Dec. 16 The Signature

http://www.cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Vol. 28 No. 47

December 16, 2011

Helping those less fortunate this holiday season, Boy Scout troop 53 donated nearly 2 tons of canned and dry food to the largest soup kitchen in Sicily. (U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Gary Prill)

Sigonella Boy Scouts Donate Tons of Food to Catania Soup Kitchen

By MC2 Gary Prill NPASE East Detachment Europe SIGONELLA, Italy – Boy Scout troop 53, donated nearly 2 tons of canned and dry food and cases of baby food to the largest Catholic Charity and Soup Kitchen in Catania, Sicily.

The donation was part of a food drive coordinated as part of a Boy Scout ranking requirement for Life Scout

Mathew Kinsman in order to receive the next Boy Scout rank of Eagle Scout.

The Eagle Scout is the highest rank a boy scout can receive in the program. In order to rise to this rank a scout must attain at least 21 merit badges, and organize, lead and manage an extensive community service project. Eagle Scouts are presented with a badge and medal to

visibly recognize the accomplishment and the rank will be maintained by the scout long after he has ended the scout program.

“This food drive is for the Caritas Charity Center, the largest soup kitchen in Sicily. In the past few months the kitchen has received more families in need of food and shelter, so we are helping them by donating 1 ton of food for the holiday

season,” said Kinsman. This means a lot to me, it’s not something you see everyday. I was born here and just wanted to help out my community by coming back and helping out.”

The food drive involved coordination with the local commissary, community members, and Caritas officials in order to successfully execute the drop off and maximize the help to the community.

“This has been a great opportunity.

This is the second time that the base has reached out to our charity, this time it was such a generous donation and is very meaningful to us,” said Dalerio Di Trapani, the director of the Catania Caritas Charity Center.

“It shows that the American community cares about outreaching to the less fortunate, so I can say that this year’s Christmas will be more joyful for the needy families of Catania who will receive these donations.”

This is just one of the many charities receiving holiday gifts from the families of Naval Air Station Sigonella. The Air Force Booster Club will also be dropping off a large supply of clothing to the San Paolo Church of Acireale, and the Junior Enlisted Association will be providing Christmas presents to the children of Catholic Foster Home in Macchia di Giarre.

Sicilian Christmas Goodies

Get the Sigonella DoDDS 411

2011 Missoula Audition and Play

Learn about these tempting treats.

From boys and girls basketball games to Holiday Bookmark Contest Winners ... get the 411!

Approximately 40-50 students will be cast.

Find out more!

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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella

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December 16, 2011

NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief, David Graham Buongiorno Sigonella, Christmas is here! It’s hard to believe that another year has passed by so quickly. As we enjoy the holiday season and do our last minute, panicked shopping, remember to take the time and enjoy being with your family. All too often we are away from them and missing out on their life while deployed, so take some time and create some long-lasting memories.

Christmas is not just a time for festivity and merry making. It is more than that. It is also a time for the contemplation of the past year and of the future. Typically, we tend to set goals during this time of year in the hopes of bettering ourselves in the following year.

This year I would like to challenge you to refocus on your personal and professional development.

Personal development is easily accomplished; it is simply the act of making your life better. It can something as easy as learning how to change the oil in your car, to the more daunting prospects of going back to college or deciding to make a change to a healthier lifestyle.

I say these changes are easy, because here in Sigonella, we have fantastic programs in place to help you meet your goals. MWR and Health Promotions can help you with your fitness goals, through a variety of nutrition and workout classes, while our fantastic college office counselors are well versed in matching prospective students

with the school that is the best fit.

No matter what you decide, remember, it’s all for you so have some fun with it.

Professional development Individuals who engage in professional development share the common goal of enhancing their job capabilities and advancing in their career path. In the military, there are two items, that you have control of which can help with your advancement; your exam score and your evaluation. To be competitive, you have to study!

Bibliographies are made available before every test, so that you can study and score well on your test, so be sure to utilize it. To ensure your yearly evaluation is competitive, look for ways to gain an edge such as Navy COOL(Navy Credentialing Opportunities

Online) or theUnited Military Services Apprenticeship Program (USMAP), a formal military training program that provides active duty service members the opportunity to complete their civilian apprenticeship requirements while they are on active duty. This additional training, paired with volunteering and community interaction will help set you apart and help you succeed.

Last but not least, it is the end of the year and we are in the middle of the Mediterranean, so make sure you get out of the triangle, go to ITT and visit some of the other cultures around us.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Chaplain Steve Labue of NAS Sigonella and Chaplain Alan Hansen, Regional Chaplain from Naples, cut the birthday cake celebrating the 236th Anniversary of the Navy Chaplain Corps.

The Signature

Six members of the NAS Sigonella community became U.S. citizens during a ceremony held on Dec. 9 on NAS I. Two service members, Julito Dacpano and Jay Lambert Penados, and 4 spouses, Debora Giuffrida, Maria Hagedorn, Maria Hoffman and Huiyi Li all took the oath at the presence of Mr. John Lafferty, Deputy District Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Rome District Office. (Photo By Gena Gesa, NLSO EURAFSWA Det Sigonella) Commander U.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella Capt. Scott Butler

Deputy Public Affairs Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil

Executive Officer Cmdr. Eric Vosler

Writer/Editor Jackie Trembath jackie.trembath@eu.navy.mil

Command Master Chief CMDCM David Graham

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Tim Page timothy.page@eu.navy.mil

Staff Writers/ Photographers MC1 Christopher Delano MC2 Gary Prill GM2 Kris Carmody MCSN Cameron Bramham MCSA Brian Glunt

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: stampagenerale@tin.it.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no laterthan the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submittedby non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

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The Signature editorial office is located at: Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627 Telephone: 095-86-5440 • DSN 624-5440

Email thesig@eu.navy.mil to place your classified advertisement or community announcement.

December 16, 2011

Is My Drinking Water Safe?

By Terrence Barton NAS Public Works, Environmental Div

The short answer is YES. The tap water provided to NAS Sigonella meets a comprehensive list of requirements from both Italian and US law. The drinking water provided to NAS I, NAS II, Weapons and Marinai Housing is tested monthly, quarterly and annually and is analyzed according to a set of standards combining the most stringent of US and Italian requirements.

