Gerardo Preciado is fascinated with what makes people of different cultures tick. It’s always been that way for him; it’s how he was raised. Preciado was born in Los Angeles, spent his formative years in Ensenada, Mexico, and by age 18 was commuting back and forth across the border each day to serve as a gas attendant in San Ysidro, Calif. Straddling the border and inserting himself in two different cultures gave Preciado a nuanced perspective and insights that sparked a passion: how to inspire people of differing, sometimes dissenting opinions, to come together and work toward a common goal. “Growing up in Mexico taught me to be resourceful,” said Preciado, one of only five uniformed members working for the Sigonella branch of the Defense Logistics Agency. “I learned to work with what I had; not what I wanted.” In addition to gleaning from his physical surroundings, Preciado credits his parents for teaching him ingenuity and the value of perseverance instead of taking the easy way out. As a U.S. citizen living in Mexico he was approached at work one day by a man soliciting him to transport drugs. “He wanted to know why I was killing myself working at the gas station when I could be making big and easy money smuggling drugs across the border,” Preciado recalled. “He said all I had to do was park my car in the same spot at my home and the same spot at work – nothing else – and they would take care of the rest. Of course I had a vision and wanted money but knew that once I got into it I would never out and I knew that so I wasn’t even tempted. My parents instilled that in me.” Not long after declining the offer to traffic drugs, Preciado, sensing a golden opportunity Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Gerardo Preciado, left, verifies inventory at to expand his mind through travel while getting paid and gaining college credits, Defense Logistics Agency Sigonella, Nov. 3, 2015. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
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November 27, 2015
Direct Line
Overseas deployments offer many unique opportunities to travel the world, experience local culture, and foster lifelong friendships. But they also present hardships, and the separation and distance from friends and family can be even more pronounced during the holidays. For nearly 75 years, the United Service Organization (USO) has been the nation’s leading organization in providing entertainment and quality-of-life programs for U.S. military members, and their families. The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation. Formed at the request of President Franklin D. Roosevelt as America prepared to enter World War II in 1941, the USO was incepted to unite several service associations into one organization to lift the morale of our military and nourish support on the home front. Those entities – the Salvation Army, Young Men’s Christian Association, Young Women’s Christian Association, National Catholic Community Services, National Travelers Aid Association and the National Jewish Welfare Board ¬– became the United Service Organizations or USO. Today, the USO continues to support our nation’s military and their families who so bravely defend our country and its freedoms. The reach of the USO’s 160 centers extends to countries on every continent except Antarctica, operated by thousands of staff and volunteers
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Buongiorno Sigonella,
November 27, 2015
whose goals are to match our service members’ vigilance and provide best-in-class service to those who sacrifice so much for America. I am excited to share with you that there will be a USO opening on NAS 2 in spring 2016, providing a “home away from home” for our military families and single Sailors. One of the hallmarks of the USO is its traveling tours that bring America and its celebrities to service members who are assigned far from home, to entertain them and convey the gratitude and support of the nation. On Dec. 5, the USO will bring their show to NAS Sigonella. The event is open to all active duty military members and their dependents, and will be held at the NAS 2 Hangar, BLDG 630 from 19:30 - 21:00. The show will feature appearances by: *Elizabeth Banks (Hunger Games / Lego Movie) *Brett James (Singer / Songwriter) *Sydney Castillo (Comedian) *Bill Montana (Singer / Songwriter) *Chris Daughtry (Singer) *Steven Wright (Pitcher - Red Sox) *Heath Hembree (Relief Pitcher - Red Sox) *David Wain (Wet Hot American Summer) *Kyle Jacobs (Singer / Songwriter) Thank you for all that you do, Sigonella. While we all
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil
wish we could be home for the holidays, I hope that the USO Holiday Troop visit will bring a little bit of home to Sigonella and convey the sense of gratitude of our nation. See you there!
