The Signature June 6, 2014

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella held a frocking ceremony for 21 out of 30 NAS Sigonella Sailors selected for advancement to the pay - grades of E4, E5, and E6, May 28 on NAS II.

“When you get promoted it’s about the privilege of more responsibility,” NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis said. “You’ve been able to demonstrate to yourselves, and to the Navy that you are responsible for yourself and you have an inherent sense of care for those around you.”

During the ceremony every Sailor received their own frocking letter and was able to hear their name read over the loudspeaker in front of their fellow Sailors, family members and friends.

“It still doesn’t feel real but the reality is setting in that I was promoted,” Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony Curtis said. “I now realize there will be more responsibility placed on my shoulders, but I’m ready for this new challenge.”

Before they received their letter, Dennis requested each promoted Sailor say three names of people who had influenced each individual Sailor. Dennis also made a point for every Sailor to reach out to each person they spoke of and thank them for how they helped them so far in their naval careers.

“I told Capt. Dennis I was going to call my mom, my sister, and my mentor, Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Julio Garcia, who helped mold me into the Sailor I am today,” said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Rachel Deaton.

Although, every Sailor who advanced was proud of their accomplishments, all of the new petty officers are humbled and prepared for the extra responsibilities coming in their Navy futures.

“I didn’t really think it was real until I picked up my uniforms at the tailor shop and saw my

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NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Phoenix Express 2014, a multinational maritime exercise between North African , European, and U.S. naval forces concluded June 4, after the three weeks of maritime security training scenarios ashore and at sea.

The U.S. Africa Command-sponsored exercise, now in its eighth year, is designed to improve cooperation and interdiction expertise among participating nations in order to increase maritime safety and security in the Mediterranean Sea.

“This [exercise] is a great opportunity for all of us to build a working relationship on both a personal and operational level,” said Capt. James Hajj, Phoenix Express 2014 Exercise Director. “The overall purpose of the exercise is to improve maritime security and cooperation amongst the partner nations.”

The first two weeks of the exercise were held in-port, and focused on medical and maritime interdiction operations (MIO) training. The training was conducted at NATO Maritime Interdiction Operation Training Center (NMIOTC) in Souda Bay, Greece. The participating nations then shifted their focus to the at-sea portion of the exercise and practiced a wide range of skill sets during underway operations in the central Mediterranean Sea from May 24 – June 2.

Personnel from participating nations worked together as part of a Maritime Operations Center (MOC), established onboard NAS Sigonella, which helped exercise officials and partner nations manage a common operational picture while providing tactical

By MC3 CaMeron BraMhaM NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Phoenix Express 2014 concludes

Class of Dreams:

Class of 2014!

Thirty NAS Sigonella Sailors advanceBy MC3 CaMeron BraMhaM NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

AUGUSTA BAY, Sicily (June 2, 2014) Turkish Sailors set mooring lines aboard the Turkish Navy frigate TCG Fatih (F-242) after it pulled into port at Augusta Bay during Phoenix Express 2014 (PE-14). Phoenix Express is a U.S. Africa Command-sponsored multinational maritime exercise between North African, European and U.S. naval forces designed to increase maritime safety and security in the Mediterranean Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

See "advancement" Page 14

See "PE" page 15

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Dennis speaks to the 21 sailors who were advanced to Petty Officer 1st, 2nd snd 3rd Class, May 28. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released).

The

SIGnaTUreSIGoneLLa, SICILy

June 6, 2014 cnic.navy.mil/sigonellaVol. 31 No. 22

The SIGnaTUrePaGe 2 June 6, 2014 The SIGnaTUre PaGe 3June 6, 2014

DRIV

E SA

FELY

SIGO

NELL

A

Personal Resilience Retreat sponsored by CREDO

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Explore who you are in the present; Understand how the past has shaped you; Ponder for action what kind of person you choose to be as you face the future.

Participants are challenged and empowered to develop skills to enhance their sense of well-being in the Physical, Psychological, Emotional, and Spiritual dimensions.

This retreat will be offered June 27-29 at the Sheraton Hotel in Catania.

Contact Religious Ministries Department (RMD) for registration at: DSN: 624-3975 or Email: [email protected]

MWR help wanted this summer!NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Do you need extra money for

vacations, the latest and greatest widget or just advance planning for birthday/holiday gifts? Then, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Sigonella has many opportunities for you and your bank account! Currently hiring for many full-time and flexible positions within MWR to include:

-- Auto Skills Aides (Flexible Hours)-- Bowling Center Aides (Flexible Hours)-- Child Development Center - Classroom Staff/Caregiver

(Full-Time & Flexible)-- Child Development Center - Cook (Full-Time)-- Child Development Center - Food Service Worker

(Flexible)-- Connections / Jox Pub Aides (Flexible Hours)-- Fitness Aides (Flexible Hours)-- Lifeguard (Flexible Hours)-- School Age Care Classroom Staff/Caregiver (Full-Time &

Flexible)-- Take 5 / Augusta Bay Recreation Aides (Flexible Hours)-- Youth/Teen Center Aides (Full-Time & Flexible)MWR Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Jobs:http://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnreurafswa/installations/

nas_sigonella/about/jobs/mwr_jobs.htmlMWR GS Jobs:http://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnreurafswa/installations/

nas_sigonella/about/jobs.htmlAlso, you can now register for weekly MWR job notifications

via the MWR website at www.sigmwr.com. Once registered, every Monday receive an automated notification for the current MWR job listing.

For more details, please inquiry at the MWR Personnel Office at DSN 624-0509 or email to [email protected]. Or, visit the MWR Personnel Office on NAS I in Building 202 (between the Navy Lodge and the AFN Radio Station).

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Shelby Smith participates in a joint military working dog training exercise with a member of the Italian Carabinieri K-9 unit, May 30 at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. The U.S. Navy and Italian police K-9 units trained on drug and explosive detection along with patrol training. Other Italian K-9 units that participated in the drill were local Polizia and Guardia di Finanza (Italian customs). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

NAS Sigonella participates in a joint military working dog training exercise

NASSIG WORSHIP SERVICESROMAN CATHOLICSunday■ 8:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS I Chapel)

TuESday - FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS II Chapel)Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass

PROTESTANTnaS I ChapelSaTuRday■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services Sunday■ 10:30 a.m. Traditional Worship

naS II ChapelSunday■ 5 p.m. Protestant Evening Service

OTHER SERVICES/ACTIVITIES

LATTER-DAY SAINTS Sunday at 1:30 p.m. (naS I Chapel)Contact: [email protected] or 624-9049

JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICEFRIday at 5:30 p.m. (naS I Chapel)

NIGHT STUDYWEdnESday at 5 p.m. (naS I Chapel)

■ Italian Class Tuesday at 7 p.m (Classroom at naS 1 Chapel)

■ aa Meetings: MOnday at 5:30 p.m. (naS I Chapel) second deck; THuRSday at 7 p.m. (naS II Chapel)

naS Sigonella Religious Ministries department Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/navalairStationSigonella Chapel

Chapel Offices: naS I 095-56-3975, naS II 095-86-9049, dSn: 624-3975, CHAPLAIN DUTY: 335-831-4493 RP DUTY: 335-786-1950

Ristorante Bella Etna changesNAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Ristorante Bella Etna is offering

ice cream for lunch Monday through Friday to help beat the summer heat!!

