Chapels: Holiday services schedule
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Iceland:
Marines COMREL:
A hidden gem!
Italian students connect with Marines
PAGEs 8-9
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December 9, 2016
Vol. 33 No. 46
Sig’s the Season By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella kicked off the holiday season with its annual winter tradition this past weekend, as community members enjoyed two days of activities beginning with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Friday, Dec. 2. A holiday favorite, the Sigonella community gathered at Midtown in festive clothing and listened to a spirited performance by Sigonella Elementary School students to spread holiday cheer which was followed by a singalong of popular Christmas carols and a laser light show.
The highlight of the night was the illumination of the 35-foot Christmas tree. After the lighting of the tree, a “snow storm” of bubbles rained down from the balcony onto the crowd, with an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus to the delight of all the children present. Following the ceremony, the crowd enjoyed hot cocoa, warm apple cider, cookies, and roasted chestnuts. The celebration continued Saturday, Dec. 3 with a day full of holiday activities. Children were able to mail their letters to Santa, burn off some energy in the bouncy houses, and even ice skate. The Boys and Girls Club of America and Keystone partnered with the Toy Industry Foundation to provide 500
toys to the children of Sigonella. Children weren’t the only recipients of gifts. The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) hosted its Santa’s Helper Workshop, an event which allows children to purchase holiday gifts for their parents with an option to wrap the gift at reasonable prices. Winter Wonderland featured a range of activities, and Santa and Mrs. Claus posed for free photos with the children. The event also featured family-friendly holiday arts and crafts, cookie decorating, and play areas. A free showing of Elf at Midtown 2 Theater was offered while local vendors sold a variety of items in the common area between the food court and the gym,
giving all a chance to purchase unique holiday gifts for loved ones. In addition, free bowling was offered that afternoon to children in the community. “These programs we put on for the community cannot happen without the entire MWR family working together…for the service members, families, and community here in NAS Sigonella,” stated School Liaison Officer, Christopher McKibbin, who headed this year’s “Sig’s the Season” events. McKibbin felt that the event was a great success which resonated in the hearts of the community, bringing together Sig’ Citizens while creating a little piece of home through holiday traditions in Sigonella.
Going the Distance: Swordfish Compete at Long Distance Champs By PO2 REbecca sunderland Swordfish Public Affairs
LIGNANO, Italy – Nine swimmers from the Sigonella Swordfish traveled to Lignano, Italy, to represent their team against the best of the best at the European Forces Swim League (EFSL) Long Distance Championships. “The opportunity to swim in an Olympic training pool against competitors from all over Europe is a hard earned victory every long distance qualifier should be proud of regardless of who takes home gold,” said team Statistician Sallie Davis. Davis is known to shed a tear or two on the pool deck and this season has been no different as she watched her son, C.J., and daughter, Hannah, take home first and third place medals at the meet. Coaches focused on endurance leading up to the grueling two-day event in which their kids swam up to 3,100 meters in the 400 IM, 400 Free, 800 Free and 1500 Free. Sigonella’s head coach, Troy Pepito, took his team to champs excited to see how much they had improved since the start of the season. “I expected to see faster times as they dropped seconds off in their events and they did not disappoint me,” said Pepito. “They left it all in the pool and as a coach I couldn’t ask for more.” Sigonella accumulated bragging rights in the form of 18 top eight finishes, including three gold medals, four silver and three bronze. But the team’s performance in the pool wasn’t the only thing their coach
David Goodwin swims the 400-meter individual medley at Lignano, Italy, during the European Forces Swim League Long Distance Championships. (Photo courtesy of Sigonella Swordfish)
is proud about. At the start of the meet the national anthem is played to kick off the event but this time there was an issue with the system. After a brief pause the teams joined together to sing the anthem accapella style. “In an age where professional athletes that these kids look to as role models are protesting the anthem
of the country we’re all over here serving, it was a proud moment as a coach and father to see such patriotism in our youth,” Pepito said. In the pool and out, the swimmers of the Swordfish gave the community of Sigonella a lot to be proud of as they returned home 2016 EFSL Long Distance champions.
