March 1 issue, "The Signature"

Scan for direct linksto NAS Sigonella

Community Service

Service members help clean up beach areas.

PAGE 7

Celebrity Visit

Special USO visit brings American

celebrities.

PAGE 8

Rugby Show Down

Sigonella Hoplites face Malta national

rugby team.

PAGE 10

QUOTE OF THE WEEK"The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it but that it is too low and we reach it"

- Michelangelo

Rear Adm. Anthony Gaiani, commander of Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia Command (right) presents the Non-Article 5 NATO Medal to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler during an all hands call at NAS Sigonella's operational base, February 22. Gaiani also presented NAS Sigonella with the Meritorious Unit Commendation for efforts during Operations Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector. NAS Sigonella provides logistical support for Commander, U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets and NATO forces in the Mediterranean. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham/Released)

NAS Sigonella receives awards for support during Libya operations

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella received the Non-Article 5 NATO Medal and Meritorious Unit Commendation for the installation’s efforts

during Operations Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector. The awards were presented by Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA), Rear Adm. Anthony Gaiani during an all hands call at NAS Sigonella’s operational base, February 22.

Operation Unified Protector took place from March 23 to October 31, 2011 as a result of the uprising against Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. NATO adopted U.N. Security Council Resolution 1973, authorizing member states to take “all necessary measures” to protect civilians in Libya.

Due to NAS Sigonella’s strategic vicinity to Tripoli, Libya (about 350 miles) the installation became a primary

location for many of the aircraft enforcing the no-fly zone that formed the central component of NATO’s Operation Unified Protector.

“In my view, there is no base anywhere in the world today that has consistently proven its value (in terms of shore fighting capacity and capability), particularly in Operations Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector,” Gaiani said. “I’m happy to say that today you’re being recognized for that work.”

The installation’s operational pace increased from supporting logistical operations (with three to five aircraft conducting seven to ten flights a month) to supporting air supremacy missions (with 45 to 55 aircraft from the eight NATO and non-NATO countries flying daily operations). NAS Sigonella facilitated the movement of 28,000 passengers, more than 13,000 tons of cargo,

and nearly 24 million gallons of fuel to 3,856 separate transient aircraft. In addition, the base supported 27,516 flight operations, a 243-percent increase over operations in 2010.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the people in this room," said Gaiani. "This is a team effort, so when I say congratulations, I mean all of you – Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Italians, military and civilian government service and contractors.”

Following the presentation of the awards, Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Butler addressed the Sigonella community. “It doesn’t matter who gets the honor of commanding this base,” Butler said. “It’s the work that each of you do every day and it’s the Italian-American team that makes this base such a special place to live and work.”

by mc3 cameron bramhamNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

The

SIGnaTUreSIGoneLLa, SIcILy

March 1, 2013 cnic.navy.mil/sigonellaVol. 30. No. 8

The SIGnaTUrePaGe 2 march 1, 2013 The SIGnaTUre PaGe 3march 1, 2013

NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief David GrahamBuongiorno Sigonellans!First of all, let me take a moment to

thank all the special guests who stopped by Sigonella during the Spring Troop visit on Tuesday. Their visit was courtesy of the USO and MWR. I was very pleased with the turnout and I know everyone involved had a great time. Our guests really seemed to enjoy themselves as well due to that great Sigonella hospitality! It’s always a great feeling to have such distinguished visitors take time out of their extremely busy schedules to come out and show their appreciation for everything you do and the sacrifices you and your families make every day. The USO and MWR are always working hard to bring a little bit of home to our service men and women stationed abroad.

In light of this recent event, let’s keep in mind that during this time of financial uncertainty with the continuing resolution and other pending budget cuts within the military, some of the programs that MWR offers will either be scaled back or cancelled completely. As the Skipper said a couple of

weeks ago, this will not affect any active duty pay, retirement, medical benefits, or tuition assistance and family programs. Quite honestly, the reality that we may see is reduced hours at the gym and other MWR facilities and a reduction of some ITT trips. I know everyone involved is working very hard and will ensure that MWR continues to meet the needs of service members and their families. Everyone knows how vitally important these programs are to the morale and welfare of our community.

On the topic of safety, I want to remind everyone that one of our main concerns is drinking and driving and that it is NEVER okay. But another issue of concern is that of speeding on base. There are numerous crosswalks all throughout NAS I and NAS II, including many along main thoroughfares and speeding down these roads is not only illegal but highly dangerous. I’ve asked the good folks in security to start cracking down on this, as it poses a serious threat for pedestrian traffic throughout Sigonella. Be mindful of all posted speed limits and help keep our community safe! NAS I and

Marinai are 20 kph and NAS II is 30 kph.Finally, I’d like to say good luck to

all those participating in the upcoming advencement exam cycle. Break out your BIB’s and study hard. Even though the exam structure has changed to be more rating knowledge intensive, do not neglect the General Military Knowledge. These can be easy points to pick up by just knowing the policies and procedures we live with every day. Don’t let something like not knowing fingernail length stop you from picking up the next paygrade! Again, good luck to everyone and I look forward to seeing all of you at the next frocking ceremony.