The water is analyzed for over 110 individual parameters including inorganic chemicals, volatile organic chemicals, pesticides, disinfection by-products, radionuclides, microbiological contaminants, and residual chlorine (residual disinfectant). Chlorine content is tested continuously at the water plant.

The source of NASSIG’s drinking water is groundwater produced at five wells located between NAS I and NAS II. Ground water is extracted from two wells for NAS I and three wells for NAS II. Marinai Housing receives its water from two ground water wells maintained by a private contractor. The water entering the base is treated first by filtration then by reverse osmosis (RO).

The drinking water is then chlorinated before it is distributed around the base.

Chemical and biological tests show that our drinking water meets safety standards. Periodically, our water exceeds standards for Iron due to corrosion in the supply lines which causes the water to be discolored. The discolored water is an aesthetic issue only, not a health issue. The Public Works Department has initiated and conducted a study to determine options to correct this issue with Water, continued on page 12

TRAFFIC NUMBERS Jan. 11

Jan. 10

Oct. 11 Oct. 10 Accidents

267

286

Injuries

36

49

DUIs

10

Traffic Deaths

0

9

0

Please, don’t become a statistic!

Tremor

Pittsburgh @ San Francisco As much as I dislike the Steelers, this will be a great defensive battle.

Arguably two of the better defensive teams matched up, with both looking to make a strong playoff run. Although the 49ers are at home, I am expecting this comes down to who can air the ball out, and I think the advantage goes to Mike Wallace of the Steelers.

SILVERI I see we have an all NFL lineup this week, meaning this week's picks need to be made by the adults on the panel. The LT's can go ahead and take a seat. I also want to add how bad I feel for our last place panelist. Keep your head up; I think the world figure skating championships are happening soon maybe they'll make a panel in The Signature for that, LT McHenry.

Moving on, here are my picks for the week.

Pittsburgh @ San Francisco Chris and Matty, I hate to go against you on this one, but I have to pick the Niners here. The game is in San Fran and they are playing too good right now to get beat at home. James Harrison might be a possible scratch in this one as well for his malicious hit against Colt McCoy. That would be a big hole in the Steelers D and would be hard to fill. Big Ben is under pressure all day. Niners by 10.

Detroit @ Oakland Where am I from again?

That's right, I'm from Michigan.

The Lions go into Oak-town and beat the Raiders so bad the Raider fans that dress up like an S&M group (Raider Nation or something to that tune) start crying. Go Lions!!!

New York Jets @ Philly LT McHenry, the Eagles are awesome this year! Not! Jets by 21.

Cleveland @ Arizona Cleveland can't stop Larry Fitzgerald & company. Cards by 14.

New England @ Denver Enough of Tim Tebow says Tom Brady. The former alumni of THE University of Michigan shows “Timmy T” what a real NFL quarterback looks like. Pats win this one with ease, and Tebow might even complete more than four passes this game due to New England's suspect defense. Either way, you can't stop Tom Brady.

Seattle @ Chicago Da Bears by 10. I don't want the Bears to win, because they are in the same division as my Lions, but I think they'll pull this one out with pure grit. That's all I've got.

Go Navy!

Detroit @ Oakland Oakland has been shaky at best, losing the top position in the AFC West to Denver, or shall I say Tebow!

Detroit has the offense and a defense to compliment the offense, but they just can't get it done against top tier teams. News Flash! - Oakland is NOT top tier team. Detroit by 14.

NY Jets @ Philadelphia This will likely be the best game this week in regards to the picks! Both teams have the personnel but just simply can't get it TOGETHER! This is a toss-up and just to make McHenry feel good, I'll go with the Eagles. I'm here for ya!

Cleveland @ Arizona This could go either way. These teams, strangely enough, match up very well together. With Beanie Wells seemingly healthy and the defense playing "tolerable" and the Browns still leaning on Colt McCoy, I just don't see Cleveland getting past the Cardinals.

I'm picking the Cardinals in a close one.

New England @ Denver Tim Tebow, you've had a great run, but all good things must come to an end.Unless Tom Brady and Wes Welker come down with a major case of altitude sickness, the Broncos don't stand a chance. For the Broncos to win Tebow will have to throw for 300 yards (at least) and he has not come close to that total yet. Denver goes down hard in this one, 41-10 and the media will be all over Tebow and his inability to pass. Give him a break already!!

Seattle @ Chicago I know there was a lot of chatter from the CMC Graham on how the Bears were doing and that has gone silent over the last couple weeks.

Rightfully so...With Cutler and Forte hurt, they have NO offense now.

Unless Devin Hester or Johnny Knox can run EVERY punt and kickoff back, they will have trouble scoring a point.

They lose to Seattle and likely most games until Forte is healthy. Yes, he means that much to that team.

SQUALL Pittsburgh @ San Francisco Well the power rankings have San

Fran. at 3 and Pittsburgh at 5 but for this game, my guts have to go with the Steelers. They only give up 176 passing's yards a game which is second in the NFL and only 96 yards rushing a game which is 7th in the NFL. Their defense is tough and very nasty. They will blitz you from left, right and even right up the middle. Their secondary does not give up many big plays and their linebackers will make you not want to cross the middle of the field.

San Fran. is 29th in passing and 7th in rushing with 130 a game. But don't forget pass sets up run and if you can’t pass you will not be able to run on the Steelers. So Steelers lets go.

Detroit @ Oakland For some reasons I am leaning on the Raiders in this one. But Detroit has lost to good teams this year I mean San Fran, Atlanta, Chicago (with cutler), Saints, and Green Bay. So we really can’t say they are a bad team.

They have offensive power and their defense is ok. Raiders will have trouble dealing with Suh and Fairley and Vanden Bosch so I say Detroit all the way.

NY Jets @ Philadelphia I say Jets because Eagles suck terribly. Jets suck too but Eagles are terrible. Jets will pull this one out in a close one trust me. Sanchez is making a playoff run and Philly gives up to much.

Cleveland @ Arizona Come on for real! Cleveland cannot win on the road at all. They have a stout passing defense. I mean first in the league but Arizona has an X-factor in Patrick Peterson and yes he comes from LSU. He has been great on special teams and Beeanie Wells can hit another 200 yard game. I take Arizona in a close one.

New England @ Denver Tebow is real and their defense is real but Brady should be able to expose their weak secondary. Patriots are too strong and have too many weapons. They will run and pass but you never know which one will come.