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December 9, 2016
Direct Line
Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II It was a peaceful Sunday morning 75 years ago when the skies above Pearl Harbor grew dark as Japanese forces orchestrated a surprise attack against the United States, thrusting our nation into World War II. Surrounded by destruction and devastation, brave service members fought back with anything and everything they could find. The average age of the American casualties sustained at Pearl Harbor was 23 years old. The unrelenting attack lasted just two hours and dealt a devastating blow to the Pacific Fleet. By the time the attack was over, every battleship in Pearl Harbor–USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, USS California, USS West Virginia, USS Utah, USS Maryland, USS Pennsylvania, USS Tennessee and USS Nevada–had sustained significant damage. More than 2,500 American Soldiers and Sailors died in the attack, and another 1,000 were wounded. Despite the extensive damage, the Imperial Japanese Navy failed to cripple the Pacific Fleet. By the 1940s, aircraft carriers were the most important naval vessel and serendipitously, all of the Pacific Fleet’s carriers were away from the base that morning. Moreover, the Pearl Harbor assault
had left the base’s most vital onshore facilities– oil storage depots, repair shops, shipyards and submarine docks–intact. Rather than break the spirit of our Nation, the attack on Pearl Harbor brought Americans together and fortified their resolve. The day after the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked Congress to officially declare war on Japan; Congress approved the president’s declaration with just one dissenting vote. The sacrifices made on Dec. 7, 1941, “A day which will live in infamy,” served to galvanize America, inspiring Patriots from across the country to defend not just their homeland, but humanity. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor. On National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we honor the more than 3,500 Americans killed or wounded during that deadly attack and pay tribute to the heroes whose courage helped define the Greatest Generation. The bravery, heroism and selflessness of our Pearl Harbor veterans must never be forgotten. Their example continues to serve as an inspiration for all who wear the uniform. Sigonella, thank you for all that you do for this base and for our country.
I remain as proud as ever to serve alongside men and women from the world over who continue to represent our predecessors and their fine spirit of commitment to defend our nation at a moment’s notice.
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publically recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “Teen Center”:
Last week, I turned in a permission slip for my daughter to attend an outing with the Teen Center. They accepted the form and said I would need to come back another time to make the payment since they didn't have anyone capable of taking the payment. When I returned to make the payment, I was told the trip was full and she would not be able to go. I don't really understand how this is possible since space was available at the time I turned in the form. Parents should be able to make payments for Teen Center activities at the Teen Center. This would minimize the miscommunication that currently occurs between those accepting payments and the Teen Center director. Sincerely, Stephanie Taylor
Response:
Thank you for your feedback about the Youth Complex programs and specifically your concern about making payments for Teen programs. I apologize that the miscommunication occurred and as a result you were not able to register your child for the trip. It is understandable that you prefer to pay for Teen programs at the Youth Complex and at the same time you turned in the permission slip. I assure you that management is reviewing the process of accepting registration, processing payments and ensuring high levels of service to you and your family. Although, the Youth Complex is experiencing staff shortages, they are also looking into ways to better accommodate customer needs when gaps in positions occur. Thank you again for taking time to provide your valuable input and allowing us an opportunity to improve our services. If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding Child and Youth Programs, please contact the CYP Director, Jennifer Hardy, at DSN 624-3731 or at Jennifer.Hardy@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “BZ for PO2 Harman”:
PO2 Harman deserves a big Bravo Zulu for her performance during the command authorized vehicle inspection. Her demeanor was pleasant and rhythmic, in the sense of task direction. As I waited under the tent, I noticed that her inspection technique was so by the book it made me feel nostalgic of when I was FPWO on the ship, and giving vehicle inspection training to the duty section. She was crushing and squeezing the head rests, knocking for voids on the paneling and engine compartments, and looking over the
vehicle head to toe. I was telling my wife that even though we have to wait, I am really enjoying it, because a true professional is hard at work. When she returned to log my details and bid us farewell she was cheerful and smiling, which made for such a great experience. This was Saturday on NAS II around 1445. Thank you! Sincerely, Chief Nathan Grant
Response:
Thank you for taking the time to pass along your appreciation to PO2 Harman. I never tire of hearing about our folks delivering “CO Customer Service!” Your notes and those like them are a nice thank you to those meeting – and exceeding - our CO and Community expectations!
