Box Meals: Who is eligible?
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Edinburgh:
Emergency Kit:
Historic and natural gem
Are you ready?
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November 4, 2016
Vol. 33 No. 42
Fleet Master Chief Raymond D. Kemp Visits NAS Sigonella By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – U.S. Naval Forces Europe/U.S. Naval Forces Africa Fleet Master Chief Raymond D. Kemp visited Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and held an All Hands Call with Sailors at the NAS 2 hangar, Nov. 1. During the two-day visit, Kemp met with Sailors from Commander Task Force 67 (CTF-67), Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) and Patrol Squadron (VP) 45. Kemp had breakfast in the chiefs’ mess and toured facilities at NAS 1 before hosting an all hands call with E-6 and below Sailors at NAS 2. During the all hands call, Kemp encouraged Sailors to ask themselves three questions at the end of each day: Did I take care of my family? Did I take care of my Shipmates? And did I take care of myself? “Seek after useful knowledge so that you can be a better man, a better woman, and a better Sailor,” stated Kemp. Kemp fielded many questions from the audience, and at the top of many Sailors’ minds was the recent announcement of the Navy Occupational Specialty Ratings Modernization Plan. Kemp advised that the plan’s implementation would take place in six phases. Phase 1: Redefine career fields Phase 2: Review, revise and align business processes Phase 3: Update policies and instructions Phase 4: Identify and effect IT solutions Phase 5: Update uniform insignias to reflect transformation Phase 6: Continue to update policies and integrate Sailor 2025 initiatives During the question and answer session Kemp was asked which command was his favorite tour. While he enjoyed his tour on the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) he encouraged the Sailors to make each command their “best command.” “You should run this race with the expectation
U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Fleet Master Chief Raymond D. Kemp Sr. speaks with Sailors aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella during an all-hands call, Nov. 1. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
of victory. But you can’t just expect to win, you have to work for it,” said Kemp. A Sailor from U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella asked about another issue that is on the community’s mind here. If possible plans to down downgrade the USNH facility to an outpatient clinic move forward, what will the impact to dependents and spouses be. Kemp advised that there were no near-term plans to decrease services at USNH Sigonella. In closing, Kemp reiterated remarks from Adm. Michelle Howard, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF), reminding Sailors to “Be vigilant, be resilient and maintain enduring relationships.” Naval Air Station Sigonella: "The Hub of the
Med," is a U.S. Navy installation and an Italian Air Force base in Sicily, Italy. Just as a ship performs lines of operation that provide a capability, Navy Region EURAFSWA bases perform the same eight lines of operation to provide capability to the fleet, joint and allied forces. These eight lines of operation are: air operations, port operations, safety, security, housing, MWR, Fleet and Fleet and Family Services and what is called the core: the fuels, water and power that keep the bases running. Through our lines of operation, our installations are force multipliers that maximize combat capability of operational units. For more news from Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, visit www.navy. mil/local/cnre/.
Humanitarian Assistance for the Local Community By LCDR Edward Erwin Religious Ministries Department
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – In the last year, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella has collected and distributed 30,364 pounds of food and clothing for the needy throughout Sicily. The Chapel has functioned as a distribution center for charitable donations, collaborating with local charities and churches on and off base to benefit those hit the hardest by economic downturns. The Chapel receives gifts daily from service members and families who want to share their blessings with the disadvantaged. The Chapel has relied on the invaluable help of COMREL Director Dr. Alberto Lunetta, the Thrift Store, and the Fleet and Family Support Center, along with a united team effort from other NASSIG departments and tenant commands. The food drive began a year ago as an Eagle Scout project for Micah Dye with the local Boy Scout Troop that meets at the NAS 1 Chapel. Soon the Chapel supported the charitable effort for the refugees and the less fortunate with the crucial assistance of Giuseppee Collesano, a missionary to Sicily. Once the holiday food drive was completed and successful, the Chapel continued the efforts with a massive outpouring of generosity from the base. The Chapel has supplied donations during numerous COMRELs to
Volunteers from Sigonella and Taormina work together to help fight poverty and hunger in the community. Recently the Chapel facilitated a COMREL with Associazione per il Volontariato nelle Unita’Locali Socio-Sanitare. (Photo courtesy of Religious Ministries Department)
Piedimonte Etneo, Catania, Petrosmi, and many other missions. One charitable organization that the Religious Ministries Department has partnered with on a monthly basis is AVULSS in Taormina. AVULSS (Associazione per il Volontariato nelle Unita’Locali Socio-Sanitare) is a nationwide organization, meaning “voluntary association in the unity of local social-sanitary areas.”