I like this match up a lot, but Tebow is strong and knows how to win. I still say New England in a 3 point game.

Seattle @ Chicago I guess Chicago. I hope. Who cares? These teams are terrible. Let’s be real here. Chi town come on!

DEMBINSKI Pittsburgh @ San Francisco I am putting my faith in the Steelers offense this week. They seem to have been able to overcome everyone except Baltimore this year. I had lost faith in Roethlisberger, but he

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appears to be getting his act together, leading the team to 4 straight wins after a close but disappointing loss to the Ravens. The 49ers have stumbled a bit in the past few weeks, losing to both Arizona and (just like Pittsburgh) the Ravens. Their passing defense is a bit weak for the Steelers passing offense. They are allowing just as many yards as Pittsburgh is gaining in the air, which gives me hope that the Steelers will be able to shine. Big Ben better let it fly and prove me right!

Detroit @ Oakland Detroit leads this series, 2-0.

Obviously, Oakland has performed much better when compared to past year. I just don't think this will change the fact that the Lions, headed by stand-out Matt Stafford, are going to win it. The Detroit offense and defense are stronger and able to win on the road. Put another home loss on the board for the Raiders, as Detroit moves to 9-5.

NY Jets @ Philadelphia I'm giving this to the Eagles.

This offense is heads above the Jets and they are desperate to add to that solitary home win of theirs. I think, if Vick is healthy, they should have no problems, whether running or passing.

Cleveland @ Arizona Colt McCoy suffered a concussion against Pittsburgh and is questionable to play against Arizona.

This leaves Seneca Wallace (who has thrown for a whopping 2-2 for 17 total yards this year) in charge! While this is an obvious weak spot, even if Colt does play, the Cardinals will still be able to maintain their streak, with another win.

New England @ Denver Should this be called Tom Brady @ Tim Tebow??? That's really what everyone will be watching. How will Tebow measure up against the great Tom Brady? New England has some injuries on both sides of the ball and this will surely put a damper on their ability to score. This, in my opinion, is really anyone's game. I'm going to give it to the Broncos, simply for the fact that I just really don't like the Pats, and I think people would give Tebow a break.

Seattle @ Chicago I wish we would quit having to pick Bears games already! I am giving this one to the Seahawks. The Bears are without Matt Forte, and this means huge losses in their offense.

Forte is a team leader in both passing and rushing yardage. Add that to the Bears already on a 3-week losing run, and the Seahawks have the perfect opportunity to pull out a Windy City win.

PAGE Well, well…It looks like GM2’s record is falling like a rock and a new leader has risen to the top. I also notice that McHenry finally took my advice which resulted in his 6-0 record this week. Stick with me kid and I’ll take ya places.

Lt. Tim Page NAS Sigonella PAO

Ashley Dembinski WIC office admin. assistant

LSSN Nathaniel Squall

LSC Sigonella

GM2 Bryan Silveri CMAA Office

Lt. Chris McHenry NAS Sigonella Admin Officer

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

San Fransisco

San Fransisco

Detroit @ Oakland

Detroit

Detroit

Detroit

Oakland

NY Jets @ Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Detroit NY Jets

NY Jets

Philadelphia

Cleveland @ Arizona

Arizona

Arizona

Arizona

Arizona

Arizona

New England @ Denver

New England

Denver

New England

New England

Denver

Seattle @ Chicago

Seattle

Seattle

Chicago

Chicago

Seattle

Overall Record: 55-28 NFL: 30-11 NCAA: 25-17

Overall Record: 54-29 NFL: 28-13 NCAA: 26-16

Pittsburgh @ San Fransisco

Overall Record: 53-30 NFL: 24-17 NCAA: 29-13

Overall Record: 51-32 NFL: 23-18 NCAA: 28-14

Dott. Stella

Overall Record: 45-38 NFL: 24-17 NCAA: 21-21

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December 16, 2011

“Where is Frosty?”

Kwanza begins

Hanukkah begins

Gingerbread House Decorating Contest

Polar Bear Slip-N-Slide and Holiday Party

Hanukkah ends

Sicilian Country Day in Mazzarone 0730-1900

Soccer Match Catania vs.

Palermo

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

Ice Skating in Catania 1030-1400

Ice Skating in Catania 1030-1400

New Years Eve

New Years Day Kwanza ends

FFSC can be reached at x4291 American Red Cross at x4900 Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar?

Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!

Piccolo

Palermo

Oxidiana

Happy Wok

December 16, 2011

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Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Building Bldg. 319 (NAS I) Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

DSN 624-4291 Commercial 095-56-4291

Gambino

Cha-ching-a-ling!

By Fleet & Family Support Center

According to the National Retail Federation (www.nrf.org) only five percent of Americans complete their holiday shopping in November. Americans have spent their holiday dollars averaging between $700 and $800 on gifts for family, friends and co-workers. So, when is it a good time to plan for the next holiday season? TODAY! • CREATE A SPENDING PLAN: Creating a financial plan can help you control your money and reach your goals – all year! Think of Christmas as an expense like any other such as new tires for the car or buying new furniture for the living room. The cost should be estimated, and planned for throughout the year. (See your Command Financial Specialist for help with completing a financial planning worksheet to get started).

Motta

• SAVE IN ADVANCE: Take a few dollars from each paycheck throughout the year and put it into an interest paying holiday savings club at your financial institution.

Oxidiana

o Example: If you spent $1,200 this year for holiday shopping you would need to save $100 per month for 12 months.

• TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SEASONAL BARGAINS. Be on the lookout for end of the year sales after the holiday season.

• TALK ABOUT IT: Take some time to sit down with your family and discuss your holiday plans. o Family Conference o To do lists o Top priorities o Dollar amounts per person So what are the benefits of financial planning? A good plan will help you: • Reduce Stress • Live within your means.

• Realize goals.

• Maintain a good credit history.

• Get more for your money.

• Achieve financial freedom.

money by finding the greatest sales in stores, online and waiting for those last minute bargains. But retailers are always trying to find ways to get you to spend more of your hard earned dollars.

Unless you are savvy or have enough money to pay a credit card off in full….don’t charge!

Percentages or fees associated with the store cards are usually 21 percent or higher and can be quite costly to use.

A financial plan is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. It will help you get more for your money, lower stress, and show you how to achieve your goals.

