The Signature, October 17, 2014

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily — At the Region Legal Service Office (located next to the galley on NAS 2), we hear that question on a daily basis. If you are a dependent or civilian employee stationed in Sigonella and you are still waiting for your Sojourner Permit, or Permesso di Soggiorno, we understand your frustration!

A Sojourner Permit is an Italian government document that certifies that a NATO force military dependent, or member of the civilian component, is a temporary legal resident of Italy. It is different than a Visa, which is merely approval to enter the country. Italian law requires all foreign personnel entering Italy, other than an active duty member under military orders, to obtain a Sojourner Permit. Application must be made within eight days of arrival in Italy. Hence, Sojourner Permits are required for all military dependents as well as all members of the civilian component (DoD civilians, NAFI employees, technical representatives, Red Cross, NFCU, USO and employees of other organizations providing services to and enjoying a special status with the U.S. military) and their dependents.

The U.S. Region Legal Service Office, Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia (RLSO EURAFSWA) assists in the preparation of Sojourner Permit applications, and oversees the acquisition of the Sojourner Permit for all personnel in the Sigonella area. After providing the RLSO with the following: a valid Official or No-fee passport with Visa (type D, missione); four passport photographs; and a copy of your orders, the RLSO will schedule an appointment for host nation law enforcement to take a set of fingerprints from each applicant. Once all documents have been produced and the fingerprinting session is accomplished, the RLSO provides each application to the Immigration Office for the province of Catania.

Considering that the process described above is usually complete within

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USNH Sigonella:

C e l e b r a t e s Hispanic Heritage

Month

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Fire Prevention Night:

Sigonella community comes together!

SIGNATURESIGONELLA, SICILY

October 17, 2014 cnic.navy.mil/sigonellaVol. 31 No. 39

THE

Where is my soggiorno?BY LCdR AARON RIGGIOOIC, Region Legal Service Office, NAS Sigonella

"Permit" continued on page 10

CSADD: "Keep What You've Earned!"

Sailors from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) hold signs near the exit to NAS 2 to remind service and community members to "Keep what you've earned" before a 96-hour liberty weekend. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

The COMREL before the COMRELBY LCdR EdwARd ERwINReligious Ministries Department, NAS Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - It was the COMREL before the COMREL. On Friday, Oct. 3 a delegation from NAS Sigonella represented our base in an organizational meeting at the Aidone Archaeological Museum and the ruins of ancient Morgantina. Dr. Lunetta from the NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office (PAO), Lt. Cmdr. Purvis from the Special Purpose MAGTF, Lt. Cmdr. Erwin from the Religious Ministries Department (RMD), Lt. j.g. Turner and Lt. j.g. Lewis from Patrol Squadron (VP) 4, YN2 Eaton from Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Sigonella, and AM3 Garcia from T-Line formed the delegation to meet local officials in the town of Aidone to plan for the upcoming COMREL on Oct. 29.

Members of the delegation were treated to a tour of the famous museum to view precious antiquities dating back to 5th century B.C. Hellenistic period in Sicily’s history. Whether it is the ancient ceramics, the priceless silver altar pieces, or the famous statues of mythological sirens or deities, the Aidone Museum is a must-see tourist site for visitors and residents of Sicily. This museum is the “protector” for one of the most important archeological masterpieces in the world: the statue of The Venus of Morgantina (5th century BC). One visitor called Morgantina “the hidden historic gem of Sicily”, referring to the Venus masterpiece along with the highly valued silver trove. The NAS delegation had the opportunity to meet with the Mayor of Aidone, Filippo Gangi, the Director of the Aidone Museum, Dr. Laura Maniscalco, and other academics and professors from the University of Catania. The delegation viewed the ancient Morgantina necropolis and its magnificent amphitheater along with other well preserved artifacts. In 1955, a major expedition was launched by Professors Erik Sjovist and Richard Stillwell from Princeton University to renew excavations and historic discoveries of 5th century B.C. Hellenistic Sicily.

"COMREL" continued on page 10

THE SIGNATUREPAGE 2 October 17, 2014 THE SIGNATURE PAGE 3October 17, 2014

DRIV

E SA

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SIGO

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NASSIG WORSHIP SERVICESROMAN CATHOLICSunday■ 9 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS 1 Chapel)

TuESday, WEdnESday & FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS 2 Chapel)Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass

FRIday■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (naS 1 Chapel)

PROTESTANTnaS 1 ChapelSaTuRday■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services

Sunday■ 12 p.m. Sunday School■ 11 a.m. Traditional Worship

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

JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICEFRIday at 5:30 p.m. (naS 1 Chapel)

NIGHT STUDY

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

■ aa Meetings: MOnday at 5:30 p.m. (naS 1 Chapel) sec-ond deck; THuRSday at 7 p.m. (naS 2 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

Chief of Naval OperationsAdm. Jonathan W. Greenert

2014 Navy Birthday MessageTHE SIGNATUREU.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLACommanding OfficerCapt. Chris DennisExecutive OfficerCmdr. Charles G. McKinney IICommand Master ChiefCMDCM Mike Kaszubowski

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]

YN3 Gabrielle [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

Happy 239th Birthday Navy! On October 13th, it is important that we reflect on who we are and where we started. It is a day which marks the cornerstone of our proud service beginnings.

As you operate forward, and stand the watch around the globe, you embody the characteristics of the patriots that went before us. Our greatest traditions live within the foundation of their courage and perseverance. On this day, we pause and remember the proud heritage and service of previous Shipmates. Likewise, we will always remember those veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Navy and our Nation.

This year, our Birthday theme is "thanking those who support us." Our families, friends, communities, industry, and organizations have helped support us and we owe a debt of gratitude. Our success as individuals and as a Navy is achieved with them at our side. We could not execute our mission at a high level without their unwavering support.

