Chief Corpsman Returns from Medical Mission PAGE 4
Sigonella Wrestling Team Heads to Championship Tournament
NAS Sigonella Firefighters Complete Rescue Technician Training
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PAGES 10-11
FEBRUARY 8, 2019
N A S SIG O N E L L A
Vol. 36 No. 3
Sigonella Sailor Wins Surprise Holiday Trip Home
Utilitiesman Third Class Regina Carroll, winner of the American Red Cross’s service member holiday homecoming trip, surprises her father, Reginald Carroll, during the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl Game on Dec. 22, 2018. (Photo courtesy of American Red Cross) By Janine Scianna NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
We’ve all seen those emotional military reunions on television before—a ship’s homecoming on the local news, a deployed Marine meeting their child for the first time, or a veteran being recognized during a football game for their heroic service. Certainly, we know all too well what it feels like to be reunited with our loved ones after a long separation, but that personal sacrifice often remains a highly private and individual experience. But one lucky Sigonella Sailor got to be reunited with her father while 45,000 fans cheered her on during the 2018 Armed Forces Bowl on Dec. 22, 2018. Utilitiesman Third Class Regina Carroll hit the jackpot when she was selected by the American Red Cross (ARC) and Armed Forces Bowl leadership to be flown to her hometown of Fort Worth, TX and reunited with her family for the holidays. The whole arrangement was a covert operation—Carroll told her father that she had won two tickets to the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl game and that she wanted him and her uncle to use them. And to get him down to the field, ARC staff told him that he’d be watching a live videocast of his daughter wishing her family members a Merry Christmas from Sicily. And so, during a television timeout during the second quarter, the reserved and hardworking Reginald Carroll watched the jumbotron with quiet pride as the taped remarks from UT3 Carroll were played for the stadium. Only after the fans started erupting in cheers and ARC staff turned him toward the player tunnel did he realize that his daughter, who he hadn’t
seen she since PCS’d to Sigonella two years earlier, was there in person. The level of emotion was palpable—the bond between a father and daughter runs deep—and in that moment one could truly grasp the sacrifices that service members go through in being separated from their families, friends, and communities. Since Carroll’s mother passed away unexpectedly when she was an infant, she was raised by a single father. The respect she has for him and the sacrifices he has made to provide for Carroll and her three siblings was evident. “Honestly, it was the greatest moment of my life. I just want to replay it [the video] so many times,” said Carroll. Carroll, who is finishing her first tour of duty at Naval Air Station Sigonella, came here after completing boot camp and “A” school. She enlisted just two weeks after finishing high school. So being able to visit her family after an extended period of time away, especially during her first tour in the Navy, was particularly meaningful. Peter Macias, Director of Communication for Service to the Armed Forces at ARC, was compelled by Carroll’s story and remarked how her selection was a first for the organization. “We've been in partnership with the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl for the last six years and it's been four years since we've reunited a sailor with their family. UT3 Carroll is the first female military member to participate in the surprise family reunion at the bowl game." Many individuals helped Carroll along the way, for which she was quick to credit. Several Pub-
lic Works department chiefs, her lead petty officer, and the regional manager of Sigonella’s American Red Cross program, Karen Jorgenson, encouraged her to apply and helped develop and submit her package. Out of 10 applications submitted to the Armed Forces Bowl committee (seven of which came from Sigonella!) Carroll was chosen as the winner. To pull off this fairytale homecoming, the American Red Cross teamed up with American Airlines, who offered a complimentary round trip airline ticket for Carroll. ARC provided all of the logistical support—ground transportation, hotel, food, and coordinating the bowl game reunion. Carroll arrived in Dallas on the Wednesday prior to the game. So, she had two full days on her schedule before the big reveal on Saturday. Thursday was spent doing a service project with ARC, installing fire detectors in a mobile home community. And Friday was a rest day prepping for the big game and filming the video message. Though she said it was hard being so close to family without being able to talk to them, she was grateful for the added opportunity to perform community service. “The Red Cross gave me this opportunity to come home and I want to be able to give back,” said Carroll. In fact, Carroll is currently going through process of becoming an official ARC volunteer here at Sigonella. Jorgenson was pleased to have been part of Carroll’s journey back to Texas and is thrilled with her decision to continue volunteering with ARC. “We are very grateful to have her join our team, and also so very proud to have been a part of this adventure for such a well-deserving Sailor,” said Jorgenson.
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FEBRUARY 8, 2019
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Direct Line
Virginia Imlah, Director, Sigonella Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Greetings Sigonella! My name is Virginia Imlah, and I am the new director of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. I arrived in Sigonella in July of 2017 and began serving as director in October of 2018. This is my second time living in Sigonella, and I am excited to be back in Italy. As a military spouse, I have moved thirteen times and experienced firsthand the challenges of frequent moves and having to start over in a new location. I have a teaching degree, but I have not had a traditional career. Instead, I have learned to adapt to a variety of circumstances. For example, I spent a year homeschooling my children and living out of suitcases in order to keep our family together as my husband traveled for work. I have had a few jobs here and there, but I have mostly served as a volunteer in schools and serving in various groups that support military spouses and families. A few years ago, I learned about the many volunteer opportunities that are available with Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS). I attended a presentation given by NMCRS about its programs and services and learned that most of these are provided by trained volunteers. I also was surprised to learn
that NMCRS reimburses its volunteers for childcare expenses they incur while volunteering. That day stands out in my memory because I remember thinking that I would have liked to have known about these volunteer opportunities when I was a new military spouse. I would have welcomed the continuity of volunteering at various duty stations and serving my local military community. I decided to begin volunteering at NMCRS after relocating to Whidbey Island. Volunteering was very rewarding to me on many levels. I enjoyed meeting new people and working with my fellow volunteers. I put my organizational skills to use sorting donations at the thrift store and completed the necessary courses and training to become a caseworker. It was a privilege to be able to help service members and their families in times of need by providing financial assistance. I also enjoyed helping clients create budgets and teaching them skills to help them manage their finances. All too soon, it was time to move again. Knowing that I could continue volunteering and find a familiar sense of community at the NMCRS office in Sigonella made the prospect of moving
easier. Before leaving Whidbey Island, I learned that the Director position was available in Sigonella and decided to apply for the job. I never expected that my volunteer service would lead to working for NMCRS. Serving as director has been just as rewarding as volunteering. I love educating people about NMCRS and its programs and services. It is my goal to ensure that all service members arriving in Sigonella know about each program and service that is available to them. I also want to evaluate the specific needs that the local community has and provide assistance for those needs. Additionally, I want to reach out to those looking for something to do during their time here and make sure that people know about the volunteer opportunities that are available. One of the main services that NMCRS offers is financial assistance in the form of interest free loans and grants. We also provide personal budget counseling. Our thrift store offers service members and their families a place to save money when purchasing uniforms, clothing, and other household items. We also teach a monthly Budget for Baby® course for new or expecting parents as a way to help parents better
prepare for the costs that come along with having a child. Attendees also receive a gift card that they can use to purchase necessities as well as a handmade baby blanket made by one of our volunteers. Additionally, we have a visiting nurse who supports new parents and provides in-home visits to newborn babies. We could not offer all of these programs and services without the help of our volunteers. I am always willing to answer questions and provide more detailed information about NMCRS. I look forward to building relationships and serving the Sigonella community!
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Sug-
gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard
those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding Post Office Hours of Operation:
Would the post office please consider having customer service hours on Saturdays? The hours they are open, from 9 to 4, are not conducive to anybody who doesn’t work on NAS I. I am at work before they open and do not get off of work until after they close. If I want to pick up my mail, my only option is to use my lunch hour to drive over to NAS I and back, which is extremely frustrating and not possible to do each day.
Response:
Without more information on your particular situation it is difficult to fully answer your question. There are 24/7 post office boxes available at the NAS I post office if that is where your mail is delivered. There are no current plans to expand services at the NAS I post office, but the availability of the boxes should give you the opportunity for after-hours pickup. In addition, NAS II also has a post office located at Bldg. 628 (on the west side of the flight line), which is open from 09001600 Monday-Friday. For any future concerns, feel free to contact the Fleet Mail Center directly by reaching out to the postal officer, Mr. Ajaka Chesterfield, at Ajaka.chesterfield@eu.navy.mil or DSN 624-5558/COMM 095-86-5558.
Comment Regarding Traffic Safety on NAS II:
Can we get speed bumps and speed cameras installed on NAS II? There's a digital speed sign on NAS I by the CDC. The reason I bring this up is because every day I see Americans and Italians speeding all over base. Driving in Sicily is 10 times worse/scarier than even driving in Los Angeles. There are speed limit signs posted on NAS II, but people clearly aren't following the speed limit. In combination with all of this ongoing construction, this makes for a dangerous situation. I recommended adding speed bumps to help thwart reckless driving on base.
Response:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the speeding that is occurring onboard the installations. You are correct; this is a rampant issue, especially on NAS II. Traffic safety is one of my top priorities and we are working diligently to address it. My Security Department is currently awaiting new speed detection equipment which should arrive within the next few weeks. Once the equipment is received, our patrols will be actively engaged in speed detection operations that will address speeding. Each of our mobile units will be equipped with this technology. Additionally, we have coordinated with Italian Air Force leadership and will be
conducting joint patrols to address U.S. and non-U.S. violators onboard NAS II. As a reminder, anyone that has their driving privileges or vehicle passes issued by NAS Sigonella MVRO can have their privileges and passes revoked at the discretion of the Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, Security Officer and Assistant Security Officer per NASSIGINST 5114.1L. These same personnel also have the authority to enforce driving regulations on personnel inside the “triangle,” which encompasses the roads between NAS II, Marinai and NAS I (SPs 69, 105, 106, 192, and 417). I thank you for your comment and if you have any further questions/concerns pertaining to this topic, please contact the Assistant Security Officer, LTJG Kentzell at DSN 624-2491 or the Security Operations LCPO, MACS Ramos at DSN 624-2783.
BZ Regarding Child Development Center:
I would like to commend the employees within the NAS I CDC’s “Tadpoles” classroom. My son absolutely loves Ms. Sandra and she is always so attentive and sweet towards his needs, even when he is having a temper tantrum. Mr. Mike and Ms. Angelica are also amazing and patient with the kids. Knowing that I am leaving my child with people who care about him just as much as I do puts me at ease. Thank you to the staff for doing such a commendable job, with a smile on your faces.
Response:
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your appreciation for some of our staff members. Ensuring that children of working parents are being properly taken care of is an important part of military family morale and readiness, and I take great pride in MWR’s Child and Youth Programs. The entire staff works hard every day to ensure that your children are in a fun and safe learning environment. I have shared your comments with the employees you identified and will make sure they are rewarded for a job well done.
BZ Regarding Fleet and Family Support Center:
The people and programs at the Fleet and Family Support Center at Naval Air Station Sigonella have been a great value to my family. I would like to call attention to my most recent positive interaction with one of the FFSC staff members. My family and I left the island earlier this month and shortly after arriving sta-
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FEBRUARY 8, 2019
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Aviation Machinist Mate 3rd Class Adeline Vowels Department: VP-26 Maintenance Hometown: Channahon, Ill. The P-8A Poseidon is powered by two turbo fan CFM56-7b engines. Each engine produces up to 27,300 lbs. of thrust to propel the aircraft forwards and is made up of hundreds of different parts and systems. Naturally, if any one of these parts fails there could be serious problems. Luckily, Aviation Machinist’s Mates (AD) like Adeline Vowels work hard to ensure that the engines, along with several other important systems on the plane, are in optimal operational condition. “As an AD you have to be familiar with the entire engine,” said Vowels, who is assigned to the “Tridents” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26. “We have to ensure the integrity of the engine itself, and we
inspect the blades, the engine cowlings, as well as performing routine engine servicing on the aircraft.” Vowels is the youngest of three siblings and hails from Channahon, Illinois. After graduating high school, she attended Montana State University for one semester before transferring to Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in St. Louis, Missouri. After two years, she graduated with an associate’s degree in baking and patisserie, going on to work as a pastry chef for Belmond Charleston Place Hotel in Charleston S.C. She enlisted in the Navy in July 2017 and checked into VP-26 in November 2017. When she checked in to VP-26, she was originally assigned to work center 110 (the AD shop) before attending “C” school for the P-8A. Afterwards, she was reassigned to work center 310, the “Line Shack,” were she earned her ‘Plane Captain’ qualification.
"ICE" continued from Page 2 teside, I received email notifications from a rental car agency about tickets I had been issued by law enforcement in Naples for a traffic violation. I had no idea what to do. Everything was in Italian. So I reached out to Andrea Carobene at FFSC. He helped me out tremendously! Not only did he take the time review the infractions and tell me what I was being ticketed for, but he also highlighted all of the pertinent information for getting them paid and the issue resolved. Furthermore, when my local bank couldn't help me with wiring the funds to the appropriate place due to lack of information they requested, Andrea contacted the Community Bank in Sigonella and ensured me they knew what to do with the information provided. I had less than five days to pay these tickets. Andrea met with a friend of mine, in Sigonella, who agreed to pay the fines on my behalf and walked him through the process. Because of Andrea Carobene's commitment to helping people out (even when he's off work due to Sigonella being six hours ahead of EST) I can now rest assured that an urgent
Vowels currently serves as night check supervisor for the Line Shack. In this role, she is responsible for receiving information passed down at the maintenance meeting and sharing it with her Sailors as well as delegating who will handle each aircraft launch and recovery. In addition, she regularly inspects the squadron’s support equipment and ensures that fuel samples are properly taken each night. She also helps to train unqualified personnel so that they can get their Plane Captain qualification. “I really do enjoy the Navy and being in the service,” said Vowels. “It has brought me stability, financial freedom, and a consistent life style. I have also had the opportunity to travel and see things that a lot of other people don’t get to.” Of course, being a trained pastry chef means that Vowels still loves to bake. Here is one of her favorite cookie recipes that she has been making with her dad for years. “Dad Lad” Cookie Recipe 1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees 2. In a mixing bowl sift together: 3 cups flour 1 1/3 cups oatmeal ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 3. In a separate bowl cream together: 3 sticks softened butter 1 cup dark brown sugar ¾ cup sugar 4 eggs 4 oz melted sweetened chocolate 2 tsp vanilla 4. Slowly incorporate dry ingredients 5. Add to batter: 1 12 oz bag chocolate chips 1 ½ cups butterscotch chips 2 cups walnuts 6. Bake on cookie sheet for 12 minutes
situation has been resolved. I seriously appreciate him taking the time to help me out and see it through. BZ to Andrea!
Response:
Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience about the Fleet and Family Support Center, and more specifically the support provided by Mr. Carobene. The staff there are committed to providing the best quality service to the community, ensuring all Sigonella citizens are armed with the necessary tools to be successful. It is great to hear that Mr. Carobene, FFSC’s intercultural relations specialist, was able to assist you and your family on a short fused issue. Moving can be a very stressful task, and I’m sure attempting to take care of this traffic ticket from miles away amplified this stress. I am pleased to know that you reached out to them for assistance, and that they were able to support you immediately. Mr. Carobene has worked at the Sigonella FFSC for almost 20 years. He has dedicated his career to helping service members, civilians, and their families. I will pass along your BZ to him and am confident he will be ecstatic to hear about the positive impact his support has made on you and your family.
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@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 factor of 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 preceeding 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 8, 2019
Chief Corpsman Orlando Atencia Returns Home From USNS Comfort Mission By HM3 Jada Compton U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella
After spending two months aboard the USNS Comfort in support of Enduring Promise 2018, Chief Hospital Corpsman Orlando Atencia got a warm welcome home. During the humanitarian mission, he provided dental care and surgical screening services to host nations. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Compton interviewed Atencia upon his return; here is what the conversation captured. Compton: How did you prepare for the deployment, were you ready? Atencia: ALWAYS READY! There was a lot of turn over and personal affairs that I had to quickly prepare for, but every office on base that I dealt with was beyond
accommodating. Everything worked out smoothly in the end. This is our lifestyle and we always need to be ready to rock and roll at a moment’s notice. Compton: Did you have any life changing moments? Atencia: Yes—from day one in Ecuador and especially in Peru. We take for granted so many little things in life like easy access to water and food. It is so readily available for us whenever we want it, yet in these countries, they have to decide between clothes, healthcare, and food. I spent about 30 minutes every night before going to bed reflecting on and processing my daily experiences. I have never been so humbled and grateful for what I have. I thank God and my mother every day for guiding me towards the path that I’m on. I decided that
Chief Hospital Corpsman Atencia provides dental care to a patient aboard the USNS Comfort. (Photo by Lt. True Xiong)
after I retire from the Navy, I will continue volunteering in humanitarian missions as often as I can. There’s something so impactful about the gratitude in someone’s eyes. It made me realize one thing—we can’t change the world, but we can make a world of a difference to each person we help. Compton: After coming home, what are you most thankful for? Atencia: Thinking back on my 18-year career, the Navy continues to wow me. At first, all I wanted to experience was life on a ship and a tour in Europe. I received these two wishes back to back. I was trav-
eling and site seeing throughout Europe and thought “Can it possibly get better than this?” Sure enough, this humanitarian mission came about. I am especially thankful for having the opportunity to see my family while I was in Colombia. They lived three and a half hours away from one of our scheduled stops. My aunt and four cousins were able to spend time with me for two days, and they also were able to receive medical and dental care. They are so proud of me and what the Navy does for so many countries. I’m still on cloud nine from this experience.
Chief Hospital Corpsman Atencia examines a child during mission Enduring Promise 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joseph DeLuco)
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Sigonella Wrestlers Head to Champs By Randy Latimer
The Sigonella Middle/High School Jaguars wrapped up an outstanding wrestling and are headed to the DoDEA Southern Sectional Tournament on Feb. 9 in Vicenza, Italy. The top three tournament qualifiers in each weight class will then move on to the DoDEA High School Championships in Wiesbaden, Germany on Feb. 15 and 16. The Jaguars fielded one of the biggest squads in recent history with 13 boys and one girl competing in eight of 14 weight classes. Sigonella is in Division III (small school division) of European High School sports, but unlike other team sports where teams from the same division compete against each other, wrestling requires all divisions to compete against each other by weight class, regardless of the size of the school. So small schools like Sigonella are going up against bigger schools with much larger talent pools like Stuttgart, Vilseck, and our Italian neighbor to the north, Naples. Sigonella has not won a Division III wrestling championship since 2011, but this year’s talented line up has ability to bring home the gold. The team’s coach, Senior Chief Petty Officer Justen Estes of Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachment (AIMD) and DoDEA sponsor and coach Senior Chief Petty Officer Victor Martinez, Sigonella’s ROTC instructor, have put together an outstanding program. With a good mix of veterans and rookies, the group has come together as a team in their six regular season meets and have shown
talent and heart in competition with bigger and better resourced opponents. Several wrestlers have put together impressive individual records. Junior Amari Pyatt at 170 lbs. transferred in from Nebraska this year and brought with him a wealth of midwestern wrestling talent and experience. He finished his regular season undefeated at 18-0. All of his victories were by pin fall or technical fall and he did not have a single offensive point scored against him all year. Pyatt is the favorite to win the sectional and championship meet in his weight class. Another veteran wrestler is senior Munro Manning at 126 lbs. Munro placed second at the DoDEA European Championships last year in the 113 lb. weight class and is sporting an impressive 19-1 record so far this year. His only loss was to the top wrestler in his weight class from Stuttgart. Last year, freshman Ben Latimer finished 6th in the 120 lb. weight class in DoDEA Europe. So far in his sophomore year at 132 lbs., he has amassed a 17-1 record with all his victories except one by pin fall. His only loss was, like Munro’s, to the top wrestler from Stuttgart. Both wrestlers are out to avenge those single losses at the championship meet. Finally, senior Joey Perroni in the heavyweight class was 5th in DoDEA Europe last year, holds an impressive 13-3 record so far this year, and is considered to be one of the top wrestlers in Europe. Unfortunately, due to DoDEA sports funding shortfalls and facility schedule conflicts, the Sigonella wres-
Sigonella junior Amari Pyatt is undefeated in the 170 lb. weight class and is the favorite to win the DoDEA Europe championship. (Photo by Randy Latimer)
This year’s Sigonella Middle/High School wrestling team is one of the largest teams in recent history, and heads to the DoDEA Southern Sectional tournament this weekend. (Photo by Randy Latimer)
tling team has not been able to host a home meet this year. But thanks to digitally savvy teammates, parents, and social media live streaming, the team’s fans have been able to follow
and cheer on the Jaguar grapplers from afar. Join the Sigonella Wrestling Team Facebook page for pictures, info, and videos of the upcoming championship tournaments. Go Jaguars!
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FEBRUARY 8, 2019
Carnival Fun Returns to Acireale Next Weekend By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Are you ready to revel in Carnival fun? As the popular Italian saying goes—“A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale” (translated to “Any prank is accepted at Carnival”)—Carnevale is a week of revelry, cheer, good food, and above all, crazy fun. Thousands of Italians fill the streets at colorful parades of floats wearing costumes, playing pranks on friends, and having a blast. Acireale's Carnival celebrations will begin on Sunday, Feb. 17 at 1600 in the historic center and will run through Mar. 5. Historians believe that the word Carnevale (Carnival) derives from the Latin word “Carne Levare” (Put meat away). It refers to the period preceding Lent, the austere 40 days during which Roman Catholics abstain from eating meat. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. Throughout the centuries, despite its religious origin, Carnival has become a pagan celebration. In ancient times, Carnival-like festivals were held in many different cultures. Ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia to honor their god, Saturn, in the hopes of procuring plentiful harvests. Celebrations included feasting, gift giving, drunkenness, big meals, and pranks. Masked parades of merrymaking featuring young boys and girls dancing on fanciful floats were also held throughout the streets of the cities. It was a time when masters and slaves exchanged roles. During the festival, Romans would burn the effigy of the “King of ancient Saturnalia.” It was a grotesque puppet embodying the feast that was publicly burnt at the end of the celebrations. Today, this practice is still performed in many countries. A straw puppet named the “King of Carnival” is typically burnt on the evening of Mardi Gras. In ancient Greece, floats were used during the yearly celebration honoring Dionysus, the god of wine, in order to guarantee fertility and a successful breeding among the animal stock. And ancient Egyptians celebrated the renewal of life brought about by the yearly flooding of the Nile through a joyful festival held in the springtime. The first written record of Carnival celebrations held in Sicily date back to the 16th century. Sicilians used to celebrate “Carnalivari” (Sicilian Carnival) through dance festivals called “slave dances.” Dancers disguised as slaves performed shows throughout the streets. Drums and trumpets accompanied the performers. Masked revelers from different social classes used Carnival as an excuse to mingle. The “Jardinara” (gardeners), “Briganti” (bandits), “Baruni” (barons), and “Abbati” (abbots) were among the most popular masks. During the festivals, aristocrats and politicians were publicly mocked. Revelers also staged mock battles throwing rotten eggs and vegetables at one another. This practice was popular in 17th century Acireale, a city that boasts one of the best Carnivals in Italy. In 1612, local authorities forbade this behavior because it caused damages to property and injuries. By the time of the 18th century, celebrations became less violent and turned into comedic plays that were performed by jokers named “Abbatazzi.” Under the authorization of the Bishop, they would make fun of nobles or priests pretending to read jokes from a big book and taking part in prank competitions. In the 19th century, celebrations evolved to include the “Casariata,” a parade of floral carriages called “landò” that toured the historic center. Local nobles paraded on the carriages wearing masks and threw colored sugar coated almonds and coins at the crowd. Today, people throw colored confetti instead. Foam spraying is also a popular “sport” during carnival. Try not to get upset if you accidentally get hit, it’s all in good fun! In the 1930s, Acireale artisans began to create huge floats called “carri” with papier-mâché creatively depicting animated figures of politicians, animals, and other subjects that are mounted on a mobile platform and driven in parades. Since then, Carnival carri have become much more elaborate and spectacular. Despite rumors of this year’s Carnival festivities’ being cancelled due to the strong earthquake that hit the area on Dec. 26, 2018, Acireale Mayor Stefano Ali confirmed that the event will be held as planned.
Make sure you make the most of the upcoming Carnival season by witnessing the parades of dazzling whimsical and flowered floats. The Carnival runs from Feb. 17 through Mar. 5 throughout the streets of the amazing Baroque historic center of Acireale. (Photo courtesy of www.goodfreephotos.com)
For the first time, visitors who are not Acireale residents will be charged a five-euro entrance fee. A six-person entrance pass can also be purchased for 20 Euros. Children up to 3.2 feet in height are free of charge. The event will begin on Sunday, Feb. 17 at 1700 with a grand opening parade featuring the
official presentation of the nine allegorical floats that will parade along with masked groups and folk music bands. Highlights will include magnificent papier-mâché spectacularly flower-decorated floats and smaller floats that will parade
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First All-Female Flyover Honors Naval Aviation Pioneer Capt. Mariner NORFOLK, Virginia (NNS) -- Honoring the life and legacy of a female pioneer in Naval aviation, the U.S. Navy conducted on Feb. 2 the first ever all-female flyover in Maynardville, Tennessee. Officially referred to as a “Missing Man Flyover,” the tribute was part of the funeral service for one of the Navy’s first female jet pilots retired Navy Captain Rosemary Mariner, who passed away Jan. 24 following a long and brave fight with cancer. After completing flight training in 1974, Mariner was designated a naval aviator and received her Wings of Gold to became the Navy’s first female jet pilot flying the A-4E/L “Skyhawk” and the A-7E “Corsair II.” She also was the first female military aviator to achieve command of an operational air squadron. During Operation Desert Storm, Mariner commanded Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron Thirty-Four (VAQ-34). In 1982, she reached yet another
milestone by being among the first females to serve aboard a U.S. Navy warship, USS Lexington, and qualifying as a Surface Warfare Officer. Mariner retired from the U.S. Navy in 1997 after obtaining the rank of captain and logging seventeen carrier arrested landings, or “traps,” and completing over 3,500 flight hours in 15 different aircraft. The Missing Man Flyover is a special tribute honoring the service of aviators who have died serving their country. The maneuver features four aircraft flying above the funeral service in formation as one of the aircraft leaves the formation and climbs vertically into the heavens. All of the female aviators who participated in the flyover are from squadrons based at Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana and flew F/A-18E/F “Super Hornets.” The event was significant because it is emblematic of the growing role women play in the military. The flyover was especially meaningful to Lt. Emily Rixey, assigned to Strike Fighter Weapons School Atlantic, a participant in the commemoration. “I find it important to honor Capt. Mariner and the other female aviators who have come before us,”
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Jan. 9, 1975) Ensign Rosemary Conaster (later Mariner), assigned to Fleet Composite Squadron (VC) 2, prepares for a flight in a Grumman S-2 Tracker antisubmarine aircraft at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Jan. 9, 1975. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Jan. 31, 2019) Naval aviators participating in a flyover to honor the life and legacy of retired Navy Capt. Rosemary Mariner pose for a photo in a hangar bay at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Jan. 31, 2019. The U.S. Navy is scheduled conducted the first ever all-female flyover on Feb. 2 in Maynardville, Tennessee as part of the funeral service for Mariner, a female Naval aviation pioneer. Back row, from left to right: Lt. Christy Talisse, Lt. Emily Rixey, Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Hesling, Lt. Kelly Harris, Lt. Amanda Lee. Front row from left to right: Lt. Cmdr. Danielle Thiriot, Cmdr. Stacy Uttecht, Cmdr. Leslie Mintz, and Lt. Cmdr. Paige Blok. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Raymond Maddocks/ Released)
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sara. L. Eshleman Navy Public Affairs Support Element East
she said. “They paved the way for us and they’re the reason I was able to participate in this flyover.” Cmdr. Leslie Mintz, executive officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 213, expressed similar sentiments. “I’m truly honored and humbled to be a part of this flyover,” Mintz said. “This formation flyover is a great way to honor Capt. Mariner’s memory and what she has done for our community.” Lt. Cmdr. Paige Blok, a naval aviator with VFA32, echoes her colleagues’ statements. “Honoring a life of service is always a privilege,” said Blok. “We’re lucky to honor Capt. Mariner in our own special way.” The other aviators participating in the flyover are Cmdr. Stacy Uttecht, Commanding Officer, VFA-32; Lt. Cmdr. Danielle Thiriot, VFA-106; Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Hesling, NAS Oceana; Lt. Christy Talisse, VFA211; Lt. Amanda Lee, VFA-81; and Lt. Kelly Harris, VFA-213. Visit the Navy’s Facebook page to read about the aviators who honored the female naval aviation pioneer.
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Three Power Habits of the New Year-Part 2 Adapted by MWR Fitness from ACE Fitness author Brett Klika
In last week’s article we introduced the power of habits and invited everyone to start the New Year fresh with beginning good habits and allowing old habits to die. Habits, good or bad, become magnets that pull us to think or act a certain way. These thoughts, actions, and beliefs become ingrained through hours of practice over the course of a lifetime. While good habits become a source of energy and strength, enabling endless life possibilities, bad habits can act as roadblocks, leaving us perennially frustrated and defeated. These are three “power habits” to try working into your routine which can help you to unleash your potential, maximize happiness, and live extraordinarily: 1) make consistency king 2) meditate and
3) sleep. Last week’s article discussed how to build consistency into your daily life and how practicing this by setting realistic, attainable goals. In the second part of this series, we will discuss the power of meditation. Meditate The sights and sounds of modern life (especially social media and cell phones) can create a state of constant distraction and perhaps even stress and anxiety. The antidote to this modern day problem is found in the mindful, focused, deep breathing practice of meditation. Meditation is becoming a power habit of high performers in sports, the corporate world and everyday life because of its ability to decrease the negative impacts of stress and improve overall focus. Contrary to popular belief, one doesn’t have to retreat to
the Himalayas and become a silent monk to reap the benefits of regular meditation. By being mindful of the rate and depth of your breathing for even a few minutes, your brain receives a calming signal. This helps quiet anxiety while enabling higherlevel thought processes to become more prominent. Try the following practice for one minute:
1. Get comfortable while seated, standing, or lying down. 2. Close your eyes and let your body relax. 3. Breathe in through your nose by expanding your belly. Try not to let the shoulders elevate. 4. Listen for the air coming in and out through your nose. 5. Allow thoughts to enter
your mind, but don’t entertain these thoughts—let them pass. As you move through the next few days, mindfully practice consistency and meditation in your life to let them become habitual! Be sure to pick up the next article for tips on implementing the third and final power habit—sleep—to carry throughout the upcoming year.
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Free Income Tax Assistance Center Now Open By LN2 Tramaine Hunden RLSO EURAFSWA, Detachment Sigonella
The Tax Assistance Center (TAC)—also known as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Center (VITA)—assists eligible persons with preparation and filing of state and federal income taxes at no cost. Active duty military members, drilling reservists, dependents, DoD employees, and retirees are all available for VITA services. Unfortunately, contractors are NOT eligible unless they are also a dependent or retiree. Retirees who made more than $60,000 in adjusted gross income last year may not qualify for tax assistance. Unlike in previous years, VITA volunteers are no longer authorized to do your taxes for you. In accordance with NAVADMIN 252/14, the Navy’s TAC is self-service. Self-service tax preparation helps educate service members, dependents, and retirees in preparing their own tax returns and promotes self-reliance and financial accountability. We will provide you with resources to file your own taxes online, easily and securely. Although the TAC is self-service, IRS-certified volunteers will be ready and able to answer questions and provide guidance to individuals who are preparing their returns on the computers. TAC Personnel do not form attorney-client relationships with customers, but if you desire personal income tax advice, please contact the Legal Assistance Department at Sigonella’s Region Legal Service Office. For any other tax questions and information visit www.irs.gov. Where to Go: RLSO EURAFSWA – Detachment Sigonella NAS II, Building 564 (Next to the Galley and Subway) DSN: 624-5258 Comm: +39 095 86 5258 When to Go: The TAC opened Feb. 4 and will run through Jun. 14, 2019 on a walk-in and appointment basis. The hours of operation for walk-ins are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 0900 to 1500. Please
Deployments and Combat Zones note the day/hours of operations are subject to change If you are serving in a combat zone or deployed and will be put out in advance if altered. To schedule an appointment, call DSN 624-5258 or email Sigonel- outside the United States away from your permanent duty station while participating in a contingency oplalegal@eu.navy.mil. eration, special rules apply. The deadline for filing What to Bring To speed up the process, we highly recommend your return, paying your tax, claiming a refund, and establishing an account on www.MilitaryOneSource. taking other actions with the IRS is extended for 180 mil prior to coming in. Individuals seeking assistance days from the last day you are in a combat zone or in a participating contingency operation. In addition to should bring the following information to the TAC: the 180 days, your deadline is extended by the num• ID • All 2018 W-2s (these may be downloaded from ber of days that were left to take action with the IRS prior to entering a combat zone. No action is needed MyPay) • Social security card(s)/number(s) for spouses to take advantage of this extension. If the IRS takes any actions before learning that you are entitled to an and all dependent family members extension, contact the legal assistance office. • Form 1099/1098 Volunteers • Proof of child care expenses If you interested in becoming a VITA Volunteer, • Daycare provider information contact LN2 Tramaine Hunden, Tax Assistance Site • IRA /stock information Coordinator, at DSN 624-5258 or email sigonella.le• Copies of 2017 federal and state tax returns gal@eu.navy.mil for more information. • Direct deposit information (account and bank We look forward to serving you! routing number) • Any other tax related forms OCONUS Filing Extensions Since you are stationed or living in Sigonella, there is an automatic tax filing extension that applies. Individuals can request an additional four month extension by filing IRS Form 4868 by Jun. 15 for a 2018 calendar year tax return. This will extend your due date to Oct. 15. Please note that if taxes are owed, you will still be charged interest on any amount not paid by the regular due date until the tax is paid. If you decide to use this automatic extension, you must attach a statement to your return explaining why you are out of the country. If you are married, only one individual needs to meet the requirements to take advantage of this automatic (Photo courtesy of 401kcalculator.org) two month extension.
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NAS Sigonella Firefighters Comp
SIGONELLA, Sicily (Jan. 23, 2019) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Efrain Medrano, assigned to the Fire and Emergency Services Department onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, prepares a rope for a simulated rescue as Airforce Staff Sgt. Frank Butler, fire academy instructor assigned to the 435th Construction and Training Squadron, observes during a technical rope rescue certification course. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)
SIGONELLA, Sicily (Jan. 23, 2019) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate ( Station (NAS) Sigonella Fire and Emergency Services Departm certification course onboard NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by
SIGONELLA, Sicily (Jan. 23, 2019) American and Italian Firefighters assigned to the Fire and Emergency Services Department onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella conduct a simulated Stokes stretcher rescue during a technical rope rescue certification course taught by U.S. Airmen assigned to the 435th Construction and Training Squadron from Ramstein Air Base, Germany. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)
SIGONELLA, Sicily (Jan. 23, 2019) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate firefighters assigned to the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Fire a rope for a simulated rescue during a technical rope rescue ce Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)
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plete Rescue Technician Training
(Handling) 3rd Class Karljan Pascual, assigned to the Naval Air ment prepares a Stokes stretcher during a technical rope rescue y Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)
SIGONELLA, Sicily (Jan. 31, 2019) American and Italian Firefighters assigned to the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Fire and Emergency Services Department assemble a tripod during a Rescue Technician I course taught onboard NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Gunners Mate Seaman Apprentice Rashond Grant)
(Handling) 2nd Class Brandon Oropeza and Alessiso Musmeci, e and Emergency Services Department, work together to prepare ertification course onboard NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by
SIGONELLA, Sicily (Jan. 31, 2019) American and Italian Firefighters assigned to the Fire and Emergency Services Department onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella participate in a Rescue Technician I training course taught by U.S. Airmen assigned to the 435th Construction and Training Squadron from Ramstein Air Base, Germany. (U.S. Navy photo by Gunner’s Mate Seaman Apprentice Rashond Grant)
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February is Heart Health Month From Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center
Week 1: Take steps now to adopt a healthier lifestyle to keep your heart healthy and avoid heart disease. While heart disease is often viewed as something to worry about when you get older, about six in 10 preventable heart disease and stroke deaths happen to people under age 65. Heart disease is a topic for adults of any age, including young adults; you can take steps now to reduce your risk of developing this disease which can negatively affect your military career and compromise mission readiness. Combat heart disease by properly fueling your body through a nutritious diet that is low in saturated fat and sodium, taking part in moderate to vigorous physical activity most days of the week, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting tobacco, including spit tobacco and e-cigarettes. Take part in the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center’s Daily Heart Health Facts and Tips activity to learn a new fact or tip about heart health each day this month and get on track for life-long heart health. Week 2: Learn about the impacts of hypertension, how to check your blood pressure regularly, and how to follow up on potential risk so that you maintain cardiovascular fitness and stay mission ready. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is when blood moves through the vessels at an elevated level so it’s pushing against the walls of the arteries. Hypertension can cause stress on the artery walls, seriously damaging organs such as your heart, potentially causing heart disease, stroke, or heart attack. The good news is that hypertension is easy to detect by having your blood pressure checked during a doctor’s visit, at your pharmacy, or from a home blood pressure monitoring device – all options are quick and painless! Hypertension is usually controllable with lifestyle changes. But beware, hypertension does not have any warning signs or symptoms, so you may not realize you have it. Know your numbers and talk to your health care provider to determine if you are at risk. Resources: Heart Disease Facts: www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm Tips for Increasing Physical Activity: https://www.choosemyplate.gov/ physical-activity-tips Most Americans Should Consume Less Sodium: www.cdc.gov/salt High Blood Pressure Fact Sheet: www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_ sheets/fs_bloodpressure.htm Measuring Blood Pressure: http://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/measure. htm Controlling Blood Pressure: www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/control.htm
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NAS SIGONELLA All Hands Announcements:
NEW PERMANENT WEEKEND/HOLIDAY HOURS FOR NAS 1 FITNESS Command, Department or Organization: MWR Date of Event: 1 FEB Time of Event: 0900-1630 Location of Event: NAS I FITNESS CENTER Point of Contact Name: Elizabeth Leonard Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-0504 Point of Contact Email Address: Elizabeth.leonard@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: After closely examining patron facility usage at the NAS I Fitness Center during a trial run in January, management has made a business-based decision to permanently shift weekend and holiday hours to 0900-1630. For all NAS I Fitness info, please visit www.navymwrsigonella.com
MANDATORY ANTI-TERRORISM TRAVEL BRIEFS Command, Department or Organization: NASSIG Security Date of Event: Mondays and Wednesdays Time of Event: 1000-1200 Location of Event: Bldg. 724 second floor NAS II Point of Contact Name: MA2 Ortiz/MA2 McWilliams Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-5927/095-86-5927 Point of Contact Email Address: thalia.ortiz@eu.navy.mil/steven.mcwilliams@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: Anti-terrorism briefs or "AOR Briefs" will be on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1000-1200 at Bldg. 724 (second deck). Also please ensure that prior to planning any trips you visit the electronic foreign clearance guide at www.fcg.pentagon.mil some countries require extra training and documents to be able to execute your travel. A minimum of 15-30 days prior to the trip all documents should be submitted. Briefs must be done in person and can't be done via e-mail. You can get a brief a max of 30 days prior to your trip and a minimum of 2 weeks.
SAPR INITIAL VICTIM ADVOCATE COURSE Command, Department or Organization: SAPR, Fleet & Family Support Center Date of Event: 4-8 MAR Time of Event: 0800-1600 (Monday-Friday) Location of Event: Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) on NAS I Point of Contact Name: Amy Jo Jenkins, SAPR Civilian Victim Advocate Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4291 Point of Contact Email Address: amy.jenkins@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: The 40-hour sexual assault victim advocate basic training prepares participants with the skills and knowledge to become SAPR Unit Victim Advocates. The training covers a broad spectrum of services available to sexual assault victims to include roles and responsibilities of SAPR personnel, Confidentiality Policy, Victimization, Reporting Options, Medical, Investigative, Legal Processes, and Self-Care. Contact your Command SAPR POC for registration details. *Please note, this course is only open to Navy Active Duty and Reservists.
CYP HIRING FOR FULL-TIME, PART-TIME, AND FLEXIBLE POSITIONS Command, Department or Organization: MWR Date of Event: Ongoing Location of Event: NAS I CDC, NAS I School Age Care, Marinai Youth Complex Point of Contact Name: Adam D'Amico Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-3712 Point of Contact Email Address: adam.damico@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: There is an immediate need for CYP employees. Applicants must be U.S Citizen and 18 years or older with a High School Diploma.
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 at PT, working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be turned around at the door.
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COMMUNITY PAGE Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 Daily Mass: 1130-1200 Chapel Youth Middle School: 1445-1615 AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:
0600-0700 1130-1200
Thursday Chapel Youth High School: 1330-1500 Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday Daily Mass: 1130-1200 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830
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
Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:
1100-1200
Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education: 1045-1200 Protestant Service: 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600
NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:
1130-1200
Weekly Traffic Report: January 22 - February 4, 2019
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 at PT, working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be turned around at the door.
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GAMEZONE GALILEO GRAVITY HUBBLE KEPLER LIGHT YEAR METEOR MILKY WAY MOON NEBULA ORBIT PARSEC PERIGEE POLARIS PROXIMA CENTAURI PULSARS
QUASARS RED GIANT SATELLITE SOLAR SYSTEM SOLAR WIND SPACE SHUTTLE SPACECRAFT STARS SUN SUPERNOVA TELESCOPE TIDES UNIVERSE WHITE DWARF
MEDIUM
ANDROMEDA GALAXY APOGEE ASTEROID ASTRONOMER ATMOSPHERE AURORA BINARY STAR BLACK HOLE CONSTELLATION CORONA CRATER DEEP SPACE ECLIPSE EQUINOX GALAXIES
EASY
Find and circle all of the Astronomy related words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell a secret message.
DIFFICULT
Astronomy
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"ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 throughout the day in piazza Duomo (Acireale’s main square) and the historic center. There will also be arts and crafts, live music, and an impressive acrobatic show performed by the Sonics, a team of acrobats and dancers For more information, tickets and detailed schedules visit http://www.carnevaleacireale.it/
Carnival Food Specialties
While you attend Carnival, don’t forget to taste the famous Carnival food that is sure to please your palate! The “maccarruni setti puttusa co' ragù ri sasizza” (tubular pasta with a savory pork ragù) is a specialty that everyone loves to sample. If you want to indulge in typical Sicilian treats, Carnival is the best time for doing so. Sicilian ethnographer Giuseppe Pitrè, an expert in Sicilian popular traditions, wrote that the “cannolo” (fried pastry filled with cream filling) is the “crown of the carnival lunch.” “Frittelle,” delicious Carnival fritters, are also sure to whet your appetite. Tempt your taste buds with the traditional “chiacchere” also known as “nastrini,” “bugie,” and “cenci.” They are a delicious stripe-shaped, deep-fried fritters that are covered with powdered sugar. Their origin dates back to the Roman times when they were called “frictilia.” The names of these sweets are directly translated to “lies” or “gossip” in English as a reminder that during Carnival, every prank or joke is accepted. Pignolata or Pignoccata is another traditional must-eat Carnival dessert from Messina that you should try. It is a made from a light egg dough, fried, then glazed half with lemon and half with chocolate frosting.
Italy Loses 10,000 Doctors in 10 Years due to Emigration By Italian Insider
ROME – In just 10 years, between 2005 and 2015, over 10,000 doctors left Italy and moved abroad for reasons including “higher salaries” and “meritocracy.” Their departure is a damaging problem that is increasingly being felt as Italy’s National Health Service continues to lose even more professionals. The majority of the departing doctors were orthopedists, pediatricians, gynecologists, and anesthetists, whose age averaged between 28 and 39 years old. In the same period 8,000 nurses also packed their bags and emigrated. The United Kingdom and Switzerland were the two most popular destinations that they migrated to. Thirty-three percent chose to move to the UK and 26 percent fled to Switzerland. This is placing an economic strain on Italy as medical training costs the Italian government 150,000 euros for each individual doctor. According to data from the European Commission and the Eurispes-Enpam Report, every year 1,500 graduates in medicine move abroad to attend specialization schools. Therefore, estimates indicate that by 2025, hospital treatment will become even more difficult as some 16,500 specialists will be lacking. The region from which they migrate the most is Veneto, where the governor Luca Zaia has raised alarm. “There are 1,300 doctors missing. The reason for this situation is a flawed national program,” he said. There are many reasons that cause so many professionals to leave Italy. Abroad, “access to the profession is more meritocratic, career
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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 18 in recent years among expats who now live in prospects are better, and salaries are much higher,” explained Massimo Tortorella, president of Consulcesi who, in partnership with the Italian Medical Society of Great Britain (IMSoGB), is also involved in the training of Italian doctors in the UK. “Italy is committed to the training of excellent health professionals, spending large sums of money and then gives this heritage to others”, added Tortorella. Dozens of testimonies have been collected
Britain. “I was struck by the story of two Italians who today work in a famous London hospital,” said Tortorella. “They are from Rome and Milan, and in these cities they were forced to make do with underpaid jobs and periods of inactivity. In London they met, fell in love, and made careers for themselves.” “They say they would not return to Italy, even for the same salary, and I really cannot blame them," Tortorella concluded.
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