DRIV

E SA

FELYNASSIG WORSHIP SERVICESROMAN CATHOLICSunday■ 8:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS I Chapel)■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS II Chapel)Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass

PROTESTANTnaS I Chapel SatuRday■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services Sunday■ 10 a.m. traditional Worship

OTHER SERVICES/ACTIVITIES

LATTER-DAY SAINTS Sunday at 3 p.m. (naS I Chapel)Contact: [email protected] or 624-9049

CHURCH OF CHRIST LAY SERVICEnoon Bible Study (naS 1)12:30 p.m. Worship ServiceContact Virgil Strobridge at 624-4779 or Reginald Mcneil at 335-578-8519

■ aa Meetings: Monday, naS I at 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday, naS II at 11:30 a.m. Contact: 346-840-7745

The SIGnaTUreU.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLACommanding OfficerCapt. Scott ButlerExecutive OfficerCmdr. Eric VoslerCommand Master ChiefCMDCM David Graham

EDITORIAL

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Tim Page [email protected]

Communtiy Relations Officer Dott. Alberto [email protected]

Editor Jackie [email protected]

Staff Writers/PhotographersMR1 Gary [email protected]

MC3 Cameron [email protected]

CONTRIBUTINGWriters/PhotographersLt. Mike BurnsHM2 Matthew ClutterLynne GanttShawn McCarthyHM3 Luis PrietuYN2 Geoffrey Ward

CONTACT USNaval Air Station Sigonella, [email protected] 624-5440; 095-86-5440PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627

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 advertisingin this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD orStampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publications hall 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 policyby an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violationis 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/sigonellaChapel Offices: naS I 095-56-3975, naS II 095-86-9049, dSn: 624-3975, CHAPLAIN DUTY: 335-831-4493 RP DUTY: 335-786-1950

Rear Admiral Roegge recognizes CTF-67Rear Admiral Frederick J. Roegge, Deputy Commander,

U.S. 6th Fleet visited Naval Air Station Sigonella on February 21 and visited with the members of CTF-67. Roegge is the director of operations and intelligence for U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and commands all U.S. and Allied submarines in the region.

During his visit he recognized all hands for the extremely important and meaningful support they have provided to maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft (MPRA) within the Sixth Fleet area of responsibility. CTF-67 provides mission support to deployed squadrons, enabling war fighters to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to Fifth and Sixth

Fleet. Additionally, these squadrons maintain maritime dominance, both below and above the seas, through their expertise in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, maritime domain awareness, and maritime support operations.

Roegge also emphasized the achievements of Shelley Lutz, who was recently selected as the Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe Junior Civilian of the Quarter, fourth quarter, 2012. Lutz is the executive secretary for CTF-67 and expertly manages and schedules all command evolutions and administrative actions, allowing the officers and Sailors of CTF-67 to focus on operational support to deployed MPRA squadrons.

by LT mIke bUrnSCTF-67

Shelley Lutz, executive secretary for CTF-67, (left) receives the Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe Junior Civilian of the Quarter, fourth quarter, 2012 award from Rear Admiral Frederick J. Roegge, on February 21. (U.S. Navy photo by YN2 Geoffrey Ward)

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler (center) signed a proclamation for Military Saves Week in front of an audience of NAS Sigonella base and tenant Command Financial Specialists and NAS Sigonella Fleet and Family Support Center members in the Commanding Officer’s conference room on NAS II, February 20. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler (center) signed a proclamation kicking-off Military Saves Week, February 25 - March 2.

In support of Military Saves Week, Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) held a Command Financial Speciailist (CFS) Continuing Education Forum for base and tenant CFS members. They also hosted a Military Saves information table at Midtown Plaza at NAS I, on February 26. Command financial budgeting sessions are available by request. Anyone interested in requesting a session can call 624-4291 for more information.

Military Saves Week focuses on importance of saving by mc3 cameron bramhamNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Volunteer Xiomara Bowes provides information to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella service and community members at an information booth inside the commissary on February 21. The booth was set-up in conjunction with Navy Federal Credit Union for Military Saves Campaign. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

March 1 and 2 ONLY!

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ryan Kingarthur looks over an information booth set-up in the commissary by Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Health Promotion’s Office, February 21. The booth was presented to NAS Sigonella service and community members for the Great American Spit Out (GASpO). The idea for the GASpO is that anyone who is interested in quitting smokeless tobacco can commit for a 24-hour period of staying tobacco-free. According to the website ucanquit2.com, anyone who takes that ‘small step’ can get closer to the path of quitting smokeless tobacco forever. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

GASpO helps make quitters

Mt. Etna southeast crater at it againOn the evening of February 23, Mt. Etna's new southeast crater erupted and lava shot into the air like a fountain. This eruption was two-and-a-half days after an eruption from the same crater and 36 hours after an eruption at the Bocca Nuova summit area, as reported by the Catania Volcanology Institute. The eruption on February 23 was more intense than the previous eruptions with lava fountains between 600-800 meters high. An eruption cloud filled with ash was blown northeast by strong winds. The eruption phase lasted less than an hour. (Photo by Shawn McCarthy)

Don't forget to join us for Feedback Live on Thursday, March 7 with Naval Air Station Sigonella's Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler, Command Master Chief David Graham and AFN host.