Moving forward, we will continue to use the three tenets: Warfighting First, Operate Forward, Be Ready. We will be ready today, while also building the Navy to win tomorrow. From Oct. 13, 1775 until today, history has proven time and again that a powerful Navy is vital

to ensuring the prosperity of our economy and the safety of our citizens. This is the legacy we celebrate today.

Happy Birthday, Shipmates!

NASSIG Supply Sailors get a glimpse of Italian sea duty

Comandante Marco Bilardi, left, commanding officer of Italian Patrol Boat Sirio (P 409), and Lt. Cmdr. Brad Brooks, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella supply officer, exchange ball caps during a tour of the boat. Fifteen Sailors from Sigonella’s NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center and Aviation Support Detachment toured the boat, moored at Augusta, Italy. (U.S. Navy photo provided by NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily -Fifteen Sailors from Sigonella’s NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center and Aviation Support Detachment were in for quite a treat as they embarked for a tour of the Italian Patrol Boat Sirio (P 409) moored at Augusta, Italy recently. Escorted by the Executive Officer Andrea Scalia and the Navigator Michele Cerquone, the Sailors spent a day in the life of the Italian Navy paying particular attention to how Italy does business differently than the United States.

The tour began in the wardroom with a sampling of traditional Italian cookies, pastries, juice, and coffee. Following informal introductions, the group received a brief on the ship’s mission, capabilities, weapons systems, and specifications. It was here where they learned some of the details of how shipboard life differs from what is experienced within the U.S. Navy.

Full beards can be worn by men as long as the beards are neat in appearance. Having just received the General Military Training on diversity, Logistics Specialist Second Class (LS2) Daniel Paez remarked, "I found it interesting the males didn't have to shave every day". The Italian Naval Academy requires Officers to serve 15 years as opposed to the five-year commitments Annapolis graduates incur. With a crew size of 66 men and three females, fraternization is not tolerated. As is Italian custom, free table wine is served with lunch and dinner and the post-meal liqueur limoncello is offered as well. Beer is available for purchase from the ship’s bar, however personnel are expected to be free from the effects of alcohol on and off duty. LSSN Jett observed how “a glass of wine being the norm aboard the ship was a good example of how we do something different based upon our culture." Drinking in moderation is the key. Finally, the smoking lamp is virtually always lit topside (beyond the skin of the ship).

After being guided through the ship’s berthing, mess decks, galley, engine room, and forecastle, the group was led to the boat deck to observe a demonstration of the rapid launch and recovery of a

Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB). This evolution is particularly important nowadays as one of the Italian Navy’s primary missions is Operation Mare Nostrum, the rescue and recovery of migrants fleeing North Africa in the hopes of a better life in Europe. An estimated 71,000 people have attempted the crossing in 2014 with 500 migrants dying year-to-date. Due in part to Sicily’s strategic location and the fiscal environment within the European Union (EU), the Italians are forced to shoulder much of the costs of this operation.

The tour concluded in the Combat Information Center (CIC) and the pilot house where everyone was treated to a spread of Italian appetizers prior to being presented with a plaque from the ship. The NASSIG Supply Officer, LCDR Brad Brooks, exchanged ball caps with the Commanding Officer, Comandante Marco Bilardi, to commemorate the visit. The group departed the ship with a better appreciation of how a foreign Navy’s ship operates. “The Italian Navy welcomed us with open arms! They gave us a very informative tour of their ship and told us about their many customs in the Italian Navy. It was great to experience the different culture and atmosphere the Italian Navy had to offer," recalled LSSN Cristian Cifuentes.

As expertly recited by LSSN Jared Brown: “This goes to show how awesomely diverse the world really is. If everyone in the world did the same thing the same way, there would be no fun!"

Nave Sirio (P 409) is an Italian Patrol Boat whose primary mission is Operation Mare Nostrum. The Sirio patrols the Mediterranean Sea recovering migrants and providing safe transport to Sicily where the migrants are turned over to the Italians or other EU partners. Those suspected of Trafficking in Persons are released to Italian authorities for criminal prosecution. While the ship’s company consists of 62 Enlisted and five Officers, the Sirio has transported up to 500 migrants at once. The ship also engages in anti-pollution operations containing small spills for environmental protection.

BY LTJG CHRIS JOHNNAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella

NAVSUP 2014 Holiday Season Mailing Deadlines

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (NNS) -- The Naval Supply Systems Command's (NAVSUP) mail-by dates for pre-Dec. 25 deliveries of holiday cards, letters, and packages were released Sept. 15.

For mail addressed to/from:APO/FPO/DPO AE zips 090-098 (except 093); AA zips 340; AP

zips 962-966* Priority Express Mail Military Service: Dec. 17* First-Class and Priority Mail (letters/cards and packages):

Dec. 10* Space Available Mail: Nov. 26* Standard Post Mail: Nov. 8APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIP 093* Priority Express Mail Military Service: N/A* First-Class and Priority Mail (letters/cards and packages):

Dec. 3* Space Available Mail: Nov. 26* Standard Post Mail: Nov. 8Domestic Mail (For Ships in Port and Personnel on Shore Duty

in the U.S. mailing to U.S. destinations-not including APO/FPO)* First-Class Mail: Dec. 20* Priority Mail: Dec. 20* Priority Express Mail: Dec. 23International First-Class Packages and Priority Mail addressed

to Africa and Central and South America should be mailed no later than Dec. 2.

International First-Class Packages and Priority Mail addressed to Asia/Pacific Rim; Australia/New Zealand; Canada; Caribbean; Mexico, Europe; and the Middle East should be mailed no later than Dec. 9.