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publically recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
All Hands News Bulletin: DoDEA Town Hall Meeting: Dr. McMullen, DoDEA Europe Director, will host a Facebook Town Hall Meeting on Dec. 3, at 1800-1900 (6-7pm) on the DoDEA-Europe Facebook site (facebook.com/dodeaeurope). The focus of this meeting will be College and Career Readiness Standards. The Director, along with key staff members, will be on hand to answer any questions you have in regards to College and Career Readiness. Towards the end of the Town Hall, Dr. McMullen will open up the discussion to allow for questions on various topics of most interest to our audience. Community members can submit questions for the Director early by emailing us at feedback@eu.dodea.edu. Naval Hospital to Discontinue Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication Program: Starting on Dec. 1, 2015, the Pharmacy at U.S. Naval Hospital will no longer offer the OTC medication program. Previously, patients were allowed to receive select OTC medications directly without seeing a provider for evaluation. Going forward, patients can still receive these medications, which have been selected by their provider. With the excellent access to care this hospital provides, patients will not have to wait long for
an appointment. Alternatively, all of these medications are available at the NEX, 7-day store, and/or the Commissary. One important exception is the Plan B medication. Eligible beneficiaries in need of Plan B may still proceed directly to the Pharmacy without first seeing a provider. Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas: The active solicitation period for the CFC-O has been extended through Dec. 4, 2015. The CFC-O is the annual workplace giving campaign for the five overseas unified combatant commands. Since the kickoff on Sept. 21, 2015, the CFC-O has received more than $5 million in pledges, demonstrating the generosity of overseas Department of Defense uniformed and civilian personnel. A contribution to one of the thousands of charities in the CFC-O provides help and hope to those in need in so many ways. Contributors are encouraged to support causes that have personal significance such as giving back to the military community, providing disaster relief or finding cures for diseases.
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 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 anyanonymous 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. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
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Shannon Buckley, 8, Sigonella Swordfish member, swims laps at NAS 1 Splashers Pool during the 2015 Remembrance Meet. (Photo courtesy of Roy Puerto).
Going the distance: Swordfish compete at long-distance champs By MC2 Rebecca Sunderland AFN Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Every fall the best of the best distance swimmers from across Europe compete for ultimate bragging rights at the European Forces Swim League Long-Distance Championships in Ligano, Italy. While the medals are given out at Champs, the real victory has already been won for 19 Sigonella Swordfish who earned their right to compete through hard work, focus and dedication. Swimmers must qualify by meeting predetermined time requirements based on age and gender. While each swimmer will compete individually, the road to the starting block took teamwork, hours of practice and support from their families and friends. “We practice every day with the goal of qualifying swimmers for the long distance and short distance champs. It’s a sport that highlights an individual’s achievement but we share in the success as a team,” said Coach Jessyl Lange. When the starting bell rings, it’s every swimmer for themself, but win or lose, when the race is done the team will celebrate this incredible feat together. “We encourage each other, we push each other. Whether it’s distance or sprints, backstroke or butterfly, everyone brings something unique to our team and that’s what makes us strong.” said Coach Emily Ellison.
Sigonella Swordfish, pictured from left to right. Row one: Ezra Andres (10); Brendan Fahey (9); DJ Hurtado (10); Sadie Torres (10); CJ Davis (10). Row two: Jack McKown (10); Ella Andre (9); Avery Young (10); Ellie Brassart (9); Malia Puerto (11); Alyah Perkins (12). Row three: Zoey Perkins (14); Colby Young (13); Hannah Davis (14); Alexis Rosendahl (13); Gabrielle Andres (12); Allison Havard (11). Not pictured: Shannon Buckley (8); Isabella Sappenfield (12). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rebecca Sunderland/Released).