Ask your questions live on the air by calling 624-4265, post them on facebook.com/nassigonella during the show, or ask them in advance by filling out the feedback live form at http://sigonella.afneurope.net/FeedbackQuestion/tabid/705/Default.aspx.

Feedback Live airs at 6:30 p.m. on AFN Prime Atlantic, satellite decoder channel 20 (for those who live on the economy) and simulcast on 105.9 FM. Tune in and get your questions answered from the top!

Direct Line What’s Happening Around nAS SigonellA


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.

C o M M u n i T Y C A l e n d A r

MArCH 2 0 1 3

Friday

1Broadway Tonight!7 p.m. Knights Hall

NMCRS Active DutyFund Drive kick-offNAS I Chart Room

11a.m. - Noon

Saturday

2Broadway Tonight!2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Knights Hall

Weekend Dance Party*

10 p.m. at Jox

*EVERY SATURDAY

Sunday

3

Monday

4$1 bowling and

shoe rental*Sparetime bowling

NMCRS Active DutyFund Drive car wash

NAS II Autoport10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

*EVERY MONDAY

Tuesday

5Average Joe's

Bowling*6 - 9 p.m.

Sparetime bowling

NMCRS Active DutyFund Drive breakfast

NAS II Gate7 - 11 a.m.

*EVERY TUESDAY

Wednesday

6Youth Boot Camp*

3 - 5 p.m.NAS I Fit District

Bible Study*7 p.m.

NAS II Chapel

*EVERY WEDNESDAY

Thursday

7 Feedback Live6:30 p.m. on AFN

Prime Atlantic, Satel-lite decoder channel 20 and simulcast on

105.9 FMCall in questions live

on air: 624-4265

8



9

NMCRS Active DutyFund Drive car show

NAS I Annex9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

CPR/AED/First Aid Class

9 a.m. - 4:30 a.m.

10

11



12

NMCRS Active DutyFund Drive breakfast

NAS II Gate7 - 11 a.m.

13Story Time*10 - 11 a.m.

NAS I Library

Bingo*6 p.m. NAS I

Compass Room

*EVERY WEDNESDAY

14

NMCRS Active DutyFund Drive Jail & Bail

NAS II Security7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

15

Family Night Out*5 - 8 p.m.

Sparetime bowling

*EVERY FRIDAY

16

Base 2 Base7.6 mile run/walk and 1/2

Marathon

Babysitter's Training9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

17

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

Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248 FFSC: x4291American 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:

Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Bldg.Bldg. 319 (NAS I)

Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.DSN: 624-4291 Commercial: 095-56-4291

Applying for a loan is a common first step toward buying a home, buying a car or going back to school. The application process itself can be stressful, and there’s nothing worse than hearing your loan application was denied. Even with a steady income and a good payment history, your loan application could be rejected because you already have too much debt. Lenders use a variety of financial ratios to predict your ability to pay back your loan. Monitoring these financial ratios will not only help you gauge the likelihood of qualifying for a loan, but you’ll also be able to spot the warning signs of debt before you get in over your head.

There are five important ratios. 1. Assets to debt ratio: Measures your financial

solvency. Assets are things you own that are worth money—cash, stocks, bonds or a house. Your debt is what you owe others—car loan, home mortgage, credit card balance or personal loan. The assets to debt ratio is calculated by dividing your assets by your debt. Example: if your total assets equal $40,000 and your total debt equals $80,000, your asset to debt ratio would be 0.50 or 50 percent. This ratio means you owe twice as much as you own. With a 50 percent assets to debt ratio, you’d technically be considered financially insolvent, even if you make enough money to cover your current debt on time. A ratio greater than 1 (100 percent) means you own more than you owe. Keeping your ratio above 1 will put you in a better place to qualify for a loan.

2. Basic liquidity ratio: Measures how long you can make it without an income. The basic liquidity ratio is your total savings divided by your monthly expenses, for a total of how many months you can survive on your savings. Example: if you have $6,000 stashed away in a savings account and your monthly expenses are $2,000 per month, your basic liquidity ratio would be three months. Your emergency fund should always have enough money to cover at least three months of living expenses. If it doesn’t, you're more likely to be rejected by a lender—not to mention the problems you may face if you lose your income.

3. Debt service to gross income ratio: Shows you if your monthly debt, including your mortgage,

is too high. This ratio looks at all of your monthly debt payments—including your mortgage—com-pared to your monthly pay before taxes and other deductions are withheld. To calculate this ratio, add up your monthly debt payments and divide the total by your monthly gross pay. Example: if your monthly gross pay is $2,800 and your total debt payments are $1,000 per month, your ratio would be 0.36—or 36 percent of your gross income is needed to pay your debts each month. If your mort-gage payment exceeds 30 percent of your income, you may have difficulty getting other types of loans.

4. Debt payments to take-home pay ratio: Shows you if your monthly debt not including your mortgage is too high. This ratio looks at your after-tax income—or take-home pay—compared to your non-mortgage monthly debt payments. To figure this out, add up your monthly debt (not including your mortgage payment) and divide that number by your monthly take-home pay. Example, if your monthly take-home pay is $2,000 and you have monthly debt of $400 without your mortgage, the ratio is 0.20 or 20 percent. To qualify for a loan, you’ll want to keep your debt payments to take-home pay ratio well below 20 percent. The closer you get to that level the harder, and more expensive, it will be to get credit.