For more information on how to prepare your own financial spending plan contact your Command Financial Specialist or the Fleet and Family Support Center at 624-4291. *Note: some parts adapted from PFM Curriculum: Surviving the Holidays Financially

If you are a savvy shopper then you probably already know how to save

The Fleet & Family Support Center offers a series of workshops to help ease your transition: Intercultural Relations (ICR) Survive & Thrive History of Sicily Seminar Customs and Traditions Seminar

F.lli Chiechio

Pentagon

Marchi

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December 16, 2011 Alberto Lunetta The Signature Staff

Among the most popular Italian Christmas sweets is Buccellatoa short crust ring shaped cake filled with dried fruits, orange peels, plain chocolate, honey and spices and sprinkled with pistachio. (Photo by http://dolcecucina.altervista.org/blog)

ANGELA

Sicilian Christmas Cakes Italian Christmas sweets include a variety of desserts that will definitely tempt your sweet tooth! Many of the delectable desserts contain dried fruits. According to Sicilian Christmas legends and traditions, dried fruits symbolize wealth and plenty. That is the reason that many Sicilian Christmas cakes are dried fruit based.

Among the most popular Italian Christmas sweets are “Buccellato” (from the Latin word Buccellatum that means bread in morsels), Panettone (cake filled with candied fruit) and Torrone (nougat). Cassata and Cannoli are also popular treats.

Bucellato is a short crust ring shaped cake filled with dried fruits, orange peels, plain chocolate, honey and spices and sprinkled with pistachio. It includes a mignon version called Buccellatino that is sprinkled with icing sugar and covered with a white frosting.

Panettone is leavened bread that was already popular in northern Italy’s bakeries in the 15th century.

There are a few stories of how Panettone came about. In one legend, Panettone was invented by Ughetto, a young Milanese nobleman who fell desperately in love with Adalgisa, the daughter of a poor baker named Toni.

To win her hand, the nobleman disguised himself as a baker, worked restlessly to prepare a rich bread made with flour and yeast, butter, eggs, dried raisins and candied lemon and orange peel. As the word spread, customers flooded the bakery to buy this delicious treat. Ughetto gave Toni credit for the invention. Soon, everybody in Milan got crazy for “Pan di Toni” (Tony’s bread) from where

it comes the word Panettone.

Ughetto eventually married Adalgisa.

Another legend credits a lazy Milanese baker called Antonio or Toni baked Panettone “accidentally” for the first time. He wasn’t excited about his job, so he did not pay much attention while he was making bread.

One day, he accidentally spilt a jar of sugar, candied fruits and raisins into the bread dough. Since he was in a hurry to complete the task, he put the dough into the oven anyway.

Unexpectedly, his customers loved this new creation that was named it “Tony’s bread!

According to historic sources, Panettone was already baked 10th century as a “modern version” of the traditional “Pan Grande” (big bread), which was popular in Italy during Christmas time. Sometimes it was enriched with raisins and candied fruits. Christmas bread remained a Milanese specialty until the turn of the 15th century. Later on, the tradition spread from Milan throughout Italy arriving also in Sicily and even in America as Sicilian immigrants brought their food traditions with them. Because of the high cost of bakery- produced cakes, many families used to make it at home. In addition to the traditional candied fruit and raisin fillings, modern Panettone can be mixed with chocolate drops, chocolate frosting, dates, almonds, ice cream and even champagne cream.

Torrone or nougat is a mixture of sugar, honey, egg whites, almonds and hazelnuts.

It is also an ancient dessert, probably because honey, its main ingredient, was the first healthy sweetener ever.

In Ancient Rome, its presence has been documented by historical accounts reported in a cookbook written by the famous Roman gourmet Apicius. This recipe included whole eggs pepper and milk.

According to tradition, the first Torrone was firstly baked 1441 at the court of the Visconti, the Italian family that ruled Milan from the 13th century until 1447, during the wedding banquet for Bianca Maria Visconti and Francesco Sforza, the duke of Milan. Some authors believe that court confectioners shaped this treat like the tower of Cremona, a city that was included in bride’s dowry.

The main ingredients of this tasty dessert were: honey, almonds and beaten egg whites. The 13th-century tower, which still flanks Cremona’s main church, was then known as Torrione (big tower) therefore the dessert was given the name Torrone.

The guests at the wedding banquet, who came from all over Italy and Europe, were extremely impressed by this unusual delicacy and “sang its praises” in their countries upon their return home. Cremona was then flooded with requests for shipments of Torrone that eventually became a local landmark earning a worldwide reputation.

Available in many different flavors, Torrone ranges from the traditional hard white type filled with almonds or hazelnuts to chocolate and to the soft white one. Torrone also includes different kinds of liqueurs (Rum, Gran Marnier and Strega) among its ingredients. In Sicily, pastry chefs cover Torrone with lemon, orange or pistachio frosting.

Mojito

December 16, 2011

Page 7

Happy Wok Satisfaction in Italy as 'Gomorrah' Kingpin Arrested (Story by ANSA)

Rome - Police last Wednesday arrested the leading fugitive of the Camorra mafia clan exposed in the well-known book and film Gomorrah.

"The state has won," police quoted Michele Zagaria as saying ironically as they handcuffed him.

Zagaria, top dog in the bloodthirsty Casalesi clan, was hiding out beneath five meters of reinforced concrete in

a bunker north of Naples. As authorities dug him out, officers completely surrounded the small town of Casapesenna in order to block an escape attempt. "It's an enormous triumph of the state, not just against the Casalesi clan, but against the entire Camorra," said Interior Minister Anna Maria Cancellieri.

Italian President Giorgio Napolitano called the arrest "an

Bologna Named 'Most Liveable City' in Italy: 'We Can Overcome Crisis', Says Mayor (Story by Romereports.com/Romeguide.it)

Premier

Bologna - The northern city of Bologna has been named the most liveable city in the country, according to a new survey.

Bologna has long been recognised as a centre of arts and culture and is home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna, which was founded in 1088.

A poll conducted by the national business daily, Il Sole-24 Ore, announced the finding after assessing the quality of life in 107 provinces across Italy.

The survey looked at a number of issues spanning business, work,

health and hospital services and the state of the local environment, public services and availability of free time.

Bologna's Mayor Virginio Merola welcomed the news saying the city was well-placed to weather the current economic crisis.