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)
joined the Navy as a machinist mate in 2000 when he was 23. “I wanted to take advantage of seeing the world and learning, learning, learning while getting paid.” To his liking Preciado was stationed aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) in Yokosuka, Japan during his first enlistment. When his obligation ended in 2004 he chose to leave the service and started working logistics jobs in Calif. before rejoining the sea service as an LS in 2008. “I was missing the overseas life,” Preciado said. “And I got to go back to Yokosuka aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73), which was another incredible experience.” After his tour aboard GW ended Preciado came to Sigonella in December 2012, living by his mantra that to truly experience a culture you must see it firsthand and live it. “I live in Acireale so I’ve learned how Sicilians live. When I decided to learn Italian I went to the University of Catania to take classes. It’s really a great honor to experience all the places I’ve read about.” In the workplace Preciado prides himself bringing the U.S. and Italian cultures together to achieve one common vision through a cohesive force. “In order to accomplish something you must have a vision,” Preciado said. “Being from different cultures – Japanese or Italian – you have to find ways to be persuasive in convincing others to work toward the same goal, but through my travels
PAGE 5 and growing up I’ve realized not everyone values the same things Americans do and often have competing perspectives. What I really enjoy is when I can look from their direction and discover a new way to get things done on common ground. It’s challenging because you’re under stress to accomplish a multitude of requirements so when you get everyone pulling in the same direction it brings lots of satisfaction.” In a few weeks Preciado will take his talents to his next overseas location at NSA Souda Bay, Greece. Undoubtedly, Greek will be the next mastered tongue and he’ll pick up new ways of thinking and looking at things thanks to the ancestors of one of history’s greatest ancient civilizations. And while Preciado is no spring chicken himself, he says using his age to leverage experience continues to benefit those with whom he serves. “I’m a 38-year-old second-class petty officer when most the people in this rate and paygrade are in their mid-20s,” said Preciado. “The great thing is I feel I have a matured perspective that continues to grow and I can use it to advise my peers and superiors. So there is an advantage to being an older second class.” “In every conversation and every moment of the day there are always opportunities. There’s always an opportunity to lift somebody up, to make someone laugh, to do something good,” Preciado said and then paused while patting his stomach. “And there’s always an opportunity to eat well here in Sicily. The food is good.”
Intercultural communications tips From Fleet and Family Support Center
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Working in a multicultural environment requires some basic understanding of how to work cross-culturally. These tips on intercultural communication are a perfect starting point Working across cultures is a new experience for many people. Intercultural communication can be a dynamic and creative affair but occasionally due to the inability to interpret people correctly it can be a challenge. Building an understanding of other people's cultures, their communication styles and behaviors can go a long way in improving relationships and being more successful in an intercultural environment. Even without trawling through lots of books, articles or even taking part in an intercultural communication workshop it is possible to implement some basic principles to help improve one's intercultural commu- nication skills. The following intercultural commu- nication tips are provided to help people working in international and multicultural environments get some basic insight into dealing more effectively with people and not letting culture become an issue. 1. Be Patient: Working in an intercultural environment can be a frustrating affair. Things may not get done when expected, communication can be tiresome and behavior may be inappropriate. Patience with yourself and others helps move beyond such issues and address how to avoid similar incidents in the future. 2. Establish Rules: Sometimes if working in a truly intercultural team it may be necessary for all to take a step back and set down some ground rules. i.e. how do we approach punctuality, meetings, communication, emails, disagreements, etc? It is always a good idea to try and develop the rules as a group rather than have them imposed. 3. Ask Questions: When you don't understand something or want to know why someone has behaved in a certain way, simply ask. Asking questions stops you making assumptions, shows the questioned you did not understand them and helps build up your bank of intercultural knowledge. 4. Respect: The foundation of all intercultural communication is respect. By demonstrating respect you earn respect and help create more open and fruitful relationships. For more information please come visit the ICR (Intercultural Relations) Department at the Fleet & Family Support Center, 624-4291.
