MWR: Get Run Ready
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Lake Lugano:
AIMD Sigonella:
Switzerland with an Italian Accent
Best in Fleet
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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September 2, 2016
Vol. 33 No. 33
Earthquake Preparedness Military Spouses Face BY Stuart Hitchcock American Red Cross Sigonella
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The recent earthquake in central Italy this month underscores the importance of being aware of our surroundings and prepared for the unexpected. Preparedness starts with an understanding of the consequences we may face should an earthquake hit Sigonella or the surrounding area. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, an earthquake occurs when the ground shakes suddenly and violently as a consequence of the release of stress along the earth’s tectonic plates. Earthquakes often result in fractures of the earth’s crust adjacent to these plates and are called faults. The island of Sicily is bordered by the Tyrrhenian, Ionian, and Mediterranean Seas and is separated from mainland Italy by the Straits of Messina. Beneath the Tyrrhenian Sea lies the Eurasian tectonic plate and the island of Sicily sits on top of it. Just
to the south of Sicily lies the African tectonic plate which is continually colliding with the Eurasian tectonic plate that is ‘subducting’ or going beneath it. As a result of this continual movement of tectonic plates over millions of years, Mt. Etna was formed along with three significantly active earthquake fault lines: the Tindari fault, the Capo Peloro fault, and the Messina Strait fault which all intersect here in Sicily. Incidentally, the Messina Strait fault was responsible for the most destructive and deadly earthquake in the history of Europe which occurred in 1908. To protect yourself and your family you need to be aware and prepared. The American Red Cross has developed a checklist to help you with preparedness. If you have questions or would like more information contact your American Red Cross office at 624-4900 or visit www.redcross.org/ get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/ types-of-emergencies.
Unique Challenges
As a military spouse, Mrs. Shanna Chambers has been through nine deployments and eight duty stations, and like many military spouses, she faces unique challenges, particularly in continuing a career. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released) By mc2 ramon go NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Military life presents unique challenges – for the service member, their family, and particularly their spouse. Their sacrifice may not always be visible, but military spouses play a vital role in supporting the service member. Whether it’s holding down the home front during a deployment, or maintaining stability in the family during yet another permanent change of station (PCS), the life of a military spouse is challenging and difficult. Mrs. Shanna Chambers is no stranger to this way of life. After 22 years of marriage, nine deployments, eight duty stations (including two overseas tours), Mrs. Chambers and her husband, Lt. Cmdr. Odarious Chambers, have experienced many things in their journey together. As many spouses can attest to, one of the greatest challenges of a PCS is continuing a career, and as with previous duty stations, finding work was difficult for Chambers when they first arrived to NAS Sigonella. “It’s hard for spouses to get a job here, but you have to keep trying and keep a positive attitude,” encourages Chambers. After 11 months of actively looking for work, Chambers began working side-by-side with military members attached to Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) Sigonella, her first experience working in the government civilian sector. “I think military spouses have so much to offer. They support our team, add value and speak volumes to us as a community,” said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Mervens St. Hubert, deputy disbursing officer at PSD. Chambers is an integral part of the PSD team, providing assistance for those arriving or leaving Sigonella, processing claims for advance pay, advance dislocation allowance or travel claims, and verifying paper work. “I deal with about 15 claims a day through the Transaction Online Processing System (TOPS) and coordinate with the Command Pass Coordinators (CPC) for accurate and fast transactions,” said Chambers. With roughly 15 claims per business day, she processes approximately 3,900 claims a year, equivalent to the entire population of NAS Sigonella. In addition to handling claims for the Sigonella community, Chambers is also in charge of the TOPS from Vaihingen, Germany. “My goal is to get the service member paid as accurately and as quickly as possible because we know that transitioning to a new duty station brings a lot of uncertainties and we don’t want their pay to be one of them,” said Chambers. Chambers is not new to deployments and PCS, and understands the stress that comes with them. However, this is her first time working with the military. “I always wanted to join the Navy and I feel that working in PSD gives me that sense of camaraderie,” said Chambers. Chambers will bring the experience and knowledge she has gained working at PSD to her next job once the family arrives at their next duty station in Florida. “I have a whole new outlook on how things are run every day, and I enjoy the culture of diversity and getting to interact with people from all walks of life. Working at PSD has also given me a sense of pride to work with service members because I know it’s hard and I see the sacrifices they make.”
