THE
SIGNATURE SIGONELLA, SICILY
VOL. 29 NO. 8
MARCH
2, 2012
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
Equipment Operator 3rd Class Richard Gaines (left) and Equipment Operator 3rd Class Jonathan Willbur (right) tow a seven passenger government owned vehicle (GOV) with a five ton Kilar Roll Back Wrecker. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)
Seabees save several stranded GOVs after severe storm BY MC2 MATTHEW C. HAWS NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Y
ou see them working, repairing and moving personnel and supplies across Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and when Mother Nature plays it fierce, the Seabees come to the rescue. Just last week, more than 24 hours of
strong winds and heavy rains uprooted trees and flooded streets leaving some service members stranded in several feet of water. Equipment Operator 3rd Class (SCW) Jonathan Willbur, a Seabee attached to the operations department of (BSVE) Basic Support Vehicle Equipment was one of the two wreckers in action after the flood. “After the storm, we got a call from dispatch and towed a seven passenger van. It was one of the three government owned vehicles (GOV) that needed to be rescued after the flood. Two of the vehicles had to be left by the drivers but we were able to help one person drive the GOV back to base before it was too late,” said Willbur.
Whether you are in a GOV or a personally owned vehicle (POV), it is important to know what to do if you are in a situation where you need help. According to Equipment Operator 2nd Class (SCW/EXW) Derek MCCleary, it is always safer to reverse the vehicle back out of high water rather than leave the vehicle and risk flooding your engine and totalling your car. "If the vehicle is abandoned or is a safety and security concern to the base operations, we are authorized to go get the vehicle," said MCCleary. “Under normal circumstances, people who drive POVs that break down need to call Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tow service at 624-5244. For GOVs the driver should call dispatch at 624-2945 or 624-5354 after working hours."
QUOTE Equipment Operator 3rd Class Richard Gaines attaches a tire strap on a tire of a government owned vehicle (GOV) in preparation to mount the vehicle to a five ton Kilar Roll Back Wrecker. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)
OF THE WEEK
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.” - Aristotle
SPMAGTF-12 Marines beautify Aci Castello beach
From Catania’s market to your table
NEX holds semiannual wine expo
Read about their cleanup project.
Make steamed mussels in white wine sauce Sicilian style.
Sicilian wines featured during event.
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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella
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MARCH
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella Capt. Scott Butler, Commander Cmdr. Eric Vosler, Executive Officer CMDCM David Graham, Command Master Chief
EDITORIAL Lt. Tim Page, Public Affairs Officer timothy.page@eu.navy.mil
Dott. Alberto Lunetta, Deputy Public Affairs Officer alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil
Jackie Trembath, Editor jackie.trembath@eu.navy.mil
STAFF Writers/Photographers MC1 Christopher Delano christopher.delano@eu.navy.mil MM2 Johnnathan Archbold johnnathan.archbold@eu.navy.mil GM2 Kris Carmody kristopher.carmody@eu.navy.mil MC2 Matthew C. Haws Matthew.Haws@eu.navy.mil MC2 Gary Prill gary.prill@eu.navy.mil MR2 Gary Spence gary.spence@eu.navy.mil MCSN Brian Glunt brian.glunt@eu.navy.mil
CONTACT US
NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief David Graham
O
ne of the great advantages of being stationed overseas is the ability to travel and experience the cultural diversity that is everywhere around you. Sicily, being the hub of the Mediterranean, offers a wealth of countries and adventures that are only a short flight or drive away. Locally, Sicilians celebrate a wide range of festivals such as the pistachio festival, strawberry festival, and the recently finished Carniveale. Festival schedules can be found at www.siciliainfesta.com, so please, make sure you take some time to get out of the triangle and enjoy some of the local flavor and cuisine that is all around you. While living in Sicily can be a lot of fun, it can also test your emergency preparedness. In December 2005, NAS Sigonella had more than 500 homes affected by water and mud during a week of severe weather. The widespread damage resulted in the Navy building burms to combat the effects of flooding. This past week we saw these additional measures once again prove effective as we managed to keep the flooding in Marinia to a minimum despite most
of Sicily being adversely affected by the torrent rains. Our preparedness has paid off once again, so please remember to restock your supplies for the next time an unexpected event occurs. Speaking of being prepared, advancement exams began this month with the first class exam happening yesterday. My best wishes to all the hopeful E-5’s and E-4’s testing in the following weeks. I hope everyone has found the time to prepare for the exams and I hope to congratulate all of you when the results come out. Good luck to everyone eligible. Finally, congratulations to our basketball teams on their great showing at the DoDDS European basketball tournament in Wiesbaden. The Jaguar Boys basketball team finished third place overall in Division III, with a tournament record of 3-2, while the Jaguar Girls basketball placed fourth overall in Division III with a
Happy 217th birthday, U.S.N. Supply Corps!
Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil
SIGONELLA, Sicily (February 23, 2012) -Cmdr. Eric Vosler, executive officer of Naval Air Station Sigonella (left), Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Nathaniel Squall, Logistics Specialist Seaman Garland Stickel and Capt. Sel. Jeffrey Schmidt, commanding officer of Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Sigonella (right) cut the Supply Corps' birthday cake, Feb. 23, at the base's galley. This year marks the United States Navy Supply Corps' 217th birthday. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Brian Glunt)
DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627
GUEST Writers/Photographers Ian Coubrough CPT Elliott Garber, DVM, MPH
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 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.
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
tournament record of 3-3. Congratulations are also in order for All European Team selectees Chris McKissick and Tenia Strobridge.