Comment regarding “Sauna Not Working in NAS 1”:
Once again the Sauna at the NAS 1 gym is out of order. The sign on the door says work order pending. When I asked the employees at the front desk the status they did not know when it might be operating again. The sauna is a big deal for those of us that work out on NAS 1. I have been stationed all over the US, and those facilities never seem to have issues, other than normal maintenance. While we have "world-class" facilities on both bases, it seems sometimes Fitness center upper leadership doesn't understand the importance of the little things. Please provide timely updates as to the status. Know that the Sauna is an important amenity/benefit for those that live on/around NAS1.
Response:
Thank you for your feedback and patronage of our MWR Fitness Centers. The fitness staff placed a trouble call to PWD on Oct. 17 regarding the men's sauna not functioning properly. As of Thursday, Oct. 20 at 4:50pm the sauna is working. The system will be undergoing troubleshooting to find out why the breaker keeps tripping. Thank you for the compliment on our facilities and let me assure you the Fitness Center leadership understands the importance of having saunas and equipment functioning properly and being in good repair. If you have future or further questions, the interim MWR Fitness Director, Mr. Bill Gatlin, can be reached at 624-0504 (or +39-095-56-0504) or via email at fitness_sigonella@eu.navy.mil.
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski
Name: Petty Officer 1st Class Roberto Vite Dept: Administration Hometown: New York As Sigonella’s command career counselor, Petty Officer Roberto Vite is familiar with helping people out. He
takes care of career waypoints for Sailors, making sure the paperwork is done properly and in on time and does command level career development boards along with the CMC to help Sailors decide which direction they want their Navy career to go. He also does pre-separation counseling for all services once a month. However, his favorite part of his job is helping out Sailors who stop by to ask questions. “It’s really the kind
of person I am. I like to help out so I don’t like to turn those Sailors away. I try to make time for them.” This helpful attitude also shows outside of work. This holiday season, he’s planning on giving back by donating gifts to an orphanage sponsored by NASSUP. His other plans for December include exploring local Sicilian towns with his family to discover local Christmas traditions and shop at Christmas markets. Vite makes the most of his time here in Sicily by traveling around the island and Europe. His island trips include visits to Palermo, Trapani, Agrigento and Siracusa. So far, his favorite trip in Sicily was to a nature reserve in Messina with clear waters and a pebbly beach where he went hiking with his family. However, his favorite destination in Europe has been Germany. He’s been to Munich and Stuttgart, and he’s already made it to Garmisch twice in the two years he’s been in Sigonella. The first time he tried skiing and snowboarding was at Edelweiss. He enjoyed the experience but doesn’t think he’ll be doing flips anytime soon. Vite advised Sailors to make the most out of their time here by traveling around Sicily and Europe. “Out here, just talking to Sailors, a lot of people miss home. They want to be back in the States and there’s nothing wrong with that. There’s not a lot I miss about the States, but there are a few things. What I would say is to make sure to enjoy being in Europe. Travel. Travel, travel, travel.”
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil YN2 Gabrielle Milly gabrielle.milly@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy. mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous 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.