5. Savings ratio: Tells you whether you are saving enough money. The best way to build up your assets is to spend less than you earn and save the extra money. But how do you know if you’re saving enough? Divide your monthly gross income by the amount you’re saving each month. Example: your monthly gross pay is $2,000 and you’re saving $200 a month, your savings ratio is 0.10 or 10 percent. Financial experts recommend that you save 15 percent to 20 percent of your gross income, which includes pre-tax contributions to retirement accounts, such as the Thrift Savings Plan or a 401(k).

Now you've learned how to calculate ratios that'll help you monitor your financial health. For more information or to speak with a financial specialist come to the FFSC or call to set up an appointment, DSN: 624-4291 or commercial 095 56 4291.

Action plan: monitor your financial healthby SaveanDInveST.orG


by DoTT. aLberTo LUneTTaCommunity Relations Officer

Yellow mimosa flowers are the colorful and distinctive symbol of "Women's Day, an international celebration raising awareness of women's rights and advocating gender equality. On March 8, Italians give those colorful flowers to women as presents. (Photo by Corriere.it)

Celebrate Women's Day, March 8Mimosa flowers are the symbol of the March 8 "Festa della

donna"(Women's Day), a day which is commemorated in Italy and all over the world to promote equal rights for women and celebrate their achievements in the field of art and science.

In Italy, it is a popular custom to bring mimosa flowers to wives and girlfriends. Vendors sell those perfumed yellow flowers at every street corner. According to a tradition, the origin of this celebration dates back to the tragic events which occurred in 1911 in New York, when 145 immigrant female workers, who worked there under terrible conditions, died during a fire in the sweatshop, where they were kept locked. This tragedy sparked strong public outcry and strikes were held to protest against inhumane working conditions and low wages.

A few years later, during the Conference of Socialist Women in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin, a German socialist leader, suggested that an International Day be held each year to commemorate that ill-fated strike and assist in achieving universal suffrage for women. Representatives from 17 countries supported the proposal. Today, Women's Day is commemorated all over the world to draw attention to gender issues.

Mimosa flowers replaced red carnations as a symbol of feminist groups in the post WWII era and were officially presented in 1946 during the first Women's Day in Rome, organized by a group of members from Italian Women's Trade Union League.

Women's Day is also a big commercial event, like Valentine's Day. Florists make big profits from selling mimosa bunches and restaurants are all booked by crowds of women who go out to "girls-only" dinners.

Mayor of Corleone Lea Savona unveils the street sign memorializing Boris Giuliano, the chief of Palermo police who was killed by Mafia in 1979, during the recent Corleone's Festa della Legalità (Festival of Legality), an event celebrating the 20th anniversary of the capture the head of Cosa Nostra, Totò Riina and raising awareness on the ongoing fight against Mafia. Savona publicly apologized to the all victims of the Mafia brutal killings on behalf of her townspeople. (Photo by Livesicilia.it)

Corleone mayor apologizes to mafia victims

The mayor of the Sicilian town of Corleone, famous for its connections to the Cosa Nostra mafia, has apologized to victims of the criminal network.

Mayor Lea Savona said the town no longer belonged to the mafia and urged those who still formed part of the structure to hand themselves in.She made her comments on a recent anniversary of the arrest of the town's brutal mafia boss, Toto Riina.

According to the Gazzetta del Sud newspaper, Savona said, "I apologize on behalf of all of Corleone. I ask forgiveness for the blood that was paid. To the mafia, I ask you to leave this land, and to abandon the struggle. I ask them to admit defeat, to surrender in awareness that this earth, at last, one day, shall be liberated."

The BBC's Alan Johnston, in Rome, says that although the mafia still has a presence in the town, some 60km from the Sicilian capital, Palermo, it is no longer the force it once was there.

During a ceremony in which she unveiled a street renamed after a mafia prosecutor, and listed mafia victims, including anti-mafia prosecutors Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, who were killed in separate bomb blasts in 1992.

Riina, known as The Beast, is currently serving multiple life-sentences after leading the Corleonesi faction of the criminal network to the top of the Sicilian mafia and waging a ruthless campaign of violence against rival mobsters and the Italian state in the 1980s and early 1990s.

He was succeeded by Bernardo "The Bulldozer" Provenzano, who in turn was arrested in 2006 after more than 40 years as a fugitive.

As reported by The Telegraph, references to The Godfather in Corleone are everywhere - a bar on the main street offers a bitter aperitif called "Don Corleone Amaro", while just across the road, the walls of a pastry shop are covered in black and white pictures of Brando and Pacino in scenes from the films.

by bbc newS/The TeLeGraPh

On Saturday, February 23, a group of 30 members from the Catania and Misterbianco Italian Youth Rotary Club (Interact) and students from the Associazione Studentesca Nuovi Studenti volunteered alongside 40 Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella military service members from USAF Global Hawk, NAVFAC Public Works Seabees, NCTS and the Junior Enlisted Association to clean two popular beach front locations: Catania's San Giovanni Li Cuti Beach and the Lungomare Beachfront.