TRAFFIC NUMBERS Jan. 12 Jan. 12 Feb. 12 Feb. 11 Accidents
39
46
Injuries
4
6
DUIs
2
3
Traffic Deaths
0
0
Please, don’t become a statistic!
Emergency Management Office Be prepared to be on your own for at least three days. Seven is better!
The BASIC FIVE: Water Food Heat Cash Radio Family Communications Plan: Phone Numbers & Rally Points; Public Protection Strategies: Evacuation and Shelter-in-Place; Web info: Ready.gov; Emergency info: AFN 106.0 FM; Questions Call the EM Office at 624-2630, 8265 or 2621.
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Consider yourself invited: Oliver! takes center stage Consider yourself invited to Sigonella's musical production of the Tony-award winning show Oliver! After eight weeks of rehearsal, set building, and costume sewing, the curtain is about to go up on another muchanticipated Broadway-style show. Cast and crew have juggled deployments, operational commitments, work schedules, varsity sports seasons and even floods to create an evening of live theater for the Sigonella community. Countless volunteer hours have gone into making this “labor of love”, and the result is an event the whole family can enjoy. Based on Charles Dickens' timeless classic, Oliver Twist, the musical tells the tale of 9-yr old Oliver, an orphan in 1850's London, who dares to ask for more gruel and ends up encountering colorful and memorable cast of characters. Chase scenes, comical adventures and dramatic climaxes ensue until Oliver eventually finds his way into the home of his long-lost grandfather. “Where is Love”, “Consider Yourself ” and “As Long as He Needs Me” are just a few of the more famous songs from this show which debuted in 1960. The show’s cast includes active duty personnel, DoD employees, civilian contractors, spouses and dependents. In fact, nearly every command at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella is represented in the cast of 92 actors, who range in age from six to 60. Fourth-grader Jacob Shefchik, who plays the title role, brings the character to life with endearing charm, while the Artful Dodger, a wily streetwise thief, is masterfully played with spirit and energy by 12-yr old Anikka Taeza. The leader of the band of young thieves is Fagin (CAPT Barry Tanner), an old scoundrel who runs a pickpocket training “academy”. Alone
and hungry on the streets of London, Oliver is taken in by Dodger and Fagin after he runs away from the miserable workhouse for orphans, which is under the miserly rule of Mr. Bumble (contractor Matt Arnold) and the Widow Corney (middle school teacher, Chri-
stine Arnold). The pickpockets make him feel at home in their underground den, where he befriends Nancy (Sigonella Elementary’s Thea Burke) and Bet (7th-grader Kourtni McNeil). In the dramatic final scene, Oliver finds himself in the clutches of the evil Bill Sikes, played by Sigonella MS/HS teacher Shawn McCarthy. While being captivated by the story, audience members are also likely to spot some familiar faces on stage, never before realizing that their doctors, teachers, babysitters, or classmates were so talented! Sigonellans have come to look forward to these annual school-community cooperative
productions, most recently Annie and The Music Man. Community theater brings together actors young and old, experienced veterans and inexperienced novices alike. For some of the actors, being a part of the show is a family affair, with every member playing a role, either onstage or off. “One of the most unique things about our production here is the incredibly high quality,” says Thea Burke, who has participated in the musicals both onstage and behind the scenes since 2003. She attributes this to the artistic and creative direction of Lynn Soeby, the show’s director who has taught music and drama at Sigonella’s elementary, middle and high schools for 13 years. “Visually, the sets and costumes are first class all the way down to the very last detail. She also has the amazing ability to inspire the best performances from even the very youngest child on stage.” The combination of exceptional performances, scenery and costumes creates a truly unique experience for the audience. “Once the house lights go down and the stage lights go up,” says Burke, “people forget they are in an auditorium on a military base.”
Ticket Information Tickets available in advance (Call 624- 1518/1245 /1674) or at the door on Friday, March 2 at 7 pm and Saturday, March 3 at 2 pm and 6 pm at Knights Hall, Sigonella School.
March is Women’s History Month “Opportunities have never been better for those willing to take advantage of them. It makes no difference if you are a man or woman. If you are willing to grasp the opportunities the Navy has to offer and give it your full effort, then success will be yours.” – Retired Command Master Chief Jacqueline L. K. DiRosa, the first woman selected for both Force and Fleet Master Chief Celebrate Women’s History Month! Women’s Day, March 8 Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8. Known as 8 “Festa della donna,” the day is commemorated in Italy and all over the world to promote equal rights for women and celebrate their achievements in the field of art and science. Mimosa flowers are the symbol of Women's Day, replacing red carnations as a symbol of feminist groups in the post WWII era. The mimosa flower was officially presented in 1946 during the first Women's Day in Rome, which was organized by members from the Italian Women's Trade Union League. It is a popular custom to bring mimosa flowers to wives and girlfriends. Vendors sell those perfumed yellow flowers at every street corner. Women's Day is a big commercial event just like Valentine's Day. Restaurants are all booked by crowds of women who go out to “girls-only” dinners. Women's Spring Retreat, March 10 - 11 Protestant Women of the Chapel are hosting a Women's Spring Retreat at the Sheraton Hotel in Catania, Saturday, March 10 through Sunday, March 11. Register by March 5. Please contact Jen McComb at 624-1469.