"I believe that this region and urban network has all the conditions for overcoming this crisis," he said.

One of the major assets of the city is its commitment to childcare and education. In 2010 the city offered places for 3,275 children at nursery schools and kindergartens

'Teenaged Murderer' Released After 10 Years: Young Woman and Ex-Boyfriend Stabbed Mother and Brother 96 Times (Story by ANSA)

Brescia - A young woman convicted for one of the last decade's most sensational murder cases in Italy was released last Tuesday after 10 years for stabbing her mother and 12year-old brother to death when she was a teenager. The case of Erika De Nardo, who has since turned 27, and her then boyfriend Mauro Favaro, riveted the Italian public when they were arrested for murdering Suzy Cassini and Gianluca De Nardo in 2001.

Initial sympathy for Erika De Nardo, who claimed to be the sole survivor of a bloody massacre by house burglars, turned to horror as police discovered that she and Favaro had inflicted a total of nearly 100 stab wounds on the victims.

De Nardo was sentenced to 16 years for the murders and Favaro to 14. Both defendants, who entered pleas of temporary mental infirmity, served reduced time.

Monti: Italy Risked Not Paying Salaries (Story by COLLEEN BARRY, Associated Press)

ROME — Premier Mario Monti urged lawmakers last Tuesday to accept his financial rescue package, including new and higher taxes, saying Italy had risked running out of money to pay state salaries and pensions.

Lawmakers on the right and left have been grumbling over his 2-dayold rescue plan, including pension reforms to make Italians work far longer and a revived home property tax.

Monti, continued on page 12

important result in the fight against organized crime". Zagaria, 53, had been on the run since 1995 and was sentenced in absentia to life for murder and other mafia crimes in 2008.

He was on the list of Italy's 30 most-wanted fugitives.

The Neapolitan mafia's Casalesi clan was exposed in Roberto Satisfaction, continued on page 12

Gas Prices Highest in Europe (Story by ANSA)

Rome - A nationwide tax hike on gasoline went into effect Wednesday as part of the government's 30billion-euro 'Save Italy' austerity package, making the cost of gasoline in Italy the highest in Europe. The average price of a liter of gasoline rose almost 10 cents to 1.708 euros, nearly 18% higher than the start of the year.

“We spend 27.4% more than Spain, 14.6% more than France and 13.9% more than Germany," said Carlo Pileri, chairman of Italian consumer association ADOC. "We've even surpassed the Netherlands, which used to be the most expensive. Today their petrol costs 9.5% less than ours".

ADOC says that Italian drivers have had to spend an extra 750 euros in 2011 after a record five tax hike over the course of the year. The latest fuel tax was the first measure from the new budget package to go into effect.

Controversial Christmas Tree Goes Down in Rome: 'A True Eyesore' Say Critics (Story by ANSA)

Rome - The mayor of Rome has decided to remove a giant papiermache Christmas tree from the center of the city because he thought it was too ugly. "I decided to replace it with a normal, classic tree because I like traditional things," said Gianni Alemanno. The tree, which went up Tuesday, was made of recycled white paper that matched the white stone of the surrounding neoclassical buildings.

The removal mandate, which came after members of the main opposition party called the faux fir "a true eyesore", received bipartisan support.

Page 8

December 16, 2011

DoDDS Sigonella Conducts D.A.R.E. Classes for Students

By MCSA Brian Glunt NPASE East Detachment Europe

8th grade students at the Department of Defense Dependent School (DoDDS) Sigonella attend a Drug Abuse Resistance Education lesson here, Dec. 8. The 10-week D.A.R.E. program teaches the students information and skills they need to live drug and violence-free lives. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Brian Glunt)

SIGONELLA, Sicily – Elementary and Middle School students of the Department of Defense Dependents School (DoDDS) attend Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) classes here, Dec. 8.

The D.A.R.E. program was founded in 1983 to provide children with information and skills they need to live drug and violence-free lives.

“The program gives them a better knowledge of what’s actually out there in the community,” said Masterat-Arms 2nd Class Shane Harrison, D.A.R.E. Sigonella assistant coordinator. “It helps them make better decisions on what they know. That way they are not blindsided by anything.”

This program, which began Nov. 9 and is running through Jan. 24, focuses on such topics as social resistance skills, violence prevention,

consequential thinking with problem solving and conflict management.

“The curriculum for the 5th and 6th graders is more about teaching the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs and over-the-counter prescriptions,” said Master-at-Arms 1st Class (SW) Andy Whittington, D.A.R.E. Sigonella coordinator.

“The curriculum is a 10-week program for all grades that we teach with videos, Power Point and workbooks that way they can keep up with their progress.”

At the end of the 10-week curriculum, a graduation will be held for all the students who participated in the lessons.

“The kids are responding really well,” said Harrison. “They are being interactive because they know a lot of the content.”

Sigonella High School Basketball Season Has Begun!

The Jags played two games against visiting American Overseas School of Rome this weekend, losing 28-21 and 28-17. (Photo by SHS senior Robyn Brand)

Pietro

The Lady Jags who won two games against visiting American Overseas School of Rome on Saturday, Dec. 10 with a 53-37 and 57-50 victory. Next up for Sigonella is a January 13-14 home clash against Vicenza.(Photo By SHS senior Robyn Brand)

Gelso Bianco

New Place

December 16, 2011

Page 9

New Ways of Doing School

By Ian Coubrough Sigonella Elementary School Principal Things have changed a lot since I was in elementary school. Back then students sat in rows, only spoke when the teacher asked a question, and everyone was taught the same lesson and held to the same expectations.

All students were expected to be on the same page for each subject. The textbook was the curriculum and there were lots of ditto sheets to keep students ‘busy’ for every minute of the day. Talking was not allowed for most of the day and working with a partner was considered cheating.

‘One size fits all’ was the philosophy of instruction.

Educational research has helped to inform our current classroom practices. We now have extensive data about how the brain processes information and how to maximize student learning. We are now aware of cognitive diversity, which brings a host of new strategies into the classrooms.

Multiple intelligences, habits of the mind, emotional intelligence, gender-based preferences, and sensory approaches to learning, all need to be considered by teachers, when planning for instruction.

The ‘factory model’ of school is no longer valid. Today our teachers see students as individuals with diverse learning needs and abilities. One of the key elements for effective instruction in 21st century schools is a strategy called Differentiated Instruction (DI).