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December 9, 2016
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 the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider? Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)
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Maj. Gen. Nelson visits Sigonella for Thanksgiving
Maj. Gen. Niel Nelson, the commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe & Africa, sits down for a piece of pie while talking to Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis ResponseAfrica at the Ristorante Bella Etna Galley at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, Nov. 24, 2016. Maj. Gen. Niel Nelson, the commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe & Africa, along with other senior leadership from SPMAGTF-CR-AF, served Thanksgiving dinner to the Marines in Italy. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Eric Abrams/released)
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December 9, 2016
Christmas Events in the Town of Caltagirone Story by alberto lunetta
It’s that time of year again! The town of Caltagirone, the hub of Eastern Sicily’s ceramic-making industry, will offer a plethora of Christmas events including nativity scene displays, concerts, Christmas markets, and arts and crafts fairs throughout December. After a year of preparation, “presepi” or Nativity Scenes will be showcased in churches and beautiful Baroque buildings located in the historic center. In Sicily, Christmas markets, concerts and Nativity Scene exhibits have been heartfelt traditions for centuries. Hundreds of “presepi” or nativity scenes featuring richly colored figurines, mechanized figurines and even living actors and animals recreating the birth of Christ, are present in nearly every home and town’s historic centers. These magnificent figurines, which are carved from wood, shaped from wax, papier-mâché, resin, clay, and other materials, play an important role in traditional Sicilian Christmas celebrations. Representations of Nativity date back to the Middle age. According to tradition, Saint Francis of Assisi set up for the first time, a remarkable Nativity scene that included the use of live animals on Christmas Eve in 1223 on the hills surrounding the town of Greggio. In Sicily, four major centers boast a tradition of handcrafted nativity scene production: Palermo, Siracusa, Trapani and Caltagirone. In Palermo and Siracusa, where beekeeping is widespread, wax has been used since the 17th century to mold “Bambinelli” or figurines depicting the infant Jesus. Between the 17th and the 18th century, the area surrounding the church of San Domenico in Palermo was home to many “Bambinai” (craftsmen specialized in shaping these figurines) and their shops. Wax sculptor Gaetano Zumbo is among the most famous 17th century craftsmen. He carved an amazing Nativity scene that is on permanent display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The “Bambinelli” showcase hieratic expressions and are usually enriched with silver or gilded accessories. They are often depicted holding a cross. In Siracusa, the 18th century “Cerari” (wax workers) represented infant Jesus with a joyful or a sleeping expression, holding a lambkin, a flower or a fruit. These fine figures are placed inside “Scarabattole” or glass caskets. Trapani’s craftsmen shape precious figurines with valuable materials such as coral (used alone or mixed with ivory) alabaster, shells, ivory and mother-of-pearl. Breathtaking examples of these Nativity scenes are those exhibited at the “Pepoli” Museum in Trapani and “Cordici” Museum in Erice. In eastern Sicily, Caltagirone boasts a world-renowned Nativity Scene tradition, dating back to the 17th century. These exceptional pieces of art consist of large or small clay or wood figurines set on a painted background representing country life scenes. According to tradition, kids used to collect a little money each month in order to buy, until Christmas, small clay figurines to decorate their nativity scenes. “Pasturari” and “Santari,” (craftsmen artisans whose job was to create shepherd or saint-shaped clay statuettes) used to sell these magnificently carved figurines during fairs or inside their workshops. These craftsmen were also commissioned by convents and churches to carve figurines copied from the ones depicted in famous holy paintings. In the 18th century, Nativity Scenes became popular in everyday homes. Families used to compete among each other for the most beautiful display. They invited friends and even people passing by to their home to evaluate the best nativity scene that typically depicted rural life. The characters represented in the nativity scenes included sleeping shepherds, pipers, Ricotta seller, hunters and more. Today, over 100 craftsmen workshops in Caltagirone still keep the tradition alive. Hundreds of nativity scenes will be showcased in the town’s main churches (Main Church, Basilica of St. Giorgio, Basilica of Santa Maria del Monte, Church of Saint Anna, Church of St. Giuseppe, and Church of St. Pietro) and many other historic buildings.