NAS Sigonella supports Relay for Life with special fundraisers
Members of Global Hawk participate in a carwash fundraiser at Marinai Community Center in support of Relay for Life. Relay for Life is an event sponsored by the American Cancer Society that funds and supports cancer awareness and research. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)
Information Systems Technician 1st Class Matthew Silva, assigned to Commander Task Force (CTF-67), flips a hamburger patty as part of a fundraiser for Relay for Life. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)
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MARCH
COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY
MARCH 2012 MONDAY 5
Bowling Dollar Day
TUESDAY 6
2
Parent Teacher Organization Mtg 2:45 pm
3
Oliver! 2 pm & 6 pm at Knight’s Hall
SUNDAY 4
Karaoke at Jox Pub 8 pm
WEDNESDAY 7
Oliver! 7 pm at Knight’s Hall
SATURDAY
THURSDAY 8
9
10
Bingo at Connections 6 pm
11 Karaoke at Jox Pub 8 pm
Tobacco Cessation 2-3pm NAS II Sarp Conference Room Acoustic Night at Connections 6 - 10 pm
12
13
TERRA NOVA TESTING Sigonella Schools Bowling Dollar Day
TERRA NOVA TESTING Sigonella Schools
14
15
16
TERRA NOVA TESTING Sigonella Schools
TERRA NOVA TESTING Sigonella Schools
Tobacco Cessation 2-3pm NAS II Sarp Conference Room
Bingo at Connections 6 pm
TERRA NOVA TESTING Sigonella Schools
17
18 Karaoke at Jox Pub 8 pm
Acoustic Night at Connections 6 - 10 pm
FFSC can be reached at x4291 American Red Cross at x4900 Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!
2, 2012
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Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Building Bldg. 319 (NAS I)
Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. DSN 624-4291 Commercial 095-56-4291
March offerings Arrivederci Class: March 2 & 16, 8am – 11:30am The class is mandatory for all personnel before they PCS. Attendees should be 3 months or more from their PCS orders to attend the class.
Time Management: March 14, 1pm-2pm This course is designed to help you become more efficient by managing your time more effectively.
Lunch & Learn: March 2, 6, 15, 19 and 30, 12:30am – 2pm Learn to speak Italian with basic phrases to help you with your everyday communication and travels. This course makes your transition into Italian culture easier.
10 Steps to a Federal Job: March 14, 11am-12:30pm Participants will learn how to find federal jobs, complete the application process, and how to understand standard qualifications and requirements.
Pre-Deployment Brief: March 7, 9am-11am Class prepares service members and families for an IA/Deployment with representatives from legal and the flight line clinic. Topics discussed include finances, communication, stress and local community resources.
“Living on the Economy”: March 15, 1pm-3pm If you are considering living out in town, this class will help you to take advantage of the local culture and the things that make it unique.
Ricotta cheese workshop: March 7, 9am – 2pm This hands-on cultural experience takes us off base giving participants the opportunity to follow the process of making the famous Sicilian Ricotta.
Job Search Course: March 16, 2pm-3:30pm Learn how to research and network for jobs. You will learn how to utilize resources, create a build list and compare salaries with different companies.
Ombudsman Basic Training: March 7-9, 9am–3pm Come be the voice between families and service members by training to become an Ombudsman. Contact FFSC at 624-4291 or Agata Carnazza at 624-4291
Transition Assistance Program (TAP): March 19-22, 8am-4pm This class is designed to prepare separating and retiring military members and their spouses. Topics include skill assessment, resume writing, job search methods, interview techniques, and review of veteran’s benefits.
Sig Safe: March 8 & 22, 9am-4pm Help minimize alcohol related incidents and learn how to be safe in Sigonella. Intercultural Relations (ICR): March 9-14, 23-28, 8am–3:30pm Provides understanding of Italian culture, language, culture adaptation and culture shock for newcomers. ICR is offered every other week and Includes a field trip on the last day of training. Inside Interview: March 13, 10am-11:30am Participants will learn how to prepare for an interview, focus on creating a good impression, formulate responses for a successful interview and explore the importance of following up after the interview. Military Pay Brief: March 13, 10am -11:30am Informs participants of military compensation, focusing on the components of the Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), the use of myPay, and how to correct pay problems. Participants will understand the value of the complete military compensation package. Post-Deployment Brief: March 13, 9am-11am Class focuses on informing spouses of the operational tempo and mind set of pre and post deployed service members. Spouses will learn how set realistic expectations and how to prepare, deal with operational stress, communicate and reintegrate with the service member.
Individual Augmentee Discussion : March 19, 2:30-3:30pm A monthly discussion group for all IA personnel and their families. It provides an opportunity for services members and their families to discuss topics related to deployment. ICR for Youth: “TOPOLINO” March 20, 8am-11:30am This monthly program assists youth in viewing behavioral differences between their culture and other cultures. Conceptual information and teaching tools are taught for dealing with differences. Participants also visit a local school in the economy. Thrift Savings Program training: March 20, 10am-11:30am This class provides an overview of the basic rules and investment options associated with the military’s TSP. Survive & Thrive: March 21, 8am-2pm New to the area of Sigonella? Be a part of the spouse orientation class that introduces you to the bases resources and amenities. Cooking Class: March 29, 9am-3:30pm This class is designed to be a hands-on cooking experience and helps the participants learn to make exquisite Italian Cuisine with respect to Italian cooking traditions. Come discover a different local restaurant each month.
