NAVSUP Sigonella:
MCT Show:
Amazon:
Conducts Joint Intermodal Op.
See the King Arthur show!
Christmas gifts for Sailors
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January 8, 2016
Vol. 33 No. 1
Protect your ID card: Help keep Sig' safe! By nicole ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Most of us don’t give much thought to our government-issued ID card – until it is lost. Besides just being an inconvenience to replace, the loss or misplacement of an ID has significant force protection implications. It provides an opportunity for unauthorized users to duplicate your lost ID and/or use it to access not only NAS Sigonella, but any installation worldwide. Moreover, it leaves you more vulnerable to scams and identity theft. Although there is a steady number of lost IDs reported monthly, Security has noted an increase in lost IDs reported over the past two months. In 2015, there were 28 dependent IDs and 89 active duty IDs reported lost or stolen. In 2014, there were 30 dependent IDs and 103 active duty IDs reported lost or stolen. In addition to the security concerns associated with a lost ID, there are economic implications as well. According to Personnel Support Detachment OIC Lt. Bill Garcia, roughly 10 man hours per week are spent by PSD processing replacement ID cards. Furthermore, each additional CAC card costs U.S. taxpayers $17 to replace. While accidents happen, they can be prevented. Security Officer Lt. Juan Cardona offers the following tips to help safeguard your ID. • Keep your ID card on your person when you are out of the house. Never leave it in your car. • Keep the card in a wallet or a special ID pouch and don’t simply just stick it in your pocket. • Make it a habit to always put your wallet or ID card in the same place when you are in the office or at home so you know where it is when it is time to leave. • Never surrender your ID card to anyone except law enforcement or base security personnel. Never give it to club or gym personnel as a security. • Always check all pockets before throwing
Security has noted an increase in the number of lost IDs reported in the last two months. Besides being a serious security threat, roughly 10 man hours per week are spent by PSD processing replacement ID cards at a cost of $17 per CAC card. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)
clothes into a dirty washing basket. You may be surprised at what might turn up – even a missing ID card. If you do lose or misplace your ID, report it immediately to Security. There you will be asked to file a denuncia and must have a request chit in order to get a new ID from PSD. If you find an ID card,
turn it in to the nearest military police station as soon as possible. Keeping your ID card safe at all times is clearly a good idea. But particularly in light of current world events, we must each do our part to ensure ID cards do not fall into the wrong hands. Help us keep Sigonella and our installations safe.
Sigonella recognized with Project Good Neighbor Award
Catania, (Sicily) April 17, 2015 - Children of the Istituto Comprensivo "Cesare Battisti" school in Catania thank NAS Sigonella Second Class Association Sailors for offering a day of their time to lend a helping hand. (Photo courtesy of Irene Campanella) By mc1 cody boyd NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Each year the Project Good Neighbor Award recognizes shore, sea and overseas commands for the best year-round, volunteersupported program or special project that promotes outreach activities to establish and restore hope to the community. In 2015, Naval Air Station Sigonella was awarded the large overseas command winner, recognizing the efforts of the
entire NASSIG community which planned and executed 39 events in support of the local community from July 2014 to June 2015. During these 39 events, 1,274 community members volunteered nearly 5,000 hours of volunteerism toward COMRELs. Dr. Alberto Lunetta, NASSIG’s Community Relations Officer, said Sailors and Marines assigned or deployed to NASSIG and tenant commands took part in Community Relations projects to show the Sicilians we care about the environment and their history. “There are many beautiful archaeological sites in Sicily and unfortunately insufficient funds for their conservation. These COMRELs show not only our friendship to the Sicilian people but demonstrate that we care about their heritage. It’s very important to show we care about the history of Sicily as foreigners and guests of this country. We aren’t just here for military operations – we want to be their neighbors, friends and part of their family and show that we care,” says Lunetta. Language exchanges, clean-up projects and donations are just a few of the many events taken on by the NASSIG community. Community relations are designed to enlighten the Sigonella community regarding the substantial material and social needs of Sicily’s impoverished, simultaneously improving base relations with our host nation through trust-building and ultimately cooperation. “Usually COMRELs are a responsibility of the chaplains. In Sigonella, we do things in a different way. We blend civil affairs with COMRELs, so I usually have a network of mayors and chairmen of different towns with whom I meet regularly and they tell me what they need. So, we do a little diplomatic work which usually increases our productivity and shows that the Navy cares – about the environment, and about their history,” says Lunetta. The success of PROJECT GOOD NEIGHBOR COMRELs depended upon the all-of-community effort, involving 34 tenant commands, civilians, and close partnership with our host nation. Lunetta says these events not only show the locals we care, but it also gives a sense of presence to the Sailors and Marines who are stationed here, with or without their families. “We have Sailors and Marines signing up all the time. I think it also helps with the morale of service members stationed here, particularly unaccompanied.” For many volunteers, they get back more than they give.