All classes of mail addressed to FPO addresses must contain the proper nine-digit ZIP code or the New Navy Standardized Address format, which includes ship or mobile unit number, (or PSC number for ashore FPOs), virtual mail box number, and five-digit ZIP code to ensure delivery. Mail not addressed correctly could be returned to sender as undeliverable.

Priority Express Mail Military Service (PEMMS) is available from selected military post offices. If mailing to an APO/FPO/DPO address, check with your local post office to determine if PEMMS service is available and specific delivery service standards.

Space Available Mail (SAM) refers to parcels mailed to APO/FPO addresses at parcel post rates first transported domestically by surface, then to overseas destinations by air on a space available basis. The maximum weight and size limits are 15 pounds and 60 inches in length and girth combined. From overseas locations, items mailed at Standard Post rates are sent to CONUS by air on a space available basis. The maximum weight and size limits are 70 pounds and 130 inches in length and girth combined.

It is recommended customers check with local civilian or military post offices for information regarding size restrictions and customs declaration form requirements. Customers are advised mailing restrictions apply and some items cannot be mailed. Examples of non-mailable items are: alcohol, switchblade knives, pornography, controlled substances, and explosive or incendiary devices. If in doubt, contact your local civilian or military post office.

As a final note, customers should ensure articles are packaged properly for mailing and packages do not display markings related to any type of hazardous material, such as bleach, alcohol, or cleaning fluids. Parcels found by U.S. Postal Service with such markings or labels on the outside of the box will not be processed.

The NAVSUP and Navy Supply Corps team share one mission-to deliver sustained global logistics capabilities to the Navy and Joint warfighter. NAVSUP/Navy Supply Corps' diverse team of more than 25,000 civilian and military personnel oversee a diverse portfolio including supply chain management for material support to Navy, Marine Corps, joint and coalition partners, supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, security assistance, and quality of life issues for the naval forces, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods. The NAVSUP/Navy Supply Corps team forms a vast network of professionals who deliver unparalleled products and services to customers in the fleet and across the world.

From NAVSUP Office of Corporate Communications


C A L E N D A R

Oct./Nov.2014

Friday17

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

FFSC

Friday Night Dinner in Acireale7 p.m.Liberty

Saturday18Dinner, Wine Tasting & Dancing at Gambino

Winery3:15 p.m. - midnight

ITT

Mt. Etna Chestnut Ex-pedition with BBQ

7:30 am. - 4:30 p.m.Outdoor Recc

Sunday19Ottobrata in Zafferana

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

Budget Bowling Sun-days

11 a.m. - 7 p.m.Sparetime Bowling

*Every Sunday

Monday20

Transition GPS8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

Tuesday21Healthy Steps Group

8 - 9:30 a.m.FFSC

Wednesday22

Million Dollar Sailor9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC


FFSC

Thursday23


FFSC

VA Representative8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FFSC

24Sig Safe

8 a.m. - 12:30 a.m.FFSC


FFSC

25Godfather Tour & Li-

moncello Factory 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

ITT

Mark Wills Concert9:30 P.m.

Autumnfest StageNAS 1

26Naro and Agriturismo7:15 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

ITT

27ICR

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

28ICR

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

Healthy Steps Group8 - 9:30 a.m.

FFSC

29ICR

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

Capstone Event by ap-pointment

8 a.m. - 4 p.m.FFSC

30Financial Planning for

the Holidays8 - 9:30 a.m.

FFSC

31Arrivederci Class8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

FFSC

Catania by Night: His-tory & Wine Tasting4:30 p.m. - midnight

ITT

November 1Catania Shoe Fair8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

ITT

Halloween Do-Over Special

Midtown 2 Theater

2

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:

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. If you are submitting a "BZ", we ask that you provide your name in order for us to properly recognize employee. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box

Comment regarding Security:While at the bus stop with my child this morning, a car (coming from the opposite direction) stopped to wait in accordance with policy. However, after a short period the car then decided to proceed past the bus (while the bus was still sitting there with the door open). This is really dangerous as no one knows when a small child may emerge to cross the street. Worse still, this specific driver is a leader within our community. Please reinforce the on-base policy regarding busses. I thank you for your continued safety enforcement.

Response: Thank you for bringing this to my attention. Because of the large child population in Marinai, EVERYONE driving in Marinai must be EXCEPTIONALLY CAUTIOUS AT ALL TIMES, bus or no bus present. With respect to bus presence, ANY BUS at a stop is a concern - even the NAS 1, NAS 2, Marinai shuttle which often carries youngsters. Drivers may never pass a loading/unloading school bus. Drivers are strongly cautioned about passing the shuttle bus as well. I will reiterate to our leaders and the community as a whole about the dangers of passing a stopped school bus. I will also have the Security Department increase patrols in Marinai in order to help enforce this policy. In the future if you can safely do so, please note the plate number of the vehicle and report it to my security department at 624-6063 (on base) 095-86-6063 (off base) or to dispatch at 624-5225 (on base) 095-86-5225 (off base). I have also instructed the Security Officer to personally notify me when this happens.

Comment regarding Barracks Rovers:I feel the Barracks Rovers are using their "powers" negligently by entering rooms without permission. What is their capacity as rovers? Do they have legal rights to enter rooms without permission of the persons living in those rooms? Can you explain what their boundaries are?

Response:: Thank you very much for the concern in the barracks and your feedback. We want to make sure every watchstander is properly standing post and I have addressed this concern with the base CMC and Legal. Here is the policy on rovers entering rooms: with the exception of signs of duress, rovers are NOT to enter rooms without full permission from the Sailors residing in the rooms. Rovers are allowed to enter communal areas such as laundry, lobby, etc., but not the common area between bedrooms in suites. If a Sailor appears or acts intoxicated, I expect the rovers to ensure the safety of the Sailor and that means ensuring the Sailor can walk unassisted to his/her room. The base CMC is reviewing the barracks rover instruction and if changes need to be made they will be. Also, CMC is going to conduct periodic rover training and ensure all guidelines are met. We again thank you for your feedback.