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Blood Orange Festival in Centuripe, March 17 & 18
Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 12 (SPMAGTF-12) from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and local nationals including Mayor Filippo Drago participated in a beach cleanup project, Feb. 18 in Aci Castello. (Photo provided by SPMAGT-12)
Marines beautify Aci Castello beach
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CI CASTELLO, Sicily – More than 25 Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 12 (SPMAGTF-12) from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella once again gave back to the Aci Castello community during a beach cleanup project, Feb. 18. The Marine unit has been working in partnership with Aci Castello Mayor Filippo Drago and his team of volunteers. Top-circulation Sicilian media outlets La Sicilia and Antenna Sicilia TV reported that the joint efforts between Mayor Drago and the Marines truly make a difference preserving the marine life and habitat of the Aci Castello areas. Mayor Drago praised and thanked the volunteers for their positive impact on the local community in raising awareness, keeping the beach clean and setting an example. Last month, the mayor presented a volunteer award to the Marine unit. Aci Castello is a popular seaside resort in eastern Si-
! T I Y SoAur Italian T S JUractice y P
Learn these useful Italian phrases to make talking with friends more fun!
cily and a popular vacation destination. Known for its historic fishermen’s village, rich production of citrus fruits, olives, grapes, almonds, and cereals, Aci Castello is located approximately 9 kilometers from Catania and 20 kilometers from NAS Sigonella. During the project, volunteers gathered and disposed of more than 50 bags of trash along the coastline. Lt.Col Morgan said the Marines want to be good neighbors and care about making sure that the beautiful towns of Aci Castello stay beautiful. “The bond we have forged with the Major, his team and the city is quite special. His passion for his city and the environment is inspiring. What a great example for my Marines to see,” said Morgan. We feel like Aci Castello is our home away from home." As springtime approaches, Marines and Mayor Drago are already planning for new beach cleanups!
English: Good morning! Italian: Buongiorno!
Italian: Sono molto contento di vederti.
English: Good evening! Italian: Buona sera!
English: I missed you so much! Italian: Mi sei mancato molto!
English: How are you? Italian: Come stai? English: I'm fine, thanks! Italian: Bene, grazie! English: I’m very glad to see you.
English: See you later! Italian: A dopo! Have fun practicing your Italian! Buona Fortuna!
Attention photographers! Share images from your trips around Europe. Email your best photo and a caption to thesig@eu.navy.mil. Your photo just may be featured!
D
on’t miss the 5th annual "Sagra dell'arancia rossa di Sicilia IGP" (Blood Orange Festival) in Centuripe, a star-shaped medieval town located in the Enna province and nestled on a hilltop 730 meters above the sea level. From Saturday, March 17 to Sunday, March 18, the festival will feature about 50 booths selling orange-based specialties (cakes, arancini, dougnoughts etc.). Festival goers will have the chance to enjoy a free tasting of fresh orange juice. Town bands will be performing throughout the town's historic center where the booths are set up.
Saturday, March 17 and Sunday, March 18! - Festivities start at 9 a.m. - Piazza Duomo and Piazza Aristide Sciacca. - Food booths, street artists’ performances and fireworks! For information and festival details: www.comune.centuripe.en.it
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Thinking of a new puppy? BY CPT ELLIOTT GARBER, DVM, MPH NAS Sigonella Veterinarian
Fuel costs flaring in Italy, Unleaded 1.82, diesel 1.76 per liter (Story by ANSA)
Rome - Fuel costs are soaring in Italy as high as 1.82 euros per liter for unleaded and 1.76 for diesel, trade daily Staffetta Quotidiana said Friday. The cost of unleaded gas is rising by an average of 4.9% every month, according to national statistics agency ISTAT. Petrol costs spiked in January, up 17.4% on the year from 15.8% in December. Diesel costs are skyrocketing, up 25.2% over the year, the highest rise since July 2008.
Five arrested for pastry extortion in Palermo (Story by ANSA)
Palermo - Police clampdowns in Palermo resulted in the arrest of five suspects Wednesday after undercover agents discovered payoffs in the form of pastries were being forcibly taken from a local shop. Members of the Pagliarelli clan are being investigated for extorsion and Mafia activity. The owners of the bakery being blackmailed were also forced to buy lottery tickets on a regular basis.
Teacher arrested for selling drugs in school (Story by ANSA)
Florence - Police arrested a teacher last Wednesday in the town of Castelfiorentino near Florence for selling drugs. He was arrested outside of the school after an anonymous phone tipoff prompted a police search. The 42-year-old teacher was found in possession of five grams of cocaine divided into one-gram portions, along with 45 grams of marijuana. He is being held in the Sollicciano prison in Florence as investigators take statements from students and teachers at the school.
Valuable cowbells stolen in northern Italy (Story by ANSA)
Aosta - Three men are under investigation for aggravated assault and robbery after stealing cowbells from a 90-year-old woman in the northern Italian town of Gressan near Aosta. The collection of engraved cowbells and embroidered collars worth 20,000 Euros stolen at the beginning of February was found hidden under a highway overpass near where they were stolen. Police allege that the robbery was commissioned by 66-year-old Renato Quendoz and involved two other men, one of whom is still at large. Three men entered the home of 90-year-old Cornelia Betral, the widow of a well-known cattle farmer, bound and gagged the woman and escaped with the valuable collectors' items, said investigators. The bells, considered collectors items, have been returned to the owner
Italy censured for deporting African migrants (Story by ANSA)
Strasbourg - The European Court of Human Rights recently censured Italy for violating the rights of undocumented migrants as part of the country's Gaddafi-era policy of sending them back to Libya. In a binding decision, the Strasbourg court found Italy guilty of degrading treatment, violating due process and putting migrants at great risk when it deported 24 Somali and Eritrean nationals to Libya on May 6, 2009. The judgement in the case of Hirsi Jamaa and Others v.Italy ordered the country to pay damages of 15,000 euros plus expenses for each of the 22 victims represented. Two of the original plaintiffs have died. They were among roughly 200 African migrants intercepted by Italian authorities off the Sicilian island of Lampedusa and deported against their will without first being identified, questioned nor given the chance to request asylum, which the court ruled broke Article Three of the European Convention on Human Rights. The court also ruled that Italy violated a ban on collective deportation and went beyond the effective rights of the accused to seek recourse in Italian courts. The 24 original plaintiffs in the case were the only ones prosecutors were able to retrace. Under a 2008 treaty, then Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi pledged to to help Italy send back undocumented immigrants caught in international waters. In February 2011 Italy suspended the agreement in the wake of the unrest in Libya. Last year some 50,000 migrants arrived on Lampedusa after the Tunisian revolution and the Libyan war, pushing reception facilities past breaking point.