The Taormina AVULSS group was founded by retired school teacher, Mr. Cosma Belardo, and this organization of 57 members, consisting of teachers, policemen, lawyers, social workers, and homemakers, provide charitable assistance to the sick and the elderly at the Taormina hospital and nursing home, along with special help to struggling immigrants. During a recent COMREL to
Taormina, volunteers loaded thousands of pounds into vans, trucks, and cars at the NAS 1 Chapel. The humanitarian assistance was then offloaded near Porta di Messina in Taormina with the help of AVULSS volunteers. At the completion of the project, volunteers from Sigonella and Taormina enjoyed a time of fellowship and refreshments. The teambuilding and friendships fostered during the COMRELs are one of the most unforgettable secondary benefits from this outreach to the community. “Local hotels, restaurants, and shops donate regularly to our cause and since February of this year a group of friends from Sigonella has come at least once a month to bring food and clothes, and they are our main donors,” said Ann England of Taormina. “We hope to continue our voluntary partnership for years to come because unfortunately our presence is necessary!” Chaplain Myers who helped lead the most recent COMREL to Taormina commented: “This COMREL would not have been possible without the generous and tremendous giving spirit of the NASSIG community and Chapel-- thank you!” For more information on humanitarian assistance or ways in which you can contribute to help the community, you may contact the Chapel at 6243975.
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November 4, 2016
Direct Line
Executive Officer, Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Buongiorno, Sigonella!! We are now a work week being back on “Solar Time,” and our bodies have adjusted to the welcomed extra hour we “fell back” to this past weekend. This twice-a-year clock adjustment –a designed to normalize daylight to working hours during summer months – also serves as a good reminder to take care of those twice-a-year tasks we all have, like replacing batteries in our household smoke and carbon dioxide detectors! Batteries aren’t the only items needing change or consideration. Routine or preventive maintenance around the house or to your car is something we tend to neglect until it’s too late. It’s a good time to inspect your vehicle, especially license plates for integrity because zip-ties don’t last forever and many plates have fallen off. Tire treads and wiper blades are other items
less remembered until it rains, and we are soon entering the rainy season. Speaking of not waiting until it’s too late, take the time to go through your home emergency kits. Refill what is missing or used. Check radios and flashlights for proper operation, and expiration dates of consumable items. Ensure your contact and emergency/dependent data is updated in AtHoc, NFAAS, and NSIPS. Along the lines of personal OPSEC, it’s a good time to change your passwords! According to password managers, “data breaches can go undetected for months,” and many of us maintain upwards of 10 different online accounts filled with “vulnerable personal information.” Don’t fall victim because you didn’t take five minutes to protect your data. Taking another five minutes to request your credit report is a
great step toward understanding if your data may have been compromised. I want to leave you this week with an “in-your-face” reminder about driving safety and integrity. On Oct. 18, there was a roadway collision involving a Sig’ citizen motorist and an Italian bicyclist, reportedly from Paterno. The injuries sustained by the cyclist were extremely grave and he passed away last week. Normally, it goes without saying but I am compelled to remind the community yet again that we are guests in the country of Italy. As guests, we must always be mindful of our actions – we can be invited to leave. We are also citizens of our community; a great community. We must take care of each other. We must also extend this care to the greater Sicilian, Italian, European, Earthly community we live
in. Please continue to work toward being the best neighbor you can be. Please exercise safe practices to the greatest extent to meet this goal. Don’t be selfish. Actively use risk management practices, and be prepared. This is your reminder to BE SAFE… for everyone’s sake. Thank you.
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 “Unprofessional Gym Employee”:
There was an incident on Sept. 1 in the NAS 1 Gym Family Fitness room where a group of underage children broke a ceiling tile. Management was notified of the incident and the fitness coordinator stopped a group of children, assuming they were the kids who broke the ceiling tile, and threatened and yelled at the children in the front desk area. Many patrons witnessed this. I was blown away by the action of this fitness coordinator. This behavior by a staff member is completely inappropriate.
Response:
Thank you for your feedback of our MWR Fitness Centers and staff. The behavior you describe (making threats and yelling) does not meet the expected behavior of any staff member. Appropriate protocol for dealing with these types of issues will be discussed with all fitness staff, including the individual who spoke with the youths. Having said that, I will not tolerate any patron (youth or adult) intentionally damaging our facilities and it will be addressed and handled in a professional manner. Again, thank you for your feedback. Customer service inquiries are taken seriously and will be addressed with the staff. If you have future or further questions, the MWR Fitness Director, Mr. John Lenz, can be reached at 624-0504 (or +39-09556-0504) or via email at fitness_sigonella@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “Community Bank”:
For many people in the community, Community Bank is our primary way to withdraw/exchange euro for travel or to pay bills or most importantly, rent. Yet Community Bank continues to ignore customer requests to maintain an inventory of higher denomination euro bills. Efforts to work with the local DoD Community Bank employees has not yielded any positive results and ends up with a recommendation to fill out a customer comment card. From a force protection perspective, it would be better if Community Bank could maintain larger bills for their customers’ banking needs so that those of us living on the local economy don’t have to carry around a large bulky envelope with lots of smaller denomination bills that can draw unsolicited attention. We have the option to get money orders but some of us in the community have rent that is less than 1,000 euro and the landlord prefers euro cash. Sincerely, Kevin Ratcliffe
Response:
Dear Mr. Ratcliffe, thank you for taking the time to submit your suggestion. Money is ordered to cater to the needs of the general NAS
Sigonella community. When large amounts of euro cash are requested, customers are provided with a combination of 100’s, 50’s and sometimes even 20’s to accommodate their needs, as there is a limit to the amount of cash the center can maintain. Community Bank does offer other payment options as well, including online SEPA transfers or the purchase of euro checks. The cost to complete a SEPA payment online is $1.00 and $2.00 if conducted in person at the banking center. Euro checks are available for purchase in the Center at a cost of $5.00. As an additional option, you may contact Community Bank at least two weeks in advance and if the timing and opportunity with cash deliveries is available, the Center may be able to order larger denominations in advance for you to pick up on the same day the funds were delivered. We thank you for the opportunity to serve the members of the military community. We value hearing from our customers, as their comments are vital for us to continue to review and improve our service. If you should have any further questions, please contact Ms. Sherma Stowe, Banking Center Manager at 624-9811 (NAS 1), 624-9331 (NAS 2) or at Sherma.Stowe@ DoDCommunityBank.com.
Comment regarding “National Anthem at Sports Games”:
We should be playing the National Anthem before the MWR youth sports games or at the very least before the first group of games on Saturday mornings.
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regulations for these parking spots. Thank you for your time and attention in this matter. Sincerely, Pete Gutierrez
"ICE" continued from Page 2
Response:
Thank you for your feedback concerning the MWR Youth Sports program. At this time, MWR is unable to offer an appropriate broadcast of the National Anthem before youth sporting events in Marinai due to resource constraints. We appreciate your input and will take it into consideration for future programming. If you have further questions, the MWR Youth Sports Coordinator, Mr. Eric Barge, can be reached at 624-1750 (+39-095-56-1750) or via email at eric.barge@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “SAC Parking”:
I am writing in regards to the parking spots designated for SAC pickup. Very often, these few spots are being used by people who are not picking up their school-aged children. I often see people leaving their vehicle to go to classes, library or other activities or they are coming back from those activities. I believe that these parking spots need to be made more prominent by a color scheme or some other way to reinforce their status because people find it easy to disregard the signs already up. It would also help if Security could patrol these spots during peak pick-up times (1600-1700) to help people understand the
Response:
Thank you for your feedback and concern regarding parking spaces located in front of the School Age Care (SAC) building. It is vital to the Child and Youth program that ample space is provided for parents to drop off and pick up their youth in a timely and safe manner. The area is regularly patrolled by Security personnel, and their leadership is aware of the concern regarding proper use of parking spaces on the installation, especially those that are reserved for parents utilizing child care/school age care services. The Youth Director will continue to work with Security personnel to ensure that patrons are utilizing the vacant parking spaces appropriately and will notify Security of any unauthorized persons utilizing designated parking spaces. In addition, if members of the community notice unauthorized use of designated parking spaces/ areas, please contact security forces to ensure that all SIG citizens are held accountable. If you have future or further questions, the Youth Director, Ms. Jennifer Hodges, can be reached at 624-3713 (or +39-095-56-3713) or via email at Jennifer.Hodges@eu.navy.mil.
Name: PO2 Bryan Lottes Dept: Region Legal Service Office Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia Sigonella Hometown: San Diego, Calif. Petty Officer Lottes was a former Gunner's Mate on USS Gridley (DDG 101) prior to cross rating to the Legalman (B630) rate. Lottes attended the Naval Justice School in Newport, R.I. to learn his new trade. After graduating his "C" school, he also acquired an Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies on the Navy's dime. "I knew I was making the right choice to cross rate into Legalman because I wasn't getting the fulfillment I needed as a Gunner's Mate." To test Lottes' will to become a Legalman, he needed to submit a package which always takes a lot of work, dedication and time. There were a lot of prerequisites that he needed to complete and he also had to sit down with a review board where the command master chief of the Judge Advocate General Corps made the final de-
cision to accept him into the community. "I reported to Sigonella in January 2015 as a Legalman and I love my job. My day-to-day duties are to provide legal assistance and command services like processing people for Executive Officer Inquiry (XOI), Disciplinary Review Board (DRB), Nonjudicial Punishment (NJP), Administrative Separation (ADSEP), court martial, power of attorney, notary services, and tax ser-
vices during tax season." After almost a year in Sicily, Lottes has already traveled to Rome five times. Adding to his adventures, he has visited Malta for his birthday, as well as Syracuse, Milan, Dublin, Naples, and the Aeolian Islands. Lottes has future trips planned to London and Berlin at the end of the year. "Dublin is my favorite and surpassed my high expectations, from the over-
ly-friendly and welcoming people to the amazing atmosphere of the city. The food and beer were great. I also went on a tour to see the Giant's Causeway, where they filmed scenes of the Game of Thrones, in Northern Ireland." While Lottes appreciates and takes advantage of his adventures in Europe, he does miss the simple conveniences America has, like Target and other chain stores.
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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PARADE Y B O O K
Students from Sigonella Elementary School participated in a Storybook Parade Oct. 28 where children dressed as a character from their favorite children's books. (Photos courtesy of Nicole Ybarra)
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)
November 4, 2016
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Base Galley Offers Box Meals By cwo3 francisco marigundon jr Ristorante Bella Etna
1. Who can request box meals? The Galley can provide box meals for Ration in Kind (RIK) U.S. military personnel as long as a valid reason supports the request. All such requests must be submitted to the Food Service Officer (FSO) or leading Culinary Specialist, 24 hours in advance of the required date/meal. EXAMPLE: A U.S. active duty member cannot make it to the meal hours set by the Galley due to a mission-related issue. Examples include: (1) a Sailor is on watch or on patrol; (2) a Sailor is participating in an official party working through a meal; (3) transiting to or serving duty at another site and cannot make it back to the Galley during meal hours. 2. What is the purpose of box meals? The purpose of box meals is to support the mission by providing wholesome and nutritious meals to RIK personnel that cannot attend the normal meal hours at the Galley. Why is it important? It provides RIK personnel another subsistence option. 3. Is it possible to request specific items or have different options be put into the box lunch? No, we have a standard box meal menu to follow for breakfast, lunch and dinner meals. However, we do consider legitimate dietary restriction (i.e. food allergy, etc). 4. What is the difference between the galley menu line vs. box lunches? The menu items are different, but if we look at the required dietary elements, there is no difference. We meet all standard dietary requirements in accordance with Navy meal planning to include a meat, vegetable, starch, fruit, drink and dessert. 5. Can anyone outside of the RIK ask for box lunches and just pay in cash as long as they are on duty? No, the intended purpose of the box meal program is to support RIK personnel. 6. How does this affect our personnel and the mission altogether? The Galley is resourced based on the number of RIK personnel assigned to the installation. By providing box meals, we are fully supporting our RIK personnel. Specifically, support of RIK personnel is the primary mission of the Galley, provided we do so within budget. 7. What’s the difference between “to go” meals and “box meals”? The to go meal is available to every customer for every meal, and patrons go through the main line or speed line to obtain food stored in a styrofoam to go box. However, per Preventive Medicine guidance, to go meals have a four-hour shelf life when properly stored (i.e. hot or cold). Whereas the box meals, are preordered meals that have a 36-hour shelf life when properly stored.
Chicken Wrap Box Meal
Grilled Chicken Salad Box Meal
Breakfast Sandwich Box Meal
Tuna Salad Box Meal
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November 4, 2016
A 6.6 Magnitude Quake Hits Norcia, Central Italy, While Tremors Felt in Rome by The Telegraph
Italy's most powerful earthquake in 36 years dealt a new blow last Sunday to the country's seismically vulnerable heart, sending terrified residents fleeing for the third time in nine weeks and flattening a revered six-century-old church. Fabrizio Curcio, head of the national civil protection agency, said around a dozen people had been injured but that there did not appear to have been any fatalities. "There are several people injured but for the moment we have had no reports of victims," Curcio said. The quake struck at 7:40 am (0640 GMT) near the small central mountain town of Norcia, unleashing a shock felt in the capital Rome and even in Venice, 300 kilometers (200 miles) away. It measured 6.6 on the so-called moment magnitude scale, according to US geologists, while Italian monitors estimated it at 6.5. It was Italy's biggest quake since a 6.9-magnitude events struck the south of the country in 1980, leaving 3,000 people dead. Norcia's 14th-century Basilica of Saint Benedict, built on the reputed birthplace of the Catholic saint, was reduced to rubble. The church is looked after by an international community of Benedictine monks based in a local monastery that attracts some 50,000 pilgrims every year. "It was like a bomb went off," the town's deputy mayor, Pierluigi Altavilla told Rai News 24. "We are starting to despair. There are too many quakes now, we can't bear it anymore." Visibly upset, some of the monks and other residents knelt in prayer before the ruins. The basilica was inspected last week by experts from the ministry of culture and earmarked for structural repair work which could not be carried out. Guiseppe Pezzanesi, mayor of Tolentino in the neighboring Marche region, said the small town had "suffered our blackest day yet." "The damage is irreparable. There are thousands of people in the streets, terrified, crying. Let's hope there is an end to it. The people are on their knees psychologically." The quake's epicenter was located at a very shallow depth of one km (0.6 of a mile), six km north of Norcia, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS), which measured the magnitude at 6.6. Italy's National Institute of Geology and Volcanology (INGV) measured the quake at 6.5 and said it had been preceded by a 6.1 magnitude shock an hour earlier. It came four days after quakes of 5.5 and 6.1 magnitude hit the same area and nine weeks after nearly 300 people died in an August 24 quake that devastated the tourist town of Amatrice at the peak of the holiday season. The 13th-century civic tower in Amatrice, which was damaged but left standing by the August quake, collapsed on Sunday. As with Wednesday's tremors, the impact was mitigated by the fact that any buildings deemed vulnerable to seismic activity had been evacuated. "Everything collapsed. I can see columns of smoke, it's a disaster, a disaster," Marco Rinaldi, the mayor of Ussita, one of the pretty mountain villages hit hardest by the last quake, told journalists. "I was sleeping in my car when I saw hell break out," he said. The quake was powerful enough to set off car alarms in Rome, 120 kilometers (75 miles) from the epicenter, and the capital's underground rail network was closed for structural safety checks. Much of Italy's land mass and some of its surrounding waters are prone to seismic activity with the highest risk