Comment regarding Security/Marinai Housing:I have a complaint with the staff of the various vendors at the Marinai Community Center and their unsafe driving. I really hope that these people granted access to Marinai for the Community Center are abiding by the speed limits and are taking caution knowing that the streets are full of kids who may pop out at any time.

Response:: Thank you for bringing this to my attention. Unsafe driving practices on Marinai or elsewhere within the Sigonella community have my undivided attention. Anyone operating a vehicle on Marinai is expected to maintain a safe traveling speed, whether Italian, U.S or other nationality, and all three groups have been guilty of unsafe driving. To help remedy this situation we have bolstered traffic safety enforcement at Marinai. I have also forwarded this concern to the Housing office as well as local contractor supervisors so that they can deal directly with the employees. Additionally, if you or anyone sees this kind of behavior please take note of the plate number with details of the infraction and contact Emergency Dispatch at 624-5225 or by commercial line at 095-86-5225. Again, thank you for taking the time to bring this to my attention.

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.


Zafferana and Petralia Sottana Falls festivals promise fun for the entire family!

The fall has arrived and it’s time to take a break from the heat and humidity of Sicily’s summers! Fall is the perfect time to take your family to enjoy some delicious Sicilian food, free entertainment with live music and shows and great fun.

Every weekend, several picturesque towns scattered all across Sicily host a food festival featuring special dishes and produce for which their communities are well known.

Those festivals attract thousands of visitors who flock the streets of the towns’ historic centers to have fun by sampling scrumptious dishes and enjoy entertainment and activities for people of all ages.

In the Catania province, the traditional “Ottobrata” fall festival, which kicked off on Oct. 5, continues through the end of the month on Sunday Oct. 19 and 26 filling the streets of the historic heart of Zafferana.

As it happens every year, this exciting annual fall festival features a plethora of food and craft vendors. The festival, which is held every Sunday in October in the town's historic center, has different themes. The first Sunday in October was dedicated to grape growing, while Etna's Apples (Mele dell'Etna), a variety of delicious apples grown in the local area, were celebrated on

the second Sunday in October. The local honey industry will be highlighted

this Sunday Oct. 19. The last Ottobrata Sunday (Oct. 26) will indeed be centered on wine and chestnuts. The festival also features arts and crafts booths, textiles, wearable art, handcrafted ceramics, embroidery products, decorative and functional wood, pottery, jewelry, leather, paintings, drawings, prints, and metal work.

Festival booths will be open all day, starting at 9 a.m., throughout Zafferana's historic center. The ones selling local produce and confectionary products will be set up in piazza Belvedere, the main square while food will be cooked in the area located below the square, close to the public gardens.

Food highlights include “panino con salsiccia e funghi” (sandwich with sausage and mushrooms) and “panino con carne di cavallo” or horsemeat sandwich.

If you have a sweet tooth, you can try the scrumptious “gelato al pistacchio” or pistachio ice cream that is served on a freshly baked wafer, the mouthwatering “foglie da tè” (tea-leaf shaped biscuits made with almonds and also available with pistachio and hazelnut) and last but not least the “sciatore” cookies (made with milk and covered by a

Mark your calendar for the family-oriented Ottobrata fall festival in Zafferana Etnea and “Sagra delle Castagne e Festa dei Sapori Madoniti” (Chestnut & Madoniti Flavor Fall Festival) which will be held in the next two weeks in the Catania and Palermo provinces featuring local food specialties, folklore shows and entertainment. (Photo by www.travelswithmiha.com)

scrumptious dark chocolate frosting).While you are in Zafferana, don’t forget to sample the

delicious "Siciliana," a fried calzone filled with tuma cheese and either anchovies or ham that are prepared by local cafes. For more information on the festival and detailed schedules visit http://www.ottobrata.it/

Nestled among the Madonie mountains in the Palermo province, the picturesque town of Petralia Sottana will also host a scrumptious fall the festival: the traditional Festa dei sapori madoniti d’autunno, an event used to be called “chestnut festival, “celebrating autumn and featuring roasted chestnuts, local mouthwatering delicacies , folklore and entertainment. The event is also aimed promoting not only the local cuisine but also the architectural and natural wonders of the area, the traditions and history Madonie mountains areas.

The festival originated in the 1960s as a freshman’s party and featured traditional food and allegoric carnival-like floats’ parades. Freshmen were nicknamed “castagnusi” (biting) as they were criticizing and ridiculing the local politicians of the time through public satire and mockery. Today the festival is mainly focused on celebrating the local produce of the season (chestnuts, caciotta cheese, “badda” beans, jams, marmalades and other preserves, ricotta cheese, almond and amaretto cookies, sausages and salumi or cured meats)

Other specialties that will tempt all your taste buds include soups, wild boar ragout sauce, soup prepared with local vegetables, sausage and "stigghiole" (rolled lamb intestines flavored with parsley cooked on the grill), roasted chestnuts, organic fruit and then sweets for all tastes, from "guastedde" fried cannoli from “masticuttì” to homemade cakes; all bathed in wine and sangria at will.

On Friday, Oct. 24 the festival will kick off at 5 p.m with about one hundred food vendors’ booths , set up along corso Paolo Agliata, that will stay open all day long. On Saturday, Oct. 25 and Sunday, Oct. 26, the sagra will begin at 9 a.m. and last throughout the night.

Complementing the food festival, many activities including exhibitions, conferences, and cultural visits with a guide, book presentations, nature walks, fun activities for children, zoo, guided tours, and entertainment.