CPT Elliott Garber, DVM, MPH isa veterinarian at the Sigonella Veterinary Clinic. CPT Garber and his team provide full-spectrum medical and surgical care to the military working dogs (MWD) assigned to the security team, ensure the safety of all human food sold and served at Sigonella food service locations and provide basic medical and surgical services to the pets of eligible personnel when time and staffing permit..
I
t’s that time of year again, when the almond trees burst into clouds of pink and white, the sun graces us with its presence for a little longer each day, and animals everywhere begin to think about finding a mate and preparing for the next generation. Even though we have a more temperate climate year-round here in Sicily, the natural world still knows that change is in the air. One such change is that we will begin to see more puppies and kittens roaming the streets and being advertised for sale or even for free. It’s hard to resist, isn’t it? Those cute little faces seem to be just begging to be cared for and cuddled. Won’t it be great for our children, too, to learn responsibility and gain a friend in this little creature? As a veterinarian, I find myself among those for whom it is hardest to resist this urge to take on a new pet. I have always loved animals, and I have kept and cared for a wide variety of all shapes and sizes over the years of my life. I know how valuable these experiences were for me, and I would never discourage any child from pursuing a love for animals and the natural world. However, I also now have a much better understanding of what is really required when someone decides to bring a new pet into their life. Part of my job as a veterinarian is to educate people about the realities of these responsibilities, and to help ensure that they are fully prepared for the time and financial commitments that a new pet brings with it. One of the first decisions to make centers on the type of dog you plan to get. Will it be a shelter animal from a local facility or our own Sigonella Animal Welfare Society (SAWS)? Were you thinking of simply picking up a puppy you saw on the side of the road? Perhaps you’ve been thinking of responding to an advertisement online for Cane Corso puppies. Or you just came back from a trip to the local mall and fell in love with a puppy at the pet store there. An important foundation for making this decision should be based on what size of dog you can really provide a good home for. Although big dogs can be fun and sometimes
seem to provide a more intimidating home security system, they also eat a lot more dog food (think: more expensive!), can be prone to more medical problems due to their large size, and can be harder to physically control if you have not established a healthy dominance in your interactions with them. Other questions to consider revolve around the behavioral tendencies and health problems inherent to different breeds. Humans have developed these breeds over hundreds of years to serve specific purposes and have certain attitudes in their training, relationship to humans, and interactions with other dogs. How does the breed you have chosen line up when you consider the following questions? Is it likely to enjoy barking all the time, or is it typically quieter? Has it been bred to exhibit territorial guarding behavior, or aggression towards other dogs of the same sex? What type of grooming does this breed require, and how much time out of your week will this take? What are the medical and behavioral issues that the breed is prone to? Of course, adopting a mixed breed stray puppy means that you will know less about the likely behavior and health status of your future dog, but mutts can actually be surprisingly healthy compared to many of their purebred neighbors. They have usually resulted from several generations of “survival of the fittest” evolutionary development, so they can also be more fit and ready to survive and be healthy in our specific Sicilian environment. These questions are only meant to help you begin thinking more seriously about your decision, perhaps spur-of-the-moment and a bit emotional, that you want to adopt or buy a puppy. Over the next few months, my column will focus on different aspects of bringing a new pet into the family. I will focus on dogs, as they are our most common family pet here at Sigonella, but many of my comments and pieces of advice are relevant for cats and other animals as well. See you next month in the April 7 issue!
Featured SAWS animals available for adoption can be found in the The Signature’s Il Mercato section. Remember, the maximum number of pets in housing is limited to two and all pets must be registered with the Sigonella Veterinary Clinic.
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Heart healthy cooking: from C
A wide variety of fresh seafood is readily available at the Catania market making shopping for food a fun cultural experience. (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
BY JACKIE TREMBATH NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
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Locals come to buy fresh fish at Catania’s fish market of Piazza Pardi. (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
Prior to cooking, mussels must be cleaned and de-bearded. (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
iving in Sicily provides the opportunity to purchase fresh local produce at the many local markets. As a way to encourage Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonellans to take advantage of the fresh foods available on the island, Naval Hospital Sigonella teamed up with Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) to offer a Heart Healthy Cooking Class celebrating Heart Health Month. “A healthy life is not something boring,” said Giuseppe Licari, healthy promotion assistant. “It’s fun! Making healthier food choices goes hand-in-hand with having great everyday cultural experiences.” The class, which took place in late February, taught attendees how to catch a bus from the base to the Catania market, purchase produce from the local economy and cook a heart healthy meal Sicilian style.