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January 8, 2016
Direct Line
"ICE" continued from Page 2
Comment regarding "BZ for Landscaping at the Water Treatment Plant":
Executive Officer, Charles G. McKinney II Saluti Sigonella, Happy New Year to everyone! And, welcome back to those who may have traveled over the past weeks. I am hopeful that everyone was able to take advantage of some much needed and deserved down time to relax and recharge body and mind. From what I have seen and heard around the community, many of you were able to adapt and overcome any challenges associated with traveling in light of recent terrorist attacks in Europe and threats of more. Thank you for doing it safely. The final 2015 issue of The Signature featured a “Year in Review,” highlighting a year jam-packed with significant events. High-level visits and recognitions, surviving natural disasters, a record number of community relations events, quality of life improvements and unmatched charitable contributions are just a few examples. We broke new ground and a few barriers by convincing margins. As a community we demonstrated what it is to be the best at what we do best: supporting the Fleet, Fighter, and Family. On the subject of community, many of us had the opportunity to be part of the most enjoyable NASSIG Holiday Party in recent history. Thank you Holiday Party Committee for your drive, determination and attention to detail. You nailed it. However, some of us were unable to attend – standing the watch instead. Thank you for ensuring the rest of us were protected through your vigilance. Thank you for not missing a beat, ensuring that all missions were met. Thank you for being Sig’ Citizens, caring for others, including those on watch. If you agree that 2015 was a great year for NAS-
January 8, 2016
SIG, buckle up and get ready for 2016! I think it’s safe to say that this year will easily eclipse last year in many areas. Time off is an area we can all get behind. In line with our regional chain-of-command, this year’s observance of holidays for U.S. and Local National employees features increased special liberty days. NATO AGS continues to expand locally, and with the success of their first flight in CONUS we may see them overhead this year, or next. NASSIG remains a preferred location to conduct a variety of new and current missions. We can expect to see modest growth internally and from external sources, as well as more visits from interested parties. Thanks to Public Works, we already have increased opportunity to save energy, setting up an “Energy Biggest Loser” repeat win. Of course, it’s up to us to capitalize. The list goes on depending upon perspective, and your ideas for improvements matter. Keep them coming! Although we should celebrate the successes of 2015, there were also areas for improvement. Traffic accidents, particularly with injuries, and DUIs are a few examples. The New Year is a great opportunity to review lessons learned and put that insight into practice, even if someone else learned the lesson for us. Add in Operational Risk Management (ORM) and planning and you’ll have a
Thank you, thank you, thank you for clearing the trees that were overflowing into the road across from the water treatment plant on NAS 2. I feel so much safer running. And I don't have to worry about striking someone I can't see through the branches when driving, or drive in the middle of the road to avoid them. I want to commend the proactive action, not waiting for someone to get hurt before taking this safety measure. Sincerely, Lizz Huntoon
Response:
Dear Ms. Huntoon, thank you for taking the time to recognize the proactive work of our Public Works Department in removing the brush which has enhanced the safety for both runners and motorists. Also, Public Works is finishing a much bigger but similar effort on NAS 1 behind the Hospital/NEX/Commissary. This area too was excessively overgrown. In addition to improving safety for our pedestrians and drivers, it significantly reduces the risk of wildfires in the dry season.
Comment regarding "Security Inspections":
recipe to ensure success with your improvements. Of course, beginning the planning process early only increases likelihood of success. We have many great expectations for this year. Expectations are rarely met unless appropriate actions are taken to guide desired outcomes. Now is the opportunity to challenge ourselves to do what it takes to reach our goals. Thank you for all that you do, Sigonella. All the best to you in this New Year!
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publically recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/ suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding "SAWS":
There was a woman working the SAWS table one weekend who went around Marinai telling neighbors she had poisoned her dog. She had posted many times on the Craigslist page asking for help because her dog was "untrainable" and even went as far as asking people if they had antifreeze. Why did no one question how her dog vanished? Her comments are giving SAWS, a good organization, a very bad name. We need to send the message that you can't just make a pet disappear. People must think before taking on the responsibility of a pet.
Response:
This is a very disturbing story. To properly investigate, anyone with information is invited to contact Security and make a formal statement. Anyone wishing to file a report concerning any possible criminal conduct should contact LT Juan Cardona at 624-6392 or juan.cardona@eu.navy.mil. For a possible ethics violation by any NASSIG recognized entity, e.g., behavior counter to approved Non-Federal Entity (NFE) bylaws, please file a complaint with our Base Legal Officer, LCDR Tracy Harp at 624-5189 or tracy.harp@eu.navy.mil. If these allegations are proven, individuals and/or NFEs can and will be held accountable. Thank you for taking the time to submit your comment and for your concern for the welfare of our community animals.
Comment regarding "Quiet Hours in Marinai":
The Security Department in Sigonella is very courteous and professional but needs more presence in Marinai. What occurred on the night (11/13)/morning (11/14) is completely UNSAT. Way too much noise! My wife and I could hear conversations clearly. People were yelling and having a drunken good time after midnight. Can
we have police units patrol with their windows down at night, especially after quiet hours? Thank you Captain, XO, and CMDCM!
Response:
Thank you for your comment. My number one tasking to our security forces is to provide effective anti-terrorism/force protection for our community. That said, we do have patrols and I will mention to them to listen for excessive noise especially after hours. At the same time, if people are not being neighborly I first encourage each resident to politely speak with your neighbors to remedy the problem. As Sig’ Citizens, we are expected to contribute to community Security and Health and Welfare so it is perfectly acceptable for us to voice concerns to one another in a respectful manner. If this approach is ineffective, by all means please call Security. For future security-related questions, please contact the Security Officer, LT Juan Cardona at 624-6392 or juan.cardona@eu.navy.mil. Again, thank you for your comment.
Comment regarding "BZ for Tree Lighting":
Thanks to the staff and volunteers for the amazing tree lighting ceremony and Winter Wonderland celebration. We have been here about five months now and it is very comforting to know that you are bringing some American holiday traditions to Sicily. Keep up the awesome job and wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and holiday season!
Response:
I couldn’t agree more! Our MWR and citizen volunteers do a fantastic job of making Sigonella a true community, particularly around the holidays. I’m glad you enjoyed it as much as I did. Thank you for writing.
"ICE" continued on Page 3
I was recently stopped during the rain for a routine vehicle inspection which was performed by a member of the Italian Air Force (ITAF). After this inspection I was informed only U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms (MA) are allowed to inspect American vehicles. The MA proceeded to re-inspect my vehicle leaving all the doors open as the rain continued to pour down. Frustrated, I proceeded to the Desk Sergeant’s office to better understand the reason for the inconvenience. Not only was my issue left unresolved, but the Desk Sergeant said there was nothing he could do and suggested I file an ICE complaint. There should be some kind of structure for motorists, especially with children, to stand under in inclement weather. Alternatively can we add a provision to allow small children to remain in the vehicle as both my daughter and my vehicle were unnecessarily put at risk?
Response:
Thank you for writing me about your experience. I am sorry for your frustrations. While we are working diligently to fund a completely new NAS 2 Entry Control Point, I can tell you there is no opportunity on the near horizon to add a full automobile shade structure at any NASSIG location. Also, for Operational Security purposes, we do not release any tactics, techniques and procedures associated with our entry control protocols. I can offer you and others, all occupants may stand under our tent structures – and our forces will work as efficiently and effectively as possible to minimize your exposure. My last comment, I am deeply disappointed a supervisor was unable or unwilling to put you in touch with our Security Officer who would have gladly explained everything just as I have. Supervisors should be part of the solution vice part of the problem. In the future, for any security-related questions, please contact the Security Officer, LT Juan Cardona at 624-6392 or juan. cardona@eu.navy.mil. Again, thank you for your comment.
Comment regarding "NEX Requests":
It would be helpful to face iPad boxes outward so customers can read the information on the back when the sales associates are busy. Why can I pick up $1500 laptops and read the boxes but the $500 iPads are locked up under glass? Also, it’s frustrating to find items mislabeled or not be able to check items because price scanners do not work. Finally, why isn’t passage allowed between the Commissary into the NEX? It adds another obstacle to the only customer restrooms.
Response:
Thank you for your comments. I am curious if you raised any of these concerns directly with NEX management. They could have addressed each of them, given the opportunity, and much faster… 1) iPads will soon be removed from under glass once we have appropriate security features in place. 2) While the NEX renovations appear complete, we have approximately three months of work remaining. Included is the process of replacing internet protocol services to resolve price scanner issues – we will keep you posted. 3) Also to be finalized will be the new NEX public restrooms. In the meantime, the NEX has made the private employee restrooms available as a customer convenience – thank you, NEX .
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4) Finally, once the renovations are complete, the outside wall will come down, making access to the storefronts and parking much easier. In the future any questions or concerns regarding NEX facilities or services, please contact Julie Herring at 624-4379 or Julie.herring@nexweb.org.
Comment regarding "Safe Exiting from NAS 1":
Exiting NAS 1 is unsafe due to several bushes immediately outside the gate that block drivers’ views of oncoming traffic. Is there a facilities/landscape contract in place that allows for removal of those bushes?
Response:
Thank you for taking the time to submit your observation. The land off base is not controlled by the US Navy so no, we do not have a landscaping contract for these areas. However, our NASSIG First Class Petty Officer Association (FCPOA) performs voluntary outside base clean up – to include trimming the foliage near the front gate and has offered to trim the bushes you mention. Thanks FCPOA and thank you for sharing your observation.
Comment regarding "BZ for Salvo from the Flower Shop":
During my time here in Sig’, one Local National has always stepped up to the plate whenever I needed anything. The individual is Salvo at the flower shop. I recently asked to have something engraved on the blade of a K-Bar for a wedding "Thank You" gift for my father. Salvo said, "I will call you later and let you know, just leave it with me". Less than four hours passed when I received a call, and to my surprise, he said it was ready for pickup. I was amazed with how perfect it looked, and the tear in my father’s eye suggests he felt the same way. Salvo is a great asset to the Sigonella NEX family, and in my eyes, he doesn’t get recognition for what he does. Sincerely, Brian Kowalski
Response:
Dear Mr. Kowalski, not only do I agree Salvo is a wonderful member of the Sig’ community but as evidenced by the numerous accolades on his shop wall I’d say many people feel the same way. I have passed your note and my gratitude to Salvo as another testament to his dedicated “CO Customer Service” and his commitment to our customers.
Comment regarding "CDC Bus":
There are families that work on NAS 2 who would benefit from CDC bus transportation just like Sure Start students enjoy. Is this possible?
Response:
Thank you for your question. While technically possible it would be cost prohibitive to you, the parents. Why? Unlike DoDEA’s Sure Start which is fully taxpayer subsidized, the CDC while subsidized, maintains a substantial element of user funding. As such, our very small 4-year-old CDC population would bear a substantial cost per child for CDC bus transportation. I apologize for the disappointing news but appreciate you taking the time to ask the question.
Comment regarding "Half Mast of NATO Flag":
Sir, why do we not follow the NATO HQ when lowering the NATO flag? According to the NATO protocol guide: “e. Since half-staffing a flag is such a delicate matter, the circumstances to half-staff a (or several) flag(s) as sign of mourning is not part of this basic overview. Generally, the NATO and Headquarters or Organization Flags are flown at half-staff as directed by the NATO Secretary General. National flags are flown at half-staff when directed by their National or by request to the Headquarters of the Nation’s Liaison Representative.” Today I see that we lowered the US and Italian flags to half mast but kept the NATO flag up. Even the NATO Capital was put to half mast in memorial. The NATO Flag flying protocol is different but can we look into at least disseminating information on days where things appear to look off? V/R Patriotic Sailor
Response:
Thank you, Patriotic Sailor for bringing this to my attention. We are attempting to resolve this situation including to learn reliably when NATO executes half-staff. Once we have the processes in place we should not have these issues in the future and we can use All-Hands and Facebook to keep our community current on flag staffing. Please stay tuned!
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish anyanonymous 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
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January 8, 2016
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January 8, 2016
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Far from home: A holiday abroad
NAVSUP FLC Sigonella conducts Joint Intermodal Operations By Shannon Haney NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Public Affairs
ROTA, Spain (NNS) -- Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella Site Rota commenced intermodal operations for two transiting U.S. Army units onboard Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota Dec. 1 and will conclude January 2016. Intermodals are joint operations between the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), U.S. European Command (EUCOM), U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC), and U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy components. NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Site Rota is the Command and Control for the operations. Logistics Support Representatives ensure proper receipt and delivery processing to the U.S. Army Units. They create and foster close relationships with all commands involved. Establishing close mission coordination ensures a seamless strategic-to-tactical transition from port opening to distribution operations. The operations involve transportation of freight using multiple modes of transportation. This method reduces cargo handling, improves security, reduces damage and loss, and allows freight to be transported faster. The transportation costs saved per intermodal is approximately $6 million. NAVSTA Rota is strategically located near the Strait of Gibraltar and is the halfway point between the U.S. and Southwest Asia. It is the only base in the Navy region that has a port and airfield within one fence line and conducts operations 24-hours a day. This allows for the modes of transportation
Helicopters are transported during an intermodal operation onboard Naval Station Rota. The intermodal operation is conducted by NAVSUP FLC Sigonella annually to support transiting Army units. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Brian Dietrick/Released)
to change efficiently. The deploying freight arriving from the continental United States (CONUS) consists of helicopters and cargo. It is transported on a surface vessel to NAVSTA Rota's port. Then, the helicopters and cargo are offloaded from the surface vessel and transported to the airfield. Next, the freight is prepped for loading onto aircraft and flown into the CENTCOM AOR. Upon arrival in the CENTCOM AOR, the freight is downloaded and the aircraft is loaded with the redeploying helicopters and cargo. Following, the aircraft is flown back to NAVSTA
Rota and the freight is prepped for sea. Lastly, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Site Rota provides customs and border clearance support to units returning to the CONUS. Crucial to the execution of the operations is the use of trained and qualified personell, planning the operation well in advance, and allowing for flexibility throughout the movement. Often, having the right people and right equipment in the right place can mean the difference between success and failure. This proved to be true when a small fire occurred on the brakes of a helicop-
ter. The brakes became hot and started to smoke, causing a fire. Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Thomas Mills reacted quickly by extinguishing the fire with carbon dioxide (CO2). Fire services were at the scene when it happened and followed up with applying water to the brakes. NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Site Rota stands ready to fulfill logistic responsibilities and serves as a vital link to enable mission success for U.S. Army units. For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit www.navy. mil/local/navsup/.
By AD3 David berry AIMD
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – U.S. service members come from all across the globe and with a diverse fleet of women and men, each service member not only leaves a different holiday tradition home, but they also bring that perspective to the fleet. This past holiday season, some service members came up with creative ways to make active duty life feel like home again. NAS Sigonella has a variety of opportunities to help
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Sailors, Marines, Airmen and Soldiers feel like they are still connected with the real world. Each year, NASSIG celebrates by throwing a command-wide holiday party that all the tenant commands also partake in. In addition, the individual tenant commands throw their own holiday parties. Other ways sailors can celebrate the holidays are by inviting their families out to sight see Europe with them. When asked about how families cope with their sailors being stationed overseas and not being with them during the holidays, Veronica Castro stated, "The second year we sent her sister over here to celebrate the holidays with her, along with some homemade food.” This time, 2015, Mrs. Castro, who is a civilian and whom has an active duty daughter, decidedly came over with her husband to celebrate Christmas as a family with her daughter. Mrs. Castro also mentioned that she periodically sends homemade dishes over to help keep her daughter's spirits high. Though not all Sailors have the financial resources to bring their entire family over for a holiday, some, with a significant success, recruit a foster of service members for a mock “military-family” celebration. TSgt. Joe Perez advises to "be resilient" when the holidays come around to adjust to
living abroad. Service members and others make places like Sigonella feel like home by using video chat software like Skype, Facetime to combat homesickness. As for TSgt. Perez, he celebrates by inviting people from not only his pool of Air Force brethren; he also invites Sailors over for dinner during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Oftentimes command leadership tries to raise morale by coordinating meals for those that might have had duty and can't break away from missions to participate. He states that he considers the people he works with family. Though not every person can sponsor a fellow service member from a similar or another branch, NASSIG provides resources such as Take 5, which is a place to decompress from a rough work week with available services such as the latest video games, internet, and movies. Another option is MWR, which holds trips for sightseeing and events that may be going on throughout the island. Many duty stations have varied resources exclusive to their location. With the variety of options at NAS Sigonella and the aforementioned anecdotal examples above, service members don't have to follow suit. Get creative and take advantage of the many resources Sicily has to offer, within military parameters of course.
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January 8, 2016
U.S. NAVY HEADLINES Department of Defense (DOD) forwards January 8, 2016
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proposed changes to the UCMJ to Congress From Department of Defense Press Operations
Sigonella bargain hunters will be happy to hear that the New Year’s clearance sales season has recently begun in Italy. (Photo by http://static.fanpage.it/)
Winter discount shopping season kicks off in Italy By dr alberto lunetta
Imagine a “Black Friday” weekend that lasts three months! Italy’s winter “stagione di saldi” or discount season kicked off last week. This is the first of the two yearly government-regulated periods for such sales and it lasts until March 15. The other discount season starts on the second Saturday of July and lasts until Sept. 15. Since this is the second week of discounts, you won’t find any more long lines at checkout counters and excited shoppers pushing and shoving their way into stores which is customary during the first days of the post-holiday season sale. So get ready to buy high quality Italian stylish items at bargain prices, but watch out for retailers who trumpet big discounts. Here are some good rules of thumb provided by the Italy Consumer Associations. Try to listen to these tips so you will avoid rip-offs and disputes with merchants that are difficult to handle if you don’t speak Italian. First of all, do not trust discounts higher than 50 per cent from the original price. A “sensational” 80 or 90 per cent discount sounds like a tempting offer but it is probably a rip-off. Remember that, during the discount season, defective merchandise can be exchanged or returned as usual. There is no “special return policy” when you shop at sales. Therefore, always keep your scontrino or receipt and do not trust the shops that display signs saying: “la merce venduta non si cambia “ (purchased merchandise cannot be returned) or “all sales are final.” By, law, you have the right to exchange any defective clothing or shoe that is not up to sample within two months. Retailers can either refund you or give you store credit. But always remember to double check with the retailer. Make sure they know who you are and what you bought. Some storeowners are sometimes reluctant, already, after a week, to exchange defective merchandise. Be sure to look an item over carefully before you buy it. Check different shops to compare prices. If you have already visited a store you might be able to evaluate if a product was over-priced and then marked down. Stores must display on the tags the initial prezzo (price) and the reduced price, both in ciphers and in percentage. Finally, remember that you can use any method of payment. Be wary of shop owners who display signs saying “non si accettano carte di credito e bancomat” (credit cards and ATM
cards are not accepted). If you don’t see any signs around, and the sales clerk tells you about it upon paying, tell them you know they are must accept your credit card.
Why do Italians celebrate La Befana?
When I was a kid I remember I was very excited during the night of Jan. 5 because I knew that the next morning I would get some special gifts from her. Before I actually went to sleep I used to place empty stockings under the Christmas tree. Then I fell asleep and dreamed of her flying on her broom across the blue night sky and sometimes I could even “hear” her sneaking into the houses carrying a bag full of gifts for the good kids, and coal for the kids that didn’t behave! Who is she? She is “La Befana,” the Italian version of Santa Claus, a personage so mysterious and arcane, and a little old lady, with a hooked nose, so dear to children that through the century has continued to fascinate them that they still await her arrival on the night of her holiday. Her name comes from the word “Epifania” or Epiphany, the holiday celebrated on Jan. 6. She is personified by a good witch, who comes during the night of Jan. 5, bringing gifts for the kids according to what they requested the weeks before by writing her little letters and sweet edible coal for the ones who don’t behave. The Feast of the Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Magi (or Three Wise Men) to the infant Jesus, with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Magi were named Balthazar, Melchior, and Gaspar. According to the legend on their journey to Bethlehem, they stopped an old woman with a broom, who was sweeping and washing, asking her for directions. As she asked where they were going, they told her that they were following a star that would lead them to a newborn baby. They asked her if she would like to come along with them at which she replied that she was too
busy cleaning up to go along with such nonsense. As you can imagine when she realized that the newborn was actually Jesus, the Redeemer, it was impossible to reach the caravan, her regret for not having gone along with the wise men was so great that she is spending eternity taking gifts to good children on Christmas finding Christ child in all children. The tradition also says that La Befana knows how the kids behave so they have to watch their manners as the festival nears otherwise instead of finding toys and candy they may find “sweet coal.” Sometimes, when the parents want to make a joke to their misbehaving kids, they would fill up the stocking with “sugar coal” and right after give them the gifts.
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Today the Department of Defense forwarded to Congress a legislative proposal to reform the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the statutory framework of the military justice system. The proposal is based on the recommendations of the Military Justice Review Group (MJRG), which conducted a detailed analysis of each article of the UCMJ, including the historical background of the UCMJ, current practice, and comparison to federal civilian law. In October 2013, former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, in response to a request from senior uniformed leadership, directed the review of the UCMJ and its implementation in the Manual for Courts-Martial. He also directed the review to consider the recommendations of a separate, congressionallyestablished panel that examined the systems used to investigate, prosecute and adjudicate adult sexual assault and related offenses in the military. Each of the military services detailed military personnel to serve as members of the Military Justice Review Group. Andrew S. Effron, former chief judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, serves as director of the MJRG. "The services assigned a highly talented group of individuals to the MJRG," said Effron. "Their comprehensive recommendations will contribute to the positive evolution of the military justice system." The department's proposal is the first comprehensive military justice reform package submitted to Congress by the Department of Defense in more than 30 years. The proposed legislation includes 37 statutory additions to the UCMJ, and substantive amendments to 68 current provisions of the UCMJ. Among the major reforms, the proposed legislation would: * Strengthen the structure of the military justice system by: establishing selection criteria for military judges and mandating tour lengths; authorizing military judges to handle specified legal issues prior to referral of a case to court-martial; establishing the authority for military magistrates to preside over specified pre-referral matters; establishing a military judge-alone special court-martial similar to the judge-alone forum in civilian proceedings, with
confinement limited to a maximum of six months and no punitive discharge; requiring issuance of guidance on the disposition of criminal cases similar to the United States Attorneys Manual, tailored to military needs; and mandating additional training for commanders and convening authorities focused on the proper exercise of UCMJ authority. * Enhance fairness and efficiency in pretrial and trial procedures by: facilitating victim input on disposition decisions and providing for public access to court documents and pleadings; expanding the authority to subpoena documents during criminal investigations; replacing the current variable panel (military jury) sizes with a standardized number of panel members (military jurors) and a consistent voting percentage in order to convict in noncapital cases (75 percent); and requiring learned defense counsel in capital trials and appeals. * Modernize military sentencing by: replacing the current sentencing standard with a system of judicial discretion guided by parameters and criteria; ensuring each offense receives separate consideration for purposes of sentencing to confinement; and providing for effective implementation of sentencing reforms by establishing sentencing by military judges in all non-capital trials. * Streamline the post-trial process by eliminating redundant paperwork and requiring an entry of judgment by the military judge similar to federal civilian practice to mark the end of a court-martial. * Reform military appellate practice by: providing service members, like their civilian counterparts, with the opportunity to obtain judicial review in all cases; transforming the automatic appeal of cases to the service Courts of Criminal Appeals into an appeal of right in which the accused, upon advice of appellate defense counsel, would determine whether to file an appeal; focusing the appeal on issues raised by the parties and placing the burden to demonstrate factual insufficiency on the accused; establishing standards to review errors in guilty pleas similar to that in federal criminal cases; and permitting the government to appeal a sentence under conditions similar to those applied by federal civilian courts of appeals. * Update the punitive articles by proposing new offenses, including Article 93a (Prohibited activities with military recruits and trainee by person in position of special trust; Article 121a (Fraudulent use of credit and debit cards); Article 123 (Offense concerning government computers); and Article 132 (Retaliation); and aligning the definition of "sexual act" in Article 120 with federal civilian criminal law. The department looks forward to working with Congress as lawmakers consider the recommendations. The full report of the Military Justice Review Group, the legislative proposal forwarded to Congress, and a sectionby-section analysis of the legislative proposal can be found at www.dod.gov/dodgc/mjrg.html
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Missoula Children's Theatre presents . . .
King Arthur
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Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel
CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group - Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group - Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home
PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2
Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS
PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049
Ristorante Bella Etna Saturday, Jan. 2 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef, Roast Turkey Dinner: Chicken Sandwich, Spaghetti Carbonara Sunday, Jan. 3 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Roast Pork Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Fried Fish Portions
Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 4 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuit, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Cajun Baked Catfish, Barbecued Chicken Dinner: Beef Ravioli, Baked Stuffed Pork Chop Tuesday, Jan. 5 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Sausage Patties Lunch: Chicken Fajitas, Beef & Bean Burritos, Chicken Fritted Cutlet, Roast Pork Dinner: Salisbury Steak w/ Mushrooms, Italian Sausage w/ Pepper & Onions
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 6 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast Lunch: Grilled Hamburger, Cheeseburger, Chicken in Orange Sauce, White Fish w/ Mushrooms Dinner: Spaghetti w/ Meat Balls, Fried Fish Portions
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4:30 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4:30 -6 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 8 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Ham Slices Lunch: Fresh Assorted Pizza, BBQ Spareribs, Fried Chicken Dinner: Chili Macaroni, Grilled Cheese & Ham Sandwich
Thursday, Jan. 7 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Minute Steak Lunch: Pasta Bar, Meat Loaf, Roast Turkey Dinner: Beef Sukiyaki, Pasta Alfredo
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
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Distribution Logistics Agency Change of Command
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GAMEZONE Happy New Year FAMILY FATHER TIME FEAST FESTIVITIES FIREWORKS FIRST OF JANUARY FRIENDS HATS HOLIDAY HORNS KISS MIDNIGHT MUSIC NEW YEARS DAY
NEW YEARS EVE NOISEMAKERS OCCASION PARADES PARTY PUNCH RESOLUTIONS SINGING STREAMERS THIRTY FIRST TIARAS WINE YEAR IN REVIEW
EASY
MEDIUM
APPETIZERS BABIES BALLOONS BANNERS BUFFET CELEBRATE CHAMPAGNE CONFETTI DANCE DAY ONE DECORATIONS END OF DECEMBER EVENTS
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell the name of a popular location for celebrating New Years Eve.
Cdr. Pamela Dozier properly relieves Freddie Hildrich as the commanding officer of Defense Logistics Agency Sigonella during a change of command ceremony held at NAS 1 Chapel, Dec. 18. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
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Committing to family fitness with young children from Fleet and Family Support Center
As a parent of young children, your time may not always feel like your own. Despite best efforts to stay on top of your family's schedule, it may seem like there's always another mess to clean or mouth to feed. Finding time to exercise... well, let's just say it rarely makes it to the top of your to-do list. But here's the thing: you don't have to choose between spending time with your children and your physical fitness. Regardless of your current fitness level, there are ways to include your family in your active lifestyle, which ultimately sets a positive, healthy example for your kids. Rather than juggling schedules with your spouse or going through the trouble and expense of finding a babysitter just to fit in some activity, try these ideas for exercising with young children. Sailors and volunteers pose for a photo after receiving gifts from Amazon as Christmas presents. Amazon donated Christmas gift boxes to over 2,000 service members stationed overseas. (Photo courtesy of Sigonella American Red Cross)
Sigonella's American Red Cross & Amazon Christmas Gifts By Kala kirk Sigonella American Red Cross
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Every day U.S. service members around the globe selflessly perform their duties through wind, rain, and holidays. This year, Amazon and the Sigonella American Red Cross helped to make their holiday season a little bit cheerier. Amazon donated Christmas Gift Boxes for 2,000 men and women in uniform currently stationed outside the continental U.S. (OCONUS). As such, Europe and Far East stations, Kuwait and Djibouti, and the Deployed Sites' American Red Cross each received 50 boxes to be distributed to service members who worked on Christmas Day. As soon as the local office received word that NAS Sigonella had been chosen to receive the boxes, the Italy/Spain Region Chair Kathryn Lasky and SAF Regional Program Manager Samantha Wudel reached out to Sigonella leadership and Red Cross Volunteers to coordinate distribution. "Being away from family over the holidays is hard. I’m glad we were able to bring some holiday joy to those who were working on Christmas Day. It was a lot of fun delivering the gift across the NAS Sigonella units and seeing everyone’s smiles," Kathryn Lasky said regarding the event. The most common reaction to the gift? "What! No way!" The boxes contained snacks, baby wipes, a Kindle Fire, and a thank you card from Amazon. The Red Cross was able to gift the lowest ranking individuals working across 11 commands with the Amazon Christmas Gift Boxes. The second most common reaction? "Oh, puppy!" The Red Cross team had two therapy service dogs with them as they made the rounds. These dogs typically visit service members in hospitals and raise morale of wounded, ill, and injured military, veterans, and their families. The team also distributed homemade cookies to the work centers. The Red Cross Service to the Armed Forced programs is a cornerstone of who we are and what we do at the Red Cross. "We are proud to partner with Amazon in support of U.S. military personnel serving overseas. The Red Cross is very pleased and grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a generous gift from Amazon," Red Cross Division Manager for Europe, Katherine Jones-Sperling, told local sites when they were notified of the gifts. Each station uploaded pictures of the gift giving to their Facebook pages. Visit the Sigonella’s Facebook page at “American Red Cross-Sigonella, Italy” to see all the pictures.
Fitness with a baby
• Put your baby in a stroller and take a brisk walk. You'll get some exercise, your child will get to enjoy a change of scenery and you'll both get some fresh air. • Invest in a jogging stroller. Once your child is old enough, a jogging stroller is a great way to pick up the pace and improve your cardiovascular fitness. • Check out upcoming walks, fun runs or races. See if your community or Morale, Welfare and Recreation offers a stroller friendly option. • Hike with a baby carrier. There are numerous
options on the market that allow you to safely strap your child to your chest or back so you can enjoy a hike. • Look for a parent and baby fitness class. Check with your installation's fitness center to see if it offers classes designed for parents with young children.
Fitness with a toddler or young child
• Take a trip to the park. Visit the playground on your installation or find a park in your surrounding community where you and your child can run, climb, swing and jump. • Go for a bike ride. Attach a child's seat to your bike and get ready for a good time. Make sure you have the proper safety equipment (like a helmet) before you set out. • Rent sports equipment. Check with MWR about equipment and outings. if you aren't yet sure of your child's unique interests. This is a way to introduce your child to a wide range of sporting options without breaking the bank. • Go bowling. Not only does bowling provide a great way to get some activity on a rainy day, but your installation's bowling alley may even offer a family discount. • Go for a swim. Spend an afternoon splashing around with your child and teaching them swimming basics, like floating and treading water. You can even check with Morale, Welfare and Recreation about swimming lessons. • Have a dance party. Fitness doesn't have to be a formal activity to be good for your body. Turn
on some music and have a family dance party at home. Remember: it doesn't matter how you add activity into your daily life. Every little bit counts — whether it's fitting in jumping jacks during television commercial breaks or playing a game of tag with your children in the backyard. Use whatever time and equipment you have at your disposal to prioritize your fitness while still spending time with your family. Not only will your family's health improve, but your children will learn the types of healthy habits that last a lifetime. For more ideas and resources, contact the New Parent Support Coordinator at 624-4291 or visit Military OneSource's parenting webpage. The Fleet and Family Support Center also offers a wide variety of support services. To learn more about classes, workshops and counseling services, contact the Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN: 624-4291, Commercial: 095 56 4291.
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