We have a new slushy machine as well, and we will soon be offering assorted flavors!

We have temporarily stopped serving pizzas for dinner on Saturdays, but pizza will still be available for lunch every Monday.

We are also offering breakfast "grab and go" boxes, which will include either a breakfast sandwich or burrito and hash browns on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for those who are in a hurry. Fruit and disposable cups will always be available to accompany the boxes. If you would like to have a "grab and go" box, please let us know when you come in!

The brunch meal on the weekends is also going through a major transformation. You will see more food items become available, as well as some great desserts! Please come out and enjoy and let us know what you think. We are always happy to hear from you.

Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney IIDirect Line

Effective Sunday July 13, worship times will shift to the following schedule -- Roman Catholic at 9 a.m.; Traditional Protestant Worship at 11 a.m. (with Protestant Sunday School at 10 a.m.). There will be no change to the Saturday Evening Contemporary Service time.

Religious Minstries Department Notice

Catania's Vigili del Fuoco fight a fire during a training exercise

SIGONELLA, Sicily (May 29, 2014) Members of Catania's Vigili del Fuoco fight a fire during a training exercise aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, May 29. NAS Sigonella's fire department invited the Vigili del Fuoco to train together and improve host nation relationships. NAS Sigonella provides logistical support for Commander, U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets and NATO forces in the Mediterranean area. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

Saluti Sigonella!It is my honor to finally write to you as Naval Air Station Sigonella's newest Executive

Officer. Though I haven't been here long, I can tell from the warm welcomes that my family and I have received that this is set to be my best tour ever. I'd like to thank Cmdr. Eric Vosler for providing me with a suitable turnover - the hallmark of any good start in the Navy. Best wishes to him and his family, as they transition to their new duty station in Oklahoma. I also thank Capt. Dennis, his bride, Sharyn, and their son, Graham, for helping us feel so welcomed in our new roles in the Sigonella Command and Community. I very much look forward to our partnership as we support you, the Fleet, Fighter, and Family.

As Capt. Dennis mentioned in last week's Direct Line, this is not my first time serving on the island of Sicily. I have met many Sailors these weeks that are new to the Navy, and like them, my first tour in the Navy was here at NAS Sigonella. I felt very fortunate then, and I feel the same now. It is always a pleasure to return to my "other" home and its people -- the beautiful, fun, and friendly Sicilians!

As many of you already know, Italy is my wife's country of origin. Her family (Gemmellaro) is one of the oldest in Catania, dating back for centuries. Incidentally, her great - great - great grandfather, Carlo Gemmellaro, is one of the founding fathers of Geology in Italy, especially Sicily. She followed in his footsteps, becoming a Doctor in Geology, while studying the beautiful Etna volcano. Daniela, like all Navy spouses, has been supporting me throughout my career, and it is a pleasure to be able to return to this great place with her.

Our daughter, Alexandra, has been eagerly waiting for an opportunity to call Sicily "home" after bounding from one location to another over the years. Like any military child, myself included it's always good to be able to settle down for more than 2 years in one place. Now she can concentrate on her plans to bankrupt me...I mean, attend Harvard University (her life-long goal). She keeps a busy schedule with school and her extra-curricular activities like volunteering with the Honor Society and writing for the school paper. It's great to be growing up, surrounded by so many great opportunities offered through the DoDDS School and the base. I fully support our children getting involved and taking pride in the community, helping it to flourish.

As the Executive Officer, I am presented with great opportunities to lead and serve on a daily basis. On June 2nd I had the honor of representing NAS Sigonella as the acting Commanding Officer at the 68th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Italy at the "Prefettura di Catania". This jubilant occasion, similar to our celebration of Independence Day, is one of the most important celebrations for the government of our host country. Before that, I was honored to be able to frock a Sailor to Petty Officer Third Class. Becoming a Petty Officer is a great accomplishment and I am grateful to have had a small part in it. With that said, I look forward to seeing more of the same advancements after the next cycle. For those of you "on deck" for this, prepare yourselves well and get through Petty Officer Indoctrination.

Finally, I welcome those of you that NAS Sigonella personnel to take the recently unveiled CMEO Command Climate Survey. This is a great opportunity to provide feedback to Capt. Dennis on where he needs to improve, with respect to the human relations climate of our organization. Like all surveys, it is not accurate without your support and participation, both on-line and in focus groups. The Command Assessment Team has been working diligently to prepare, and the window of opportunity is short. Please take the time between now and June 22nd to log on and take the survey.

Before signing off, I would like to offer two assurances. The first is that I am absolutely ecstatic to be at NAS Sigonella. I truly love it here. Second, I look forward to meeting and collaborating with all of you -- Military and Civilians -- so we can continue to make this extraordinary duty station a standard of excellence that is both professionally and personally satisfying.

Thank you Sigonella!

The SIGnaTUreU.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLACommanding OfficerCapt. Chris DennisExecutive OfficerCmdr. Charles G. McKinney IICommand Master ChiefCMDCM David Graham

EDITORIAL

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul [email protected]

EditorM. Todd [email protected]

Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto [email protected]

PAO Staff Writers \ PhotographersMC1 Tony D. [email protected]

MC3 Cameron [email protected]

CONTACT USNaval Air Station Sigonella, [email protected] 624-5440; 095-86-5440PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001

PUBLISHERStampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher,Naval Support ActivityCapodichino (Naples), [email protected]. 081-568-7884Fax 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: [email protected].

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 [email protected], guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Fri-day 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


There are two ways to submit feed back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis.

Visit The 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. Also, visit NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on " CO Suggestion Box".

The Signature will anonymously publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."

Commanding Officer's Suggestion BoxC O M M U N I T Y C A L E N D A R

June

2014

Friday

6Relocation Fair

1:30 - 3 p.m.FFSC

Catania History and Greek Mythology Tour

8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.ITT

Saturday

7

Palermo and Mondello Beach

6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.ITT

Extreme Bowling*8 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Sparetime Bowling

Sunday

8


6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.ITT

Monday

9

Tuesday

10Pre-Deployment Class

9 - 11 a.m.FFSC

Post Deployment Class

1 - 3 p.m.FFSC

Wednesday

11Sponsor Training

9 - 11 a.m.FFSC

Caponata and Parmigiana Cooking

Class5:30 p.m.