Before you leave the festival, don’t forget to visit the local churches and monuments, as well as the small archeological and geological museum. Reaching Petralia Sottana is fairly easy (about one and a half hour drive from Sigonella). Exit Tremonzelli on the highway A-19 (Catania-Palermo) and then follow directions towards Petralia Sottana.

For more information on the event, visit and on all the initiatives, online is the official website www.festadeisaporimadoniti.it


Fire Prevention Night 2014

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's service and community members joined together at Marinai Housing Complex for the annual Fire Prevention Night held by NAS Sigonella

Fire & Emergency Services (FES) on Oct. 7. Fire Prevention Night provided entertainment along with fire

safety education. The event offered a chance for children to spray the fire hoses, learn from informational booths, and see what various fire equipment is used to put out a fire. American Forces Network Sigonella was on hand to broadcast the event live. NAS Sigonella FES’s mascot, Sparky posed for photos with families and children.

Along with fire services, various members from NASSIG security department and U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella showed demonstrations on how they would respond in the event of a fire.

Also from USNH Sigonella Health Promotions Office, Lt. Sarah Anderson organized the first Miss Fire Prevention Sigonella and Little Miss Fire Prevention Sigonella contest during fire prevention night.

“The program is a great stepping stone into public speaking, college scholarship applications and spreading fire prevention and awareness,” said Anderson. “It gives these girls a voice in their community about fire safety.” The title of Miss Fire Prevention Sigonella went to Leilani Wojtal, and Little Miss Fire Prevention Sigonella went to Bella DeSanto.

Fire Chief John Smithgall and John Roush also helped set up the program for future fire prevention nights.

Fire Prevention Night is typically held as part of Fire Prevention Week, which was Oct. 5 – 11. According to the National Fire Protection Association’s website, Fire Prevention Week was started in 1922 to commemorate the great Chicago Fire of 1871 and to promote general fire prevention safety and awareness.

BY MC1 TONY d. CURTISNAS Sigonella Public Affiars


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.

Friday, October 17*Breakfast: Waffles, Sausage, Oatmeal, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Italian Roasted Potatoes, Grilled Sausage Patties.*Lunch: Egg Noodles, Rice, Cake, Turkey A La King, Baked Fish, Cream of Potato Soup, Baked Beans, French Fries, Asparagus, Carrots. Speed Line: Pizza.*Dinner: Saulsberry Steak, Cake, Pizza Casserole, Gravy, Vegetable Supreme Soup, Oriental Stir-Fried Cabbage, Mashed Potatoes, Spinach.

Saturday, October 18*Breakfast: French Toast, Hot Farina, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Ham, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: French Toast, Hot Farina, Steamed Rice, Eggs to Order, Oatmeal Cookies, Bacon, Ham, Mambo Pork Roast, Cream Chicken Mushroom Soup, Glazed Carrots, Broccoli, Italian Roasted Potatoes.Dinner: Oatmeal Cookies, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Pizza, Cream of Broccoli Soup, Corn, Peas.

Sunday, October 19*Breakfast: Waffles, Oatmeal, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: Waffles, Oatmeal, Eggs to Order, Cake, Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak, Chicken Nuggets, Bean with Bacon Soup, French Fries, Squash, Brussels Sprouts, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Dinner: Rice Pilaf, Cake, Veal Parmesan, Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta, Cream of Potato Soup, Cauliflower Polonaise, Succotash.

Monday, October 20*Breakfast: French Toast, Grits, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Minced Beef, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: Steamed Rice, Cake, Yankee Pot Roast, Lemon Baked Fish, Pizza, Cream of Potato Soup, Sprouts Superba, Calico Cabbage, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Dinner: Brown Rice, Cake, Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Oven Fried Chicken, Beef Noodle Soup, Beans, Collard Greens.

Tuesday, October 21*Breakfast: Waffles, Hot Farina, Bacon, Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: Jalapeno Corn Bread, BBQ Spare Ribs, Southern Fried Chicken, Cream of Mushroom Soup, Southern Style Greens, French Fries, Mashed Potatoes, Corn.*Dinner: Oatmeal Cookies, Lasagna, Fried Fish Sandwich, French Onion Soup, Squash, Corn.

Wednesday, October 22*Breakfast: French Toast, Oatmeal, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: Sweet Potato Pie, Roast Turkey, Pizza Casserole, Grilled Hamburger, Mulligatawny Soup, Baked Beans, Peas with Carrots, French Fries, Mashed Potatoes, Cauliflower.*Dinner: Steamed Rice, French Apple Pie, Meat Loaf, Baked Fish, Chicken Noodle Soup, Broccoli, Carrots, Italian Roasted Potatoes.

Thursday, October 23*Breakfast: French Toast, Grits, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: Orange Rice, Macaroni and Cheese, Cake, Roast Beef, Corn Dog, Corn Chowder, Onion Rings, Mashed Potatoes, Squash, Asparagus, Baked Chicken.*Dinner: Steamed Rice, Cake, Beef Stew, Chicken Alfredo, Beef Noodle Soup, Broccoli, Sliced Carrots.

Friday, October 24*Breakfast: Waffles, Oatmeal, Eggs to Order, Bacon, Grilled Sausage Patties, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Lunch: Rice Pilaf, Cookies, Pork Chops, Baked Fish, Pizza, New England Clam Chowder, Baked Beans, French Fries, Asparagus, Cauliflower, Italian Roasted Potatoes.*Dinner: Rice Pilaf, Cookies, Baked Tuna and Noodles, Cantonese BBQ Pork Ribs, Cream Chicken Mushroom Soup, Spinach, Corn.

"Permit" continued from page 1

weeks of arrival in Sicily, why does it take so long for some Sojourner Permits to be issued? Consider the following data, recently released by the Italian Ministry of Interior:

From January to September, 2014, 44,040 people have sought asylum in Italy, compared to 17,387 in the same period of 2013. More than 100,000 migrants have arrived to Italy by sea so far in 2014 and

about 130,000 since October 2013, when Italy's military launched the EU-backed Mare Nostrum ("Our Sea") operation to rescue immigrants. Many of those immigrants have arrived in Sicily, and all of them require some form of documentation from the Italian government. Quite simply, we live in Sicily at a time that the Immigration Office is dealing with an immigration crisis, and it has affected processing timelines.

The good news is that the RLSO can help, so long as you provide us the information necessary to help you! So long as you have applied for your Sojourner Permit, you can legally reside in Italy. If you are seeking employment on base and require proof of application for Sojourner Permit, we will issue the appropriate memorandum for you. And if you plan to travel outside of Italy and you have not yet received your Permit, contact the RLSO at least three weeks prior to your planned trip and your application will be expedited by the Immigration Office. Additionally, check the expiration on your entry visa – if still valid, you may exit and reenter the country without a Sojourner Permit. Do not let the sometimes slow process impact your travel plans!

We continually work with the Immigration Office to identify problems and improve efficiency. In the meantime, if you have questions or concerns about your Sojourner Permit, you may always contact Letizia at the RLSO at 624-5258. Comments about the service you have received at the RLSO? Please contact Lt. Cmdr. Aaron Riggio (RLSO OIC) at [email protected].

Lastly, please remember when you do receive your soggiorno – keep a copy with you at all times, bring the original with you when you travel outside of the country, mind the expiration date and renew at the RLSO accordingly, and turn all soggiorno permits in to the RLSO upon PCS.

The delegation worked with local authorities to plan tasks scheduled for the COMREL to Aidone and Morgantina. Volunteers will meet at the NAS 1 Chapel for the project overview, culture awareness, and safety brief on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 8 a.m. Volunteers will compose three teams that will work at the museum: 1) transferring equipment out of the basement to other storage sites; 2) gardening, pruning, and weeding the backyard of the museum; and 3) storing artifacts in other areas of the museum. The fourth team will work at the Morgantina archaeological ruins to provide maintenance and excavation site clearance in preparation for an excavation by Duke University and Princeton University professors next summer. Friends of the museum will host a luncheon for volunteers, and members of the COMREL will return to NASSIG at approximately 4 p.m.

After the planning phase of the meeting, the delegation and local authorities had lunch at a nearby restaurant and spent time getting to know one another: families, careers, hobbies, educational background, etc. Establishing friendships and working-relationships is an important ingredient to successful COMREL partnerships with local nationals.

Already, news of the NASSIG COMREL has created interest and enthusiasm on the part of the Aidone Township. News stories have already circulated in advance of the COMREL project, and the arrival of NASSIG volunteers is greatly anticipated.

Community service events strengthen our relationships with the local nationals, enrich personal resiliency through volunteer work, create opportunities for social interaction, and offer travel engagements that foster lasting memories of places and people. The RMD supports COMRELs as mission essential tasks central to the Chaplain Corps, and we enthusiastically collaborate and coordinate efforts with the PAO to represent our Command and nation in the local community. For more information on the upcoming COMREL and RMD events, you may call the NAS 1 Chapel at 624-3975.

"COMREL" continued from page 1

A delegation of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella representatives met with local authorities and Aidone Archaelogical Museum staff to discuss plans for an upcoming community relations event on Oct. 29. The group photo is taken in front of one of the world's most celebrated 5th century B.C. Hellenistic masterpieces: the statue of Venus of Morgantina. (U.S. Navy photo by Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Rachelle Garcia/Released)


DIF

FICU

LT

GAME ZONE

MED

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Find and circle all of the songs from 2003 that are hidden in the grid.The remaining 22 letters spell an additional song title from 2003.

ALL I HAVEANGELBABY BOYBEAUTIFULCLOCKSCOME OVERDRIFT AWAYFIGHTERFRONTIN'GET BUSY GET LOWGOSSIP FOLKSHEADSTRONG

I CANI WANT YOUI'M WITH YOUIGNITIONIN DA CLUBINTO YOUINTUITION LANDSLIDELIKE A STONELIKE GLUEMESMERIZEMISS YOUPICTURE

RAIN ON MERIGHT THURRSAY YESSENORITA SO GONESOMEDAYSTAND UPSTUCKSUGA SUGASUNRISESUPERMANTROUBLEUNWELL

Songs from the Year 2003

Sigonella Swordfish shine

BY SALLIE dAvISSigonella Swordfish

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The Sigonella Swordfish hosted their annual Double Dip meet over Columbus Day weekend. EFSL teams Aviano, Naples, Stuttgart, and Vicenza traveled to Sicily to compete in this two day event. On Saturday, the swimmers raced for team points with three individual events and two team relays. On Sunday, swimmers entered a pentathlon competing for the lowest combined time in five individual events: the individual medley, butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle. In addition to phenomenal swimming, Double Dip attendees enjoyed gourmet concession stand food, a silent basket auction and a trophy ceremony to close the weekend.

During the award ceremony, the Swordfish honored high school senior, Tommy McManus. While singing his favorite song “Ghostbusters”, the team created an arm bridge for Tommy to enter the ceremony. At the end of the tunnel, Tommy presented his mother, Cindy McManus, with a bouquet of flowers. As Tommy stood on the medal podium for his last home meet, Coach Sarah Buck read his swim biography and plans for the future. Afterwards, team captain Tommy McManus was presented a “Senior Salute” plaque by his other fellow team captains. Tommy is a true leader and role model for all of the Swordfish. He will be greatly missed and we wish him the best of luck next year.