"CHRISTMAS" continued on Page 15
The breathtaking Nativity scene by Ivano Vecchio, which is on display at the church of Saint Anna in Caltagirone through January 15, 2017, is one of the highlights of the annual Christmas season of a town which boasts a centuries-old tradition featuring hundreds of pottery Nativity Scenes and fun events for the whole family. (Photo by Ivano Vecchio)
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USS John C. Stennis Arrives in Hawaii for 75th Anniversary of Attack on Pearl Harbor and Oahu From Chief of Naval Personnel
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (NNS) -- USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulled into Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Dec. 2, to participate in National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day events in Hawaii. John C. Stennis got underway from Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Washington, on Nov. 22 to conduct routine training. Dec. 7, 2016, will mark the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Oahu, which precipitated the United States' entry into World War II. The theme of this year's commemoration, "Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future," is highlighted through events that have already begun and will continue through Dec. 11. These include remembrance events, concerts and performances by military and civilian groups, themed movies on the beach, events for World War II and Pearl Harbor survivors and veterans, educational opportunities and the Honolulu Marathon. The commemoration planning is led by the 75th Commemoration Committee, in partnership with the U.S. military, other government agencies, nonprofit organizations and business partners. Prior to arriving in Hawaii and after its departure, John C. Stennis conducted at-sea training to maintain and build technical and operational proficiency. Ongoing training is essential in ensuring U.S. warships remain capable, adaptive and able to carry out an array of missions around the world.
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulls into Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, to participate in National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day events in Hawaii. December 7, 2016, will mark the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Oahu. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Aiyana S. Paschal/Released)
Scheduled operations and training while underway included damage control and firefighting drills, carrier qualifications, flight deck operations, seamanship evolutions, engineering training, and exercises designed to maintain technical and tactical proficiency in a variety of warfare areas.
For more news on John C. Stennis, visit www. stennis.navy.mil or follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/stennis74. For more information on commemorative events, visit https://pearlharbor75thanniversary. com/full-schedule-of-events/.
Sailors salute as USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) passes the Arizona Memorial and arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to participate in National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day events. Dec. 7, 2016, marks the 75th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor and Oahu. The U.S. military and the State of Hawaii are hosting a series of remembrance events throughout the week to honor the courage and sacrifices of those who served Dec. 7, 1941, and throughout the Pacific Theater. As a Pacific nation, the U.S. is committed to continue its responsibility of protecting the Pacific sea-lanes, advancing international ideals and relationships, as well as delivering security, influence and responsiveness in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Cole C. Pielop/Released)
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Iceland: A Hidden Gem BY MCPO Mike Kaszubowski NAS Sigonella CMC
Recently, my family and I took a vacation and it truly was a check off the bucket list. Where might it be you ask? We spent six days in Iceland and it was a trip of a lifetime! When researching unique travel destinations in Europe, I couldn’t find anyone who had been there for a vacation. I do know people who have been there TAD to the base when it was open and we do have some aircraft operating out of Iceland. However, I couldn’t find anyone who had been there for vacation. This made planning a little more interesting – and I loved it! Iceland is a beautiful place with lots to see and do. We did as much as we could in six days and it seemed like we were always on the GO! Day 1: We arrived at Keflavík International Airport and debarked the plane. We then headed outside to get the rental car and were met by cold that is hard to describe! We packed up the car and headed to our apartment in Reykjavík. Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland. It has a latitude of 64°08' N, making it the world's northernmost capital of a sovereign state, and is a popular tourist destination. It is among the richest, cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world. It was evening time and the kids were hungry so mom unpacked and I went to get food for the kids. We had a KFC of all places on the way to the apartment so I decided to go there and get some chicken. Since we are a family of five, I figured a bucket of chicken was good enough. I don’t speak the language although most in Iceland do speak English. I ordered the bucket of chicken which came with 12 pieces of chicken, fries, coleslaw and a two-liter bottle of soda. To my surprise, once I did the currency conversion it came to US$96.00. All I could do was laugh and tell my kids “You better eat every piece of chicken.” Iceland is expensive so some careful planning and research are necessary if you plan on going. That was the last time we ate KFC in Iceland.