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September 2, 2016
Direct Line
Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Buongiorno, Sigonella! Welcome to the new school year! It’s always exciting for students to start a new year: new clothes, new supplies, new teachers. I’m sure many students have been looking forward all summer long to waking up early with a screaming alarm clock to make the bus in time. Perhaps I’ve exaggerated. Something we all have had to readjust to is the traffic pattern on NAS 1 – inconvenient to some, highly efficient to others, but overall safe and secure. Please do your part by planning your transit timelines to accommodate delays so you don’t feel tardiness anxiety and become tempted to make a poor decision. Speaking of planning, I hope those able to have time off this weekend utilized the “Seven-P” system to plan enjoyment in Sicily, along with a healthy dash of ORM. Labor Day is a special time to celebrate the many contributions of laborers. It has grown into a marker signifying the winding down of the summer holiday season and the rebirth of the work year. Also, September is devoted to disaster preparedness. Most of our community knows it’s not a question of “if,” but “when” a disaster will strike. Anyone here last November can vividly remember the flooding NAS Sigonella experienced which completely isolated the Marinai Family Housing complex. What will
be next? Hold that thought while you work on being prepared for multiple scenarios. I recently attended an Emergency Preparedness seminar at the Emergency Operations Center with a group of your Ombudsmen. While there, your Emergency Manager and AFN’s “Disaster Mondays” expert, Niki McBain, provided a recap of best practices and informative references. Emergency Preparedness is definitely something which cannot be put off until later, and involves the entire family (pets included). Your Emergency Management team will also be collaborating with the Elementary School this month to instruct students on Emergency Preparedness. And, they will be working with the Red Cross to staff info tables all month long outside the NEX and Commissary. To learn more, be sure to visit the info tables, check out the Emergency Preparedness articles featured in this edition of The Signature, and tune in to AFN (105.9 FM) “The Eagle” Monday mornings at the bottom of the seven o’clock hour for “Disaster Mondays.” Then get busy preparing! Lastly, many thanks and high praise to the NAS Sigonella Galley staff, led by CWO3 Marigundon, and patrons for making Ristorante Bella Etna the best place to dine. It took time, community investment and a belief in the process, but we are doing great and have been formally awarded 5-Star Accreditation. With the Ney inspection
completed this week, we are confident the Galley will represent the Region well as a result of everyone’s hard work. Thank you for taking care of one another this summer. There has been a lot of personnel transition, and I appreciate how the community has not missed a beat keeping Safety and Security always in mind. We can all be proud of this. Keep up the greatness which makes this the best installation in the Region!