The Swordfish showed amazing sportsmanship and dedication throughout the weekend. Several new swimmers swam their first legal times while veteran swimmers improved their technique and displayed leadership on the pool deck. The Swordfish had fifty swimmers compete in the pentathlon. Twenty five of those swimmers earned a place in the Top 6 of their age group. Way to go Swordfish!

Pentathlon Results-Combined Events1st Place-CJ Davis (9), Mary Kate Jones (16) and Tommy McManus (17)2nd Place-Ellie Brasssart (8), Alyah Perkins (11), Ethan Naaktgeboren (11), Megan Cagle (12), Mia Naaktgeboren

(13) and Ethan Bowling (14)3rd Place-Bella DeSanto (9), Ezra Andres (9), Malia Puerto (10), Camila Cardona (11) and Brian Jones (14)4th Place-Eleanora Andre (8), Jack McKown (9), Gabrielle Andres (11), Harrison Barnes (11) and Crimson

Waller (16)5th Place-Shannon Buckley (7), Bailey Wilson (11), Graham Dennis (11) and Hannah Davis (13)6th Place-Lillian Piedad (10) and Colby Young (12)

*THE SIGONELLA SWORDFISH ARE A NON-FEDERAL ENTITY. THEY ARE NOT A PART OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE OR ANY OF ITS COMPONENTS AND IT HAS NO GOVERNMENT STATUS.

Tommy McManus was honored with a senior salute by the Sigonella Swordfish during the Double Dip weekend. The Sigonella Swordfish hosted their annual Double Dip meet over Columbus Day weekend. EFSL teams Aviano, Naples, Stuttgart, and Vicenza traveled to Sicily to compete in this two-day event. (Photo provided by Sammie McManus)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Imagine yourself taking on a voluntary challenge like: drinking an interesting concoction of hamburger, mustard, maple syrup, chocolate muffin tops, and sweet tea; bodily spelling out the alphabet; or, playing a fast-paced game of capture the flag. These are a few of the activities that students involved in Club Beyond each week find exciting!

Club Beyond is a youth program sponsored by the Sigonella Chapel for middle school and high school students. It is an ecumenical faith-based organization led by Club Beyond staff member Michael King.

“We want to help kids who have just moved to Sigonella to make friends,” King said. “We also want to re-engage kids who’ve come back from summer vacation in the states. Maybe they’ve lost pace with their friends or their BFF might not be back yet. Or they might need some new friends.”

In addition to meeting every week, Club leaders do a special event each month. For five weeks, students met every Friday night and participated in The Race. On these nights, teams competed in a variety of games such as tug of war, anything for a point, and capture the ball. This was followed by a talk and discussion.

“I’m very upfront,” King said. “I tell the kids our leaders are going to have a certain viewpoint. Our discussion topics are going to have themes from the Bible, but everyone is welcome. We don’t tell kids they’re wrong if they have a different viewpoint. We want to hear it. We want them to be able to talk about what they think and what they believe.”

He said many of the best conversations are with kids who have different viewpoints. They come to Club meetings and say, “I’m not a Christian and I don’t believe this stuff,” but then they want to know, “Why do you think that?”

“They need to be able to think about those things,” King said. “They might remain convinced of their own viewpoint, but at the end of the day, they know there are adults who care about them, who are interested in their opinions, and want to help them discuss and learn about life.”

The sub-theme of The Race is passion.“Teens have a passion about life,” King explained. “A lot of cultural

and foundational changes are made by teenagers who get excited about something and jump all in. Sometimes they need adults to help them out or give them advice, but the passion and drive comes from the kids.”

King said change might come from something as simple as being nice to another student at school when no one is being nice to them, or standing up to a culture of apathy.

Approximately 45 students participated in The Race.“It’s a fun place to hang out with my friends,” Thomas Wray, senior,

said.Middle school students meet for Club Beyond every Tuesday from

3 - 4:30 p.m.at the NAS 1 Chapel. The doors open at 2:30 p.m. High school students meet for Club Beyond on Thursdays from 6

- 7:30 p.m. at the Community Center and nearby gazebo in Marinai. Club Beyond also hosts “Wednesday Night” on Wednesdays from

5:30 - 7 p.m. at the NAS 1 Chapel and is another opportunity for teens to discuss life in small groups. “Wednesday Night” favors those discussion times over the high-energy activities that Club Beyond is known for.

BY MICHAEL KINGCommunity Director, Sigonella Club Beyond

Club Beyond: Just for kids


Trust is an important part of a fulfilling and safe relationship. When you trust your partner, you feel confident that he or she will respect and care for you, honor commitments and be truthful. While trust often builds throughout the course of a relationship, trust between two people can also suffer, especially if there are unresolved feelings of jealousy.

It is completely normal to feel a little jealous from time to time even in the healthiest of relationships. Sometimes you may feel jealous about things that seem to take up a lot of your partner's time, like relationships with other people, job demands or time spent online. When you feel neglected by your partner due to his or her interest in something - or someone - else, you may worry that other interests are a threat to your relationship and wonder if you can trust your partner. The way that you and your partner deal with jealousy is critical to maintaining trust and avoiding more serious problems. Sharing your feelings with your partner and taking the time to talk about your relationship may make you feel better and make it easier for you to move past the jealousy. Honest communication - while sometimes painful and scary - can help you address your feelings before they become more intense.