ITT

Thursday

12Bldg's 318 & 319

"Open Courtyard"2 - 4 p.m.

318-319 Courtyard

13ICR

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.FFSC

Arrivederci Class8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

FFSC

14 ICR

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.FFSC


6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.ITT

15Fathers Day!

1/2 price Bowling11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sparetime Bowling

*Every Sunday

16ICR

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.FFSC

17ICR

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.FFSC

Career Technical Training Track8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

18ICR

8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.FFSC

Career Technical Training Track8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

19Survive & Thrive

8 a.m. - 2 p.m.FFSC

Sig Safe9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

20Italiano Espresso Language Class10 - 11:30 a.m.

FFSC

Relocation Fair1:30 - 3 p.m.

FFSC

21Lipari Express

6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.ITT

22Carini Castle & Sea-

Food Restaurant6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

ITT

FFSC: x4291ITT : x4777, x4396

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396 Fitness: x4483, x5243

Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248American Red Cross: x4900

Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at [email protected] and let us know!

IMPORTANT EXTENSIONS:

SUBJECT: COMMAND CLIMATE SURVEY

TO: NASSIG PERSONNEL UNDER UICs: 62995 and 46131

Message from: Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella

The survey I am asking you to complete gives you the opportunity to provide opinions on where I should focus attention to improve the human relations climate of our organization. No attempt will be made to identify you, so please respond openly and frankly.

This voluntary survey is designed to assess the “shared perceptions” of respondents about formal or informal policies and practices. Your perceptions are valuable because they give me insight into the general attitudinal climate of our organization. For your answers to be useful, you must be honest. Do not tell me what you think I want to hear, or say what others might say; tell it as you see it.

I am requesting you complete a survey no later than 06/22/2014. The survey will ask you to provide demographic information such as your rank, race, and sex. Demographic information is used to ensure we have a proper representation of participants. To begin the survey you must connect to the Internet. The survey can be found at URL:

https://www.deocs.net/user4/login/login.cfm

An access code is required to gain access to the survey. This case-sensitive code was randomly generated and is not associated with your name or any other personal identifying source. The code ensures anonymity and that each individual selected completes only one survey. To obtain an access code please contact LSC TRUMATA at 624-5095 ([email protected]) or MA1 TEART at 624-5686 ([email protected]).

I appreciate your assistance and assure you the time you devote to the survey will not be wasted. I look forward to sharing the results of the assessment with the members of our organization in the near future.

COMMAND CLIMATE SURVEY

Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN

624-CARE (2273) or commercial 095-56-2273,

M-F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, holidays, or after

office hours, please call 335-578-8077 if you are normally seen

at the hospital or 335-578-8150

if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.

* The Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI) Organizational Climate Survey (DEOCS) will be available from June 2 - June 22 for NASSIG personnel under UICs: 62995 and 46131. This survey is a great tool that gives you the opportunity to provide input on where the command should focus their attention to improve the human relations climate of our organization. This is a voluntary survey and is completely anonymous. Your input is necessary to provide accurate insight into the general climate of our organization. We ask that you be honest and candid. The survey will be available online and the Command Assessment Team will provide specific guidance along with the required passwords. If you have questions concerning the survey, please contact LSC John Trumata (CMEO Program Manager) at DSN: 624-5511 or [email protected].


Granita Festival this weekend in AcirealePractice for Team Navy trials is underwayBy PaTTy BaBBNavy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor Public Affairs

Navy swaps Dallas, Norfolk inactivation dates

From Submarine Group Two Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Today, the Navy announced changes to the inactivation timelines for two Los Angeles-class submarines that are scheduled to retire from active service.

The service life for USS Dallas (SSN 700) has been extended to fiscal year 2017 and USS Norfolk (SSN 714) will begin inactivation in early 2015. Dallas and Norfolk were most recently slated for inactivation in fiscal years 2015 and 2017 respectively.

Inactivating Norfolk in the upcoming fiscal year, in place of Dallas, enables the Navy to meet mission needs, balance workload and workforce requirements for shipyards across the force, and lower projected pre-inactivation availability costs.

The Navy is projected to save $10 million in Pre-Inactivation Restricted Availability (PIRA) costs as a result of the change. Submarine force leaders and planners continually monitor all aspects of the force and refine plans to optimize readiness and capabilities.

Norfolk is currently completing her last scheduled overseas deployment, which began in February. After returning to her homeport of Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia, she will transit to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine to undergo inactivation. Norfolk was commissioned May 21, 1983.

Dallas, which is currently based at Naval Submarine Base New London in Connecticut, completed her most recent overseas deployment last November. She was commissioned July 18, 1981.

Los Angeles-class submarines represent the bulk of the Navy's attack submarine force. They are equipped to hunt adversary maritime vessels, strike targets ashore and support special forces. Their capabilities also include covert surveillance and contributions to mine warfare missions.

Sixty-two Los Angeles-class attack submarines were constructed from the early 1970s to the mid-1990s. Forty-one are presently in active service.

ACIREALE, Sicily - The third edition of the “Nivarata” Granita Siciliana festival is ready to tempt your taste buds this weekend (June 6 through 8) in Acireale, a beautiful historic town on the east coast of Sicily, easily reachable from Catania-Fontanarossa airport. With more than 40.000 recorded visitors in 2013 as well as 3,000 kg of granita produced and distributed over the festival days, Nivarata has established itself nationwide as one of the best festivals. As also shown by its participation in the international expo Sigep 2014, it has become the official event devoted to Sicilian Artisan Granita, a delicious frozen ice dessert made from water, sugar and various flavorings (almond, lemon, pistachio, strawberry, to name just a few). The top quality artisan granitas created by the most talented master gelato makers over the three festival days have become popular and now give tourists one more reason to visit Sicily, along with its blue sea and wonderful sunny days during the bathing season.

First and only one of its kind in Italy, the festival has become an annual event also much awaited by industry professionals on account of the variety of opportunities for economic growth resulting from Nivarata.

The festival days offer a special showcase for all food professionals to display artisan confectionary products. Food tastings, meetings and live food shows in the presence of celebrated guests and industry professionals all contribute to highlighting

the genuineness of Sicilian raw ingredients and ice cream preparation techniques.

Launched in 2012, our food event owes its name to nivaroli, people from the past who, long before modern technology, used to collect and store snow from the mountains (Etna, Monti Peloritani, Iblei and Nebrodi) in order to refrigerate food and make delicious granitas.