Ticket Sales for the 241st Navy Birthday
NAVY BALL TICKET SALES Navy Ball Committee Ticket sales started on August 11, 2016 and will continue until tickets are sold out. Point of Contact: LTJG Krista Morris Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4925 Point of Contact Email Address: krista.r.morris.mil@mail.mil Cost includes entrance to event, commemorative coin of event, and four-course dinner. Prices: E1-E5: €40 E6-E8, O1-O3: €50 E9, O4-O7: €55
Please see your command representative for more information and to reserve your ticket! DCS: YN2 James Sorrentino NASSIG Ops: ABF2 Taylor Vet Clinic: SPC Mancha Legal: LN1 McKinney AIMD: AM1 Briggs AFN: IC1 Derrance Dye PWD: LTJG Tom Runner FLC: HM2 Johanna Ruggs CTF-67: AO1 Enrico Dagsindal NAVSUP: ABFC Celocia, LS1 Hassan Global Hawk: SMSgt Robert Simpson NMCLANT DET SIG: GM1 Leah Warren NCTS: IT2 Casey Moore, IT2 Tyler Nichols SPMAGTF: HMC Narciso Fontecha, HM2 Brown USNHSIG: LT Tammy Nguyen and HM2 Joseph Aglubat
September 2, 2016
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Safety Spotlight: Electronic Cigarette Prohibition Guidance
From NAS Sigonella Safety Department
Sailors “vaping” on ships and bases may soon be a thing of the past. A string of incidents in the last year has prompted Navy safety officials to recommend a ban on e-cigarettes fleet wide. Ecigarettes are battery-operated devices that heat up liquid nicotine and deliver it to the user as a flavored vapor. In an Aug. 11 memo, the Naval Safety Center detailed growing safety concerns over e-cigarettes due to exploding batteries in the devices which have led to a
dozen injuries since 2015. When the lithium-ion batteries overheat, the seal surrounding them can fail and turn an e-cigarette into a small bomb. The Naval Safety Center concludes that these devices pose a significant and unacceptable risk to Navy personnel, facilities, submarines, ships, vessels and aircraft. The memo recommends a full ban of the products on Navy property. The report notes that while laptops and cellphones also run on lithium-ion batteries, extensive testing has not shown a tendency to explode when they fail. The
Navy is taking a hard look at the recommendation, which would ultimately have to be implemented by Fleet Forces Command and U.S. Pacific Fleet. The Safety Center recorded 12 incidents between October and May and acknowledged that there are probably more incidents that were not reported. There were no incidents recorded before October 2015. Seven of the incidents occurred on Navy ships and at least two required the use of shipboard firefighting equipment to extinguish the fires. Eight of the incidents occurred while the e-cigarette was in a Sailor’s pocket, resulting in first- and second-degree burns. Two sailors had their e-cigarettes blow up in their mouths, resulting in facial and dental injuries. All told, ecigarettes have resulted in three days of hospitalization and more than 150 days of reduced duties for Sailors. Naval Sea Systems Command has issued a partial ban on the lithium-ion batteries at the center of the report. The Safety Center is recommending that the ban be extended to e-cigarettes. The problem of exploding e-cigarettes is not limited to the Navy. The report notes that the injury and failure statistics from the civilian sector are in line with what the Navy is seeing in its data.
Name: HM3 Jennifer Nielsen Dept: U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Hometown: Chesapeake, Va. HM3 Nielsen arrived at her first duty station, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella, as a laboratory technician. "I collect blood and urine samples, run tests, and give the results to the providers. We try to get the results within a day but due to the small size of our lab, we have limited services so we send some of the tests to other facilities." Nielsen aims to be a physical therapist some day. "I wanted to be a physical therapist before I joined the Navy but because of the classes I took in school, I was more qualified to be a laboratory technician." Although she has to take
more classes for physical therapy before she can apply for the transfer, it's much easier to transition to a different job in the same department than it is to switch to a different rate. "I may not be doing physical therapy at the moment but I like my job. It’s really good to learn the science behind the blood." Nielsen misses spending time with her large family. When asked how often she goes back home to visit, she responds “Why go to them when they can come to you and explore Europe?" When she eventually returns home, she is looking forward to seeing friends and family but also going to her favorite salon to get her hair and nails done. Until then, Nielsen plans to explore Europe with her friends and family. She has already visited Budapest and Ireland. Her favorite, thus far, has been Budapest because it's clean and the people are very friendly.