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Saint Barbara Festival returns to Paternò Dec. 3-5 By dr alberto lunetta
It’s that time of the year again! The longawaited annual Santa Barbara Festival will be held in Paternò Dec. 3 – 5, featuring religious processions, arts and crafts, music and entertainment. Paternò religious authorities advised that this year the festival will be blessed by the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy set to begin on Dec. 8 and will conclude on Nov. 20, 2016. The Holy Year or Jubilee is one of the Catholic Church’s most important events during which the faithful make pilgrimages to Rome. Santa Barbara is the patron saint of Paternò. The town’s devotion to Santa Barbara originated in 1576 when she saved the town from a terrible plague epidemic. Legend has it that Saint Barbara appeared in a dream to a nun promising to save the town if townspeople would proclaim her as the patron saint. The nun shared her dream with the community, who immediately hailed her as the Santa Patrona (patroness saint). A few days later, the plague ended, and Santa Barbara became the official protector of the Paternò community. Townspeople erected a cathedral in her honor. According to legend, Santa Barbara also intervened to stop a terrible Etna eruption in 1780. The “miracle” occurred after Paternò townspeople carried her relics in procession near the town of Ragalna on the slopes of the volcano. Saint Barbara is still invoked to grant safety from lightning, thunderstorms, and fires. Since the Middle Age, she has been regarded as the patron saint of those who are in danger of fire or explosions. She is also associated with artillerymen, fire fighters and ordnance disposal personnel. Historically her image was placed on arsenals and powder magazines. In Italian, the ammunition magazine on a war ship is still called Santabarbara. As reported by Catholic.org, the Spanish word “santabárbara,” the correspond-
From December 3 through 5, the community of Paternò will pay respect to Saint Barbara, the town’s patron saint, with a not-be-missed religious festival featuring processions, arts and crafts displays, fireworks and music shows. (Photo by www.parrocchiasantabarbara.org)
ing Italian word “Santa Barbara,” and the obsolete French “Sainte-Barbe” signify the powder magazine of a ship or fortress. It was customary to have a statue of Saint Barbara at the magazine to protect the ship or fortress from suddenly exploding. She is the patron of the Italian Navy. Saint Barbara’s Day, Dec. 4, is celebrated by the British (Royal Artillery, RAF
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U.S. NAVY HEADLINES November 27, 2015
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Petty officer advancement quotas cycle 228
By Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
More than 23,000 Sailors will be advanced to E-4, E-5 and E-6 during the Navy's 2015 fall advancement cycle. Quotas were released Nov. 19, for E-4, E-5 and E-6 active duty, Full Time Support (FTS) and Selected Reserve (SELRES) for those advancing by the Navy-wide advancement test. Total advancement opportunity also includes 2,282 petty officers advanced earlier this year by their commands through the Meritorious Advancement Program (MAP). Response to MAP from command triads and Sailors has been very positive. Based on the desire from the Fleet, MAP will slowly be expanded to shore commands next year, and will provide greater opportunity to identify and promote the Navy's most talented Sailors. A NAVADMIN will be released in 2016 outlining program changes. While overall active duty promotion opportunity remains near the Navy's 10-year average, due to high retention across the force there is more competition for advancement, and consequently a slight decrease in overall advancement for Sailors this cycle. For FTS Sailors there were drops in opportunity to E-5 and E-6, but an increased chance of advancement to E-4. FTS advancement opportunity is in response to the Navy's needs in support of active duty requirements. While advancement opportunity for Reserve Sailors is up slightly overall for the fourth straight cycle, there are still many Sailors in ratings whose advancement opportunity remains stagnant, Reserve Forces personnel officials said. Force structure changes and historically low attrition (sailors leaving) are factors determining increasing or decreasing opportunity. There is opportunity for SELRES Sailors to convert from overmanned to undermanned ratings and Sailors should coordinate with their unit and Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) career counselor. Advancement results will be released to command triads through BUPERS Online (BOL), Nov. 24 at 11 a.m. EST, and Sailors' individual results are expected to be released via BOL and to Navy.mil, Nov. 25 at 11 a.m. EST. Active duty advancement opportunity and quotas by pay grade: • E-4 advancement opportunity decreased from 33.30 percent 32.94 percent (-.36 percentage points). Total of 9,106 quotas which includes 553 advanced via MAP. • E-5 advancement opportunity decreased from 23.87 percent to 21.34 percent (-2.53 percentage points). 7,569 of quotas with 755 already advanced via MAP. • E-6 advancement opportunity decreased from 17.69 percent to 15.17 percent (-2.52 percentage points). There are 3,818 E-6 quotas which includes 907 advanced via MAP. Full-Time Support (FTS) advancement opportunity by pay grade: • E-4 advancement opportunity increased from 46.92 percent to 54.67 percent (7.75 percentage points). Total of 199 E-3 Sailors advanced; includes 3 advancing via MAP. • E-5 advancement opportunity increased from 32.87 percent to 33.43 percent (.56 percentage points). Total 238 quotas; includes 25 already advanced via MAP • E-6 advancement opportunity decreased from 18.93 percent to 14.86 percent (-4.07 percentage points). Total 166; includes 39 already advanced via MAP Selected Reserve (SELRES) advancement opportunity by pay grade: • E-4 advancement opportunity increased from 44.80 percent to 56.26 percent (11.46 percentage points), total of 1065 quotas • E-5 advancement opportunity increased from 23.10 percent to 26.40 percent (3.30 percentage points), total of 904 quotas • E-6 advancement opportunity increased from 10.30 percent to 13 percent (2.7 percentage points), total of 510 quotas.