Day 2: The Golden Circle. We went to a place called Guldfoss to see a waterfall and the famous Geyser. About 25 minutes into our hour and a half drive on the side of the road I noticed some beautiful Icelandic horses so I pulled over and we decided to try and get some selfies with them. Mission accomplished! Guldfoss is amazing and a sight worth seeing if you go. We ventured around and stopped at a few places and got ready for dinner. In the evening, we took a boat tour to try and catch the northern lights. Another mission accomplished! Day 3: Blue Lagoon! Very relaxing and the biggest natural hot springs I have ever seen. The water color was amazing. Day 4: Scuba Diving. This to me was the highlight of the trip. The Silfra fissure is known as one of the top dive sites in the world for two main reasons. First, the Silfra fissure is actually a crack between the North American and Eurasian continents, meaning that you dive or snorkel right where the continental plates meet and drift apart about 2cm per year. Silfra is the only place where one can dive or snorkel directly in the crack between two continental plates. Secondly, the underwater visibility in the Silfra fissure is over 100 meters. Yes it was cold. -4C outside, 0 degrees Celsius in the water! Day 5: Took a road trip to see some more waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. An amazing place to see in person! For dinner we decided to go to the Hard Rock Café. It had only been open for two weeks so I felt lucky to get my souvenir glass! Day 6. We visited Iceland’s oldest natural hot springs. Secret Lagoon natural hot springs was located in the small village called Fludir and is in the Golden Circle area. The pool’s natural surroundings and steam rising into the air gives the place a magical feeling. The warm water holds 38-40 Celsius all year. In the whole area there are several geothermal spots and a little Geyser which erupts every five minutes. Overall what a phenomenal vacation and one that I would recommend before leaving Europe! Till the next adventure!
December 9, 2016
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All Hands News Bulletin: JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: USO SIGONELLA CENTER OPERATIONS SPECIALIST
December 9, 2016
Here is the link http://uso.hrmdirect.com/employment/job-opening. php?req=468122&&#job to see the job announcement. You can also go to uso.org and search under their careers or find a link to the job announcement on USO Sigonella's Facebook page.
Command, Department or Organization: USO Location of Event: USO Sigonella Point of Contact Name: James Hodges Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-6377 Point of Contact Email Address: jhodges@uso.org Additional Information: USO Sigonella is hiring a Center Operations Specialist. The Center Operations Specialist is responsible for maintaining a warm, friendly, inviting environment for service members as well as assisting with the day-to-day activities of a USO Center during an assigned shift. Every opportunity at the USO is critical to accomplishing our mission and will be rewarding in ways that are unique and personally fulfilling.