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 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil YN2 Gabrielle Milly gabrielle.milly@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 hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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September 2, 2016
Are You Run Ready? By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Chances are running is a part of your life – whether you have set your sights on the Base 2 Base half marathon, have incorporated running into a weight loss plan or would like to improve your next PRT time. When performed safely and with a thoughtout training plan, running can be a fun and effective way to burn calories and reach new personal goals. Unfortunately, as a result of improper maintenance, injury rates are through the roof. Close to 78% of runners report at least one runningrelated injury per year. While not always a major injury, even minor pain can lead to a more severe injury if not identified and addressed. “You have to take care of yourself. Your body is like a car. It requires regular maintenance in order to run efficiently. But oftentimes we tend to ignore it and expect the body to hold up,” said Heather Jones-Proctor, MWR Fitness Specialist.
“Get Run Ready” is a two-part, hands-on and interactive running seminar conducted by Jones-Proctor, a certified running coach and ultramarathoner. In Level 1: Foundations Jones-Proctor will discuss a systematic approach to injury prevention. “Lack of pain does not indicate lack of injury. An injury could be right around the corner,” cautions Jones-Proctor. Level 1 will also cover topics such as hydration, mobility, prevention and treatment of common injuries and the importance of appropriate footwear. In Level 2: Training Fundamentals, participants will learn how to formulate a safe and effective training plan as well as complete running drills and biomechanics. It is highly recommended that participants attend Level 1: Foundations prior to Level 2: Training Fundamentals. “This class will help ‘make the invisible visible.’ When you teach people about body mechanics, you can see the body break down without ac-
tually seeing it. We want people to become more educated so we can help avoid injury,” stated Jones-Proctor who says that even 10 minutes a day can have a significant impact on injury prevention. “Get Run Ready” is a free, two-part seminar. Participants should wear athletic clothing. Classes will be held:
Level 1: Foundations • Sept. 7 at 1100-1230 • Sept. 8 at 1630-1800 Level 2: Training Fundamentals • Sept. 14 at 1100-1230 • Sept. 15 at 1630-1800 For more information please call Heather Jones-Proctor at 624-4951 or visit www.sigmwr.com.
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)
September 2, 2016
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September is National Preparedness Month From Emergency Operations Center
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The month of September is national preparedness month which serves as a reminder that we all must take action to prepare, now and throughout the year, for the types of emergencies that could affect us where we live, work, and also where we visit. “Don’t Wait, Communicate, Make Your Emergency Plan Today,” will be the theme this September with an emphasis on preparedness for youth, older adults, people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
National Preparedness month has a different theme every week to include: Preparing family and friends, preparing through service, and individual preparedness. The month will culminate with National PrepareAthon Day which will be on Sept. 30. Share your plans for National Preparedness Month using the hashtag #NatlPrep. Thank you for taking time to help make America more prepared for emergencies, and make sure you check The Signature this month for more information on making a plan!
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September 2, 2016
Catania Fishermen’s Neighborhood of Ognina Hosts Holy Mary Festival by Dr. Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
“Ccu vera firi, evviva ‘a Bedda Matri ‘i l’Ognina,”(With true faith, long live the Beautiful Mother of Ognina). This is what parishioners scream as they proceed in procession during the Festa della Madonna di Ognina (Feast of the Holy Mary of Ognina) that will be held in Catania in the lively neighborhood of Ognina from Sept. 2-11. This spectacular festival is one of the major celebrations on Catania’s religious observances calendar. Every year, the festa attracts thousands of visitors and pilgrims who flock to the narrow streets and squares of the Ognina harbor neighborhood to honor the beloved Madonna. In ancient times Ognina’s harbor, which also gives its name to the lively district where it is situated, was actually a large and efficient port, a hub where the transit of various goods and people would converge. Tradition has it that Christian converts had been preaching in the port area, which today hosts a sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, since ancient times contributing to the spread of Christianity in the island. The port used to be named