Attracting more and more visitors and quickly gaining professional acknowledgments from one year to another, the festival has been enriched with collateral events and has hosted national and international guests and jury members such as Andy Luotto (chef), Nino Aiello (Gambero Rosso), Franco Patanè (a celebrated master gelato maker), Arnaldo Conforto (Associazione Maestri Gelateria Italiana), Marco Cavara (Cattabriga), Corrado Assenza (Caffè Sicilia in Noto), Antonio Cappadonia

(Duciezio), Fabrizio Carrera (Cronache di gusto)In the forthcoming edition, the core objective of

Nivarata will still be making Sicilian artisan granita a true icon of the territory, enhancing the peculiarity of its traditional recipe. Its great quality and taste are successfully guaranteed by world-famous Sicilian master gelato makers, whose art is handed down from one generation to the next.

Highlights of this year’s the festival are:- the Granita of the Year contest. Gelato masters will

compete with the creation of two granitas (a traditional and an experimental one), then judged by the public.

- the Don Angelino Award, named in honor of the famed master gelato artisan from Acireale. A professional jury will award the master gelato maker able to create and produce the best granita in one flavor chosen by the jury members beforehand.

The best Italian master gelato makers will engage in a contest based on the production as well as on the personal interpretation of a typical product, with the exclusive use of the finest ingredients so as to offer authentic Sicilian artisan granitas to our public.

The competition will take place in a 100 square meter lab called Pala Nivarata, a space specifically set up and equipped with the best machinery on the market.

The program of the third edition will include a line-up of collateral activities to liven up our visitors’ experience while tasting granitas. There will be art, cultural and recreational events: cooking shows, local handicrafts and confectionary exhibitions, workshops, guided walking tours to explore the town and the surrounding natural areas, kids entertainment, live music, jugglers, a photo contest and the Shop Window Display competition.

For the first time ever, we are delighted to announce an amazing international food festival partnership.

In 2014, we’ll be joined by the Eurochocolate ad the Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival from the south coast of England (www.brightonfoodfestival.com).

Now in its 13th year, the festival is one of the largest celebrations of both local, and good, food and drink in the UK, running every April and September with a year-round program of additional food events such as the Sussex Gourmet Bus Tour.

Brighton’s leading gelato maker – Seb Cole of Boho Gelato – will be joining us at Nivarata to showcase his culinary skills with a distinctly off-the-wall ‘Brighton’ flavour using artisan produce from across the Sussex region. Seb’s visit will also be filmed for television as part of International Chef Exchange to be screened on Channel 8 in the UK. Previous exchanges have included Maastricht, Lyon, The Hague and Rotterdam, with Gothenburg, Dubai and Helsinki due to be filmed in early Summer 2014.

The festival offers visitors the opportunity to experience the true taste of Sicily and discover that unique mixture of cultures which best represents the essence of our island. For more information and detailed schedules visit http://www.anivarata.it/en.

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Practice for the 2014 Wounded Warrior Team Navy Trials kicked off June 1 at Naval Station Norfolk. Approximately 70 seriously wounded, ill and injured Sailors and Coast Guardsmen are preparing to compete for a spot on this year's Navy wounded warrior team.

"I am really looking forward to meeting other service members with similar injuries and experiences," said Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Jaime Garza, who was injured in a training accident. "This is all new to me, and it's exciting to know that this [opportunity] is out there for people like me."

The wounded warrior athletes arrived in Norfolk on May 30. After a day of meet-and-greet and informational events, practice began June 1. The athletes will train until the Wounded Warrior Team Navy Trials kick off June 4. Many local spectators are expected to attend both the practice events and competitions to cheer on the athletes.

The trials are jointly hosted by Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA) and Navy Wounded Warrior (NWW) - Safe Harbor, the Navy and Coast Guard's wounded warrior support program. U.S. Fleet Forces Command is providing assistance throughout the event, including reaching out to local commands to provide sponsors for each athlete.

"CNRMA is delighted to welcome the wounded warrior athletes to the Hampton Roads area for the Team Navy Trials," said Capt. John Malfitano, CNRMA Fleet and Family Readiness program director. "We're thrilled to meet the athletes, hear their inspiring stories, and cheer them on as they compete in our local area for the opportunity to be invited to the Warrior Games in Colorado Springs in September."

Participants in the trials include active-duty and retired service members with upper-body, lower-body and spinal cord injuries; serious illnesses; traumatic brain injuries; visual impairment; and post-traumatic stress disorder.

"When I first [came to an adaptive athletics event], I thought it was just for the guys who caught bullets in their teeth, but it's not," said Navy Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class John Dusseau, a returning athlete who was diagnosed with a serious illness. "It's for those of us who are ill and injured too."

Throughout the event, the wounded warrior athletes are facing off in archery; cycling; track and field; shooting; sitting volleyball; swimming; and wheelchair basketball. Those selected for Team Navy will advance to the 2014 Warrior Games, an annual competition among wounded warriors from all branches of service.

"It's good to get back to my old stomping grounds, where I received care after I was wounded," said Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Angelo Anderson, a returning athlete who sustained gunshot wounds during combat operations. "I had a big support group in the area, and those that are still in Norfolk are really excited to finally see me compete."

All of the wounded warrior athletes are enrolled in NWW, a Department of the Navy program that provides non-medical care to service members and their families. It offers a variety of services, including adaptive athletics, which is proven to have a positive, lasting effect on wounded warriors, including fewer secondary medical conditions.

"Our adaptive athletics program is critical to the comprehensive recovery of our wounded warriors," said NWW Director Navy Capt. Brent Breining. "We highly encourage all of our enrollees, regardless

of prior athletic experience or abilities, to participate in these kinds of worthwhile events because we believe it can rekindle a sense of teamwork and belonging that they had in the Navy and Coast Guard prior to their illness or injury."

"We have seen that participating in events like the Wounded Warrior Team Navy Trials provides wounded warriors a purpose that accelerates their rehabilitation," he added.

and Coast Guard prior to their illness or injury." "We have seen that participating in events like the Wounded Warrior Team Navy Trials provides wounded warriors a purpose that accelerates their rehabilitation," he added.

To access the full schedule of event visit http://safeharbor.navylive.dodlive.mil. The latest news also will be posted on Facebook at www.facebook.com/navysafeharbor.

For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cni/.

Official U.S. Navy file photo.The mouthwatering “Nivarata” Granita Festival returns to Acireale this weekend (June 6-8) featuring a plethora of artisanal granita-themed events such as tasting, workshops, confectionary exhibitions, workshops, guided walking tours to visit the city, arts and crafts and entertainment. (Photo By Nivarata Festival Press Office)

By Nivarata Festival Press Office

JUST SAY IT!

Learn These Words in Italian!

English: RussianItalian: russo

English: DutchItalian: olandese

English: SwedishItalian: svedese

Languages(second part)

Have fun practicing your Italian! Buona Fortuna!