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Roaming through Romania: More than just Dracula By Stefanie Gurganus
Have you run out of ideas for your next European adventure? Looking for something a little off the beaten path? Romania might be just the place for you! It definitely wasn’t on my bucket list but I figured a visit to Dracula’s castle for Halloween couldn’t be missed. Little did I know that Romania is a hidden gem. Not only is it a beautiful country but inexpensive, too. The national currency is the leu or RON and the conversion rate is great, so your money will go a long way. There are so many great things about Romania: the food, the history, the people, and the landscape. We used Bucharest as our home base and took tours from there using a tour guide with The Fixers. Adrian Rusu, a local Romanian, was our guide and had a vast knowledge of the area and love for his country. You can find him on Trip Advisor. I highly recommend him! We took two, one-day tours but there are a variety of tours to fit your needs. We chose to do the castle tour, a tour of the salt mines and a winery. They were all excellent. We went Halloween weekend. The weather was beautiful and the colors of fall were in full bloom. It was a fantastic time to go, but I would recommend going earlier in October or late September for a little more sunshine during the day. Our first full day, which
happened to be Halloween, we decided on the castle tour. We saw Bran Castle (more commonly known as Dracula’s Castle), Peles Castle, a nearby monastery, and Brasov (a quaint little Transylvanian town). It got dark early, so by the time we got to Brasov it was dark and we didn’t get to see much of it, but I definitely recommend this town. Bran Castle isn’t as spooky and dark as one would think. It’s a beautiful castle with picturesque views. If you also decide to go visit during Halloween look it up as they have a huge Halloween bash there. There is also a little resort area down the road called Club Vila Bran. It has a hotel, restaurant, and many different activities for the kids. We stopped there for lunch and had an awesome view of the castle and the food was amazing. We even got a souvenir pedestal bowl with one of our dishes. Peles Castle is also gorgeous with breathtaking views. The interior is so beautifully done, it is worth a visit inside. Both of these castles were truly unique and nothing like the castles we see in Sicily. The following day we toured one of Europe’s largest salt mines. It was absolutely amazing. We went 800 meters below the surface into these fascinating mines. People brought picnic baskets, soccer balls and really made a day out of it. There are various areas set up where you can play soccer, basketball, pool, and
watch TV. There are picnic tables and bounce houses set up for the kids. I couldn’t believe it. It was like a little town. The temperature in the mines is 12 degrees Celsius year round, so during the summer when it’s sweltering hot people go down and spend the day with their families. The size and natural beauty of the salt mines is truly amazing. We finished the day with a visit to the winery where we tasted wines at different stages of the picking and fermenting process. That was an experience in itself. Oh and did I mention it was a private tour? Afterwards, we chose which wines we wanted to taste and had a light snack of cheese and bread. We enjoyed it all so much that we brought home some Romanian wine with us. Since we went for a short weekend we didn’t have much time to explore all that we wanted. We walked around Bucharest but didn’t get to do much sightseeing, so I am hoping to go back. We were told there is a little outdoor museum to walk through to see the different variations of the country homes throughout Romania at different time periods. You are also just an hour away from Bulgaria, which could be a day trip in itself. I know next time I go back I will be touring Brasov, Bucharest, and Bulgaria!! So if you’re looking for ideas for your next trip, I hope Romania makes the list!