Registered Dietitian and Head of Healthy Promotion and Nutrition Department CDR Alice Whitley explained the importance of cooking healthy. “With obesity being a major health issue, we can make tasty, nutritious foods with fewer calories and not have to give up the foods that we enjoy.” Although the Heart Healthy Cooking Class is only offered once a year, the message it teaches is evergreen. Learning to cook healthy is not only good for your heart, but fun as well. It is also something the whole family can do. The Internet is an excellent resource for heart healthy recipes. According to Whitley, ChooseMyPlate.gov has wonderful suggestions for getting children involved so they can learn the importance of healthy eating at an early age.
Steamed mussels make a delicious and heart healthy meal and require few ingredients. (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
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Catania’s market to your table
Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Intercultural Relations Manager Andrea Carobene (left) demonstrates cooking techniques to class attendee, Lt. Stephen Gardipee (right). (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
Steamed mussels in white wine sauce • • • • • • • •
8 tablespoons olive oil 8 large garlic cloves, minced or crushed 2 cups dry white wine 1/2 teaspoon dry oregano 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 4 pounds mussels, cleaned and de-bearded Salt 1/2 cup parsley
Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a wide bottom soup pot or large pan. Add garlic cloves, white wine and oregano. If you want extra zing, add red pepper flakes. Add the mussels, cover and cook for about three minutes. Mussels should open. If not, cook in one minute intervals until they open. Remove from heat once opened so they do not overcook. Discard any mussels that remain closed. Divide the mussels into four bowls. Taste the sauce, and if you want, add salt. Ladle the hot broth over the mussels and garnish with the chopped parsley. Serve over pasta or enjoy alone. Serves four.
Steamed mussels and clams were among the dishes prepared during the Heart Healthy Cooking Class. (U.S. Navy photo by Jackie Trembath/Released)
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Navy Exchange Sigonella holds semiannual Sicilian wine expo nice wines that were over here. It was an idea I had that just evolved. No one else had thought of offering these wines in military bases overseas." Grulli’s idea grew into the semiannual wine expo exclusive to the NEX and the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) overseas. "We knew right from the beginning the interest that people had in wine and we were able to create a venue for people to taste wine and meet with our winemakers and ask questions." As part of the event, NEX hosted winemaker Francesco Planeta who was on hand to speak with Sigonellans about wine production and to autograph wine bottles. Sigonellans will have another opportunity to meet a local winemaker Giuseppe Tasca from Sicily’s iconic winery Tasca d’Almerita this Friday, March 2 and Saturday, March 3. For Grulli, offering Sicilian wine goes beyond the opportunity to expand people’s palates. He uses his wine sales as a way to give back, donating 10 percent of his earnings to a slew of nonprofit charitable organizations. "We give to a basket of charities including the USO, Operation Home Front and the Snowball Express," said Grulli. "We're also partnered with a charity called the Semper Fidelas fund for the wounded warrior service members. If someone wants us to sponsor a charity we have no problem putting them on the list. We want to help out as many people as possible."
U.S. Navy Capt. (Ret). Michael Grulli pours a glass of signature wine during an event at the Naval Air Station Sigonella Navy Exchange (NEX). (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)
BY MC2 MATTHEW C. HAWS NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
S
icily has a lot to offer when it comes to seeing historical sites and experiencing the local cuisine. The island is also known for high quality wine that is produced throughout the region. To highlight Sicilian wines and offer Sigonellans the opportunity to meet winemakers, the Navy Exchange (NEX) Sigonella holds a semiannual wine event. “NEX Sigonella is unique to many other NEX's because we have the opportunity to purchase and sell wine from local Italian wineries that you can’t find back in the U.S. This is really
a great event to attend for all different levels of wine enthusiasts because it is the only time you get a chance to taste and learn about wines from every region and meet owners of Sicily's award winning wineries,” said NEX Sigonella Divisional Manager AJ Fecera. The event is organized in part by U.S. Navy Capt. (Ret.) Michael Grulli and his wife Mary, owners of Vinottimo. "I retired in 1994 as a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) and I contracted with the NEX in 1996," said Grulli. "We were living in Naples and we realized that the NEX did not have a lot of the
Winemaker Francesco Planeta signs a bottle of his signature wine during an event at the Navy Exchange (NEX) in Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Matthew C. Haws/Released)
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Get involved with Liberty
M
WR’s Liberty program is unlike any other. It’s not for everyone. Liberty has a specific focus, and caters only to a certain demographic: single or unaccompanied sailors E-6 and below. For many in that category, Sigonella is a first duty station. It may be the first time away from home and overseas with a tight budget. Liberty has a unique way of providing support. They create fun and community for their patrons. Their goal is to get you out of your barracks room to meet people and discover the world around you. Liberty makes it easy to meet people with common interests. Step inside one of their facilities and enjoy free Wi Fi, Ping Pong or a movie. There are special events every night of the week, like gaming tourneys, karaoke, acoustic night, Texas Hold ‘Em, and theme parties with lots of free food. Hop on one of their busses to Mt. Etna and go snowboarding, hiking at Cava Grande or have dinner at a local restaurant. Liberty is always on the go…and they go much further than the island too! Extended trips are included in Liberty’s repertoire. They’re going to the Snowbombing Festival in Austria next month, where they’ll spend five days shredding the slopes and five nights at a live music party. The trip includes transportation, airfare, hotel and tickets to Snowbombing, and you won’t believe how affordable it is. What would you like to do with Liberty? What activities do you enjoy? They’re always looking for suggestions. Contact Liberty at 624-5602 to find out more about the program, or to share your ideas!
Here’s what’s happening next week with Liberty: Call of Duty Tourney at Connections Monday, March 5 at 6pm Free Soup Night at Take 5 Wednesday, March 7 at 6pm Warm up with a free bowl of hearty soup. Dinner at Antico Sicilia Friday, March 9 Poker Tourney at Connections Tuesdays at 5:30pm Acoustic Night at Connections Wednesdays at 6pm Karaoke atConnections Saturdays at 8pm Weekend Spa Trip March 10 – 11 Enjoy a weekend of pampering with Liberty. Spend the weekend at Borgo Don Chisciotte in Modica. Trip includes transportation, breakfast, massage and spa package. Discounted spa services are available. Register at Connections or Take 5 by Wednesday, March 6.
MIdtOwN MOvIe theaterS Schedule & deScriptionS ACT OF VALOR………….…………R STARRING:Alex Veadov, Roselyn Sanchez and Nestor Serrano
When a mission to recover a kidnapped CIA operative unexpectedly results in the discovery of an imminent, terrifying global threat, an elite team of highly trained Navy SEALs must immediately embark on a heartstopping secret operation, the outcome of which will determine the fate of us all. (1 hr. 41 min.) Tuesday, March 6 5:00 PM Adventures of Tintin 5:30 PM MI: Ghost Protocol 7:30 PM Contraband 8:00 PM Act of Valor
PG PG-13 R R
Wednesday, March 7 5:00 PM War Horse 5:30 PM Journey 2 7:30 PM Girl w/Dragon Tattoo 8:00 PM Haywire
PG-13 PG R R
Thursday, March 8 5:00 PM Joyful Noise 5:30 PM Contraband 7:30 PM Rise of the Lycans 8:00 PM Devil Inside
PG-13 R R FREE R
Friday, March 9 5:00 PM Red Tails 5:30 PM Haywire 7:30 PM Act of Valor 8:00 PM Underworld 4
PG-13 R R R
Saturday, March 10 2:00 PM We Bought A Zoo 2:30 PM Journey 2 4:30 PM Extremely Loud 5:00 PM Darkest Hour 7:30 PM Underworld 4
PG PG PG-13 R R
Sunday, March 11 2:00 PM Journey 2 2:30 PM War Horse 4:30 PM Act of Valor 5:00 PM Safe House 7:30 PM Haywire
PG PG-13 R R R
Make nutrition your mission
M
WR Fitness can help you get in shape in time for spring! Mission Nutrition, a 12-week nutrition and fitness challenge, will provide the tools and support to help you reach your goals. Mission Nutrition is based on the Navy Fitness course by the same name. The original design was simply a nutrition guide for active duty personnel but Sigonella Fitness Coordinator Jill Hathaway had a better idea. She took the Navy resources and added fitness and support to create a program for everyone. Participants will meet each Monday in the NAS I classroom. There will be nutrition lectures, but everyone will be encouraged to participate in discussions as well. “The idea is to get people talking to each other about obstacles,” said Hathaway. “I don’t want it to just be me giving a lecture. I’ll share my experiences too.” She knows what it takes to get fit. Hathaway committed to working out in 2003 and lost 75 pounds. These 12 weeks will challenge each participant to exercise at least three times per week. There will be a Commissary tour, and everyone will track their progress with a fitness and nutrition journal, as well as weigh-ins and measurements every four weeks. The program ends right before Memorial Day Weekend, and anyone who has stepped up to the challenge should walk away with rewarding results. Mission Nutrition is a great opportunity to shape up in time for warm weather! It all starts Monday, March 5, so sign up today at the NAS I Fit District. For more information, call 624-4483.
CONTRABAND……………………...R STARRING: Mark Wahlberg, Giovanni Ribisi and Kate Beckinsale
Chris Farraday long ago abandoned his life of crime, but after his brotherin-law, Andy, botches a drug deal for his ruthless boss, Tim Briggs, Chris is forced back into doing what he does best -- running contraband -- to settle Andy's debt. Chris is a legendary smuggler and quickly assembles a crew with the help of his best friend, Sebastian, to head to Panama and return with millions in counterfeit bills. Things quickly fall apart and with only hours to reach the cash, Chris must use his rusty skills to successfully navigate a treacherous criminal network of brutal drug lords, cops and hit men before his wife, Kate, and sons become their target.(1 hr. 50 min.)
HAYWIRE……………………….…R STARRING: Gina Carano, Ewan McGregor and Michael Fassbender
Mallory Kane is a highly trained operative who works for a government security contractor in the dirtiest, most dangerous corners of the world. After successfully freeing a Chinese journalist held hostage, she is double crossed and left for dead by someone close to her in her own agency. Suddenly the target of skilled assassins who know her every move, Mallory must find the truth in order to stay alive. Using her black-ops military training, she devises an ingenious - and dangerous - trap. But when things go haywire, Mallory realizes she'll be killed in the blink of an eye unless she finds a way to turn the tables on her ruthless adversary. (1 hr. 33 min.)
Movie schedule is subject to change. Please call to confirm. Movie Hotline: 624-4248
COMING SOON - Ghost Rider 2 - Secret World of Arrietty - The Vow - This Means War - Tyler Perry’s Good Deeds
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MARCH
Connect the dots!
GAME
Find the words!!
2, 2012
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2, 2012
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Sudoku!
For Kids
Fun Facts Do you have a passion for writing or are you looking for a little experience in journalism? The Signature is seeking volunteers to help cover base wide events as well as feature stories. If this sounds like an opportunity for you please call the Public Affairs Office at 624-5440
Sexual Assault prevention and response SAPR offers a Sexual Assault Hotline staffed with trained advocates who man the SAPR Hotlines 24/7. The number is 335-6428312 or 335-606-6146.