“I’m happy to see so many young, committed volunteers today who have joined hands with us to promote a pollution-prevention campaign," said SSgt. Jeremy Thatcher from USAF Global Hawk

who brought his son along to teach him about the importance of environmental awareness.

February 23 marked Rotary International's 108th anniversary and clubs around the globe celebrated it with a community service project.

Federico Scalisi, the president of the Catania Interact Club expressed his appreciation to the American volunteers for attending this important Rotary community service project and continuing to support the local marine environment's protection.

Catania-based IPI trash collection company courteously supplied volunteers with disposable plastic gloves, brooms, rakes, buckets and trash bags and also provided trash pickup and recycling service at the end of the event.

U.S. military and Interact Club volunteers raise environmental awareness with Catania beach cleanup

Members from the Catania and Misterbianco Italian Youth Rotary Club (Interact) and students from the Associazione Studentesca Nuovi Studenti volunteered alongside Naval Air Station Sigonella military service members to clean two popular beach front locations, February 23. (Photos by Graziella Nicolosi)

by DoTT. aLberTo LUneTTaNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

JUST SAY IT!

Practice your Ita

lian!

Learn how to say these phrases in Italian!

English: I’m hungry like the wolf Italian: Ho una fame da lupi

English: Appetite comes with eatingItalian: L’appetito vien mangiando

English: A snack Italian: Uno spuntìno

English: A very tasty meal Italian: Un pranzetto con i fiocchi

English: Yummy, yummy! Italian: Gnam, gnam!

English: Mouth-watering Italian: Fa venire l’acquolina in bocca

English: Delicacies Italian: Leccòrnie


Peyton Manning and Stars Visit Naval Air Station Sigonella

Naval Air Station Sigonella service members line up to have items autographed by Denver Bronco's Quarterback Peyton Manning during a USO sponsored event, February 26, 2013.

Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders join Naval Air Station Sigonella Command Master Chief David Graham (center) for a photo.

Curt Schilling, former Boston Red Sox pitcher (center) stops to pet a military working dog during his visit to Naval Air Station Sigonella.

Curt Schilling, former Boston Red Sox pitcher, expresses his gratitude for military service members at Naval Air Station Sigonella.

Naval Air Station Sigonella service members take the opportunity to shake hands with Curt Schilling (left), Peyton Manning (center) and Austin Collie.

The Morale, Welfare and Recreation team pose for a photo with the celebrities. All event attendees were also given the opportunity to take a photo.

Former "American Idol"contestants (from different seasons) Ace Young (left) and Diana DeGarmo perform for NASSIG military service members and their families.

Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders Jackie Bob (left) and Cassie Trammel put on a cheerleading demonstration for members of Naval Air Station Sigonella.

Denver Broncos Quarterback Peyton Manning throws a pass to a lucky audience member as part of a demonstration during his visit to Naval Air Station Sigonella. Manning is a former Indianapolis Colts quarterback (fourteen seasons, from 1998-2011) and played college football at the University of Tennessee. He was the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XLI and is a twelve-time Pro Bowler. Manning is the fastest ever to reach 50,000 passing yards, 4,000 completions and 400 passing touchdowns.

Vincent Jackson, wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, speaks to NASSIG members.

U.S. Navy photos by Jackie Trembath/Released

An all-star cast of athletes and performers visited service members and their families at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella at Hangar 630 on NAS II, February 26, as part of the USO Spring Troop Visit.

The USO Spring Troop Visit featured Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Austin Collie, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Vincent Jackson, former Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling, former American Idol contestants Ace Young and Diana DeGarmo, and Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders Jackie Bob and Cassie Trammell.

During the meet-and-greet event, celebrities of

the tour expressed their gratitude for the service and sacrifices made by military members.

"Its a real honor and pleasure for us to be here," said Manning. "I just can't thank all of you enough from the bottom of my heart for protecting our country. We truly appreciate all the sacrifices you make."

The group of celebrities were on their way from Rota, Spain to Naples, Italy as part of the scheduled tour and were able to make a stop in Sigonella.

Following the performance, which included musical numbers and a football demonstration, the touring stars posed for group photos with NAS Sigonella community members and signed autographs before leaving.

by jackIe TrembaThNAS Sigonella Public Affairs


Friday, 01 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Pancake, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Lemon Baked Fish, Steamed Rice, Grilled Pork Chop w/Mushroom Gravy, Garlic Roast Potatoes, Asparagus, Creole Green Beans, Sugar Cookies, Cheese Cake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.*Speed line: Grilled Hamburger/Cheeseburger, French Fries, Baked Beans.*Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Teriyaki Chicken, Baked Tuna Noodles, Fried Rice, Spinach, Oriental Stir Fry, Sugar Cookies, Cheesecake, Vanilla Cream Pudding.

Saturday, 02 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterhorns.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Cream of Mushroom Soup, Roast Turkey, Steamed Rice, Roasted Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli, Glazed Carrots, Almond Cookies, Blueberry Pie.*Dinner: Broccoli Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara, Baked Fish Portion, Steamed Rice, Peas, Corn Whole Kernel, Almond Cookies, Blueberry Pie.

Sunday, 03 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Kolaches.*Brunch: Breakfast Items, Bean & Bacon Soup, Oven Fried Chicken Nuggets, Steamed Rice, Steamed Brussels Sprouts, Squash, Hermits, Velvet Pound Cake.*Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Veal Parmesan, Rice Pilaf, Cauliflower Polonaise, Penne Alfredo, Seasoned Succotash, Garlic Bread, Hermits, Velvet Pound Cake.

Monday, 04 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Minced Beef w/ Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls.*Lunch: Cream of potato Soup, Turkey Pot Pie, Yankee Pot Roast, Tossed Green Rice, Parsley Buttered Potatoes, Calico Cabbage, Sprouts Superba, Almond Cake, Peach Crunch, Butterscotch Pudding.*Speed line: Pizza.*Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Spaghetti Meat Sauce, Brown Rice, Chicken Patties, Collard Greens, Lyonnaise Green Beans, Almond Cake, Peach Crunch, Butterscotch Pudding.

Tuesday, 05 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Baked Sausage Patties, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterfly Rolls. *Speed line: Italian Sausage W/ Pepper & Onion, Oven Fried Potatoes*Lunch: Chicken Rice Soup, Chicken Adobo, Beef Pot Pie, Steamed Rice, Cut Green Beans, Steamed Carrots, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies.*Dinner: Onion Soup, Lasagna, Cream Style Corn, Fishwich, Baked Hubbard Squash, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Wednesday, 06 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Danish Diamonds.*Lunch: Mulligatawny Soup, Roast Pork Tenderloin, Chicken Patties Parmesan, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Steamed Cauliflower, Sweet Potato Pie, Shortbread Cookies, Peach Gelatin.*Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Chicken noodles soup, Fish Breaded, Steamed Rice, Pasta Siciliana, Carrots, Broccoli, Sweet Potato Pie, Shortbread Cookies.

Thursday, 07 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Pineapple Carrot Muffin.*Lunch: Corn Chowder Soup, Baked Chicken, Meatloaf, Orange Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Summer Squash, Devils Food Cake, Fruit Nut Bar. *Speed line: Chili Dog, Onion Rings.*Dinner: Beef Noodle Soup, Roast Turkey, Farfalle Alfredo, Steamed Rice, Steamed Broccoli, Seasoned Carrots, Devils Food Cake, Fruit Nut Bar.

Friday, 08 MAR 13 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters.*Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Baked Fish w/cherry tomatoes, Pork Chop w/mushroom sauce, Mushroom Gravy, Steamed Rice, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Cauliflower, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.*Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes.*Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Baked Tuna Noodles, Rice Pilaf, Steamed Whole Corn, Seasoned Spinach, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.

ON THE GO WITH MWR

Friday, March 1 5:00 PM Jack: Giant Slayer 3D PG-13 5:30 PM The Last Stand R7:30 PM Hansel & Gretel 3D R8:00 PM Broken City R

Saturday, March 2 2:00 PM Jack: Giant Slayer 3D PG-132:30 PM Mama PG-13 4:30 PM The Impossible PG-13 5:00 PM Zero Dark Thirty R7:30 PM Parker R

Sunday, March 3 2:00 PM Escape From Earth 3D PG2:30 PM Identity Thief R 4:30 PM The Impossible PG-135:00 PM Parker R7:00 PM Hansel & Gretel 3D R7:30 PM *Zero Dark Thirty R Liberty

Tuesday, March 5 5:00 PM Les Misérables PG-13 5:30 PM Texas Chainsaw 3D R 7:30 PM Gangster Squad R8:00 PM Identity Thief R

Wednesday, March 6 5:00 PM Hansel & Gretel 3D R5:30 PM Mama PG-137:30 PM Broken City R8:00 PM Die Hard 5 R

Thursday, March 7 2:00 PM Jack: Giant Slayer 3D PG-135:00 PM Parker R5:30 PM A Haunted House R7:30 PM The Impossible PG-138:00 PM The Last Stand R Friday, March 8 5:00 PM Oz Great & Powerful 3D PG 5:30 PM Bullet to the Head R 7:30 PM Zero Dark Thirty R8:00 PM Warm Bodies PG-13

Saturday, March 9 2:00 PM Oz Great & Powerful 3D PG 2:30 PM Escape From Earth PG4:30 PM Warm Bodies PG-135:00 PM Jack: Giant Slayer 3D PG-137:30 PM Hansel & Gretel 3D R

Sunday, March 10 2:00 PM Escape From Earth 3D PG2:30 PM Jack: The Giant Slayer PG-134:30 PM The Impossible PG-135:00 PM Hansel & Gretel R7:30 PM Parker R

Movie Premiere

Same Day Release

Free Movie

Last Show

Midtown Movie TheatersSchedule & Descriptions

OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL 2D & 3D ... PGSTARRING: James Franco, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz

A small-time magician with dubious ethics arrives in a magical land and must decide if he will be a good man or a great one. (130 m.)

HANSEL & GRETEL: WITCH HUNTERS 2D & 3D ... RSTARRING: Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Peter Stormare

In this spin on the fairy tale, Hansel & Gretel are now bounty hunters who track and kill witches all over the world. As the fabled Blood Moon approaches, the siblings encounter a new form of evil that might hold a secret to their past. (88 m.)

JACK THE GIANT SLAYER 2D & 3D ... PG-13STARRING: Nicholas Hoult, Stanley Tucci, Ewan McGregor

The ancient war between humans and a race of giants when Jack, a young farmhand fighting for a kingdom and the love of a princess, opens a gate-way between the two worlds. (115 m.)

THE IMPOSSIBLE ... PG-13STARRING: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland

An account of a family caught, with tens of thousands of strangers, in the mayhem of one of the worst natural catastrophes of our time. (114 m.)

PARKER ... RSTARRING: Jason Statham, Jennifer Lopez, Michael Chiklis

A thief with a unique code of professional ethics is double-crossed by his crew and left for dead. Assuming a new disguise and forming an unlikely alliance with a woman on the inside, he looks to hijack the score of the crew's latest heist. (118 m.)

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

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

* Liberty Movie: On Sunday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m. Liberty is sponsoring Zero Dark Thirty for single active duty members. Show your military ID to the ticket booth to get your free admission.

Join ITT GEAR N GO for the last ski and snowboarding trip of the season at the fabulous Milky Way Ski Area in Northen Italy.

We will stay in, Sauze d’Oulx one of the five villages that form the Milky Way; It offers a superb range of skiing, long hours of sunshine and a wide range of après ski entertainment. Après-ski choices include pubs, clubs, smart cocktail bars and many reasonably priced restaurants and pizzerias.

The ski school offers instruction for a various levels of abilities, so it is perfect for beginners, as well as for skiers looking to improve their techniques. Sauze d’ Oulx is one of the largest resorts in the Milky Way that offers 400 km of skiing and was the host to the 2006 Winter Olympics. The ski area extends to some 400 kms of varied pistes and the resorts featured here straddle the French-Italian border. Hotel accommodations will be located at Hotel Splendid, which is only 100 meters from the ski lifts and 200 meters from the central square of the village.

The trip begins with a flight from Catania airport to Torino Italy on April 8, where you will have a few hours to tour the 1st capital of Italy. Then you will have three full days to enjoy winter sports of your choice. After breakfast on Friday, April 12, we will head back to the Torino airport for the flight home.

This trip is perfect for singles, friends or families, so be sure to check with ITT for more information and complete details 624-4777. In addition, you can check with the ITT front desk for information on ski rentals, ski lift tickets, adults and kids ski lessons, etc.

Deadline for registration is March 15.

SKI THE ITALIAN MILKY WAY WITH MWR’S ITT

by Lynne GanTTMWR Sigonella

Sigonella Hoplites take on Malta national rugby team

The Sigonella Hoplites hosted the Malta national rugby team at the NAS I Annex Field February 23.

Ranked 40th overall in the world, Malta is in the middle of its qualifying matches for Rugby World Cup 2015. Even with their busy schedule, they gra-ciously accepted an invitation to come to Sigonella to take on the Hoplites in a friendly exhibition.

The Hoplites have continued to show rapid im-provement over the past year since suiting up for the first time in early 2012. Starting with players with little to no experience, the Hoplites have grown into a formidable local presence on the island.

Though the match was a loss on the scoreboard, it was a huge win for the team in regards to experi-ence.

“[The Malta national rugby team] are really ex-perienced," said Hoplite ET2 Micheal Roemer. "It was awesome to be able to play an internationally ranked team.”

The Maltese team was impressed with the Hop-lites as well.

“It was a very hard game," said Clayton Cassar of the Malta national rugby team. "Sigonella has good strong guys. The skill was there. For them to have played only one year, they gave us a very hard time today. Well done.”

The Hoplites will be traveling to Malta in March to play the Knights at their home stadium. The Mal-tese nationals will be playing Switzerland in April, continuing their quest for World Cup qualifying.

by mr1 Gary SPenceNAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Photo above: Members of the Malta National Rugby team and Sigonella Hoplites battle for a lineout during a friendly match at NAS I Annex field February 23. (U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)

Photo at right: A group of Hoplites take down the ball carrier for Malta during the exhibition match held at NAS I Annex field February 23. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham/Released)


GameZone

SUDOKU

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DID YOU KNOW?• Somewhere,aroundtheworld,thereare20active

volcanoeseruptingasyou’rereadingthis.

• ThetallestvolcanointheSolarSystemisn’tonEarthatall,butonMars.OlympusMons,onMars,isagiantshieldvolcanothatrisestoanelevationof27km,anditmeasures550kmacross.

• ThetallestvolcanoonEarthisHawaii’sMaunaKea,withanelevationof4,207meters.It’sonlyalittlebiggerthanthelargestvolcanoonEarth,MaunaLoawithanelevationofonly4,169meters.

Find and circle all of the Countries of Europe that are hidden in the grid. The remaining

letters spell a secret message. Note: IRELAND and NORTHERN IRELAND are

separately hidden and do not overlap.

Countries of Europe


IL mercaTo

NOTE: Ads run for two weeks on a space available basis and must be sponsored by active duty military members, family members or Italian/American base employees. AFTS/AFN decoders must be sold only to another authorized individual: active duty or retired U.S. military, DoD direct-hire employees or their spouse.

Ads that profit a business or individual, such as housekeeping or baby-sitting services considered commercial ads. Commercial ads are not accepted. Requests for commercial ads must be made to Stampa Generale: 081-568-7884.

All classified ads are free to the community for advertising personal property for sale, trade or giveaway. Ads must be sent to [email protected] no later than 5 p.m. of the Friday before the week of publication and must include POC name and phone number. For more information, call 624-5440, 624-2798 or 095-86-5440/2798.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Navy (or Marine Corps), (name of command) or (name of publisher) of the products and services advertised. “Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Published by Stampa, a private firm in no way connected with DoD, the U.S. Navy (or Marine Corps), under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy (or Marine Corps).

AUTOMOBILES SAWS ANIMALSBMW 320 for sale. 161,000KM, manual, unleaded gas, runs very good. $2,700 OBO. GREAT RUN-NING CAR! make an offer. 335-702-3265.

2003 Chevy Venture Warner bros edition minivan, reliable with no mechanical issues. 128,000 miles - KBB value $5,500, available the end of March. Automatic sliding doors, DVD player, 8 passenger seating, heat/AC. 624-1485 or 335-597-9668.

1999 Lexus GS300. $5K. Auto-matic transmission, *65,602 km (40,763mi)*, dual/side air bags, cruise control, leather interior, sun-roof, built-in navigation system, AM/FM radio, 5-disc CD changer, power windows/mirrors/locks/seats/

Luigi, 8 months old, male, brown, medium-large, very loving dog, en-joys people and children. Does well with other pets, current on shots, microchipped, and neutered. Mini, 3 years, female, medium, tan, very caring but will do best with a patient and quiet family, current on shots, microchipped. Diesel, 8 months old, male, black and brown, rottweiler mix, very smart and friendly, good with people and particularly around children, current on shots, micro-chipped. Fideo, 7 months old, male, black and brown, medium-large, an energetic pup that enjoys people and other dogs after he gets to know them, current on shots, microchipped.

steering, anti-lock brakes, climate control heat/AC. Euro specs. KBB value: $8,230. Contact Kelly Mos-ley @ 345-381-6489.

2005 BMW X3 , Black, cv.2000, 170,000KM. Perfect engine. Leath-er seats. New tires and battery. Sunroof.Regularly serviced. Excel-lent condition. One owner. 10K Euro. Call Grazia at 347-888-0073.

2005 Renault Modus, Blue Cv,1500, 140K km. Complete car check-up Feb. 2013. Perfect condi-tion. One owner. Asking 5K Euro. Call Grazia at 347-888-0073.

1995 Red Renault Clio. Manual, runs well. Available beginning of March. $1,400 OBO. Call Tice at 3408939743.

Phillipo, 7 months, male, black and white, medium-large, Fideo's brother (very similiar to his broth-er), current on shots, microchipped. Next adopt-a-thon is March 3 in front of the commissary.

Twice a year, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella is at-tacked. Figuratively speaking, of course.

It’s all part of two-day, 15-hour course aimed at preparing the hospital to withstand a chemical or bio-logical attack. To do so, the hospital employs a team of specially trained Sailors as part of its decontamination team, or DECON.

“The main purpose of the decontamination team is to get them certified in hazardous waste operations,” said Charlie Jansen, an instructor form DECON, LLC, a company hired through the Navy’s Bureau of Medi-cine and Surgery to train Sailors in the decontamina-tion process. “Every six months, I come back to certify the students.”

Jansen’s objectives are simple. He teaches them how to set up and operate the equipment, and he teaches them how to process and decontaminate patients. The ultimate goal in the training is saving lives and protect-ing the facility.

That preparation and training is vital, according to Gabe Gasporra, head of the hospital’s emergency man-agement office.

“If there ever was an incident,” Gasporra said, “it gives us great confidence to know they’re prepared, to know that we as a hospital are prepared. And that’s a

great comment on the overall leadership here.”The first day of training is conducted in a classroom

where students learn about hazardous materials and many aspects of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear warfare. In addition, students are taught how to process patients and how to inspect their personal protective equipment.

Day Two of the training consists of practical ap-plication drills. Jansen establishes two goals during the drills. The first goal is to be mission capable within five minutes, meaning that four team members must be suited up and ready to go. The hospital’s team was ready in 4:49.

The second goal is to have the entire team suited up with the shelter in place and water running in 20 min-utes. The 22-member team had that task done in 12:02.

“That’s flying,” Jansen said. “That’s a really good time.”

The hospital’s DECON team now lists 68 members thanks to the 22 that just completed the training on Feb. 6. It’s a team that learns a lot more than just the ins and outs of decontamination procedures.

“This whole process is very team oriented,” Gaspor-ra said. “It doesn’t matter who is on the team, they just work so well together.”

U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella trains for DECON

by hm2 maTThew cLUTTerU.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

Charlie Jansen, an instructor from DECON, LLC (second from left) watches over the final exercise of the DECON training conducted by U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella, February 6. (U.S. Navy photo by HM3 Luis Prieto/Released)

SEXUAL ASSAULT VICTIM

ADVOCATE HOTLINES:

Sigonella SAPR VA Hotline: 335-642-8312.

DoD Safe Helpline: 001-877-995-5247

(From cell phones and off-base telephones)

Or: 19020 (toll-free access code)

1-877-995-5247 (From DSN lines)

The SIGnaTUrePaGe 16 march 1, 2013

Documents

March 1 issue, "The Signature"