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That's NOT "What Right Looks Like" The Signature has established the "That's NOT What Right Looks Like" section in order to make the NAS Sigonella community aware of how the command is prosecuting improper behavior, along with the hope of deterring future bad decisions. In September during a command authorized Alco-blow test, a civilian provided a positive hit. After the 20 minute deprivation period, permission was given for a search of the civilian's breath for alcohol content. The breathalyzer resulted in BRAC levels of .076 and .075. The civilian acknowledged and invoked their right to remain silent. No statement was provided. The civilian was released to the Chain of Command. The civilian's Italian translation driver's license was confiscated. In October, the civilian's driving privileges (on and off base) were suspended for 12 months.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel
PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Saturday - 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2
LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 6249049
PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home
Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel
Weekly Traffic Reports: Nov. 16 - 23, 2015
Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Nov. 27 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Hamburger Yakisoba, Herbed Baked Chicken. Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Pasta Alfredo, Fishwich Saturday, Nov. 28 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Roast Turkey Dinner: Pasta Carbonara, Chicken Parmesan
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Sunday, Nov. 29 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Pork Roast Dinner: Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce, Fried Fish Portions Monday, Nov. 30 Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Biscuit and Sausage Gravy Lunch: BBQ Chicken, Chipper Fish Speed Line: Assorted Pizza Dinner: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops, Beef Ravioli
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 1 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino Lunch: Roast Pork, Chicken Fritted Cutlet Speed Line: Chicken Fajitas, Beef & Bean Burritos, Mexican Rice, Refried Beans Dinner: Salisbury Steak, Italian Sausage w/ Onions & Peppers Wednesday, Dec. 2 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef w/ Toast Lunch: White Fish w/ Mushroom, Chicken Breast w/ Orange Sauce Speed Line: Grilled Burgers Dinner: Spaghetti w/ Meatballs, Fried Fish Portions
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4:30 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4:30 -6 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 3 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minute Steak Lunch: Meat Loaf, Roast Turkey. Speed Line: Pasta Bar w/ Choice of Sauce Dinner: Beef Sukiyaki, Penne Alfredo Friday, Dec. 4 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino Lunch: BBQ Ribs, Fried Chicken. Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Chili Macaroni, Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
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.
November 27, 2015
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NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT DRINKING WATER SAMPLE RESULTS FOR MARINAI YOUTH CENTER, BLDG. 2569, INDICATED A LOW CHLORINE RESIDUAL DURING A SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 SAMPLING EVENT
Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella routinely monitors its water systems for disinfectant residual in the distribution system. This measurement tells us whether we are effectively disinfecting the water supply. Disinfectant residual is the amount of chlorine present at the taps and in the pipes of the distribution system. If the amount of disinfectant is too low, organisms could grow in the pipes. Daily, water plant operators, at each of our four water systems, check the chlorine levels at the far reaches of the distribution systems to ensure disinfectant levels are adequate. Each month, Naval Hospital Sigonella Preventive Medicine and the Public Works Environmental Division independently collect additional oversight samples to verify the water in the distribution system is in compliance with US EPA and the DoD Final Governing Standards (FGS) for Italy. The CO was notified on November 11 that, on September 24th, Preventive Medicine recorded a chlorine residual value of 0.09 mg/L at the Marinai Youth Center. This is below the value of 0.2 mg/L required by the US EPA and the FGS. During this sampling event, a bacteriological sample was also collected, and the test was negative for coliform bacteria. No other locations on any NAS Sigonella site failed to meet this standard. 100% transparency and accountability to you, our public, remains our commitment. As such, we keep the NAS Sigonella community informed of our water system status and actions to be taken to correct problems when they occur. What happened? During a routine sampling event on September 24th, Preventive Medicine noted that the chlorine residual in Bldg. 2569 measured below the required 0.2 mg/L. The bacteriological test collected at the same time was negative for bacteria. Daily measurements collected by Pizzarotti on that day indicated an acceptable chlorine level of 0.62 mg/L in the distribution system. All other sample results collected at this location and since this event have measured chlorine residual levels above the required level of 0.2 mg/L. What is being done? The Drinking Water Program Manager is working closely with Pizzarotti to ensure that they continue providing the high quality of water that we require for our customers. NAS Sigonella is also working with Preventive Medicine to ensure issues which have the potential to negatively impact customer health are reported immediately to allow prompt corrections and notifications when required. To this end, additional training is being conducted for all programs and staff collecting water samples at NAS Sigonella. What does this mean? This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified within 24 hours. Tests taken during this same time period did NOT indicate the presence of bacteria in the water. The reason we are informing the public is because water without residual chlorine or otherwise inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms (Laboratory analysis conducted by Preventive Medicine did NOT indicate an issue). These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. These symptoms, however, are not caused only by organisms in drinking water, but also by other factors. If you experience any of these symptoms and they persist, you should seek medical advice. What should I do? There is nothing you need to do. You do NOT need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. This information is provided for your information only and to honor our commitment to 100% transparency about your water quality. However, if you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor or the US Naval Hospital Sigonella Medical Home Port at +39-095-56-4622. Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly. You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. For more information, please contact: Rachel Methvin, P.E. NAS Sigonella Drinking Water Program Manager NAVFAC PWD Sigonella, Environmental Division DSN 624-7220 Commercial: +39-095-86-7220 rachel.methvin@eu.navy.mil
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November 27, 2015
GAME ZONE Thanksgiving
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining 26 letters spell a popular Thanksgiving Day event.
ANNUAL AUTUMN CELEBRATION CORN CRANBERRY FAMILY FEAST FESTIVAL FOOD FOOTBALL FRIENDS
GATHERING GRAVY HARVEST HOLIDAY LONG WEEKEND MASHED POTATOES MEAL NOVEMBER PARADE PILGRIMS PLYMOUTH PUMPKIN PIE
RELATIVES REUNION SQUASH STUFFING SWEET POTATO THURSDAY TRADITION TRAVEL TURKEY WAMPANOAG YAMS
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November 27, 2015
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Violation Awareness Date: 11 November 2015 Date Notice Distributed: 23 November 2015 Public Notification Certification: This public notification has been provided to our community in accordance with all delivery, content, format, and deadline requirements per DoD FGS for Italy and OPNAVINST 5090.1D.
EASY
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November 27, 2015
Unmanned Systems: Enhancing our Warfighting Capabilities Today and in the Future By Rear Adm. Robert Girrier Director, Unmanned Warfare Systems
This is an exciting time for me to be serving as the Navy’s Director, Unmanned Warfare Systems (N99) partnered with Secretary Frank Kelley as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (DASN) for Unmanned Systems. We were able to speak a couple of weeks ago at an event for the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, and I want to share with you some thoughts and information about our newly formed directorate we discussed at the event. We are living in a world that is connected more than ever with the surge of technology and rapid information sharing. We are also living in an increasingly dangerous world with contested regions on the sea, in the air, under the sea and in cyberspace. My job, drawing on fleet experience, is to see how unmanned systems and technology can help solve problems we face in contested regions around the world. How can unmanned systems help leverage the capabilities of our ships, submarines and aircraft? While many of you are broadly aware of unmanned capabilities today, some of you have actually worked with these vehicles first hand. Fire Scout and Scan Eagle have been used for several years supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Currently, Fire Scout is employed in conjunction with a manned helicopter aboard USS Fort Worth (LCS 3). This past May, USS North Dakota (SSN 784) deployed and recovered unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV) while operating in the Mediterranean Sea. As the resource sponsor for unmanned warfare systems, I’m charged to serve as champion for Pre-Milestone B systems, or systems that have not begun the official start of a program in the acquisitions process. In simpler terms, N99 will be focused on the prototype and demonstration of unmanned systems in a rapid development cycle. We will work with Naval Warfare Development Centers and the fleets to find out where the capability gaps exist and where unmanned systems might fill those gaps and requirements. Next, with the DASN for unmanned systems, we will survey technologies across the research and development enterprise to find the right match of technology to fill those capability gaps identified. Our team will then prioritize these matches for prototyping and demonstration. This process informs our Rapid Development
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"BARBARA" continued from Page 6 Armourers, Royal Engineers); Australian (Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery, RAAF Armourers); Canadian (Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technicians (EOD), Canadian Air Force Armourers, Royal Canadian Artillery, Canadian Military Field Engineers, Royal Canadian Navy Weapons Engineering Technicians); and New Zealand (RNZAF Armourers, RNZA, RNZN
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Scan Eagle program members launch an unmanned aerial vehicle from the flight deck of the Afloat Forward Staging Base (Interim) USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) during the International Mine Countermeasures Exercise. A quarter of the world's navies are participating, including 6,500 Sailors from every region, in the largest international naval exercise promoting maritime security and the free-flow of trade through mine countermeasure operations, maritime security operations, and maritime infrastructure protection in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility and throughout the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Carson/Released)
Plan that executes within a two-year period. Within those two years, we’ll also look to terminate those demonstration efforts that are not working out for the fleet in order to reinvest money into more promising initiatives. Through this approach, resources are optimized and technical risk is reduced, saving time and money. I also want to point out that unmanned systems directly support our Sailors, making their jobs easier, more efficient and ultimately, a more effective combat team. As Secretary Mabus has said, the N99 stand-up isn’t just about producing improvements to platforms
and weapons, it’s about implementing a cultural change. As unmanned systems continue to come online and mature, we’re changing how we think and how we operate, so we’re not just reacting to the challenges we face today, but focusing creativity and initiative to ensure we prevail in the future. I’m excited to move out with Secretary Kelley with this important portfolio, and remain committed to developing and integrating unmanned systems into our broader warfare areas. I look forward to hearing the input from the fleet and seeing you out there — on the job.