Essential features of DI include: • Frequent student assessments • A quality curriculum • Respectful/challenging tasks • A positive classroom environment • Flexible grouping of all students • Full student engagement with the curriculum In school year 2009/2010, The Department of Defense Educational Activity (DoDEA), embarked on a comprehensive training program for teachers (world-wide) in the area of Differentiated Instruction. We are currently in year three of this five year staff development program.

DoDEA provides our students a standards-based quality curriculum that has both depth and rigor. It is the standards that drive instruction. Our teachers use texts that are aligned to the standards but are encouraged to add supplementary materials to enhance their lessons. Formative assessments are administered to students throughout each grading period with the intention of helping teachers to modify their lessons and to help students to know what they have learned. Teachers utilize small and large grouping practices that are flexible to meet the needs of the students. Respectful challenging tasks are implemented through a variety of teaching strategies to include, Writer’s Workshop, questioning techniques, and learning centers.

Our classrooms reflect ongoing student collaboration and active involvement through cooperative learning and think/pair/share techniques. As Betty Hollas (2005) noted in her book Differentiating Instruction, students “Retain more when they have an opportunity to discuss information as it is presented.”

I’m proud to say that in DoDEA we have come a long way towards applying the research to our instructional practices. In the classrooms I see students who are active participants in their learning. They are given time to think and to share their ideas with their peers. Technology is integrated everywhere within the school to enhance the curriculum. ‘Good questions’ help students to apply higher level thinking skills to solve problems across the curriculum.

The students at Sigonella Elementary School are getting a world class education. When I walk the halls and visit classrooms, I’m happy to hear students debating with one another and actively participating in all aspects of the curriculum.

Gone are the quite classrooms of the past.

Magnolia

Holiday Bookmark Contest Winners Three Sigonella Middle School students were chosen as the winners of the annual Holiday Bookmark Contest sponsored by the Sigonella MS/HS PTSO. The contest has been an annual event for the past seven years, coordinated by Information Specialist David Brown. Students create artistic bookmarks that have a holiday theme and relate to reading. The winning bookmarks are then reproduced and distributed to all students in the Information Center. The winning students received gift cards purchased by the PTSO.

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

1st place: Grace Tully

2nd place, Shelby McManusa

3rd place, Catherine Schumacher

Moroboshi

Page 10

December 16, 2011

Friday, 16 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Lasagna, Tempura Fish, Baked Fish, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Herbed Broccoli, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin.

Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Cacciatore, Rice Pilaf, Southern Green Beans, Savory Squash, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin

Tuesday, 20 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Blueberry Muffins. *Lunch: Egg Drop Soup, Sweet & Sour Pork, Chicken Chop suey , Egg Foo Young, Chinese Fried Rice, Chow Mein Noodles, Oriental Fried Cabbage, Corn Kernel, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Blueberry Pie. *Speed line: Frankfurter on rolls, Onion Rings, Macaroni & Cheese.

Dinner: Cream of Broccoli Soup, Beef Stew, Seasoned Boiled Pasta, Spanish Style Beans, Carrots Slices, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Blueberry Pie.

Saturday, 17 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Crumb Cake. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Chicken Gumbo Soup, Roast Pork, Cottage Fried Potatoes, Tossed Green Rice, Peas w/ Carrots, Cauliflower Au Gratin, Brown Gravy, Velvet Pound Cake, Vanilla Cream Pie. *Dinner: Zesty Bean Soup, Veal Steak W/Mushroom Gravy, Steamed Rice, Home Fried Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Savory Style Beans, Chicken Gravy, Velvet Pound Cake, Vanilla Cream Pie

Wednesday, 21 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Biscuits, Asstd Doughnuts, Bear Claw. *Lunch: Beef Noodle Soup, Lasagna, Fish w/ Cherry Tomato Sauce, Steamed Rice, Franconia Potatoes, Cream Style Corn, Mix Vegetable, Almond Cookies, Carrot Cake, Chocolate Pudding. *Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: French Onion Soup, Baked Chicken, Steamed Rice, Potatoes Au Gratin, Club Spinach, Steamed Peas & Carrots, Almond Cookies, Carrot Cake, Chocolate Pudding.

Sunday, 18 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Italian Croissant. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Knickerbockers Soup, Steamed Rice, Pork Chops W. Mushroom Gravy, Corn O’Brien, Green Beans, Marble Cake, Sugar Cookies. *Dinner: Nutty Split Pea Soup, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Rice, Mixed Vegetables, Steamed Asparagus, Natural Pan Gravy, Marble Cake, Sugar Cookies.

Thursday, 22 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Raisin Muffin. *Lunch: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Roast Pork loin, Baked Chicken, Steamed Rice, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Seasoned Mix Vegetables, Club Spinach, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Cherry Cobbler.

Speedline: Italian Sausage W/Onion & Pepper. *Dinner: Tomato Bouillon Soup, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Rice Pilaf, Natural Pan Gravy, Green Beans, Corn Kernel, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Cherry Cobbler.

Monday, 19 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Chicken Gumbo Soup, Beef Yakisoba, Veal Parmesan, Steamed Rice, Oven Browned Potatoes, Green Peas, Seasoned Summer Squash, Spice Cake w/ Frosting, Vanilla Cookies, Fruit Gelatin.. *Speed line: Pizza Ass, Chili Dog. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Savory Baked Chicken, Pork Fried Rice, Lima Beans, Broccoli Parmesan, Spice Sake w/ Frosting, Vanilla Cookies, Fruit Gelatin.

Friday, 23 DEC 11 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Chicken Corn Chowder, Baked Fish, Meat Loaf, Paprika Buttered Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Fried Okra, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies.

Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Baked Fish W. Cherry Tomato Sauce, Tossed Green Rice, Corn O’Brien, Lima Beans, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies.

Global Impact

December 16, 2011

Page 11

Teatro Massimo Bellini Presents: Georges Bizet’s Carmen The Teatro Massimo Bellini is kicking off its 2012 Season with French composer Georges Bizet’s Carmen. The opera is the story of a beautiful and fiery gypsy woman, who can only love men who show no interest in her. Carmen falls for a sergeant who arrests her and ruins his life resulting in her tragic end. It’s your opportunity to enjoy this famous opera inside the beautiful Teatro Massimo Bellini in Catania, named for Catania’s own beloved composer, Vincenzo Bellini.