STEM EXPO JUDGES STILL NEEDED
Command: SIGONELLA MIDDLE/ HIGH SCHOOL Date of Event: 14DEC2016 Time of Event: 1000-1600 Location of Event: Sigonella Middle/High School Point of Contact Name: Marsha McCauley Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4281 Point of Contact Email Address: Marsha.McCauley@eu.dodea.edu Additional Information: Sigonella Middle/ High School is still in need of judges to help with the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Expo. If you have any questions please contact Mrs. McCauley at the above email address.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel
NAS 1 Mondays AA Meeting: 1800-1900 Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel......0900-1100 Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 AWANA: ..............................................1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: .....................................................1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: ..........0600-0700 Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): .....................................................1600-1800
Thursdays Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: .....................................................1200-1530 Choir Practice: 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): .........................1800-2030
Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): .....................................................1045-1200 Protestant Service: ..............................1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: .................1330-1600
NAS 2
Fridays Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: ....1700-1830
Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): .....................................................1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): ....................................................1800-2100
Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass:.......1100-1200
Thursdays AA Meeting: ........................................1800-1900
Sundays Catholic Mass: .....................................0900-1000
Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship:....1800-2000
Weekly Traffic Report: Nov. 28 - Dec. 5, 2016
Ristorante Bella Etna
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
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GAMEZONE Holidays
SANTA SHEPHERDS SKATES SLEIGH SNOWFLAKES SNOWMAN STABLE STAR STOCKING THREE WISE MEN TOBOGGAN TOYS TREE WREATH
MEDIUM
GOLD GREETING CARDS HOLLY ICICLES JESUS JOSEPH LIGHTS MANGER MARY MISTLETOE MYRRH ORNAMENTS POINSETTIA
EASY
ANGEL BELLS BETHLEHEM CANDLES CANDY CANE CAROLS DECORATIONS EGGNOG FAMILY FRANKINCENSE FRIENDS FRUITCAKE GABRIEL GIFTS
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the Holiday words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell an additional word.
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Lance Cpl. Conor Fredericks, an intelligence analyst with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, gives Italian elementary students hi-fives during a community relations event at San Giovanni Bosco Elementary School in Giarre, Italy, November 15, 2016. The Marines and Sailors of SPMAGTF-CR-AF spent time with the children teaching classes on nutrition, exercising and taking many group photos to promoting a positive relationship between the United States and Italy. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. Eric Abrams/released)
Marines and Sailors Connect with Italian Students By 1st Lt. Eric Abrams U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa
Giarre, SICILY – Thundering cheers, large welcoming posters and approximately 300 ferociously waving American and Italian flags greeted the Marines and Sailors as they entered the San Giovanni Bosco Elementary School gymnasium in Giarre, Sicily Nov. 16. Students, faculty and parent volunteers provided the enthusiastic welcome as the Marines and Sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa (SPMAGTF-CR-AF) conducted their first-ever community relations event at a school in the city. “The reception we got from the school was incredible,” said Lance Corporal Conor Fredericks, an intelligence analyst with SPMAGTF-CR-AF. “The kids were screaming and yelling and were so excited to give all of us high-fives.” After a couple young students read welcome messages in English, the entire student body sang and performed songs for their visitors, one in English and one in Italian. “The children obviously worked really hard to perfect the songs for us and their excitement to perform what they worked on
was a joy to watch,” said Lt. Arthur Briggs, a Chaplain with SPMAGTF-CR-AF. After the morning festivities in the gym, the Marines and Sailors spent the remainder of the day teaching classes about nutrition, exercising with the students, taking group pictures at every opportunity and answering questions ranging from their favorite food to the most important thing they have learned from being in the military. "I'm delighted about this great initiative. I'd like to thank the Marines for their wonderful support and I'm ready to host more joint community service projects to further strengthen our friendship," said Giarre Mayor Angelo D'Anna, who was present for the event. The experience provided an opportunity for Marines and Sailors to spend time strengthening the relationship between the two countries, cementing a positive climate with the next generation of Italians. “The general interaction with the children was the most important thing we accomplished here today,” said Briggs. “For many of these students it is the first time they’ve met an American. To start that relationship on such a positive note can have tremendous implications for the future.”
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"CHRISTMAS" continued from Page 6 For detailed Caltagirone Christmas events schedule visit: http://www.comune. caltagirone.ct.it
A Roundup of the Best Events and Festivals this December in Italy Story by Italy Magazine Lots to get through this month. There's events, traditional tributes and festive celebrations ahoy in December throughout Italy – so put those party hats on and see out the last month of the year in style! VARIOUS EVENTS The Island of Art Certosa di San Giacomo - Villa Lysis - Capri Sept. 11 – Dec. 11, 2016 There's still time to catch the Capri Orient Express exhibition at the San Giacomo Charterhouse. The art exhibition runs until Dec. 11, and concentrates on three key Italian contemporary artists: Marco Bagnoli, Domenico Bianchi, and Remo Salvadori. The three artists displayed a unique talent and a trend for exploring old and new in their works. There was a flavor of eastern and Mediterranean cultures in their art, and resulted in considerable popularity and acclaim. Their works would be included in both personal and public collections in Italy, with displays in locations such as MADRE Museum in Naples, and the MAXXI in Rome. Lo Gradireste Un Goccio di Vin Santo Montefollonico, Tuscany thru Dec. 11, 2016 Montefollonico is a region of Tuscany that's especially well known for its amazing wine. It's sometimes referred to as the Holy Wine of the area, but it's commonly known as Vinsanto. This lovely dessert wine is a delight and an annual festival is held to celebrate its many virtues. This year marks the 13th edition and will run from Dec. 3 – 11. In addition to celebrating Vinsanto, the festival will also promote the food products commonly eaten with wine such as Cantucci, almond biscuits. Visitors will be able to enjoy both wine and food tastings, and also a competition to find the best Holy Wine of the festival. It's a wonderful little area to visit, a medieval village steeped in wonder and history. Motor Show Bologna thru Dec. 11, 2016 If you're a motoring buff, then why not drive on over to Bologna's Motor Show this December? Held at the Convention Center, the show looks at all aspects of the current motoring trends, including the most “exclusive cars of the automotive tradition” both in Italy and abroad. For example, there will be a special exhibition that tells the story of the automotive tradition both in Italy and around the globe. There is also a special Tech and Innovation Experience that
includes high quality components such as systems and connectivity services that are environmentally friendly. Factor in speed races, freestyle motocross and also a series of events downtown (the latter goes under the banner of Motor Show OFF), and this fourth Motor Show promises to be another high-octane success! Umbria Jazz Dec. 28 – Jan. 1, 2017 When the presents have been unwrapped and the Christmas dinner has been scoffed, it's hard not to wonder what to do over the rest of the festive period. Well, if you're a jazz music fan, then an extra present comes in the form of the seasonal Umbria Jazz event which runs for a few days at the tail end of December and into New Year's Day. All kinds of jazz acts are lining up this year to perform in Umbria. The finest sounds can be expected from the likes of the Chihiro Yamanaka UK Trio, the Mario Donatone Quartet, the Swing Valley Band and Vincent Van Hessen. Timeless jazz music warms up the ears and the heart, and there's no better way to see out the year like the Umbria Jazz Festival.
New Year's Eve Naples This is the one if you're keen on firework displays. If you're looking to see the back of 2016 with a fiery good-bye, then Naples is your destination. The fireworks display is mighty fine and provides a colorful and fun way to say good-bye to the year, while waving in the new one. Music can be enjoyed in the heart of Piazza di Plebiscito, where all kinds of genres can be enjoyed – whether you like your rock or whether you prefer the sounds of the classics, then there should be something here for all tastes. If you're walking home – just be aware that in some parts of Naples, it can be customary to throw old things out of windows. So either dodge or duck! Rome Rome is where the action is on New Year's Eve. Many areas see in the New Year with music – from the live jamboree in the Circus Maximus to the live show and fireworks at the Colosseum on Via dei Fori Imperiali. A well-known choice for revellers is Piazza del Popolo where there's a mix of rock, pop and classical music. It packs the crowds in, so get there early if you want to be at the heart of the action. Venice Pucker up if you're in Venice, for a common tradition in the city is a group kiss to see in the New Year. It's happening in Mestre's Piazza Ferretto and also in St Mark's Square, where there will also be fireworks, music and a toast. If you love your food, then it's well worth booking a table at one of the Venetian restaurants in advance. Maybe it's not the day to enjoy a crafty sandwich for lunch as many restaurants pull all the stops out with a myriad of courses and wines.
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