Talk to your teen: Feb. is teen dating violence awareness month
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Estonia:
BAM:
Five facts & why you should go!
Get out of the ordinary
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N A S SIG O N E L L A
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February 3, 2017
Vol. 34 No. 4
Sigonella Elementary Students Spell for Success By MC2 michelle sabangan NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Twenty-one Sigonella Elementary School students tested their spelling knowledge onstage in front of peers and family in a spelling bee held in Knight's Hall Jan. 26. Each classroom from 3rd through 5th grade held their own spelling bee to determine the top three spellers for the competition. For many students, making it to the first round was an accomplishment in itself. Prior to the competition, the students had some behind-the-scenes prep for the bee. They were given word lists to study on their own and also attended six practice sessions to learn spelling bee etiquette. After six
weeks of preparation and studying, the spellers were ready to test themselves in front of an audience. “It’s a good experience just to get up on that stage and spell in front of your peers,” said Lois Dent, spelling bee chairperson and Sigonella Elementary School teacher. “That alone is hard.” To begin the bee, each student spelled a word they’d chosen for the audience as an introduction. Then the bee's pronouncer, Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert Guerra from AFN, gave the first word to spell. Three judges sat nearby to ensure fairness. They included Sigonella's executive officer, Cmdr. Charles McKinney, Mr. Bruce Stryker from Navy Federal and Ms. Niki McBain from Emergency Man-
Fourth-grader Freeman Allen spells onstage during a spelling bee at Sigonella Elementary School Jan 26. Allen took first place in the bee and will represent Sigonella at the European PTA spelling bee in Ramstein, Germany.
agement. The students went down the line spelling different words. After all the students had spelled a word, the round was over and the eliminated students joined their peers in the audience. Since the spelling bee is structured for grades three through eight, the elementary school students were expected to be able to spell words up to an eighth-grade level. “Clodhopper,” “Icarus,” and “inlet” all made appearances. After more than eight rounds and a total of 18 eliminations, only the top three spellers were left standing. Fourth grader Freeman Allen took first place and, after a short battle, Lorelai Gilroy placed second and Miriam Franzke placed third. Allen said he worked hard to prepare for the competition and knows
his parents are happy with his success. “It was very challenging," he said. "I studied one list at a time every day.” As the winner of the competition, he will go on to represent Sigonella Elementary School at the European PTA spelling bee in Ramstein, Germany on March 18. He said it will be his first time visiting Ramstein and he’s excited to compete at the next level. If he wins Ramstein’s bee, Allen will then have a shot at winning the national PTA spelling bee in Washington, DC. Overall, the spelling bee was a hit. Dent said some of the students even asked for more in the future. “I think they loved it," she said. “They were also very supportive of each other, which is super terrific.”
Winners of the Sigonella Spelling Bee pose for a photo with Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles McKinney (left), Miriam Franzke, Lorelai Gilroy, Freeman Allen, and Principal Dale Moore (right). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michelle Sabangan/Released)
SPMAGTF CLB-2 Transfers Authority to CLB-8 By CPl Samuel Guerra SPMAGTF Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – U.S. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 (CLB2) handed over the responsibilities as the Logistics Combat Element for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa (SPMAGTF-CR-AF) to Combat Logistics Battalion 8 (CLB-8) during a transfer of authority ceremony aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Jan. 25. After nine months of successful operations, the ceremony marked the closure of CLB-2’s deployment in support of crisis response operation in Africa. CLB-8 will carry on the mission as the Logistics Combat Element within the SPMAGTF in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility (AOR). “We couldn’t have left this mission in better hands,” said Lt. Col. Randall K. Jones, the commanding officer of CLB-2. “I have no doubt that CLB-8 is more than ready to take control and build upon our successes.” Since the Marines landed one week ago, they have exemplified passion toward their new role and have eagerly awaited the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities as a force multiplier for the SPMAGTF. “CLB-8 is ready to continue down the path that CLB-2 has paved for us in providing outstanding combat service support to the SPMAGTF and other Marine forces in the area,” said Lt. Col. Shawn P. Grzybowski, commanding officer of CLB-8. “We look forward to [successfully] performing our assigned mission essential tasks and working within the SPMAGTF team.”
U.S. Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 2 (CLB-2) handed over the responsibilities as the Logistics Combat Element for Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa (SPMAGTFCR-AF) to CLB-8 during a transfer of authority ceremony aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Jan. 25. (Photo courtesty of Cpl. Samuel Guerra)
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February 3, 2017
Direct Line
Command Master Chief Michael Kaszubowski Saluti Sigonella, During the month of February, the Navy joins our nation in celebrating African American History month. African Americans have a long history of honorable service, dating back to the colonial period. It is a time for us to take the opportunity to learn more about the contributions of African Americans to the Navy and to reflect on the history of our Navy and its future. America’s history was shaped by a vast number of African Americans who have helped mold our country into the greatest nation in the world today. From Harriet Tubman and Dr. King to Secretary of State Colin Powell, African Americans have made long-lasting contributions to our society for the better. While reflecting on our history, I thought it would be interesting to go back in time a little bit. What happened on this day in history that shaped the future for African Americans in our nation? On Feb. 3, 1870 the Fifteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, prohibiting the federal and state governments from denying a citizen the right to vote based on that citizen's "race, color, or previous condition of servitude." While many African American voters in the south remained disenfranchised by local state laws mandating poll taxes and discriminatory literacy tests, the ratification of this amendment was a giant first step on the path to equal voting rights. Along with the Twenty-fourth Amendment and the enactment of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the Fifteenth opened the door to full participation in the American political system for AfricanAmericans. On Friday, Feb. 3, 1956 Autherine Lucy attended her first day of class at the University of Alabama,
with the backing of the NAACP. Lucy was the first African American ever admitted to a white public school or university in Alabama. She was expelled the next week by the university "for her safety" following riots that broke out on campus and threats made against her life. Eventually in 1988, the University of Alabama officially annulled her expulsion and she enrolled in and graduated from the graduate program in Education, receiving her M.A. degree in 1992. Her persistence and bravery paved the way for future African American students to get the same level of education in the state of Alabama as any other student. NAS Sigonella has made tremendous strides since I have arrived and the dedication that our Sailors and civilian counterparts have in the community atmosphere that is Sigonella never ceases to amaze me. It does not go unnoticed. My goal is to ensure that we stay focused on providing exceptional, timely support to our operational commitments along with ensuring the ultimate safety, welfare and growth of not only our Sailors but also their families. Lastly, safety is of the upmost importance. It is everyone’s responsibility to govern themselves accordingly. With these ever-changing times and the right sizing of the Force, we cannot afford missteps. Every day I come through the gate, I am reminded that we must remain diligent to beating the drum of responsible alcohol consumption, road safety and overall good stewardship of what has been entrusted to us. In short, keep your guard up at all times for yourself and others. Keep up the great work
Sigonella and thank you for everything you do to make this the best community possible! As always Sigonella, Lead yourself exceptionally well, Create opportunities for others to succeed and Have a positive attitude. See you around the base.
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".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “PW Work Signs”:
The PW work request signs around Midtown have become an eyesore. Some have been posted for months now. Whose job is it to follow up and ensure work is being completed in a timely manner? Simply posting a "Work Order Submitted" notification without any follow up seems unacceptable.
Response:
Thank you for your question and concern for the aesthetics and operation of our base. Our Public Works (PW) Department provides basic utility services and basic facility maintenance and repairs as funded by CNIC or directly by a tenant. PW strives to ensure that the basic services provided to the base are operational and timely. As a way to manage funding restrictions, CNIC has dictated priority order for service calls, and that means not all service calls will be addressed in a timely matter. Some service calls are considered "noted, but unfunded." Both PW and the building’s facility manager track the status of service calls. As a courtesy to the public, the building owner places signs to inform the public that a service call (request for a repair) was placed to PW. This notice helps to reduce duplicate service calls being made for the same issue. The service call you noted was placed in November, but was not "approved" for work and remained in the “noted, but unfunded” list until January 17, 2017. This level of service order is expected to be completed within 30 days.
Comment regarding “Advertising Puppy Sales”:
There are enough stray/homeless dogs roaming around Sicily that we do not need to encourage breeders to breed more dogs. What’s more, many people abandon their dogs when they PCS. So why are breeders allowed to advertise on base websites? Sincerely, Amy Parker
Response:
Dear Ms. Parker, thank you for your comment and your concern for the welfare of our pets. Your suggestion holds merit, however, sites such as the Craigslist of Marinai and other unofficial Facebook pages are not affiliated with the base, and as a result, NAS Sigonella cannot dictate the content of those pages. As a community we endeavor to promote responsible pet ownership. Owners are
required to register their dogs and cats with the Veterinarian Clinic on NAS 1 within five (5) days of their arrival to NASSIG and ensure that pet vaccinations are kept upto-date. If a pet is left behind during a member’s PCS, the owners of these animals can be identified by scanning the pet’s microchip. Every military member is required check out with the Vet as part of their transfer process, and at that point the Vet’s office can determine the location of the pet and verify how it will be transported with the owner to the new duty station. In the event that a pet is left behind, NASSIG will contact the member’s new command and inform the member that they must either re-home the pet or pay to have it shipped to them.
Comment regarding “MVRO”:
I would like to comment on the efficiency and competence of MVRO. We were contemplating getting a second vehicle, so we went to MVRO to get information regarding the types of vehicles allowed and the registration process. We got information both from the MVRO website and printed instructions from the MVRO office itself. We used this information as the basis to purchase our second vehicle. After spending a great deal of time and money to register the vehicle, we were told at the last minute that we were missing a document. I showed the workers at MVRO their own materials that stated quite clearly that we did not need that document for the vehicle we were registering. Despite the fact that everything written by the MVRO stated that we did not need the document, the workers refused to issue our registration. When I asked to see the new regulation that stated that we were required to have the document, they were unable to locate the regulation. We made financial decisions based on printed and online information that we received from MVRO, and then they changed the rules at the last minute, costing us money and time. How can people plan and prepare with this type of misinformation? Sincerely, Robert Allen
Response:
Dear Mr. Allen, thank you for taking the time to raise your concern regarding the efficiency of MVRO. It appears that the issue arose as a result of a miscommunica-
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February 3, 2017
"ICE" continued from Page 2 tion regarding the requirement to have the Basic Riders Course Certification prior to registering your moped. The misinformation resulted from an outdated MVRO motorcycle registration handout that did not list the correct requirements for registering a moped. MVRO apologizes for the negative customer experience and has taken the following actions to ensure that this does not happen in the future: MVRO employees have been verbally counseled and a copy of all MVRO-related instructions has been placed in a binder that is readily available for all clerks to reference. Further, documentation in reference to MOPED registration has been placed in the MVRO common area for public viewing and a NASSIG instruction for Motor Vehicle Registration has been drafted to correct the outdated information. For future MVRO-related inquiries, please contact the MVRO Director MA1 Cornelius Johnson at 624-5275 or cornelius.johnson@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “Polite Security Guard”:
I was passing through NAS 2 this morning when I got pulled over for a vehicle inspection. The female MA was extremely polite and professional. The way she conducted herself and her inspection was outstanding. I am only here temporarily for work and I just wanted this Sailor to be recognized for her excellent attitude, not only on a holiday, but also while working in 32-degree weather and still having a smile on her face. I would also like to thank the Security on this base for all their hard work.
Response:
Thank you for taking the time to pass along your appreciation to our Security Department. I echo your gratitude for the hard work that our MAs perform, rain or shine. Your notes and those like them are a nice thank you to those meeting – and exceeding - our CO and Community expectations!
Comment regarding “Non-ID Holders Using NEX”:
I saw that this issue was already addressed in The Signature, but my comment relates to unauthorized use of the NEX. The comment stated that “NEX employees ID all patrons.” However, I have been to the NEX several times since that was released and have personally witnessed employees failing to ID customers. If local nationals are allowed to shop at the NEX, then that needs to be made clear. I suggest that the NEX implement a system like the commissary where customers are required to scan their ID prior to making a purchase. This may decrease the potential for unauthorized patrons to utilize the NEX.
Name: Yeoman 3rd Class Brandon Boyles Dept: NAS Sigonella Admin Hometown: Pomona, Calif. The Admin. Department, nestled next to the commanding officer and executive officer’s office, is one of the many hidden gears that help make NAS Sigonella run smoothly. From dealing with correspondence paperwork or directives, to assisting Sailors with evaluations, Yeoman 3rd Class Brandon Boyles is there to help. “I love the team aspect of my job,” said Boyles. “Everyone in the office works together to get stuff done and we just make it happen.” Outside of his required work, Boyles likes to help out with organizations like CSADD (Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions) and MWR whenever they have events that need volunteers. He said one of his favorite events was the Zombie Run, where participants run a course while evading volunteers dressed up as zombies. “It was really funny,” said Boyles. “There was a good amount of parents, but the kids were great.” When not working or volunteering his time, Boyles can be found traveling. Since he checked in September 2016, Boyles has been all around Sicily, stopping in Taormina, Palermo, Catania, and Motta, to name a few. But his favorite travels are those off the island. “So far I’ve been to Rome for New Years, Milan two weeks after that, and just next weekend I’m going to Budapest, Hungary,” said Boyles. “Then I plan on going to Egypt for my birthday.”
THE SIGNATURE
Response:
Thank you for your comment and the opportunity to clarify. As per the SOFA Agreement, only authorized shoppers are allowed to purchase tax-free items at the Navy Exchange. Accordingly, the NEX provides continuous training to all employees regarding ID checks. Moving forward, consistent monitoring will be in place to ensure all patrons are asked for proper identification. Any customer without an authorized ID is not and will not in the future be allowed to purchase items at the NEX. As always we thank you for your service and patronage. For future inquiries, please contact the NEX General Manager, John Sisson at 6244379 or john.sisson@nexweb.org.
Comment regarding “ASF”:
I've been assigned to ASF over the course of the past year and will remain in ASF because SECO has decreased the number of times ASF Academy will be offered due to funding constraints. At my previous command the officers would request additional funding if there were financial constraints. Why is it that we used to have ASF Academy every quarter, but now the next one is not until August 2017? That is insane. I may be stationed in Sigonella on a general billet, but it is shore duty. Security MA's work the same shift as people on ASF, but they are considered sea duty. I've been assigned to ASF for over a year, and now with a threemonth on, three-month off schedule my detailer can't change my duty to sea.
Response:
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to address the issue of ASF. Tenant commands are required by CNIC to provide bodies to the Security Department for the duration of 18 months in support of ASF duties. Rotations are designed to be on a three months on, three months off rotation for continuity purposes amongst ASF members and are managed by the tenant command's ASF Coordinator in concurrence with the Security Department’s ASF Officer. Additionally, although Security is required to hold only two ASF Academies annually, we do everything possible to offer additional academies, depending on instructor availability, range accessibility and allocation of ammo. Sea-shore rotations are rate specific and directed by the Navy Bureau of Personnel. Duty here at Sigonella counts as a sea tour for MA’s due to the nature of their community. I recommend contacting your rating’s community manager to ask about your rate’s sea-shore rotations. If you have any further recommendations or questions please contact my Security Officer LCDR Chuck Cranston at Charles.cranston@eu.navy.mil or 624-6392.
While Boyles has only been living overseas for five months, he’s enjoyed his stay so far. “It’s cool seeing a whole different culture and being submerged in it, not just going to visit somewhere for a couple days,” said Boyles. “You don’t really get a feel for a country in two days but when you actually live out here, it’s different.”
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Michelle Sabangan Michelle.Sabangan@eu.navy.mil MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@ eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or handdelivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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February 3, 2017
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month from Fleet and family support center
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Next to talking oneon-one, texting is currently one of the most instant forms of communication. While texting might be the perfect platform to say a quick “hi,” there are some things to watch out for in a textual relationship with your partner. Texting Too Much If your partner texts too much, it’s not only irritating, but it could unhealthy. Keeping in touch with your significant other throughout the day can be thoughtful, but constant contact may be a sign of controlling behavior. Consider talking to your partner about giving you a little bit of space. Remember, if they’re using text messages to monitor who you’re with or where you go, that is a warning sign of abuse. Sexting Does your partner ask for sexually explicit pictures of you? Or send them to you? You have the right to choose whether or not you want to engage in any kind of sexual activity, and that includes sexting with your partner. You deserve to feel safe and respected in your relationship at all times. If your partner is pressuring or forcing you to sext when you don’t want to, or if you sexted privately with your partner and they are breaking your trust by threatening to share your photos or texts, these are abusive behaviors. Sexting can also have legal consequences. Any nude photos or videos of someone under the age of 18 could be considered child pornography, which is illegal to own or distribute. Reading Someone Else’s Texts Does your partner ask to read your texts? Or do they read them behind your back? Healthy relationships are built on trust, not jealousy. You have the right to privacy and the ability to talk to whomever you like. You may want to explain to your partner that you have nothing to hide, but that you don’t like them going through your phone or deciding who your friends are. If your partner refuses to change, you could be in an unhealthy relationship. Threats over Text Threats over text should be taken seriously — try not to write them off as angry venting. Keep track of threatening texts and think about talking to someone you trust about what is happening. Being in a violent relationship is dangerous, and you don’t have to go through it alone.
What Can I Do? Whether you feel like your partner is already using their cell phone in an abusive way or you’re trying to prevent it, here are tips to keep you safe and healthy: • Remember, it’s ok to turn off your phone. Just be sure your parent or guardian knows how to contact you in an emergency. • Don’t answer calls from unknown or blocked numbers. Your abuser can easily call you from another line if they suspect you are avoiding them. • Try to avoid responding to hostile, harassing, abusive or inappropriate texts or messages. • Save or document troublesome texts as you may need them later for evidence in case you file a criminal report or ask for a restraining order. • Many phone companies can block up to 10 numbers from texting or calling you. Contact your phone company or check their website to see if you can do this on your phone. • If you are in or coming out of a dangerous re-
lationship, avoid using any form of technology to contact your abuser. It can be dangerous and may be used against you in the future. • It may seem extreme, but if the abuse and harassment don’t stop, changing your phone number may be your best option. If you are feeling threatened or suffocated by your partner’s constant calls or texts, it may be a sign that you are in an unhealthy and potentially abusive relationship. When your partner says or does things that make you afraid, lowers your self-esteem or manipulates you, it is called verbal or emotional abuse. You have the right to be in a safe and healthy relationship free from all types of abuse. The Family Advocacy Program helps individuals, couples, families and teens develop healthy relationship skills and address common relationship and parenting challenges during every stage of life. Learn more about healthy relationships by contacting the Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN: 624-4291, Commercial: +39-095-56-4291.
Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial: 095-56-2273, M - F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the Weekend, Holidays, or after office hours, please call the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider? Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)
February 3, 2017
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February 3, 2017
Italy Avalanche: Hotel Search Ends with 29 Dead, 11 Rescued
Before the January 18 avalanche, powerful as 4,000 loaded trucks and caused by a strong earthquake which killed 29 people, the Hotel Rigopiano was a luxury resort in the Abruzzo region. (Photos by GDS.it and Italy National Fire Corp Press Office) Story courtesy of cnn
ROME, Italy - Rescuers are no longer searching for anyone else in the wreckage of a hotel engulfed by an avalanche last week, Italy's Civil Protection Department said Thursday, leaving the final death toll at 29. Confirmation that the arduous rescue and recovery operation was over came shortly after Italy's national fire brigade tweeted that the last two bodies had been found. Eleven people were rescued from the Hotel Rigopiano, nine of them pulled from air pockets in the snow-covered wreckage in the days after the avalanche. The other two were found sheltering in a car outside the hotel in the hours after the snow came crashing down. At least four children were among those plucked alive from the ruined building. Rescuers had braved difficult weather conditions and the risk of further avalanches as they sought to find more survivors. The four-star spa hotel at the foot of the Gran Sasso mountain, about 135 kilometers (85 miles) northeast of Rome, was buried in snow January 18 after a series of earthquakes in the region earlier that day. News reports emerged Tuesday that the hotel's director urgently called for assistance just hours before the avalanche came rushing down the mountain. In an email to local officials, the director said guests were "terrified," roads were blocked due to heavy snow and phones were out of service.
Six Dead in Helicopter Crash in Central Italy Story courtesy of ap
CAMPO FELICE, Italy - A helicopter ferrying an injured skier off the slopes slammed into a mountainside in central Italy Tuesday, killing all six people aboard in a new tragedy hitting a region already hobbled by a series of earthquakes, paralyzing snowfall and a deadly avalanche. Some of the dead had recently been helping out with the recovery effort from the nearby Jan. 18 avalanche, colleagues said. The helicopter smashed to pieces in the snow upon impact, with only the tail propellers and rear section still intact. Rescue crews brought the bodies down in sleds to waiting vehicles. Visibility at the time was only about 20 meters (yards) "and with the snow conditions visibility was practically nothing," said Marshall Paolo Passalacqua, of the financial police's Alpine division. "We had a really hard time trying to find the wreckage." The helicopter was taking the injured skier from the Campo Felice ski area to L'Aquila, the regional capital about 15 kilometers (10 miles) away. "They were very good pilots," said Americo Scarsella, a doctor and colleague of the crew. "Clearly what happened was not foreseeable." The mayor of nearby Lucoli, Gianluca Marrocchi, said he had seen the helicopter and wondered why it was flying so low. "After that it disappeared in the fog," he told RAI state TV. The area is in Abruzzo's mountains, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) southwest from where emergency crews have been working around the clock to recover victims of the powerful Jan. 18 avalanche that crushed a luxury resort. Tuesday's crash was not related to the avalanche, though the mountain rescue crew members involved had been helping with the recovery effort up until Monday, Adriano Favre of the Alpine rescue service, told RAI.
Prosecutors are examining his call for help. Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni told the Senate on Wednesday that any delays or lapses in the response would be investigated, Italian news agency ANSA reported. He also praised the efforts of more than 11,000 people who helped in rescue efforts across the region following the massive snowfall and earthquakes. Fire brigade spokesman Luca Cari told CNN on Saturday that all known survivors had been rescued from the hotel site but efforts continued to find those still missing and any other air pockets where they might be sheltering. Three sheepdog puppies were discovered alive under the rubble Monday, which sparked renewed optimism at the time.
February 3, 2017
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Navy Uniform Policy Update Released From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- On Jan. 26, the Navy released NAVADMIN 015/17 that updates several previously announced uniform policy changes. These include specifics for the occasion for wear of Navy Security Force (NSF) identification badges/patches, revised implementation schedule for the Navy fitness suit, policy clarification for combination covers, female Service Dress Blue (SDB) covers and black slacks, safety boot wear, coyote brown command ball cap manner of wear requirements, and Cold Weather Parka insignia. Below are some of the key uniform policy updates: 1. Badges. Effective immediately, the eligibility criteria to wear NSF identification badges and patches is as follows: *Security Limited Duty and Chief Warrant Officers and (649X/749X) and Master-At-Arms can only wear the Security Force Identification Badge while they are in the Navy Security Force career field. Personnel who change designators or transition out of the security career field will no longer be authorized continuous wear of the NSF badge. *Correction Specialist badge/patch. Sailors with the Navy Enlisted Codes (NEC) of 2008, 9575 or 9516 and performing correction specialist duties will wear the correction specialist badge or patch only when assigned to a corrections facility.
*Chief Master-At-Arms (CMAA) is the new name for the Command Master-At-Arms and those with Permanent Change of Station to CMAA duties are authorized to wear the CMAA badge and patch only for the duration of their assignment. 2. Navy Fitness Suit. Production challenges delayed recruit issue of the new Navy Fitness suit at Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes from the previous target issue date of Oct. 1, 2016. The new target date to issue the fitness suit is now April 1, with fleet availability for personal purchase at Navy Uniform and call centers to follow at a later date. A future NAVADMIN will provide an update to RTC introduction and fleet availability. 3. Dress Covers. The new deadline for mandatory wear of the Alternate and Unisex Combination Covers for female officers and Chief Petty Officers is extended from Oct. 31, 2016, to Oct. 31, 2018. The enlisted White Hat remains mandatory for wear with jumper style uniforms only. The Navy continues to rollout previously announced uniform changes as scheduled. 4. Female Officer and Chief Petty Officer SDB Uniform. Effective immediately, the optional wear of male officer's and chief petty officer's SDB Trousers is authorized with the female SDB uniform. We are continuing our efforts to redesign women's pants that will result in an improved fit.
Official U.S. Navy file photo of the Navy certified desert tan or coyote brown rough-side-out leather non-safety boots when wear of safety boots is not required that commanding officers may authorize for optional wear. Black leather safety boots (steel-toed) are the standard boots worn with the Navy Working Uniform Type III.
New Financial Literacy App Preps Sailors for Blended Retirement Choices From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- A new application for mobile devices designed to enhance financial literacy for Sailors is available today and helps provide the latest info on the Blended Retirement System (BRS) that goes into effect in 2018. The app is designed to provide Sailors with anytime, anywhere access to both training and resources that will help them make informed decisions about their financial future, which is especially critical as the military gets ready to begin BRS Jan. 1, 2018. "This is a very important time for Sailors to be aware of their finances and this app covers a wide range of topics that will keep them on top of their money," said Jim Simpson, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) N170. "Whether they are opting-in to the new retirement system, looking to make smart car-buying choices or planning for their children's future, this gives them one spot to start building that knowledge." Targeted primarily for active duty and reserve service members, the app also serves as a valuable tool for Navy family members. Users will be able to explore issues like managing their credit, building a spending plan, home buying, moving, as well as how to navigate survivor benefits, insurance and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) among many other topics. Outside of the standard financial topics, there is a BRS
resources tab that includes infographics, frequently asked questions, as well as training links that will be refreshed as new courses and training materials become available. Once finished, the retirement calculator for BRS will be included as part of the app as well. BRS is effective Jan. 1, 2018 and service members eligible to opt-into BRS will have until the end of 2018 to decide if they want to switch to the new plan. Everyone serving today can stay under the current system, while those with fewer than 12 years of service as of the end of 2017 will have an opportunity to opt-into the new retirement system. New Sailors will automatically be enrolled into the new system as of start of 2018. The U.S. Navy Sea Warrior Program (PMW 240) produced the app and Tracen Technologies Inc., a company that specializes in integrated mobile and web solutions, was the software developer. The Navy Financial Literacy mobile application is available for download from the iTunes and Google Play online stores. To find the free app, search "Navy Financial Literacy" in the app stores or in your Web browser. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook. com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www. navy.mil/local/cnp/.
5. Enlisted SDB. Enlisted female Sailors E-1 - E-6 and below Sailors may wear the SDB uniform with four button jacket and slacks or skirt until Dec. 31, 2019. When wearing the optional SDB uniform, the female enlisted combination cover shall be worn. The White Hat is not authorized for wear with this uniform. The new jumper style female enlisted SDB began introduction at RTC Oct. 1 and Fleet availability is expected to commence in February. 6. Safety Boots. As previously announced, the black leather safety boots (steel-toed) are the standard boots worn with the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Type III. Commanding officers may authorize the optional wear of the Navy certified desert tan or coyote brown rough-side-out leather non-safety boots when wear of safety boots is not required. Sailors must buy these optional brown boots if they are not issued them by their commands as organizational clothing. Optional boots not required as organizational clothing will be procured at the expense of the Sailor and not the authorizing command. 7. Coyote Brown Command Ball Cap. Guidance was provided on the manner and occasion for wear of the Coyote Brown Command Ball Cap with the NWU Type III to be consistent with how the Blue Command Ball Cap is worn. For officers O-5 and above, visor ornamentation for Navy head gear shall be gold in color, consistent with Navy standards. 8. Cold Weather Parka. Sailors E-4 through O-10 will wear rank insignia, either a metal rank insignia or NWU Type I slip-on rank insignia, centered on the rank tab of the Cold Weather Parka. A black slip-on rank insignia is being developed for the cold weather parka to replace the NWU Type I insignia. For details and more information on the uniform update read NAVADMIN 015/17 at www.npc.navy.mil. Navy uniform feedback and recommendations can be sent to "Ask The Master Chief " on the web at http://www. public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/uniforms/ or by email at umo_cmc(at)navy.mil. For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www. navy.mil/local/cnp/.
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February 3, 2017
Five Things You Didn't Know and Why You Should Visit
February 3, 2017
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w about Estonia
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BY Nicole ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
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Fairytale-like Medieval City: Estonia’s capital city Tallinn is a UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Northern Europe. Spend the day wandering the cobble-stoned alleyways and shopping in the quaint storefronts of Old Town which is still protected by the remnants of the city wall.
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Easy on the Wallet: Unlike its Northern European neighbors, Estonia is very affordable! They use the euro, credit cards are accepted in most places, and many of the city’s attractions are free or charge a very reasonable admission. It may cost a little more to get to Estonia from Sicily as there are no direct flights, but once you get there accommodation, food and drinks are very affordable.
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E-stonia: Estonia prides itself on its digital society and entrepreneurial spirit. Wi-Fi is abundant, contactless and mobile payments are accepted, and Uber is a cheap and easy way to navigate the city (although much of Tallinn’s sights are walkable).
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Multilingual: Most Estonians speak Estonian, English, German, Russian and Finnish… at a minimum. Signs, menus and tours are all in English making Estonia a very English-friendly travel destination.
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Room to Breathe: Being among the least densely populated countries in Europe, Estonia makes for a nice break from city life. Outside of its medieval capital city, 50% of the country is comprised of forests, meaning there is plenty to do in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a unique destination that offers beautiful architecture, outdoor adventures, great food and welcoming locals, Estonia should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
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February 3, 2017
NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: VEHICLE SAFETY TIPS
Command, Department or Organization: Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Point of Contact Name: Inv. Christopher Knight Point of Contact Phone Number: +39-366-638-7196 Point of Contact Email Address: Christopher.knight@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: NASSIG CRIME PREVENTION NOTE: Since 04 January 2017 there have been 17 reported vehicles that have been broken into with the biggest amount being in Motta S. Anastasia/Belpasso area. If you are a victim, report the break in to Security. You will also be asked to file a denuncia with the local Carabinieri station so that the matter can be investigated further. All residents are being asked to write down the serial numbers of your gas coupons, which is a large majority of what is being stolen. When the gas coupons are used at a gas station, they may be able to be tracked to what gas station they are 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
NAS 1
Mondays AA Meeting: . . . . . . 1800-1900 Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900-1100 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 AWANA: . . . . . . . . . . 1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . 1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0600-0700 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): .1600-1800 Thursdays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . 1200-1530 Choir Practice: . . . 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2030 Fridays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1830
being used at and from there Carabinieri can obtain surveillance footage from the gas station. Please review the following vehicle safety tips: - Park inside the fence or garage at home and not on the street, if possible. If this is impossible, park in different areas daily. - Vehicles should always be locked when parked. Check carefully to see windows are fully closed. Never leave packages, purses, or clothing on car seats! - Always park your vehicle in a well-lit area. While walking to your vehicle have your keys out and ready to enter the vehicle quickly; do not fumble around trying to locate your keys in your purse or pockets. - If you are being followed to your vehicle use your alarm system to draw attention to you. If you are being followed in your vehicle drive to a safe place as quickly as possible, example: police station or fire station. Do not drive to your home! Call base Security immediately and try to relay as much information to them as possible.
Weekly Traffic Report: Jan. 23-30, 2017
Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): . . . . . . . . . 1045-1200 Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600
NAS 2
Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . 1800-2100 Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . 1800-1900 Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . 1800-2000
Ristorante Bella Etna
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.
February 3, 2017
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BAM Adventures Retreats: Get out of the Ordinary By Richard graves CREDO Facilitator NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Are you looking for something to do with the family this weekend? BAM Adventures are dynamic, adventurefilled retreats that take families out of the normal day-to-day routine and send them on the adventure of a lifetime. Fortunately, there are many groups doing Family Retreats, but there are three things that distinguish our retreats from others. Children take the lead in all BAM activities: Whether it’s in a discussion or a scavenger hunt, the children are the ones taking the lead. Through taking charge, they learn leadership skills and gain confidence in their ideas and actions. Conversations: Our unique discussion guides take the guesswork out of talking with young persons about important topics. Unforgettable projects and activities: Our weekends are packed with out of the ordinary activities and projects that families participate in together. In the end, we take the guesswork out of helping strengthen families so you can enjoy the process of helping your family in bonding and growing closer together. BAM Adventures provides all of the structure, organization, and processes for families to experience a relationship-changing adventure. Our upcoming BAM Retreat for Sigonella will be 17-19 February, location to be determined. To register, go to the CREDO Sigonella Facebook page or contact the Sigonella Chaplains’ Office at 624-3802/3803, or Rich Graves at 624-5231, 345-307-8460, richard.graves.ctr@eu.navy.mil.
Children take the lead in Sigonella's BAM Adventure Retreats. The retreats take families out of their normal day-to-day routines and send them on an activity-filled adventure. (Photo courtesy of CREDO)
Children work on a poster as part of a BAM Adventure Retreat activity. The retreats take families out of their normal day-to-day routines and send them on an activity-filled adventure. (Photo courtesy of CREDO)
February 3, 2017
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February 3, 2017
GAMEZONE HONEY HOT CHOCOLATE JAM JELLY
MARMALADE MILK MUFFINS OATMEAL OMELETS PANCAKES PORRIDGE ROLLS SAUSAGES TEA TOAST WAFFLES YOGURT
MEDIUM
BACON BAGELS BISCUITS BREAD CEREAL COFFEE CROISSANTS DOUGHNUTS EGGS FRUIT GRANOLA HAM HASH BROWNS
EASY
Find and circle all of the breakfast items hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a popular breakfast drink.
DIFFICULT
Breakfast
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American Red Cross Sigonella Needs Your Help from american red cross sigonella
The American Red Cross Sigonella is looking for a volunteer. This position will coordinate and support the Red Cross Disaster Action Team. This leadership position is our primary liaison with military authorities on installation disaster preparedness and response. They manage the Disaster Action Team, respond to disasters, and provide referrals to other agencies in the Sigonella community. Time Commitment: Flexible with event surges. On average, this position requires less than 5 hours per week. Events may be conducted in the evenings or on weekends. Qualifications: Knowledge of military protocol and culture, community resources and the Red Cross. Excellent team work skills, ability to recruit and involve volunteers, and great communication skills. Some additional training required. Please submit a resume with your qualifications to sigonella@redcross.org. For more information, contact us at 095-86-4900 or Sigonella@redcross.org
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Made In Italy? New Smartphone App Targets Foreign Fakes Story Courtesy of The Local
A new, free smartphone app aims to protect the 'Made in Italy' brand by helping consumers spot the difference between genuine Italian produce and foreign fakes. Shoppers can scan products' bar codes to find out if they are really of Italian origin. The app, created by non-profit organization Reliabitaly, can be used in Italy or abroad, and also gives information about how the item was made. "The aim is to protect and preserve the global prestige of 'Made in Italy' products," its creators explained. The app is a step toward combating 'Made in Italy' fraud where cheaper foreign products are being passed off as authentically Italian. Reliability has committed to "reinvest 100 percent of revenues in the promotion of Italian countries". At 221 products, Italy has more goods protected by the EU's geographic labels of origin (DOP) than any other country. This includes specialties such as buffalo mozzarella, prosecco, and Modena balsamic vinegar. Under EU laws, products receiving DOP status must be produced according to specifications and in the designated region, a regulation which can be tough to regulate. The production of these foods,
including Italian wines, balsamic vinegar and cured meats, involves 300,000 businesses and is worth an estimated €13.5 billion a year, so protecting them is crucial to the national economy. The problem is particularly acute in the olive oil industry, with Italian farmers struggling to compete with lower-priced, lower-quality foreign oils, which are often passed off as Italian. Extra-virgin olive oil in Italy is strictly regulated. To comply with standards, farmers must follow a lengthy process. Last year, Italy toughened laws over olive oil packaging, making it compulsory to state on packaging when non-Italian olives had been used. They also banned the use of Italian symbols, such as the national flag, which could be misleading. Online sales of foreign fake parmesan alone cost the country €60 million each year, according to Italy's Agricultural Ministry. The ministry has worked with online sales platforms, including eBay, to crack down on the counterfeit foods. There were 370 cases of fake parmesan sold online over the last 12 months, although Vincenzo Carrozzino, who works to combat fraud at the ministry, said Italian food fraud was so widespread it was difficult to estimate the real size of the problem. The figures were revealed dur-
ing a forum about Italian produce at Milan's Expo on Monday. Over the years there have been some shocking examples of food fraud, but online agropiracy is a relatively new problem that is difficult to fight. The ministry is now working alongside online marketplaces, including Ebay and Alibaba, to ensure counterfeit versions of Italian produce protected by EU food quality labels, such as DoP, IGP and STG, are not being sold on their platforms. “It's already a difficult problem offline, but online is harder to combat," said Carrozzino. "Sellers can work through nicknames and as soon as we signal the fraud and block it, they are back up on a different server under a different name." Italy has the highest number of products (794) protected by EU food labels, which seek to guarantee their authenticity. The production of these foods, including Italian wines, balsamic vinegar and cured meats, involves 300,000 businesses and is worth an estimated €13.5 billion a year, so the need to protect them is paramount. In many ways Italian food is a victim of its own success. In today's global food culture, “Italian” has become a byword for quality. The
downside to this it that there are plenty of retailers looking to make a quick buck from the strength of the 'Made in Italy' brand. Food fraud takes many forms, but one of the biggest problems facing Italian producers is the problem of Italian-sounding names. How about some fine Romano cheese, some delicious 100 percent Italian-standard pasta, and a nice bottle of Rosecco to wash it all down with? It almost sounds tempting. Almost. “Italian sounding names break EU rules on unfair competition because they give the consumer a false impression of the product”, Carrozzino added. “But sometimes it's enough just to put the Italian flag on the box.” Names, flags, Italian words. These are all good ways to dupe consumers into thinking they have bought the real thing, when in reality they are buying a product that has no connection to Italy, aside from its dubious name. But how can shoppers be sure that they are buying quality? “Consumers do have a responsibility to read the label carefully. Nowadays, there is so much information on labels and consumers really should read them properly,” said Carrozzino. So be careful out there. Now, who's up for some Rosecco? Anyone?
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