English: IrishItalian: irlandese

English: ArabicItalian: arabo

English: ChineseItalian: cinese

U.S. navy heaDLIneS


By Theresa UrquillaClass of 2014 Sponsor

Congrats Grads!Sigonella Middle/High School has been shrinking over the last 5 years. Just like all other Department of Defense schools, the students come and go con-stantly, and usually three years in one location is a “long time”. That is what makes this year’s graduating class so special. Out of the 19 seniors graduating this year (four more than last year), 10 of these students have been here since their freshman year. That is what makes this year's graduation especially bitter sweet. Let me introduce you to the graduating class of 2014.

Halei BarnesHalei is the newest member of the class having just arrived on the island in January. She has been a tremendous example of adapting and even joined the softball team this spring. Halei plans to enjoy traveling in Europe while taking classes at UMUC for one year, and then attending Western Carolina University to become a nurse.

Erika Budny Erika has attended Sigonella all four years of high school. Having grown up in Italian schools her whole life, she made the transition to an American school her 9th grade year. Acclimating to an entirely different culture was not easy, but she not only adapted, she thrived. Erika plans to attend UMUC and later Key West Community College in Florida to become a nurse.

Jenna Buss

Jenna joined us her junior year and has proven to be a positive academic influence at this school. She played volleyball and soccer during her high school career. Jenna has been accepted to University of Iowa where she plans to major in biology and minor in Pre-Dental. Due to Jenna’s hard work she has earned the honor of being the Valedictorian this year! Congrats Jenna!

Seleí ChappellSeleí also joined us her junior year from Okinawa, Japan. She joined the cheer squad, student council and NJORTC and will be attending UMUC until she goes to school to major in nursing and minor in business. Eventually she plans to join the Air Force and go into Neonatal care.

Allison CruzAllison has been at Sigonella since September of her sophomore year. She participated in volleyball, cheer and soccer throughout her high school career. Allison plans to attend San Diego Miramar College.

Kevin EastinKevin is also new to Sigonella as of this year. He joined us in the fall having transferred here from Rota, Spain. Kevin played volleyball and baseball for his final year. Kevin plans to attend UMUC for one semester and then travel to Hawaii to attend Honolulu Community College.

Patrick GallagherPatrick joined the Sigonella family in January of his freshman year. He has played football and soccer throughout his four years. Patrick plans to attend a two year college and earn an associate’s and then join the United States Navy and become an explosive ordinance disposal technician.

Chelsea HintonChelsea joined us in February of her 8th grade year and did swim her freshman year, played volleyball, basketball and softball during all of her high school years. Chelsea plans to attend Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri.

Chris MillerChris Miller has attended Sigonella since 7th grade making him the second longest Sigonella attendee. He has played football, boy’s volleyball, baseball and soccer during his high school career. Chris plans to attend UMUC for one semester and then go to school in Florida and major in Biology.

Amanda RiveraAmanda attended Sigonella High School from her 10th year to her senior year. She participated in cross country, cheer and soccer during her three years here. Amanda plans to attend UMUC and eventually work towards a degree in Education. Amanda would like to major in Spanish and become a teacher.

Briana SchneiderBriana joined us during her junior year transferring from Virginia. She played soccer this year and plans to join the United States Navy and become an IT or train police dogs.

Alex MearesAlex came the summer before his freshman year and attended all four years of high school here. He participated in tennis, cross country, baseball, soccer and belonged to NJROTC. He plans to join the United States Navy and become an EMT/corpsman.

Halie GasporraHalie holds the record for living in Sigonella the longest! She has attended school here since her 1st grade year! She played volleyball, did cheer, basketball and soccer throughout all four years of high school. She was also involved in Student Council. Halie plans to follow her dreams, go to college and become a teacher, living life one day at a time.

Alex Goergen Alex has been here since the summer before her 8th grade year. She played soccer and due to a future transfer for her family, she worked very hard and will graduate ONE YEAR early! Alex plans to attend Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business in Tempe, Arizona and major in Business, Public Policy and Public Service.

Alessandro ThomasAlessandro arrived on the island January of his 9th grade year. He jumped right in and played football, volleyball, and soccer throughout his 4 years. Alessandro excelled in soccer and even played out in town. Alessandro will be attending DePaul University on a soccer scholarship and plans to major in Business Administration and Economics. Alessandro has received a $25,000 athletic scholarship and a $9,000 academic scholarship to attend DePaul University.

Guenda WeeksGuenda is one of our other four year Sigonella High School graduates. She has participated in NJROTC here at Sigonella to get her ready for a career in the military. She will be entering the United States Air Force as enlisted and would like to work in radiology.

Chiara ZuccarelloChiara along with Kevin joined us for her last year in high school. She transferred here from France and participated in music and choir during her senior year. Chiara can speak English, Italian, and French. She plans to take a year to travel and get ready to take theatre and film courses in the future.

Krystian UrquillaKrystian arrived the summer before her 8th grade year. She did cheer and softball as well as student council and FEA (Future Educator’s Association) all four years of high school. Krystian will attend Kansas State University this fall. Krystian plans to major in Elementary Education and Minor in Theatre Arts. Krystian has earned the honor of being this year’s salutatorian.

Gunnar Smith

Gunnar came to Sigonella his junior year and kept active the whole time! He participated in golf, wrestling, track, volleyball, football, basketball and baseball through all four years of high school. Gunnar plans to attend UMUC here in Sigonella until he is accepted into the US Air Force.


ON THE GO WITH MWR

Friday, June 6*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Stuffed Baked Fish , Mess Lords Meat Loaf, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Cauliflower, Cookies, Ice Cream.*Speed line: Chicken Patties Sandwich, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Spaghetti w/ Fish Sauce, Rice Pilaf, Steamed Whole Corn, Cookies.

Saturday, June 7*Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Bacon, Creamed Beef, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Beef Vegetable Soup, Baked Chicken, Beef Stroganoff, Egg Noodles, Oven Brown Potatoes, Broccoli, Chicken Gravy, Hot Dog w/Chili Sauce, Cookies.*Dinner: Broccoli Soup, Tacos, Burritos, Enchiladas, Mexican Rice, Refried Beans, Jalapeno Cornbread, Cookies.

Sunday, June 8*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak, Creamed Beef, French Toast Puff, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Egg Drop Soup, Breaded Pork, Swiss Steak, W/Mushroom Gravy, Macaroni & Cheese, Hot Dog W/Chili Sauce, Italian Roasted Potatoes , Carrots, Cake.*Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Pasta Alfredo, Roast Beef, Chicken Nuggets, Hot Dog W/Chili Sauce, Fried Rice, Cauliflower au Gratin, Cake.

Monday, June 9*Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Italian Roasted Potatoes, French Toast.*Lunch: Chicken Noodle Soup, Hamburger Yakisoba, Baked Fish, Chicken Breast in Orange Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, Summer Squash, Steamed Peas, Brown Gravy, Yellow Cake, Ice Cream.*Speed line: Pizza.*Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Barbecued Chicken, Beef Pot Pie, Pasta Chef, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Chicken Gravy, Yellow Cake.

Tuesday, June 10*Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles. *Lunch: Spanish Soup, Tacos, Burritos, Enchiladas, Mexican Rice, Refried Rice, Calico Corn, Herbed Broccoli, Jalapeno Cornbread, Oatmeal Nut Cookies, Apple Pie, Ice cream.*Speed line: Pasta Bar.Dinner: Beef Rice Soup, Sauerbraten, Penne alla Norma, Fish W/ Tomato Cherry, Lyonnais Rice, Vegetable Stir Fry, Natural Pan Gravy Cake.

Wednesday, June 11*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Beef, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Pancakes.*Lunch: Beef Vegetable Soup, Baked Fish w/ Tomato, Sweet & Sour Chicken, Pasta Chef, Steamed Rice, Cauliflower, Tangy Spinach, Cake, Ice Cream.*Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Turkey Burger, Baked Bacon, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Pepper Steak, Pasta al Forno, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Green Beans, Cake.

Thursday, June 12*Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, French Toast.*Lunch: Onion Soup, Roast Turkey, Lasagna, Pork Chop w/Mushroom Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Mix Vegetables, Simmered Cauliflower, Vanilla Cookies, Ice Cream..Speed line: Philly Cheese Steak, Onion Rings, Macaroni & Cheese .Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Meatballs Stroganoff, Penne Amatriciana, Fish Portion, Rice Pilaf, Simmered Carrots, Vanilla Cookies.

Friday, June 13*Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Asstd. Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles.*Lunch: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Meat loaf, Pasta Chef, Chipper Fish, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Herbed Broccoli, Cake.Speed line: Hamburger, Cheeseburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Breast, Ham Steak, Rice Pilaf, Spaghetti w/ Fish Sauce, Green Beans, Cake.

As a reminder, all dependents are always welcome at the galley!Please provide any negative or positive feedback. There is a suggestion box near the entrance to the galley, next to the serving line.

I Am Beyond: Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month at USNH Sigonella

U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Executive Officer, Capt. John Lamberton, dances the Tinikling with a smile as he is cheered on by Hospitalman 3rd Class Mark Remoroza and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Roslyn Ablian. (US Navy Photo by Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Matthew Clutter/Released)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - With the hot Sicilian summer looming ahead, Outdoor Recreation (ODR) is developing new outdoor programs that allow the Sigonella community to stay cool while enjoying the outdoors. Sicily’s scenic and tranquil coastal waters are perfect for standup paddleboarding (SUP). SUP is a variation of surfing where the surfer uses a paddle to move through the water while standing on a surfboard. SUP originated in Hawaii in the 1960s as a way for beach boys to take photos of tourists learning to surf and eventually gained a following from surfers who wanted to train when the surf was down. SUP is now one of the fastest growing outdoor sporting activities due to its versatility because, unlike surfing, no waves are needed and you can SUP in harbors, lakes and rivers. In addition to a unique way to explore the coastline, SUP provides an excellent, low-impact workout for the entire body. Leg, back and abdominal

muscles must work together to help maintain balance, while shoulders, back and arms help propel the paddleboard through the water. SUP can be tailored to any speed, allowing a strenuous pace for a more intense workout or a leisurely cruise on the water. Although the Sicilian coast is relatively safe, it is not recommended to SUP in winds greater than 10 knots and participants should always be aware of weather conditions, tides and navigation. In order to manage energy efficiently, it is suggested to paddle into the wind first, ensuring the paddle back in will be easier than the paddle out. Additionally, SUP is an activity that is only appropriate for those that can swim and are comfortable in the water. ODR is offering beginner SUP clinics in June and July. ODR also rents SUPs, inflatable SUPs, life jackets and car racks. For more information on SUP clinics, rentals and good locations to SUP, stop by the ITT Office or give them a call at 624-47777.

Stand-up Paddleboarding: A popular summer outdoor activity

Two active duty members split bingo jackpotBy hM2 JoSePh CaSTroU.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

Midtown Movie TheatersSchedule & Descriptions

Friday, June 65:00 PM Mom's Night Out PG5:30 PM The Quite Ones PG-137:30 PM Edge of Tomorrow 3D PG-13 8:00 PM The Other Woman PG-13

Saturday, June 72:00 PM X-Men: Future Past 3D PG-132:30 PM Brick Mansions PG-134:30 PM Amazing Spiderman 2 PG-135:00 PM Edge of Tomorrow PG-137:30 PM Neighbors R

Sunday, June 8 2:00 PM Heaven is for Real PG2:30 PM A Haunted House 2 R4:30 PM Neighbors R5:00 PM Godzilla PG-13*7:30 PM Mom's Night Out PG.

Tuesday, June 105:00 PM Amazing Spiderman2 3D PG-135:30 PM Neighbors R7:30 PM X-Men: Future Past PG-138:00 PM Edge of Tomorrow 3D PG-13

Wednesday, June 115:00 PM Heaven is for Real PG5:30 PM Trancendence PG-137:30 PM X-Men: Future Past 3D PG-138:00 PM A Haunted House 2 R

Thursday, June 125:00 PM Edge of Tomorrow PG-135:30 PM Mom's Night Out PG7:30 PM Amazing Soiderman 2 PG-138:00 PM The Quite Ones PG-13

Friday, June 132:00 PM How to Train a Dragon PG5:00 PM How to Train a Dragon 2 PG5:30 PM Mom's Night Out PG7:30 PM Million Dollar Arm PG 8:00 PM Edge of Tomorrow PG-13

Saturday, June 142:00 PM Train a Dragon 2 3D PG2:30 PM Brick Mansions PG-134:30 PM Million Dollar Arm PG5:00 PM Godzilla PG-137:30 PM Edge of Tomorrow PG-13

Sunday, June 15 2:00 PM The Quite Ones PG-132:30 PM The Other Woman PG-134:30 PM Godzilla 3D PG-135:00 PM X-Men: Future Past PG-137:30 PM Neighbors R

Movie Premiere

Same Day Release

Free Movie

Last Show

HOW TO TRAIN A DRAGON 2 2D/3D.....PGSTARRING: Jay Baruchel, Kristen Wiig, America Ferrera

When Hiccup and Toothless discover an ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace (102 m.)

BRICK MANSIONS ... PG-13STARRING: Paul Walker, David Belle, RZA

An undercover Detroit cop navigates a dangerous neighborhood that's surrounded by a containment wall with the help of an ex-con in order to bring down a crime lord and his plot to devastate the entire city. (90 m.)

GODZILLA 2D & 3D ... PG-13STARRING: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston

The world's most famous monster is pitted against malevolent creatures who, bolstered by humanity's scientific arrogance, threaten our very existence. (123 m.)

MILLION DOLLAR ARM... PGSTARRING: John Hamm, Aasif Mandvi, Alan Arkin

A sports agent stages an unconventional recruitment strategy to get talented Indian cricket players to play Major League Baseball. (124 m.)

MOM’S NIGHT OUT... PGSTARRING: Sarah Drew, Sean Astin, Patricia Heaton

All Allyson and her friends want is a peaceful, grown-up evening of dinner and fun - a long-needed moms' night out. they need their husbands to watch the kids for a few hours ... what could go wrong? (98 m.)

NEIGHBORS... RSTARRING: Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne, Zach Efron

A couple with a newborn baby face unexpected difficulties after they are forced to live next to a fraternity house (96 m.)

THE QUITE ONES...PG-13STARRING: Jared Harris, Sam Claflin, Olivia Cooke

A professor and a team of students conduct an experiment on a woman, uncovering terrifyingly dark, unexpected forces in the process. (98 m.)

X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST 2D & 3D… ... PG-13STARRING: Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman

The X-Men send Wolverine to the past in a desperate effort to change history and prevent an event that results in doom for humans and mutants. (131 m.)

EDGE OF TOMORROW ... PG-13STARRING: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton

A soldier fighting in a war with aliens finds himself caught in a time loop of his last day in the battle, though he becomes better skilled along the way. (113 m.)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The doors to the Chart Room opened Tuesday, May 27 as usual as 165 bingo players gathered to try their luck at winning the $7,500 jackpot that night. Two extremely lucky active duty service members won the jackpot in 60 numbers, each becoming $3,750 richer. Jackpot winner Chief Marine Science Technician Thomas Watts with the U.S. Coast Guard has been playing bingo for five weeks ever since his unit arrived on temporary assigned duty from California. “I’ve really enjoyed bingo. It was a great way to spend a Tuesday night.” Watts said. With his orders in Sigonella coming to an end, Aviation Support Equipment Technician First Class Jessie Smith also went home a winner that night, receiving what most would consider a generous parting gift. An avid golfer, Smith plans to buy a new set of clubs with his winnings. Smith also had a thoughtful surprise planned in which he did not reveal the fine details.

Bingo ran for seven months starting last October and running through May 27. Bingo will take an intermission during the summer months and start again this October. For more information, please call 624-0502.

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Dance performances, lively music and great food colored U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s celebration of Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, May 28.

“Diversity is one of our greatest strengths as an organization,” said Lcdr.Benedict Baidoo, head of the Hospital’s Diversity Committee. “Today is just another celebration of what makes our Navy uniquely equipped in the 21st century.”

Like most commemorative months, Asian-Pacific Heritage Month originated in a congressional bill. In June 1977, Reps. Frank Horton of New York and Norman Y. Minet a of California introduced a House resolution that called upon the president to proclaim the first ten days of May as Asian-Pacific Heritage Week. The following month, senators Daniel Inouye and Spark Matsunaga introduced a similar bill in the Senate. Both were passed. On October 5, 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a Joint Resolution designating the annual celebration. Twelve years later, President George H.W. Bush signed an extension making the week-long celebration into a month-long celebration. In 1992, the official designation of May as Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month was signed into law.

The theme of the celebration, “I Am Beyond.”, underscored how Americans of

Asian and Pacific Islander descent have thrived and made significant contributions in their communities despite the past challenges that came their way. The audience was treated to a multitude of performances ranging from the Hula, a popular dance originating from the Hawaiian islands, to the Tinikling, a Filipino dance which involves two people striking and sliding bamboo poles on the ground and against each other while dancers step over and in between to their beat. All the performers were staffers from U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella along with some family members as well.

The guest speaker for the ceremony was Mr. Bonifacio Cabling, Executive Director of NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella, a retired Navy Supply Corps Officer who is of Filipino descent. “Today, 16.6 million U. S. citizens are ethnically classified as Asian-Pacific American,” he pointed out. “Their successes have epitomized our celebration’s theme, I Am Beyond, by not only changing the way we view America –they have also transformed the way we experience the world.”

Beyond the fanfare from the dance routines and the food, celebrating diversity not only recognizes the achievements of all Americans from different cultures but it also increases awareness, promotes mutual respect and builds the harmony that makes our nation diverse and united.

By LeSLIe ParkS MWR Outdoor Recreation

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Build a cardboard boat and see how your creation fares in the water at the July 4th Red, White, & Boom Celebration. Must have 2 participants in each boat during race. Only cardboard and duct tape are allowed as building materials for both boat and paddles. At the end of the race, challenge other competitors to Bumper Boat Battleship and see who is the last to stay af loat! A chance to win great prizes while having tons of fun! For more information, please call 624-5602.

John Paul Jones Cardobard Boat Race will be held July 4th at NAS I Splashers Pool

Family members and staffers from U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella perform the Hula, a Polynesian Dance originating from the Hawaiian islands, as part of the celebration for Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Matthew Clutter/Released)

Movie schedule is subject to change. Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248


DIF

FICU

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GaMe Zone

MED

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Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.The remaining 39 letters spell a secret message.

VolleyballAPPROACHASSISTATTACKBLOCKINGBUMPCAPTAINCOACHCOURTDEFENCEDOUBLE HITDUMPFAULTFLOATERFOOTWORKFORMATIONSFOULGAME

HITTERKILLKNEE PADSLIBEROMATCHOFFENCEPASSPLAYERSPOINTSQUICK HITRALLYREFEREEROTATIONSAVESCORESERVESETS

SETTERSHANKSHOTSIDELINESSIDE OUT SKY BALLSLIDESPIKINGSPORTSUBSTITUTIONTANDEMTEAMSTOPSPINTRAJECTORYVERTICAL JUMPWEAK SIDEWIPE

"Skipper has the results"

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - A few days ago, I had the privilege of notifying several VP-9 Sailors of their selection for promotion. I was one of those “old salts” who advocated for early release of advancement results to the chain of command, prior to public release via social media. I have seen the comments on Facebook and know that the change is not universally popular, but I wanted to take a minute to say thank you for this policy change and to explain, as a Commanding Officer, what I learned from getting to personally deliver good news to some deserving Sailors.

Prior to the release of the results, our command Triad talked about how we would make sure the results got out to our Sailors. We felt it was important to personally notify anyone in danger of reaching High Year Tenure as a result of non-selection before we started congratulating Sailors selected for promotion. That conversation with my Command Master Chief, my Executive Officer and my Career Counselor was a chance for us to discuss our command’s Career Development Board process and what we were doing for our people who were not reaching their career goals. It was also an opportunity to learn about the manning issues in some of our rates, as our community and the Navy change to meet the challenges of the future. Though I get the monthly reports like every CO, thinking about telling Sailors that their future employment in the Navy made career development much more personal for me.

Once the results came out on BUPERS Online, my CMC and I poured over the list, making sure we accounted for people on day check or night check or liberty. The first person I notified was our Media Communications Specialist, because we planned to immediately put her to work taking pictures of her shipmates getting their good news. Being able to call a hard working Sailor “Petty Officer” for the first time is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

One of my favorite memories of the day was delivering the news to three of our Aviation Machinist’s Mates. They were all out on the flight line, conducting daily inspections on our P-3C’s. On one aircraft, we had an AD2, an AD3 and an ADAN select, all working together with no idea that they had all been selected for promotion. In a rate where team work is so important, it was incredible to have three individuals share such a great moment of professional accomplishment. Advancement is a team sport; no one makes it alone.

By the time we had notified a handful of Sailors, the entire command was caught up in the excitement and closely following our progress around the hangar. Word quickly got around that “Skipper has the results.” After weekly Professional Military Knowledge

training taught by our First Class Petty Officer’s Association, many hours of work on evaluations and awards and a lot of genuine concerns for shipmates, advancement results became an event for the entire command, not just our 31 selectees.

The process did not go completely smoothly. One of our selectees is a Prospective Gain, on leave enroute to our squadron from another command. When we contacted her sponsor, we found out that no one had yet talked to her and we did not have her contact information readily available. After some diligent effort, we were able to track down a cell phone number and leave a message for a future Golden Eagle and Second Class Petty Officer. I am actually grateful for our difficulties; they helped me understand how difficult it is to track down a PG and what our sponsors have to go through to reach out prior to a new check-in’s arrival. This experience reminded me that our command climate programs like the Sponsorship Program need attention on a regular basis to remain effective.

One of the hardest parts of the process was seeing the faces of hopeful Sailors fall as they realized that I did not have congratulations for them. Going through every shop delivering the news made the advancement results personal for me and made me think about what we could be doing better to make sure that next time, we help even more Sailors achieve their goals. Walking around, calling your Sailors by name and taking a hard look at how you could have done better is a humbling experience. I think that that I will be a better leader for it.

As a CO, one of the things I hate to hear is “Skipper, I know you are busy.” I spend a lot of time in my office, chopping through blue folders and answering email. I am always afraid that the large number of “administrative distractions” inherent in my job give Sailors the impression that I don’t have time for them as individuals. Personally delivering advancement results gave me the opportunity to demonstrate that, even in a busy deployed command, there is time for the CO to get out from behind a computer, look the real people who get the job done in the eye, and say “Congratulations on a job well done.” Saying that your People Matter is one thing; having the opportunity to show them by your actions takes it to another level. Top left: Master Chief Robert Tyo, Command Master Chief of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9, congratulates Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Brittney Mueller on her advancement to Petty Officer Second Class. Top right: Cdr. Katrina Hill, Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9, congratulates Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Angela Harris on her advancement to Petty Officer First Class. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Amber Porter/Released)

By CDr kaTI hILLCommanding Officer Patrol Squadron Nine


oversight of the participating ships. The information sharing procedures at the MOC further enhanced interoperability of all involved.

“This exercise is very important so we can share our skill sets and capabilities with one another,” said Hellenic Navy, Lt. Cmdr. Chris Tasiopoulos. “It’s a two-way street because we’re able to share our knowledge and skills while being able to take away knowledge and skills from the participating countries.”

There were various exercise scenarios that included illegal fishing, illicit trafficking, and other maritime security scenarios that could potentially disrupt global trade in the Mediterranean Sea.

Hajj added that this year, a goal was set by exercise officials to integrate leaders from the participating nations within the MOC.

“The focus is really to try and get more and more of a leadership role from the African nations specifically and they really stepped up to the plate,” Hajj said. “Participants from all of the countries have taken an increased leadership role in the exercise itself and that’s really our goal.”

Along with focusing on the African nations being active leaders during the exercise scenarios, another main goal during Phoenix Express 2014 was to focus on increased interoperability between the partnering nations and the overall security of the region. Some other skills that were tested throughout the exercise included boarding techniques, search and rescue operations, medical casualty response, radio communication, and information management techniques.

According to Hajj and others who had active roles in this year’s exercise, the ability to be personally involved had a positive impact for all service members, no matter what country’s military they represented.

“When you work together, especially face-to-face, that really helps to build those relationships and sets the stage for the future,” Hajj said. “Once you have worked with another partner and get to know them, it makes it that much easier to cooperate and coordinate when it comes to real world operations.”

Countries who participated in PE-14 were Algeria, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Libya, Malta, Morocco, Tunisia, Turkey and the United States.

“With Phoenix Express, we operate together and we can build our camaraderie and team spirit with each other,” Tasiopoulos said.

"PE" continued from page 1

crows for the first time,” Deaton said. “Being able to be recognized for everything I’ve accomplished in the Navy is a tremendous feeling.”

Responsibility of self and others seemed to be the theme during the entire ceremony, but the newest NAS Sigonella petty officers are up to the task and ready for whatever the Navy and life will throw at them next.

“It’s about you proving to yourself, proving to your shipmates, and proving to the Navy that you’re ready to take on increased responsibility,” Dennis said.

The remaining NAS Sigonella Sailors will be frocked within the next couple weeks and weren’t able to have their new chevrons pinned on due to leave, in transit to base, or watch standing duties.

MC1 TONY CURTISABH1 ABEL CHOLICO ABH1 JAMIE GIBSON MA2 NICOLE FOY AC2 DANIEL GAONA MA2 HAROLD HOWARD JR

MA2 JONATHAN JOHNSON MA2 MICHELLE THOMAS MA2 CHARLES WEBB MA3 CODY ARNOLD MA3 JUSTIN BOYER LS3 ISAEL CRUZDIAZ

MA3 RACHEL DEATON MA3 DANIEL HILL MA3 BETHANY HITCHMAN MA3 NICKOLAS LAMBERT LS3 JUSTIN LIM MA3 GABRIEL OLIVARES JR

MA3 ZACHARY SIPOS MA3 TYLER TILEBEIN RP3 KATIE WILKINS

"advancement" continued from page 1

A team from Navy Munitions Command Sigonella attempts to “patch a pipe” at a challenge station during the Navy Heritage Run, May 30 on NAS I. The idea for this challenge station was from the attack on the USS Cole and created by members of the Naval Air Station Sigonella Chief Petty Officer Association. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

2014 Heritage Run

A team made-up of United States coastguardsmen work together using a water balloon launcher at a challenge station during the Navy Heritage Run, May 30. At the station, each team was allowed to shoot ten water balloons at mock targets which would take an allotted amount of seconds or minutes (per target) off their final time. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)

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The SIGnaTUrePaGe 16 June 6, 2014

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The Signature June 6, 2014