Jealousy is unhealthy when it starts to define a relationship. This kind of jealousy may cause you to be suspicious of your partner and of his or her motives. Partners may become totally preoccupied by jealous thoughts, and constantly worry about losing the relationship. This kind of intense jealousy can lead to controlling or violent behavior. In an effort to gain control of these feelings and confidence in the relationship, you might try to limit your partner's time with others, spy on your partner, look through your partner's belongings or insist on knowing every detail of your partner's activities. You may find yourself constantly asking questions about past relationships. Some people try to control their partner's behavior through threats or intimidation, and in their desperation, may resort to physical violence. If you feel overcome by jealousy or are in a relationship with a jealous partner who demonstrates unhealthy feelings or actions that make you uncomfortable, you do not have to manage the situation on your own. Help is available for you and your partner.

A professional counselor can provide individual counseling to help you sort through your feelings or work with you as a couple to rebuild trust. Find out more about available confidential non-medical counseling resources by contacting the Family Advocacy Program DSN: 624-4291 / Comm: 011-39-095-56-4291 or at MilitaryOneSource.mil or contact If you are fearful for your safety or if your relationship has become abusive, there are people who can help you get and stay safe. You can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) for help with safety planning and finding resources and services in your community. Reach out for the support you need to keep your relationship healthy and safe!

Understanding jealousy, preserving trust: Keeping your relationship strongFrom MilitaryOneSource.mil

Lt. Cmdr. Angela Roldan-Whitaker, Capt. Philip Vargas and Cmdr. Manuel Alsina prepare to serve lunch at the U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month held earlier this month. (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospitalman Jasper Seisa/Released)

SIGNATURESIGONELLA, SICILY

Do you have a passion for writing? Are you looking for a little experience in journalism?

The Signature is seeking volunteers to help cover base events as well as feature and travel stories.

If this interests you, please call the NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office at DSN 624-5440 or email us at [email protected].

THE

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - True to the Fiesta Spirit, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s celebration of National Hispanic Heritage month was filled with music, dancing, great food and most of all, strong participation from the community. Keeping with the theme “Hispanics: a Legacy of History, a Present of Action and a Future of Success” the event celebrated the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate the group’s unique heritage and culture.

The attendees were treated to a performance of Bachata, a style of dance that originated in the Dominican Republic and the more widely known Salsa, another form of dance with roots from Latin America. Lunch was also served with a variety of signature dishes from Hispanic and Latino cuisines: tacos, tamales, pupusas, horchata and more. “We always like to incorporate unique cultural performances and serve ethnic dishes in events such as these,” says Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Linger, Co-Chair of the Hospital’s Diversity Committee. “Our goal is to always further extend our staff ’s education in the multitude of cultures that make up our great nation.”

National Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off on September 15 and is concluded a month later in October. The peculiar day is chosen as a starting point for the celebration as it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American counties: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The U.S. Navy has had generations of Hispanic and Latino Americans serve in the fleet, among them is the first admiral, David Farragut, who is immortalized in every sailor studying for advancement by his words spoken at the Battle of the Mobile Bay: “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead.”

HM2 Sinthia Gomez, Leading Petty Officer of the Medical Homeport and a second generation Salvadoran American, underlines the importance of diversity celebration events in fostering goodwill in the community. “I remember checking-in at the hospital and one of the first social events I attended was a practice for the Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage celebration,” she says. “Not only was it a fun learning experience, it was also good to know that we all belong in the same community despite the different backgrounds we are coming from.”

Diversity has been and will always be one of the key strengths that make our Navy the world’s premier Naval Power. Events that celebrate our diversity will only make us stronger.

National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated at USNH SigonellaBY HM2 JOSEPH CASTROU.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

A relationship can be unhealthy or abusive even without physical violence. Verbal abuse may not cause physical damage, but it does cause emotional pain and scarring. It can also lead to physical violence if the relationship continues on the unhealthy path its on.

Sometimes verbal abuse is so bad that you actually start believing what your partner says. You begin to think you’re stupid, ugly or fat. You agree that nobody else would ever want to be in a relationship with you. Constantly being criticized and told you aren’t good enough causes you to lose confidence and lowers your self-esteem. As a result, you may start to blame yourself for your partner’s abusive behavior.

What is Emotional/Verbal Abuse?Emotional abuse includes non-physical behaviors such as threats, insults, constant

monitoring or “checking in,” excessive texting, humiliation, intimidation, isolation or stalking.

There are many behaviors that qualify as emotional or verbal abuse:• Callingyounamesandputtingyoudown.• Yellingandscreamingatyou.• Intentionallyembarrassingyouinpublic.• Preventingyoufromseeingortalkingwithfriendsandfamily.• Tellingyouwhattodoandwear.• Usingonlinecommunitiesorcellphonestocontrol,intimidateorhumiliateyou.• Blamingyouractionsfortheirabusiveorunhealthybehavior.• Stalkingyou.• Threateningtocommitsuicidetokeepyoufrombreakingupwiththem.• Threateningtoharmyou,yourpetorpeopleyoucareabout.• Makingyoufeelguiltyorimmaturewhenyoudon’tconsenttosexualactivity.• Threatening to expose your secrets such as your sexual orientation or immigration status.• Startingrumorsaboutyou.• Threateningtohaveyourchildrentakenaway.

The Fence:There was a little boy with a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him

that every time he lost his temper, to hammer a nail in the back fence. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Then it gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally the day came when the boy didn’t lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, “you have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence’. The fence will never be the same. When you are verbally abusive and say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a person and draw it out. It won’t matter how many times you say I’m sorry, the wound is still there.

Remember -- A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one. No one deserves abuse. Everyone has a right to be cared for and to feel safe -- and so do you. . The Family Advocacy Program helps individuals, couples and families develop healthy relationship skills and address common relationship and parenting challenges during every stage of life. Learn more about healthy relationships by contacting the Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN: 624-4291, Commercial: 095 56 4291.

From www.loveisrespect.org

Is emotional abuse really abuse?

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THE SIGNATUREPAGE 16 October 17, 2014

The Signature, October 17, 2014

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