"EARTHQUAKE" continued on Page 12
A 6.6 magnitude earthquake hit central and southern Italy on Oct. 30 bringing down buildings in several places. The quake hit the same region where last week's earthquake struck. Already damaged buildings crumbled easily leaving even more people without homes after thousands were affected last week. Buildings were destroyed including Norcia's historic cathedral, the Basilica of St. Benedict, which was flattened. (Photo/caption by ANSA/AP/Xania News
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The Navy’s Enlisted Rating Modernization Implementation Plan From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
Today, the Navy released an Enlisted Rating Modernization timeline to help Sailors understand the way the Navy is gradually implementing this transformation. A working group, comprised of members throughout the Fleet including senior enlisted Sailors from USFF, PACFLT, CNE/CNA, CNP, and MCPON offices among others, has been formed to identify and propose modifications to personnel policies, management programs and information technology systems that will require changes. Some of what they will look at includes, but is not limited to, recruiting, detailing, advancements, training, and personnel and pay processes. The Navy’s working group on this project will be significantly expanded in the coming months to ensure you have a voice. You may also provide comments directly by emailing them to: NavyRatingMod@gmail.com.
We are committed to ensuring we have a deliberate process that will enable changes to occur seamlessly and transparently to the Fleet, and this will be accomplished in six phases over the next few years. These phases, which have begun are running in parallel over two to three years, include: redefining career fields; reviewing, revising and aligning business processes; updating policies and instructions; identifying and effecting IT solutions; updating uniform insignias and continued integration of Sailor 2025 initiatives. While we have a good path forward, it will take several years to make all the changes to policies and IT systems that currently rely on rating titles and support the way the Navy does business today. Changes to rating insignia on uniforms, for example, will not happen until after much of the earlier foundational work has been accomplished. We are in the beginning stages of a long term effort and there will be plenty of discussion on these issues ahead of any decisions.
USS Illinois Joins the Fleet From U.S. Naval Submarine Forces Atlantic GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy with assistance from the First Lady Michelle Obama commissioned and brought to life the newest Virginia class submarine, USS Illinois (SSN 786), during a ceremony attended by more than 2,500 at Naval Submarine Base, New London on Oct. 29, 2016. Illinois, named in honor of the 21st state, is the 13th Virginia-class, fast-attack submarine to join the Navy's operational fleet. The first lady, who is the ships sponsor, expressed how proud she was of the crew and their families. "Thank you for giving me the incredible privilege of being associated with you and with your families and with the Illinois for the rest of my life. I will continue to keep you in my prayers every single day and keep you in my thoughts, and know that you have a sponsor that cares deeply." Obama gave the order to "man our ship and bring her to life" before the crew of about 130 men ran across the brow, onto the vessel. "There are many out there who have been waiting a long time to address you-not as a PCU, but as a United States Ship-the USS Illinois-a warship," said key note speaker, Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. John Richardson. Illinois is the third of eight Block III Virginia-class submarines to be built. The Block III submarines are built with new Virginia Payload Tubes designed to lower costs and increase missile-firing payload possibilities. The first 10 Block I and Block II Virginia-class submarines have 12 individual 21-inch diameter vertical launch tubes able to fire Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMS). The Block III submarines are built with two-larger 87-inch diameter tubes able to house six TLAMS each. USS Illinois Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Jessie Porter, highlighted the Illinois' capability to dominate the undersea domain and enable military success in any engagement. "Over the coming years, this submarine -and others like her-will continue the impressive legacy that our submarine forbearers have established in making our country more secure," said Porter. "The Illinois has joined the fleet," said Porter. "The crew of Illinois has assumed our watch-a watch that will continue for the next 30 years-always waiting for the call, always ready." During the ceremony, Obama had the opportunity to announce Illinois' Sailor of the Year, Petty Officer First Class Ryan Mock. The first USS Illinois (BB 7) was a battleship commissioned in 1901 and was part of President Theodore Roosevelt's Great White Fleet that circumnavigated the world in 1907, introducing America as a global power. Illinois is a flexible, multi-mission platform designed to carry out the seven core competencies of the submarine force: anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface warfare; delivery of special operations forces; strike warfare; irregular warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and mine warfare. The submarine is 377 feet long, has a 34-foot beam, and will be able to dive to depths greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots submerged. It will operate for over 30 years without ever refueling. Construction on Illinois began March 2011; the submarine's keel was authenticated during a ceremony on June 2, 2014; and the submarine was christened during a ceremony Oct. 10, 2015. For more news from Naval Submarine Forces visit www.navy.mil/local/sublant/.
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November 4, 2016
BY Michelle Verba
There’s another three-day weekend coming up and you need somewhere exciting to visit. A friend tells you that Edinburgh, Scotland is one of their favorite cities in Europe so you book your flights and find a BNB that suits your needs. Before you know it you’re off to another overseas destination. You disembark the plane ready to explore as usual, but nothing can prepare you for the magic that is Edinburgh. This capital city borders miles of lush countryside and the attractive coastline of the Lothians, which offer visitors a captivating blend of rich history, natural beauty and adventure. This certainly ticks all the boxes for a fantastic holiday that combines the best of both worlds! From its world-famous castle, perched atop a volcanic rock, to its palace, HM, The Queen’s official residence in Scotland, and from the Georgian House to the National Museum of Scotland and every brick and cobbled alley in between – the city is a historical jewel. If it’s the natural beauty
you’re after, look no further than Holyrood Park. It is a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the heart of the city and is a 640-acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace. The park’s highest point is Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano, and it sits 251m above sea level giving an excellent view of the city, coast, and rolling green hills. While you’re walking around taking in the sights, you’ll be in for a real treat when you stop to fill your belly. Edinburgh has an array of cuisine to offer its visitors. From Mexican and Thai, to traditional Scottish pubs that quench that burning desire to experience local delicacies like haggis and blood pudding, the travelling foodies out there will not be disappointed. Not to mention the endless varieties of local scotch and whiskey that will have your taste buds in a tizzy! From hills and coastlines to castles and cobblestones, Edinburgh will satisfy the cravings of every type of adventurer. Even if what you crave can only be satisfied by what’s on your plate.
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November 4, 2016
All Hands News Bulletin:
ficer via an ICE comment under "Hospital Staff / Customer Relations." We are excited to provide these facility improvements to the community.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION! U.S. NAVAL HOSPITAL SIGONELLA
ROAD CLOSURE HALSEY ROAD Command, Department or Organization: NAVFAC PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Date of Event: 24-OCT-2016 TO 30-NOV-2016 Time of Event: DAILY Location of Event: NAS1 HALSEY ROAD BETWEEN WATER PLANT AND FIRST ENTRANCE TO COMMISSARY PARKING LOT Point of Contact Name: DELORIES KING Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-5014 Point of Contact Email Address: DELORIES.KING@EU.NAVY.MIL Additional Information: TRAFFIC DELAYS CAN BE EXPECTED FOR THE DURATION OF THE ROAD CLOSURE. SINGLE LANE TRAFFIC SHOULD BE EXPECTED. TRAFFIC SIGNALS, SIGNAGE, AND CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL WILL BE PRESENT TO DIRECT TRAFFIC DURING WORKING HOURS.
Please pardon our dust, but big changes are happening at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella! Starting in September 2016, USNH Sigonella's main facility, Building 273, will be undergoing major renovations to increase the functionality, quality, and safety of the building for our patients, staff, and the community. You may have already noticed some minor renovations to administrative areas currently underway. Major construction will begin next week and continue until April 2018. The hospital will receive new flooring in all spaces, an upgraded domestic water piping system, and new public and patient restrooms. Our goal is to limit disruptions to patient care and inconvenience to our patients. All departments will remain operational for the entire period of construction. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this construction may cause. If you have any concerns regarding safety or have questions about the construction in general, please contact our Customer Service Of-
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
YOUTH PROGRAM • Middle School Club - Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club - Thursdays - 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. NAS 1 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
Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS
PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel
PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
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
LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049
Weekly Traffic Report: Oct. 24 - 31, 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: Dinner: $4.85 $4.85 Mon Mon -- Fri: Fri: 44 -- 66 p.m. p.m. Weekend Weekend // Holiday: Holiday: 4-6 4-6 p.m. 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.
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"EARTHQUAKE" continued from Page 6 concentrated along its mountainous central spine. Italy straddles the Eurasian and African tectonic plates, making it vulnerable to seismic activity when they move. In addition to the Amatrice disaster in August, just over 300 perished when a quake struck near the city of L'Aquila in 2009. In 1980 tremors near Naples left 3,000 dead and an estimated 95,000 died in the 1908 Messina disaster, when a quake in the waters between mainland Italy and Sicily sent massive waves crashing into both coasts.
Which Areas of Italy Have the Highest Risk of Earthquakes? Story by The Local/AFP
Both Wednesday's earthquake and the disaster in August hit the mountainous central Italian region, an area well known for tremors and tectonic movement. But in fact, almost all of Italy is prone to seismic activity of some kind. So where is the risk greatest, and why? Sardinia is the only part of Italy not affected by seismic events, according to Italy's Civil Protection Agency. The agency notes that there is an elevated risk of earthquakes in Calabria and Sicily as well as some northern areas, like Friuli, part of Veneto and western Liguria. The central-southern part of the Appennine mountain range is also notorious as a seismic spot and has seen numerous quakes over the years - even though it isn't on a tectonic plate boundary. The Appennine Mountains have complex tectonics with many active faults; pressure builds up and is periodically released through moderate earthquakes. Over the last seven centuries, there have been "between 20 and 30" large, damaging quakes in the central Apennines, according to UCL's Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction. The latest tremors had their epicenters near the village of Visso, located on the edge of the region of Marche close to the border with Umbria. Visso is just 70 kilometers (45 miles) from Amatrice and also not far from L'Aquila where a powerful earthquake killed more than 300 in 2009. Wednesday's quake was felt in Rome, Naples and Venice. Although these cities are unlikely to experience quakes above a moderate magnitude - the Italian capital has never recorded a quake of a greater magnitude than 4.0 - they are considered "vulnerable" to seismic activity. This is because of the amount of people living there, instability of buildings, and the significant amount of cultural heritage and monuments, which could be affected by tremors. The Civil Protection Agency breaks down the different factors, which lead to injuries, deaths and damage from a quake, encom-
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passing the strength of tremors and vulnerability to the area. "Italy has a medium-high seismic hazard (due to the frequency and intensity of phenomena), but very high vulnerability (due to the fragility of building, infrastructural, industrial, production and service assets)," the agency explains. It adds that Italy has a "high seismic risk" overall, because of an increased “exposure” to earthquakes due to the high density of population and heritage. In other words, earthquakes are fairly frequent and strong, and those, which occur, are very likely to cause damage. The map below, created by Italy's National Institute for Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) shows the risk of seismic activity across the country.
Italy Earthquake Causes Cracks in St Paul’s Basilica and Other Vatican Landmarks Story by The Local/AFP
Some of the oldest parts of the Vatican have been damaged by the latest earthquake in Italy. Rome’s most important sites have been shut down to allow people to check for damage and to ensure that tourists are safe, after the country was hit by the strongest quake to hit the country in nearly 36 years. There were no immediate reports of deaths. Around 20 people suffered minor injuries. Closest to the epicentre was the ancient city of Norcia, the birthplace of St. Benedict, the father of monasticism, and famed for its Benedictine monastery. But the quake was so strong that it shook the foundations of much of Rome and the Vatican. The effects of the quake were felt as far north as Austria and all the way down at the very south end of the Italy. In the Vatican, the Basilica was closed for several hours after some plaster fell. Cracks appeared visible in the ancient building but it was re-opened after authorities confirmed that it was safe. Vatican firefighters also conducted checks at St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican's other basilicas but found no damage. The crowds in St. Peter's Square interrupted Pope Francis with applause when he mentioned the quake during his weekly Sunday blessing. "I'm praying for the injured and the families who have suffered the most damage, as well as for rescue and first aid workers," he said. Premier Matteo Renzi pledged to rebuild the wrecked churches and buildings, saying they were part of Italy's national identity. The government last week earmarked 40 million euros for rebuilding. "We will rebuild everything," Mr. Renzi said. "We are dealing with marvellous territories, territories of beauty."
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GAMEZONE
USA State Capitals
OKLAHOMA CITY (Oklahoma) OLYMPIA (Washington) PHOENIX (Arizona) PIERRE (South Dakota) PROVIDENCE (Rhode Island) RALEIGH (North Carolina) RICHMOND (Virginia) SACRAMENTO (California) SALEM (Oregon) SALT LAKE CITY (Utah) SANTA FE (New Mexico) SPRINGFIELD (Illinois) ST. PAUL (Minnesota) TALLAHASSEE (Florida) TOPEKA (Kansas) TRENTON (New Jersey)
MEDIUM
DES MOINES (Iowa) DOVER (Delaware) FRANKFORT (Kentucky) HARRISBURG (Pennsylvania) HARTFORD (Connecticut) HELENA (Montana) HONOLULU (Hawaii) INDIANAPOLIS (Indiana) JACKSON (Mississippi) JEFFERSON CITY (Missouri) JUNEAU (Alaska) LANSING (Michigan) LINCOLN (Nebraska) LITTLE ROCK (Arkansas) MADISON (Wisconsin) MONTGOMERY (Alabama) MONTPELIER (Vermont) NASHVILLE (Tennessee)
EASY
ALBANY (New York) ANNAPOLIS (Maryland) ATLANTA (Georgia) AUGUSTA (Maine) AUSTIN (Texas) BATON ROUGE (Louisiana) BISMARCK (North Dakota) BOISE (Idaho) BOSTON (Massachusetts) CARSON CITY (Nevada) CHARLESTON (West Virginia) CHEYENNE (Wyoming) COLUMBIA (South Carolina) COLUMBUS (Ohio) CONCORD (New Hampshire) DENVER (Colorado)
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the USA State Capitals that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a secret message - a Bill Vaughan quotation.
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Tips for Children to Beat Holiday Stress From Fleet and Family Support Center
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Families want the holidays to be a happy time for everyone, especially their children. What many parents do not realize is that the holiday season can be a time of hustle, bustle and a never-ending whirlwind of stress for children. It is important to remember that children (and parents) need to find time to relax and enjoy the wonderful time of year. How can children relax when they see their parents running around frantically shopping, baking, decorating and becoming stressed at the thought of blowing the holiday budget after one trip to the mall? Signs of a child's holiday stress may include: • Tears for seemingly minor reasons • Nervous behavior such as nail biting and hair twirling • Physical complaints including headaches and stomachaches • Regression to younger behaviors: bedwetting, temper tantrums • Withdrawal from school, friends and family • A change in your child's regular behaviour Here are some ways to reduce stress for the entire family: • Remember routines - For parents of small children, this is especially good advice. During the holidays, children will find their routines disrupted. They are often dragged along on shopping trips or taken to special events. They stay up past bedtime and eat too many holiday goodies. When a routine is broken, stress can result. • Say "no" - You don't have to accept every invitation to cookie swaps, parties and gift exchanges that you receive. • Nutrition - Have you ever noticed all of those sugary holiday treats kids (and adults) consume this time of year? Offer kids nutritious snacks throughout the day to avoid sugar-related meltdowns. Plan at least one healthy family meal each day and take time to talk and enjoy being together. • Family traditions - Many don't realize how important traditions are to themselves and their children. Family traditions offer great comfort and security for children. What are your family traditions? Perhaps your family would enjoy creating a holiday calendar or baking cookies together. • Attitude check - Both children and their parents need to have an attitude check before the holiday season begins. Take a deep breath, and have everyone in the family pledge to make the holiday season a time of joy and peace. The less holiday stress you feel, the more relaxed your children will be. • Rest and relaxation - Everyone, especially a child, needs to take a "time out" over the holiday season to rest and relax. A well-rested child will be much happier on a trip to the mall than one who is in need of a nap. Schedule some rest and relaxation time for everyone in the family. • Favorite things - If you are traveling for the holidays, bring your child's favorite blanket or stuffed animal. A bit of home will help your child feel more comfortable. • Laugh - Laughter is still the best way to beat stress and change everyone's mood from bad to good. Lighten the mood with funny movies, sledding or cozy chats over cups of hot chocolate (don't forget the marshmallows). • Seek support – You are not alone! The Fleet and Family Support Center, New Parent Support Program offers in home parent education and support for families with children 0-3. New Parent Support also holds a weekly Infant/Toddler Playgroup, Baby Bootcamp and Infant Massage classes. Contact DSN: 624-4291 for more information about these or other programs. • Make a stress-free holiday your new family tradition! Fond memories of the holidays are a beautiful gift you can leave with your children. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the holidays may be one of the few times when you can offer a present that only you can give — priceless memories of a holiday filled with fun, love and laughter for the entire family.
November 4, 2016
Emergency Kit Essentials From NAS Sigonella Safety Department
Roadside Emergency Kit Cold-Climate Necessities Ice scraper Emergency thermal blanket Traction aids (sand, rock salt or kitty litter) Jacket or raincoat, boots, wool socks Gloves Umbrella Extra water Tire chains (for snow)
First Aid Kit, Food Items and Other Necessities First aid kit / CPR mouth piece Bottled water Crackers or cookies / granola or energy bars / hard candy Hand cleaner / wet wipes Roll of duct tape Spending money / change Extra pair of walking shoes Cell phone For more information please call the Safety Office at 624-5630 or 624-6261.
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Mr. Biagio 'Nino' Martelli recently retired after completing 40 years of faithful and dedicated service to NAVSUP FLCSI - Site Sigonella Fuels Division. His camaraderie and expertise at our command will be truly missed. Fair winds and following seas.
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November 4, 2016