the Port of Ulysses because, according to legend, Ulysses stopped at this port on his way to Ithaca. The harbor also housed a temple dedicated to the goddess of war, Athena Longatis. In 1381, the port was partly filled by a lava eruption that significantly reduced its size but nevertheless created a beautiful small bay housing the present-day port. Each year, the Ognina community venerates the Virgin Mary as the protector of fishermen and sailors. This devotion is rooted in some miracles that the Madonna worked during the centuries to protect the Ognina bay and its residents. According to tradition, one of the most extraordinary events occurred on March 26,1933 when a violent sea storm threatened the gulf of Ognina. Part of the pier and some boats were damaged. The houses overlooking the coast were lapped by 40 foot-tall waves. In order to avert the danger, local fishermen invoked Holy Mary’s help. They placed the statue of the Madonna on the church’s square, after moving it from the altar of the Ognina’s sanctuary. Hours later, the sea surprisingly calmed down. Today, devotees still invoke the Virgin Mary in times of need and celebrate a yearly festival in her honor. The origin of the festival dates back to the 19th century when the residents of the area initially funded the festival. Money was collected and put into pottery moneyboxes, named caruseddi that were later broken during a short ceremony held on the Friday preceding the religious festival that is celebrated on Sept. 8 when holy mass is held at 8 a.m. and the statue of the Holy Mary is unveiled to be displayed for devotion. Recently, it was decided that each fisherman, instead of giving a donation would allocate half of his own weekly income, named menza parti to support the organization of the festival. Originally, the festival featured a procession during which a statue depicting the Virgin Mary was brought in procession on a wooden carriage through the few practicable streets of Ognina district. But on Sept. 8, 1885, a fire broke out after the festival as some devotees left the candles lit on the wooden carriage to honor the Madonna. The wax melted and set both the statue and the carriage on fire. Thus, a new statue was needed to replace the damaged one. While a French monk was carving this new statue in Paris, a wax sculpture depicting a child Virgin Mary (named bammina or girl child) was temporary displayed in the sanctuary. In 1889, a new statue, depicting the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus was placed in the sanctuary. The sanctuary hosting this precious statue was erected in 1392. In a 16th century document a local notary named Merlino, wrote that the church had miraculously survived a big earthquake that destroyed the local area in 1542. Merlino also wrote that after the earthquake a group of prisoners were temporary locked up in the church since the prison was destroyed. In 1676, historian Giovanni Andrea Massa, wrote that pilgrims from all over the world came to the Ognina sanctuary to thank the Virgin Mary for the graces (healing or other miracles) she had granted them. After a terrible earthquake in 1693, the church was rebuilt facing north. The church has three naves and features a magnificent bronze gate. In the 17th century, Giacomo Vignerio, a Raphael student, painted its interior. This year’s festival’s schedule highlights include the mouthwatering fried fish festival taking place on Saturday, Sept. 3 at the pier and starting at 9 p.m. On Sept. 8 at 8 a.m., the religious celebrations begin with the Svelata, the unveiling of the statue depicting the Virgin Mary. The statue is lighted and placed next to the tabernacles to symbolize the union with her son Jesus. In the evening a musical show is held in piazza Ognina. On Sept. 10, a solemn High Mass is held in piazza Ognina at 4:30 p.m. Following the Mass, the breathtaking Processione della Madonna a mare (the procession of the Virgin Mary at sea) begins among fireworks around 6 p.m. The statue is placed on a boat and carried in procession along the bay of Ognina. Later, around 10:30 p.m. there is a spectacular fireworks show along the seafront. The last day of the festival (Sept. 11) features a solemn Holy Mass, which is celebrated at 4:30 p.m., and about one hour later, a procession during which the statue of the Virgin Mary tours the Ognina district. The port of Ognina is fairly easy to reach. From the Catania Train Station take viale Africa. Once you get to Piazza Europa, turn right and drive for about one mile along the seafront until you reach a little port right before the overpass that leads toward Acicastello. The Ognina Church is located under the road. For more information and detailed schedules, visit http://www.santamariadiognina.it
The annual religious festival held in the fishermen’s neighborhood of Ognina from Sept. 2-11 returns to Catania. During the festival, which features holy mass, fireworks, and even a scrumptious fish festival, the statue of the Holy Mary of Ognina is carried in procession by worshippers throughout the streets of the district and hoisted aboard a boat for the traditional sea procession’s tour along the seafront. (Photo by Parrocchia Santuario Madonna di Ognina Press Office)
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Five Things You Need to Know about Sea Shore Flow From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy updated Sea Shore Flow (SSF) Enlisted Career Paths with the release of NAVADMIN 190/16 Aug. 25. Here are five things you need to know about SSF and tour length updates just announced: 1. 42 ratings will not be impacted, 13 ratings will require more sea time, and 15 ratings will require less sea time. Depending on how many sea tours you have completed additional sea duty may be required. Overall, 84,500 Sailors will be impacted. 25 ratings are classified as sea-intensive. Sailors in nuclear power
trained ratings are not affected by this NAVADMIN. 2. No two ratings are alike. Each rating is assigned an enlisted career path based on the number of sea duty and shore duty billets the rating has, how long initial training takes, and expected retention within the rating. Why this matters to you: The more sea duty billets and/or the fewer shore duty billets in your rating, the longer sea tour lengths are in order to ensure the Fleet is properly manned. 3. Tour length changes as we modernize the Fleet. Platforms change and so does the work requirement and skill sets needed to man the Fleet. With these force
structure changes come billet changes and therefore tour length changes. 4. Projected Rotation Dates (PRDs) within 12 months of the NAVADMIN's release will not automatically be changed. Sailors who have current PRDs within 12 months of the release of this NAVADMIN will not have their PRDs adjusted, unless requested by the Sailor (via 1306) or the unit's Commanding Officer (based on unit readiness needs). Sailors with PRDs outside that 12 month window can expect their PRD will be adjusted to match the new tour length shown in the NAVADMIN. A Sailor's actual rotation dates can vary from their projected rotation date by up
to six months. Due to a higher than normal accession mission in 2013, rotation dates for Sailors may have to slide up to six months to ensure the Fleet is properly manned. 5. There are other changes impacting specific ratings. - AW ratings tour lengths are broken out separately with decreased time on sea duty. - IT rating now has Sea/Shore rotation. MA rating has additional dependent restricted tour requirements. - Nuclear power ratings are not impacted by this NAVADMIN. Refer to NAVADMIN 284/15 for specific nuclear rating career path information.
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September 2, 2016
Lake Lugano: Switzerland with an Italian Accent By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
The rumors are true: Switzerland is both breathtakingly beautiful and incredibly expensive. We recently spent the weekend in Lake Lugano, Switzerland with a brief stop in Lake Como. While Lake Como enjoys greater notoriety, I preferred the quieter and less populated Swiss lake. Lake Lugano is just a one-hour drive from Milan Malpensa Airport with beautiful scenery to help pass the time. Upon your arrival, you are greeted with an expansive lake, bordered by tree-lined promenades and parks. Here most people speak Italian although it is fairly easy to get by with English and although the official currency is the Swiss franc, euros and credit card are widely accepted. We embarked on a boat tour which is a convenient and efficient way to see the majority of the lake. You can get off at any of the ports along the way and explore each of the small, waterfront communities or have dinner at one of the dockside restaurants. Although Lugano is easily walkable – and encouraged since parking is at a premium – it was nice to have a car so that we could explore some of the sights beyond the lake. The next day we went fishing at Lake Astano, which in reality was more of a glorified pond than a lake, but fun nevertheless. Most of the larger lakes require a fishing license, even for tourists, which can run around 60 CHF (62 euro) a day but the license was not required at Lake Astano. Here you can rent a pole and bait for 15 CHF for the day and keep what you catch (for a price). Unfortunately we were not able to bring our bag of trout on the plane with us, so we left it with the owner, a very friendly gentleman who speaks English fluently. One of the highlights of the weekend was a day trip to Valle Verzasca in the Locarno district. The Verzasca River is a popular destination for kayakers and divers although it is considered difficult and dangerous. The Verzasca Dam is also well known for its 720 foot high jump, which is one of the highest jumps in the world and also the most famous bungee jump, as it was used in the James Bond film "GoldenEye." Drive down a little farther to Ponte dei Salti where translucent emerald water passes over huge rock formations and you can lay out your towels and go for a swim in the freezing water. While Switzerland is definitely not a budget destination (beer is cheaper than water and a burger will set you back around 30 euro) it did not disappoint. It is a popular destination for hikers with many great hiking paths as well as plenty of activities for families with small children.
September 2, 2016
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September 2, 2016
All Hands News Bulletin: FULL-TIME TEMPORARY PROGRAM MANAGER
EMPLOYMENT:
SAF
REGIONAL
USO CENTER IN SIGONELLA NOW HIRING FOR FULL TIME POSITIONS
Command, Department or Organization: American Red Cross Sigonella Date of Event: September 2016 Location of Event: American Red Cross, NAS I Bldg. 318 Point of Contact Name: Shams Kadum Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4900 Point of Contact Email Address: shams.kadum@redcross.org Additional Information: To view job posting or to apply, visit https://americanredcross.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/American_ Red_Cross_Careers/job/Sigonella-Italy/SAF-Regional-Program-Manager--Temporary_NHQ67331-1. The Requisition number is "NHQ67331". A profile must be created to apply for this position. Please verify that you are eligible for employment in the region.
The USO is seeking professionals for full-time positions for a Center Manager and two Center Operation Specialists for their new USO Center in Sigonella. These professional figures will be responsible to maintain a warm, friendly, inviting environment for service members and families as well as assist in transiting passengers, support day-to-day center activities and plan and execute support programs and initiatives for the community in Sigonella. To apply, please log on to www.uso.org/careers. If you wish to send a courtesy copy of your resume and cover letter, to the USO Area Director, Ms. Sabrina Pullido, you may do so by emailing SPullido@uso.org. Must be a US Citizen and a Military Dependent US ID cardholder.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2 PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049
CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group - Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group - Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home 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: August 15 - 22, 2016
Ristorante Bella Etna
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
September 2, 2016
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Military members take a variety of exams through the 506th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron Learning Resource Center at Kirkuk Regional Air Base, Iraq, April 7, 2010. The center offers development courses, professional military education services, various DANTES and college level entrance examinations.
DANTES Faster Exam Reimbursement Process by Erin Roberts Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support Public Affairs
PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- The Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Exams Reimbursement Program has changed a reimbursement policy that will expedite the exams reimbursement process for service members, including active duty, National Guard and Reserve. The policy change includes reimbursement of test fees for the following exams: * GED (beginning October) * GMAT * GRE General and GRE Subject * Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessment * ACT and SAT The online Electronic Reimbursement Request is now the only option available for service members to receive reimbursement to cover the cost of test fees incurred for exams taken at national or international test centers. In accordance with the policy change, DANTES will no longer physically process any paper-based reimbursement mail received after Oct. 1. "The department continues to receive, on average, 25 paper-based reimbursement requests in the mail each week," said Tom French, DANTES Education Programs. "The new online process is more efficient and beneficial for a service member because payment is deposited directly into their bank account generally within 2-3 weeks after submitting documentation and receiving approval online." Service members can submit the Electronic Reimbursement Request online through the DANTES website, www.dantes.doded.mil. On the DANTES website, members should select "Examinations and Reimbursement Eligibility" to get started. Access to the DANTES Exams Reimbursement Center is only available to active-duty, National Guard and Reserve service members with a valid common access card (CAC). Additionally, both a score report and payment receipt are required. Documents must be uploaded for reimbursement request approval and processing. To find out about other DANTES Examination Program information and resources, visit www.dantes.doded.mil and http://dantespulse.dodlive.mil. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter. com/usnavy. For more news from Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support, visit www. navy.mil/local/dantes/.
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GAMEZONE FENCING FISHING FOOTBALL GOLF HANDBALL HOCKEY JAI ALAI LACROSSE POLO RACQUETBALL RUGBY
RUNNING SKATEBOARDING SKATING SKIING SOCCER SOFTBALL SQUASH SURFING SWIMMING TENNIS VOLLEYBALL WRESTLING
MEDIUM
ARCHERY BADMINTON BASEBALL BASKETBALL BILLIARDS BOCCE BOWLING BOXING CRICKET CROQUET CYCLING DARTS
EASY
Find and circle all of the Sports that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a secret message - a Vince Lombardi quotation.
DIFFICULT
Sports
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September 2, 2016
The Best AIMD in the Fleet By AEC RICARDO CARRILLO AIMD Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily recently passed the Commander, Naval Air Forces (CNAF) Aviation Maintenance Inspection (AMI) with a score of 99.2% placing it as one of the top 10 Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Activities in the Navy, according to the inspection report. Aviation Maintenance Management Team Four from CNAF conducted the inspection for overall readiness, safety, and the use of efficient, effective maintenance practices. The inspection occurs every 24-30 months and assesses multiple aspects of AIMD’s maintenance practices, personnel qualifications, training, and drill performance. In passing the inspection, AIMD Sigonella achieved the necessary certification to perform maintenance on aircraft components and aviation support equipment. Quality Assurance Supervisor (QAS), Chief Petty Officer John Hunt manages quality assurance audits and played a key role in preparing for this inspection. The inspection examined 39 programs and evaluated contingency response drills, practical exercises and material condition of equipment during the four-day assessment. “AMI is crucial to AIMD Sigonella’s ability to conduct operations,” said Hunt."If AIMD can't operate, aircraft can't fly; scores like that are rare," he said, echoing his pride in the accomplishment. "It's a once-in-a-career type [of] thing," said Hunt. Master Chief Bryan Couch, AIMD’s Maintenance Master Chief, complimented the crew
on maintaining their composure and focus during a stressful inspection. "Our Sailors put in a huge effort," said Couch. "The team worked hard, starting with our Airmen, all the way up to the Maintenance Officer, and the inspectors noticed. They saw that even our most junior Sailors were eager to be involved and didn't shy away from the inspectors. Our team members demonstrated confidence and knowledge of their jobs," Couch said. After nearly a year of preparations and inspections leading up to AMI, AIMD won't scale back their efforts even though the inspection period has passed. "It's a relief that the inspection is over," said Couch, "But that doesn't mean we can let up. We have to maintain these high standards and I'm confident we will continue to do so." AIMD Officer-in-Charge Lt. Cmdr. Nagley also complimented his team on the near-perfect score. "Every member of the AIMD family, from the most junior Sailor to the spouses and families that support their Sailors had an incredible impact on inspection preparations," said Nagley. "It was an unbelievable effort and something everyone can look back on with AIMD PRIDE!" he stated. AIMD Sigonella is the Navy’s only intermediate-level aviation maintenance activity in the SIXTH Fleet. It supports Commander, Task Force Sixty Seven’s (CTF-67) ability to provide professional and relevant support to U.S. FIFTH Fleet, U.S. SIXTH FIeet, Naval Forces Europe, Naval Forces Africa, NATO and Unified Commanders in order to strengthen partnerships and maintain our nation’s supremacy at sea.
AT3 Ellam calibrating aircraft electronics in one of the best calibration laboratories in the Fleet. (Photo courtesy of AIMD)
AEAN Williams performing a practical inspection on the 2M station in the micro/miniature repair work center. (Photo courtesy of AIMD)
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NASSIG Galley Receives Five-Star Accreditation
Commander Navy Region EURAFSWA recognized the NAS Sigonella Base Galley with a fivestar accreditation for sustained superior customer support and service. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
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September 2, 2016