-40 degrees Celsius is equal to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Actor John Wayne made more than 200 movies. Bill Gates designed a traffic control system for Seattle when he was only 15! By raising your legs slowly and laying on your back, you can't sink in quicksand.
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AUTOMOBILES
2002 Alfa Romeo 147 1900 diesel 116 cv grey leather seats great condition. 145,000 Km asking 4,900 euro. Email davide.annalisa@hotmail.it. 2009 Aprilia Dorsoduro 750, black great condition 8,300 Km asking 6,300 euro. Email davide.annalisa@hotmail.it. 1998 Mazda MPV 7 Automatic, 6 cyl., seats seven. Asking $2,500. Contact Louis Diaz at 3457695376 or Luisdiaz@hotmail.com. Yellow 1995 Opel Tigra for sale. New brakes, new battery. Recently tuned-up, never wrecked. Perfect island beater. Asking $2,200 / OBO. Available now. Contact Nick at 348729-8410 or 624-9442. FOR SALE
White kitchen cabinets: $60. Kitchen stove, 1.5 yrs. Old: Best offer. Contact Louis Diaz at 3457695376 or Luisdiaz@hotmail.com.
Volunteers needed for Base 2 Base event on Saturday, March 17 from 8:30 am - 1 pm. Must be available to attend meeting on Monday, March 5. Call Monica Long at x2712 or x5243 to sign up.
WANTED
SAWS ANIMALS
Inline Hockey players to play pick up games and/or to play games against local teams and to participate in local tournaments. Anyone interested in playing inline hockey please call Amedeo at 624-5073 or 3356067929 or email at amadeo.agozzino.it@eu.navy.mil.
2, 2012
VO LU N T E E R S
Pro-Form 500 CX treadmill for sale. Purchased new in ‘09 and gently used. Wide, heavy-duty running belt, shocks, can fold up to save space, many programs including a great incline range. No transformer needed--220V! Asking $400 or best offer. Email sigtreadmill@yahoo.com for more info.
The U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella is conducting market research for the following healthcare providers: Emergency Room Physician, Referral Manager, Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Certified Medical Assistant. Resume or CV may be forwarded to Ms. Randazzo: Agostina.randazzo.it@med.navy.mil or contact 095-563792 (DSN 6243792).
MARCH
Domenica (Mini), 2 yo female dog: sweet, medium-sized, tan in color. Best with older dogs or as only pet. Prefers older children. Princess, 3 mo female puppy: Lap dog, gets along well with people, children, and other dogs. Nash, sweet old dog. Gets along well with everyone but due to age prefers a home with little to no stairs and older children/pets.
Rate job satisfaction, health and safety, and overall quality of life The Naval Inspector General requests your assistance in completing the following survey regarding job satisfaction, health and safety, and overall quality of life. Completion of this survey is voluntary and your responses are anonymous and kept strictly confidential. Only group data will be reported. If you choose to participate your input will be represented in the overall results. The input will be used by the Naval Inspector General to evaluate command climate, quality of work life, and further guide the inspection.
Binks, tuxedo 6 mo male cat, current shots, microchipped, and neutered.
This survey is intended for Active Duty Navy Personnel, Full Time Support Navy Reserve Personnel, and Department of Navy Civilians; Selected Reserve (SELRES); and Active Duty Military Spouses.
Max, tuxedo mellow adult cat, current shots and microchipped.
The survey takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete and is available until March 12 at the following link:
To volunteer, adopt or foster, visit facebook.com/Sigonella.Animals.
http://www.ig.navy.mil/VisitInfo/NAVEUR_Area_Visit.htm
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Sigonella School seeks to improve student writing BY IAN COUBROUGH NAS Sigonella Elementary School Principal
O
ne of Sigonella Elementary School’s (SES) goals is to improve writing across the curriculum. It’s important for students to learn how to express their ideas, but what’s the best way to teach them to do that? At SES, we believe in researchbased strategies such as Writer’s Workshop and 6+1 writing traits. In Writer’s Workshop, students learn all aspects of writing from the brainstorming idea phase, right through to the published work. Although it may look different in various classrooms, Writer’s Workshop does have some common aspects. Teachers provide students with guided instruction or mini-lessons on: Specific writing strategies and skills, writing genres, literary elements and literary techniques, such as the 6+1 writing traits (voice, sentence fluency, organization, word choice,
conventions, ideas and content, and presentation). In Writer’s Workshop students are trained to use these basic steps: 1. Brainstorm and generate ideas. 2. Create a rough draft through independent writing time. 3. Conference (student and teacher discuss the written work). 4. Edit the work. 5. Publish or share with an audience. This process is repeated over and over again, often using genre studies such as personal narratives, informational writing, etc. Students are taught to model techniques used by published authors. Teachers often read aloud daily to students to help them to recognize these techniques within literature. As the students’ progress in the writing process, the teacher annotates where each student is in the process: Conferencing, first draft, revision, illustrating,
final editing, and publishing. This strategy keeps the teacher informed about the status of the class at any given time so that all students are continually challenged and engaged in the writing process. The teachers at SES believe that Writer’s Workshop and 6+1 writing traits together will increase and help to improve students’ written communication skills. Although writing takes place continuously, we do plan to have a special writing product event. Our Writer’s Week event will take place during the week of April 23-27. Each classroom will display their students’ completed books. Parents will receive more information about this event from the classroom teachers. I hope to see all of our parents out at school that week reading all of those great student stories written by our young authors.
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