ITT has tickets on sale now for floor and gallery seats. Transportation is included. Call ITT for more information 624-4777.

AFAA Fitness Certification and Training Military Fitness Specialist Certification February 10 – 12, 2012 from 8am to 5pm Primary Group Exercise Certification February 10, 2012 from 9am to 6pm Indoor Cycling Instructor Training February 11, 2012 from 9am to 5pm Group Resistance Training Workshop February 12, 2012 from 9am to 6pm Have you ever wanted to be a fitness instructor? The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America will have your chance to become certified in February! The following training and certifications will be available.

You will have to order textbooks at least 6 weeks prior to the course. Contact Felix Rojas at 800225-2322 x277 or felix@afaa.com to order books.

For more information or to register, please contact Jill Hathaway at 624-4951 or jill.hathaway@eu.navy.mil.

miDtowN moVie theaterS ScheDule & DeScriPtioNS

HAPPY FEET 2 – Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hank Azaria, Alecia Moore, Sofia Vergara Mumble, The Master of Tap, has a problem because his tiny son, Erik, is choreophobic. Reluctant to dance, Erik runs away and encounters The Mighty Sven – a penguin who can fly! Erik learns of his father’s “guts and grit” as Mumble brings together the penguin nations and all manner of fabulous creatures to put things right (100 m.)

Tuesday, December 20th 5:00 PM Muppets, The 5:30 PM Big Year, The 7:30 PM Thing, The 8:00 PM Paranormal Activity 3

PG PG R R

Wednesday, December 21st 5:00 PM Happy Feet 2 5:30 PM Johnny English Reborn 7:30 PM Twilight: BD 8:00 PM Ides of March

PG PG PG-13 R

Thursday, December 22nd 2:00 PM Elf 5:00 PM Hugo 5:30 PM Dream House 7:30 PM Real Steel 8:00 PM 50/50

PG- FREE PG PG-13 PG-13 R

Friday, December 23rd 2:00 PM Polar Express

G -FREE

5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

PG PG PG-13 R

Puss in Boots Big Year, The In Time Paranormal Activity 3

Saturday, December 24th 2:00 PM Santa Clause, The 2:30 PM Arthur Christmas 4:30 PM Alvin & Chipmunks 3 5:00 PM Three Musketeers 7:30 PM New Year’s Eve Sunday, December 25th 12:00 PM Jingle All The Way 12:30 PM Johnny English Reborn 2:30 PM Sherlock Holmes 2 3:00 PM In Time

PG -FREE PG G PG-13 R

PG -REE PG PG-13 PG-13

REAL STEEL – Hugh Jackman, Dakota Goyo, Kevin Durand, Anthony Mackie, Evangeline Lily

In the near-future, where the sport of boxing has gone hi-tech, Charlie Kenton is a washed-up fighter who lost his chance at a title when 2000-pound, 8-foot-tall steel robots took over the ring. When Charlie hits rock bottom, he reluctantly teams up with his estranged son Max to build and train a championship contender (127 m.)

THE THING -- Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, Ulrich Thomsen, Eric Christian Olsen, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje A remake of the 1951 and 1982 version of The Thing. Paleontologist Kate Lloyd joins a Norwegian scientific team to a desolate region that has stumbled across an extraterrestrial ship buried in the ice. She discovers an organism that seems to have died in the crash eons ago. But it is about to wake up. When a simple experiment frees the alien from its frozen prison, Kate must join the crew's pilot, Carter, to keep it from killing them off one at a time. And in this vast, intense land, a parasite that can mimic anything it touches will pit human against human as it tries to survive and flourish (103 m.)

IN TIME – Amanda Seyfried, Justin Timberlake, Cillian Murphy, Vincent Kartheiser, Olivia Wilde

In a future where time is literally money and aging stops at 25, the only way to stay alive is to earn, steal, or inherit more time. Will Salas lives minute-to-minute, until a windfall of time gives him access to the world of the wealthy, where he teams up with a beautiful young heiress to destroy the corrupt system (109 m.)

Movie schedule is subject to change.

Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

emergency management office Be prepared to be on your own for at least three days.

Seven is better!

The BASIC FIVE: Water Food Heat Cash Radio Family Communications Plan: Phone Numbers & Rally Points; Public Protection Strategies: Evacuation and Shelter-in-Place; Web info: Ready.gov; Emergency info: AFN 106.0 FM; Questions? Call the EM Office at 624-2630, 8265 or 2621.

Page 12

December 16, 2011

Water, continued from page 3

results due later this month.

If you live “out on the economy”, your water is almost certainly safe to drink as well. In Italy as a whole, 96% of the tap water was found to meet strict drinking water standards, compared to 89% in the US. In other words, you are more likely to get sick drinking the tap water in the States than you are here in Italy.

NASSIG is required to issue an annual Consumer Confidence Report with a Declaration of Potability by the BUMED Preventive Medicine Officer. The Consumer Confidence Reports for CY 10 are available on the NAS Sigonella web page at https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella /OperationsAndManagement/Envir onmentalSupport/index.htm.

If you have any additional concerns about the quality of NASSIG’s drinking water, please call the PWD Environmental Drinking Water program manager at 624-2722.

Satisfaction, continued from page 7

Saviano's 2006 book Gomorrah, later turned into a successful film that won second prize at Cannes.

The writer is under round-theclock police protection because of death threats from Casalesi bosses like Zagaria.

In recent months police had made a string of arrests and asset seizures against the Casalesi gang, which is based at Casal di Principe near Caserta, north of Naples.

In October, police found a similar underground hiding place they believed was used by the clan boss on various occasions. On Thursday, police arrested seven people linked to the notorious family including two brothers and a cousin of the kingpin.

Monti, continued from page 7

Monti's rescue plan, approved by his Cabinet on Sunday aims to pull Italy back from the brink of default on its staggering sovereign debt, a scenario that could doom the eurozone and worsen economic crises across the globe.

"Parliament is sovereign, time is short, the room to maneuver is very little," Monti said on a state TV talk show when asked about political leaders' insistence in Italy that the austerity plan be softened.

He said it is "premature" to decide if his 3-week-old government would resort to a confidence vote in a bid to get his rescue recipe approved by Parliament quickly and intact.