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Gunners Branch) armed forces. Additionally, it is celebrated by Irish Defence Forces Artillery Regiments, Norwegian Armed Forces Artillery Battalion, United States Army and Marine Corps Field and Air Defense Artillery, many Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technicians, and other artillery formations. The units and sub-units celebrate the day with church parades, sports days, guest nights, cocktail parties, dinners and other activities. Several mining institutions also celebrate it, such as some branches of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. The West Australian Mining Club celebrate St. Barbara's Day and use it to remember those people who have died working in the mining industry during the year. Although they do not celebrate her saint's day, she is also the patron saint of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Aviation Ordnance men.
PAGE 15 Festival Schedule Highlights On Dec. 3, blank cannon shots announce the beginning of the festival at 8 a.m. A solemn Holy Mass is celebrated at 11 a.m. In the evening, the holy procession featuring the saint’s relics kicks off at 7 p.m. leaving from the Chiesa Matrice (located on the hill near the Norman castle) and reaching piazza. S. Barbara. Later, a children’s choir will sing traditional religious songs (Cantate delle corporazioni cittadine) by the “Mulinari” and “Muratori” religious clubs in piazza Indipendenza at 9 p.m. A firework and music show will follow at the end of the celebrations. The highlight of the festival is on Dec. 4. Celebrations will begin early in the morning with cannon shots and bell ringing at dawn. Later, the statue depicting the saint and her holy relics will be unveiled at 7:30 a.m. (Svelata del Simulacro di S. Barbara). Later at 10 a.m., the statue depicting the saint will be carried out in procession throughout the town center, among bell rings and a spectacular fireworks show, leaving from via S. Caterina and reaching the Church of Idria (Uscita del Simulacro e delle Reliquie di S. Barbara). A music show by the local city band will be performed at 10:15 a.m. in piazza Indipendenza (the concert will be repeated in the evening at 6:30 p.m.) At 12:30 p.m., the fercolo (carriage carrying the reliquary and the statue) will make its triumphant entry in piazza Vittorio Veneto. After that, an amazing firework show will be performed in piazza Vittorio Veneto. In the afternoon at 4:30 p.m., the holy relics of the saint will be brought in procession throughout the historic center for several hours. The procession will leave from the Church of Saint Antonio Abate and reaches piazza S. Barbara. A firework show will be performed at the end of this procession by the Church of Saint Biagio. At 11:30 p.m., a spectacular fireworks show will take place in piazza Santa Barbara. The carriage of the saint will return to its church. On the last day of the festival (Dec. 5), at 11 a.m., the Catania Archbishop S a l v a tore Gristina will celebrate a solemn holy mass at the church of Saint Barbara. In the afternoon at 4:30 p.m., the saint relics will again be carried on the devotees’ shoulders throughout the town’s historic heart. A group of about 10 varette (baroque styled carts containing a tall wax candle (cerei) decorated with lights, small flags and statues depicting angels, saints and flowers) will join the procession around 9:30 p.m. Around midnight, the afternoon procession will return to the Church of Saint Barbara and a breathtaking fireworks show by the medieval castle will then conclude the festival. For more information and detailed schedule visit www.parrocchiasantabarbara.org
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