With no political base in Parliament — Monti and his ministers are all technocrats asked to save Italy's finances — the government would topple if it loses a confidence vote, a prospect that could trigger catastrophe in global markets.

Monti, an economist and former EU commissioner, announced emergency measures on Sunday that seek to save €30 billion through austerity measures and reinvest €10 billion of savings from those measures to enhance growth, which has been stuck at zero for a decade.

Much of the austerity strategy hinges on new or higher taxes, such as the higher excise tax on gasoline and diesel fuel, which already took effect Tuesday. News reports said it would mean it would cost consumers an extra €5 or €6 (nearly $7-8) every time they fill up their car.

Monti called the hike in fuel taxes "indispensable" and needed to help keep local public transport functioning.

"We didn't have to look far. Greece represented what could have happened to Italy," Monti said,

evoking the drastic situation of its fellow eurozone member across the Adriatic.

"We lived well, consuming the wealth produced by past generations instead of producing more," he said.

Under existing pension system reforms over the last decade or so, many Italians could retire at as much as 80 percent of pay in their mid-50s.

With Italians enjoying exceptional longevity, the pension payments are becoming nearly unsustainable.

Italy's public debt is amounting to a staggering €1.9 trillion, or 120 percent of its GDP. Asked if Italy had risked being unable to pay its public servants, Monti replied, grimly: "It was certainly possible" that salaries as well as pensions ran that risk.

On Tuesday, the government approved the release of €4.8 billion ($6.4 billion) from state coffers to fund strategic infrastructure projects aimed at stimulating economic growth. The funds will pay for highway projects, high-speed railways and retractable underwater barriers to help protect Venice from flooding.

Economists have mixed views on how effective infrastructure programs are for spurring economic growth, with most favoring privately funded projects for better stimulus. Still, longer-term projects such as railways usually require state funding because the investment period is too long for many investors.

Sunday's Cabinet emergency decree allows the funds to be released immediately, but Parliament must still convert the measures into law.

The new funding includes €2 billion to upgrade the TreviglioBrescia and Milan-Genoa railway lines, both in the north, to highspeed, €598 million for highways, and €600 million for the Venetian lagoon mobile barriers, a project already more than two years behind schedule due to financial problems and designed to protect Venice from periodic high tides. The projects are expected to stimulate growth by putting unemployed people to work and to keep construction contracts flowing.

Unicredit economic analyst Chiara Corsa said the measures appear "sufficiently bold" to allow Italy to balance its budget by 2013," even with recession looming.

Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are back in Sigonella.

For information on Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, please call 340-608-2140.

Holiday Internet Safety Tips

By Mike Kennedy NAS N6 Information Technology With the winter holidays comes increasing efforts by the dark side of the Internet to steal your money, identity, etc. etc.

How can you protect yourself?

•Use and maintain anti-virus software, a firewall, and antispyware software.

•Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your own computer and leave you vulnerable by using anti-virus software and a firewall. Make sure to keep your virus definitions up-to-date.

Spyware or adware hidden in software programs may also give attackers access to your data, so use a legitimate anti-spyware program to scan your computer and remove any of these files.

•Keep software, particularly your web browser, up to date Install software updates so that attackers cannot take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Many operating systems offer automatic updates. If this option is available, you should enable it.

•Evaluate your software's settings - The default settings of most software enable all available functionality. However, attackers may be able to take advantage of this functionality to access your computer. It is especially important to check the settings for software that connects to the internet (browsers, email clients, etc.). Apply the highest level of security available that still gives you the functionality you need.

Stampa

•Do business with reputable vendors - Before providing any personal or financial information, make sure that you are interacting with a reputable, established vendor. Some attackers may try to trick you by creating malicious websites that appear to be legitimate, so you should verify the legitimacy before supplying any information. Attackers may obtain a site certificate for a malicious website to appear more authentic, so review the certificate information, particularly the "issued to" information. Locate and note phone numbers and physical addresses of vendors in case there is a problem with your transaction or your bill.

•Take advantage of security features - Passwords and other security features add layers of protection if used appropriately.

Be wary of emails requesting information - Attackers may attempt to gather information by sending emails requesting that you confirm purchase or account information. Legitimate businesses will not solicit this type of information through email. Do not provide sensitive information through email, and use caution when clicking on links in email messages.

•Check privacy policies Before providing personal or financial information, check the website's privacy policy. Make sure you understand how your information will be stored and used.

•Make sure your information is being encrypted - Many sites use SSL, or secure sockets layer, to encrypt information. Indications that your information will be encrypted include a URL that begins with "https:" instead of "http:" and a padlock icon. If the padlock is closed, the information is encrypted. The location of the icon varies by browser; for example, it may be to the right of the address bar or at the bottom of the window. Some attackers try to trick users by adding a fake padlock icon, so make sure that the icon is in the appropriate location for your browser.

•Use a credit card - There are laws to limit your liability for fraudulent credit card charges, and you may not have the same level of protection for your debit card.

Additionally, because a debit card draws money directly from your bank account, unauthorized charges could leave you with insufficient funds to pay other bills. You can further minimize damage by using a single credit card with a low credit line for all of your online purchases.

•Check your statements - Keep a record of your purchases and copies of confirmation pages, and compare them to your bank statements. If there is a discrepancy, report it immediately (see Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft for more information).

Happy holidays from N6!

December 16, 2011

Page 13

mojito

mojito

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella First Classes faced o against the Chief Mess on Friday, Dec. 9 for a friendly game of flag football.

The game ended with a victory for the Chiefs (36 to 32)! (U.S. Navy Photo by Jackie Trembath)

mojito More than 100 Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella service members participated in the Jingle Bell Jog on Saturday, Dec. 10. The Jungle Bell Jog, part of the Base 2 Base series run, took place on NAS II. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Cameron Bramham)

mojito

DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE Drinking and driving endangers the safety of everyone on the roads and throughout our community. Local Law Enforcement agencies recognize that drinking and driving is a problem throughout Italy and has significantly increased DUI/sobriety check points.

They're taking the problem seriously just as we are.

Additionally, Sigonella's Security Force members will perform increased Alcoblows and sobriety checkpoints on all of our installations. Don't become a statistic and DON'T think that because you're out in town you won't get caught. DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE- PERIOD. Always remember: Be Smart.

Be Safe. DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE.