The Signature, December 11, 2015

Adverse weather:

USO Tour:

Volcano Ash Fall

NAVSUP oversomes obstacle!

Check out the performance!

Have a plan!

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December 11, 2015

Vol. 32 No. 47

2015 USO Holiday Tour kicks off in Sigonella

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – On Dec. 5, active duty service members, civilians and their families were treated to a special performance by the 2015 USO Entertainment Troupe at the NAS 2 Hangar as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., launched the 2015 USO Holiday Tour from NAS Sigonella, the first of six stops planned on three continents during the seven-day tour.

“The chairman, along with members of the 2015 USO Entertainment Troupe, will be visiting service members and their families to express the country's gratitude for their service while deployed during the holidays in defense of our nation,” said Navy Capt.

Greg Hicks, the chairman’s spokesman.

The chairman and USO entertainers spent the day interacting with troops and had the opportunity to view the P3, Predator and Global Hawk, in addition to a static display by SPMAGTF (Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force). Following the troop engagement, the chairman and celebrities had dinner with the troops at the Galley.

Later that evening, singer/songwriters Kyle Jacobs, Chris Daughtry, Billy Montana and Brett James performed live in front of an enthusiastic audience, while comedian Sydney Castillo had the crowd laughing. Rounding out the traveling group of celebrities was actor/director Elizabeth Banks of “Pitch Perfect” and “Hunger Games” fame, writer/director/ actor David Wain of “Wet Hot American Summer,” and Boston Red Sox relief pitchers Heath Hembree and Steven Wright.

“NASSIG clearly has a lot of fans, but nothing displays gratitude like grabbing a dozen talented Americans, flying 5,000 miles, and braving volcanic ash to spend a night together. Gen. “Fighting” Joe Dunford, our 19th Chairman, is truly our #1 fan,” said Capt.

Christopher Dennis, base Commanding Officer.

The 2015 USO Entertainment Troupe performed for the Sigonella community at the NAS 2 Hangar, Dec. 5.

Sigonella is one of six destinations on three continents during the USO's seven-day tour. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

Following the event, fans had the opportunity to meet with the chairman and accompanying USO tour and pose for pictures. The group departed the next morning for the second stop on their seven-day tour.

Dunford is continuing a tradition started by Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, who brought USO troupes to Iraq and Afghanistan during his tenure

as chairman. For nearly 75 years, the United Service Organization (USO) has been the nation’s leading organization serving the men and women in the U.S. military, and their families, throughout their time in uniform. The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation.

Sig’s the Season: Annual tree lighting ceremony

By Lt Jake Barreiro NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

MWR Sigonella hosted its annual holiday tree lighting celebration at the NAS 1 Midtown Complex, Dec. 4. The event began with a Christmas tree lighting followed by a greeting from Santa and Mrs. Claus and singing carols. (Photo courtesy of MWR)

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella celebrated its annual winter tradition this past weekend, as community members enjoyed two days of activities beginning with the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Friday, Dec. 4. A holiday favorite, the Sigonella community gathered at Midtown in festive clothing and listened to a spirited performance by the local elementary students to spread holiday cheer which was followed by a sing-along of popular Christmas carols and a laser light show.

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Dennis announced the winners of the essay contest which received over 90 entries. In the kindergarten through 2nd grade division, Sarah Adkins (kindergarten) and Ellory Southcombe (2nd) took home the honors. And the winners in the 6th through 8th grade division were Isabelle Sappenfield (6th) and Lawrence Caro (6th). The highlight of the night was the illumination of the 35-foot tree. After the lighting of the tree, a “snow storm” of bubbles rained down from the balconies 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. 5 with a day full of holiday activities. Children participated in the Santa’s Helper Workshop, sponsored by the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), an event allowing children to purchase holiday gifts for their parents with option to wrap 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 believes that the event was a great success and resonated in the hearts of the community, bringing together Sig’ Citizens while creating a little piece of home through holiday traditions in Sigonella.

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Commanding Officer, Capt. Christopher Dennis Saluti Sigonella, “Skipper, you’ve got great Sailors.” “Yes, Sir, we do.” This simple exchange between me and Gen. Dunford, our 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, sums up what I have come to love about being a Sig’ Citizen. We have great folks who achieve even greater things because we work together focusing on those things which we share as opposed to those which distinguish us from one another.

What an honor it is for our community to be visited by our Chairman and the accompanying USO Entertainment Troupe. The show was terrific!

Greater yet was watching our USO guests interact with each of you. More impressive than their talent was their sincere desire to learn about each of you and how you serve our country and the world.

Most terrific of all were the candid interactions between Gen. and Mrs. Dunford and each person they met. This was no picture taking assembly line, Gen. Dunford was on his schedule - and his schedule was open ended, going well beyond his staff ’s estimates.

It only makes sense our Chairman took so much time with each person he met, as he affirmed, he is your #1 fan (I claim #2 though I am sure this is contentious with others). And, it is easy to understand why. Day in, day out, Sigonella’s Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen are wheels up performing operational and operations support missions. We have Sig’ Citizens on the African and

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European continents working shoulder-toshoulder performing Theater Security Cooperation missions intended to stabilize our alliance, partner nations, and relations. We have folks reinforcing embassies or prepared to protect them. We have others even farther forward deployed doing a variety of Temporary Assigned Duties. We have Air Force and Navy aircraft providing Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, and Surface and Subsurface Patrol missions supporting decision makers in D.C., allied capitals, and commanders across the European, African and Asian continents.

We provide long-haul communications to U.S. and allied submarines as well as critical theater communications to support allied security efforts spanning half of the globe. Underscoring our moniker as “the Hub of the Med,” our logisticians and technicians support ‘the force’ by moving critical parts and supplies north, south, east and west across four continents. Finally, the rest of us, including our families and Italian employees, underwrite it all - the magic that is Sigonella starts and finishes with ‘the rest of us.’

Sigonella, only history will tell just how troubled the world is today, but it feels pretty challenging. For those who missed the visit, know with confidence, from our Chairman down, your contributions MATTER and are GREATLY APPRECIATED. My thanks to ALL who supported this awesome visit. Thanks to

the scores of others who have planned what will be a terrific Sig’ Community Holiday Party. And most of all, THANKS TO EVERY SIG’ CITIZEN for making our community and your lives matter so profoundly.

Honor, Courage, Commitment, C. J. Dennis CO NASSIG

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 The following three ICE comments were received written in Italian. For CO's Suggestion Box publication, they have been translated into English and slightly modified with sensitive information redacted to protect individual's identities and critical investigative details. However, the original documents and full English translations have been provided to investigators

Comment regarding "Hiring Processes":

It is now common practice in Sigonella to hire only relatives of supervisors or those who are able to manipulate the hiring process. The recent hiring at the XXXXXXX Department of an individual physically incapable of performing the job; the hiring of sons, daughters and relatives of supervisors at XXXXXXX; the hiring of a supervisor's XXXXXXXXX and others. Instead of punishing those who abuse their positions, Sigonella has become COSA NOSTRA (Sicilian Mafia). The honest workers request truth and transparency. Thank you.

Comment regarding "XXXXX Issue with Hiring":

U.S. Navy, a great example of democracy and freedom, is now an example of corruption and falsity; the XXXXXXXX has become the lair of Italian and

American mafia people where they only hire the children of supervisors with the support of American directors. Welcome to the family.

Comment regarding "Corrupt Hiring Process":

Improve Sigonella? It will be easy to get rid of all the corrupt people, to get rid of all the people who take advantage of their position for personal purposes and dirty earnings. Example: at the XXXXXXX it has become routine to hire the XXXXXXX of supervisors with the help of American civilians. It just finished the candidates' selection for the XXXXXXXX XXXXX. Who was selected? The XXXXXX of another supervisor. This supervisor influenced another to push paperwork through Human Resources and ensured the son had all the interview questions, questions the “candidate” answered excellently!!! We would like some honesty and clarity. Are you able to give us some answers????

Response:

Thank you all for providing these very serious concerns about questionable

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local national (LN) hiring practices across our community. I am always concerned about the possibility of hiring abuses, which is why in June 2015 we published NASSIGINST 12330.3D, an updated instruction that adds rigor and transparency required to uphold the highest standards for EVERY hiring – LN and U.S. – for NASSIG’s 62995 and 46131 UICs. To accomplish this, the Human Resources Office (HRO) only refers qualified individuals for consideration based on the information provided in their application. Once all qualified applicants have been identified, either a selection board or a selection advisory panel is established to create a structured, objective, and fair process for filling all competitive LN and U.S. positions. Thus far, I’ve been very satisfied with these new hiring methods within my two UICs. It is important to note, in this case, my instruction only applies to my two UICs. Other commands are strongly urged to follow, but I do not have legal authority to force other commands to comply with this specific instruction. That said, these three emails are exhibits (a), (b) and (c) as to why it is so important to do EVERY HIRE BY-THE-BOOK and TRANSPARENTLY. I can assure the community in one case we learned very quickly the hiring was NOT PERFORMED APPROPRIATELY and it was voided. A future hiring of this specific position will be done with full transparency and using some panel members from beyond Sicily. If anyone suspects unethical or illegal hiring, or would simply like more information about NAS Sigonella's hiring process, I strongly encourage you to contact our Human Resources Director, Terry Williams, at 624-4181 or by e-mail at: Terrence.Williams@eu.navy.mil.

Alternately, you can contact our Base Judge Advocate General, LCDR Tracy Harp at 624-6324 or at tracy.Harp@eu.navy.mil.

Again, thank you to our community for guarding against abuses. I can’t see everything, but together we can!

Comment regarding "Security Vehicle Inspections":

I understand the reason for random vehicle inspections, but is it necessary to do them while it is pouring rain? Is it possible to set up a tent under which we can stand as vehicle inspections are being performed to avoid getting the inside of the vehicle and our children wet? Thank you and I look forward to your response.

Response:

I appreciate your comment and concern. I understand the inconvenience of a vehicle inspection, especially during inclimate weather. However, I assume terrorists are willing to attack under any conditions so we will not discontinue vehicle inspections on account of adverse weather. That said, if at any time it becomes unsafe to perform inspections we can temporarily close gates and I would not, nor have not, hesitated to use this approach when necessary. For any security-related questions, please contact the Security Officer, LT Juan Cardona at 624-6392 or juan. cardona@eu.navy.mil. Again, thank you for your comment.

Comment regarding "Heat in Barracks":

I read in the lobby about how the heating won’t kick on until it’s below 60F for 4 hours. It has been in the 40s for the last couple of nights and guess what didn't kick in? The heating. I have to wear thermals, a jacket and at least two layers of socks to even sit in my room and not shiver. I'm all about saving energy, but this is just crazy. Most of us are fresh out of high school and halfway around the world dealing with our first holidays away from home. That is enough stress as it is but to have to freeze every night is ridiculous. It’s to the point I am probably going to go buy my own little heater just so I can be warm in the barracks.

Funny thing is I live on the fourth floor and what little heat we do have, if any, rises. I've been to rooms on the first floor where I could see my breath, it was that cold. But we have to deal with it; we have no choice. I'm sure y'all go home to a house where you can turn on the heating and be comfortable at night. Must be nice, sure do miss that. If you’re going to post a document saying the heating will kick on if it gets below 60F for 4 hours, then actually have the heat kick on. Have a wonderful day.

Response:

Dear Resident, I am deeply sorry and I am grateful you have brought this to my attention. In the recent situation, three

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things were the cause – none of which is acceptable. First, management failed in our obligation to advocate for resident comfort over CNIC energy policy. Second, the ongoing Bldgs. 170 and 557 projects did not account for finishing the heating projects before the temperatures dropped. Third, we still seem to lack a reliable process for residents’ complaints to be addressed reliably. These are really disappointing, particularly considering all the discomfort folks endured in August. While CNIC provides clear guidance on when to use heating and cooling, I am confident VADM Smith does not intend suffering of our Sailors neither do I. Once again, unfortunately it took an ICE comment for our response team to get in gear. You have my commitment to continue leveraging both Housing and Public Works to treat resident comfort as a top priority and ensure our reporting/response processes are prompt and reliable.

Status: 623 and 170 are heated. 557 should have been heated

by Dec. 9. We will keep you posted on progress. Please keep us posted on resident comfort. As always, it is my goal to meet comfort expectations and be good stewards of our energy. For additional barracks concerns, please contact Unaccompanied Housing Director, Mr. Ralph Jackson, at 624-4075.

Comment regarding "Laundry Facilities on NAS 1":

I'd like to bring attention to the NEX laundry facilities located on NAS 1. Few machines work. The situation has gone from bad to worse over the last year and I believe we need accountability.

Is anyone asking the right questions to the right people? What can be done?

-Sincerely, Jim Ward

Response:

Dear Mr. Ward, thank you for asking the right questions! I agree: we must identify shortfalls no matter where they're located and the self-service laundry is no exception. I've spoken to the NEX. They are in the process of replacing the machines in disrepair with approximately $70,000 worth of new washers and dryers.

In the meantime, the NEX is working to contract a vendor to repair the broken machines. We will keep you updated. If you have additional questions or concerns regarding NEX facilities or services, please contact Julie Herring at 624-4379 (095-86-4379).

Comment regarding "Security Inspection of Car at Gate":

I am in full support of our Security Forces and the important job they perform so well each day. My question relates to the vehicle inspection procedures. I was recently stopped and my vehicle searched for almost 10 minutes – a seemingly unreasonable amount of time. In addition, the search, which I was told was a cursory protocol for IEDs and exposed wires, involved the MA reading through paperwork in the glove box. Can you please tell me what my personal paperwork has to do with an IED search?

Thank you.

Response:

Thank you for sharing your concern. Base security is my number one priority and each of our number one responsibility as Sig' Citizens. While I understand your frustrations, it is our Security Forces’ responsibility to stay in front of the ever-changing security challenges and threats across Europe. Vehicle inspections are vital as they not only help identify potential threats, they serve as deterrence to those who mean us harm. Without more information (time, place, names, etc.) I cannot determine why your particular inspection took so long. Still, I have tasked my Security Department to ensure officers explain inspections and that all inspections are timely and professional. Let me be clear: I believe we have the most professional Security Force in the Region, if not the Navy, but it is possible from time to time we aren’t doing our very best. In the future, please contact our Security Department directly to most quickly resolve security issues. Please do not hesitate to contact our Security Officer at 624-6392, the Operations LCPO at 624-2776, or the Watch Commander at 624-2784.

Comment regarding "Family Fitness Room at NAS 1 Gym":

The family room at the gym is great for cardio-based exercise, but not much else. The hourly care at the CDC is $4 per hour,

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@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 anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

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Severe weather strikes, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella analyze operations

By Shannon Haney NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Public Affairs Officer

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Autumn is the rainy season in Sicily, and it is a common occurrence to experience heavy rainfall this time of year.

Normally, storms pass through fairly quickly. However, rounds of drenching rain and strong winds hammered Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Oct. 31 through Nov. 2. The severe weather caused flooding and only mission-essential personnel were to report to work on Nov. 2.

Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella's duty personnel maintained operations while assessing risks and identifying potential hazards.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella managed flight line fueling operations by implementing the operational risk management (ORM) process. As the water levels increased around the bulk fuel tanks and water rushed across flooding roads, they made the sound decision to refrain from driving the aircraft refueling trucks over the rushing water. This decision avoided a potential environmental disaster. Consequently, they notified NAS Sigonella Base Operations and worked together to assess and forecast conditions about prioritization of fuel use throughout the day so leadership could make decisions.

The team also wanted to sustain port operations in Augusta Bay, Sicily approximately 30 miles away from NAS Sigonella. The local roads were impassable because of debris and flooding but the team discovered and used alternative routes to deliver mail and personnel to the ship in port.

Because of the sound decisions, dedication to mission and determination of

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Duty personnel ensured the mission went on during severe weather on Nov. 2. From left to right, Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class Leeanna Fulce, Angelo Poliafico, Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class Gloria Roberts, Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Omar Moralez, and Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Jared Brown (U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Haney/Released)

the NAVSUP FLC Sigonella personnel, deployed Sailors received letters and care packages, mission-essential flights launched and potential fuel mishaps were avoided.

The impact of the severe weather prompted leadership to review operational approaches at all sites. During a scheduled off-site training symposium on Nov. 19, site directors, deputy site directors, and senior enlisted leaders from all sites gathered and discussed the topic. NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Chris Parker

emphasized that it is imperative to keep an operational mindset and apply ORM on a day-to-day basis.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS), provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and

consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of more than 6,500 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

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)

Scholarships for Military Children Program now accepting applications

By Mike Perron DeCA Public Affairs

FORT LEE, Va. - Now entering its 16th year, the Scholarships for Military Children Program will be accepting applications from eligible students beginning Dec. 15 at commissaries worldwide or on the Internet at www.militaryscholar.org.

A total of 700 scholarship grants, each worth $2,000, will be awarded for the 2016-17 school year. Those students selected for the honor will join nearly 9,000 who've been awarded more than $13.9 million in scholarship grants over the last 15 years.

At least one scholarship will be awarded at every commissary location where qualified applications are received. Additional recipients will be selected based on a prorated basis, so more scholarships will be awarded at those commissaries with larger numbers of applicants.

To qualify for consideration, applicants must be a dependent, unmarried child, younger than 21 - or 23, if enrolled as a full-time student at a college or university - of a service member on active duty, a Reserve or Guard member, retiree or survivor of a military member who died while on active duty, or survivor of a retiree.

Applications must be hand-delivered or shipped via U.S. Postal Service or other delivery methods to the commissary where the applicant's family normally shops by close of business Friday, Feb. 12, 2016. Applications cannot be emailed or faxed.

Applicants should ensure that they and their sponsor are enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database and have a military ID card. The applicant must attend or plan to attend an accredited college or university, full time, in the fall of 2016 or be enrolled in studies designed to transfer to a four-year program.

Students who are awarded a full scholarship or receive an appointment to one of the military academies or affiliated preparatory schools are not eligible to receive funds from this program. A full scholarship is usually defined as one that provides for payment of tuition, books, lab fees and other expenses.

Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps service members and their families, administers the program. Scholarship Managers, a national, nonprofit, scholarship management services organization, manages and awards the scholarships.

The commissary's industry partners – vendors, suppliers and manufacturers – and the general public donate money to the program, and every dollar donated goes directly toward funding the scholarships.

For more information, students or sponsors can visit www.militaryscholar.org. You can also call Scholarship Managers at + 1 856-616-9311 or email them at militaryscholar@scholarshipmanagers.com.

About DeCA: The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their families in a safe and secure shopping environment. Commissaries provide a military benefit and make no profit on the sale of merchandise. Authorized patrons purchase items at cost plus a 5-percent surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. By shopping regularly in the commissary, patrons save an average of 30 percent or more on their purchases compared to commercial prices - savings amounting to thousands of dollars annually. A core military family support element, and a valued part of military pay and benefits, commissaries contribute to family readiness, enhance the quality of life for America's military and their families, and help recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to serve their country.

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U.S. NAVY HEADLINES December 11, 2015

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Navy's 2016 Installation Excellence Award winners announced

Caltagirone: Christmas events near you By dr alberto lunetta

Christmas time is back in Sicily! Christmas markets, concerts and nativity scene exhibits have been heartfelt traditions for centuries on the island. Hundreds of “presepi” or nativity scenes featuring richly colored figurines, mechanized figurines and even live actors and animals recreating the birth of Christ, are present in nearly every home and town historic center. 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 the nativity date back to the Middle Ages. 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 (Center of Italy).

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” which are figurines depicting the baby 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 and (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 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 magnificent-

ly 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 houses. 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 the rural world.

The characters represented in the Nativity scenes included sleeping shepherds, pipers, Ricotta seller, hunters and more. Today, over 100 craftsman 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 St. Giuseppe, and Church of St. Pietro) and historic buildings. This year, the city of Caltagirone will offer a special Nativity Scenes Guided Tour program which will allow visitors to see ten different exhibits. For more info on this special program, call 333-6029827.

For detailed Caltagirone Christmas events schedule visit http://www.comune.caltagirone.ct.it/UserFiles/File/ Programma%20Natale%202009_30.11.pdf For more information call the Caltagirone Tourist Information Office at 335-579-5945.

Christmas events and Markets in Italy

By Italy magazine The festive spirit is alive each year in Italy. For a serious reminder of the meaning of Christmas, St Peter's Square in Vatican City hosts Midnight Mass. Many people flock to the Square for this event – the ceremony can also be seen on a large TV in this location. The next day, the Pope also broadcasts his annual Christmas message to the masses.

Christmas Eve is lit up in the area of Cortina d'Ampezzo.

The Alpine Peak is lit up with skiers bearing torches to mark the dawning of Christmas. For a watery Christmas Eve, it's customary for a group of canoeists to dress up as Santa in Umbria. The canoeing Santas paddle along the Tiber River to the end destination of a special crib at the bridge at Porta San Florido. Young onlookers will also be the lucky recipients of some special presents which will be given by the Santa canoeists at the end of the event! The ultimate Christmas Light Display can be seen in Umbria.

Located near the peak of Monte Ingino is the world's tallest Christmas tree which boasts over 700 lights and a star that can be seen as far away as 50 km.

Torino also puts on a spectacular light show. More

than 20km of streets and squares come to life with special illuminations to really get you in the mood for the season.

Babbo Natale time! Kids can get to meet Santa in locations such as Rome and Florence (he's a busy chap this time of year you know).

In Rome, you can get your picture taken with the man himself while in Florence, Santa's abode will be open to all (and no doubt the odd present or two!). A common type of Christmas market is the German-style offering. There are some good ones at Florence (which features a multitude of specially prepared booths in Piazza Santa Croce between late November and early December) and Verona (which includes wooden stalls selling fantastic German-inspired goodies along with local foods, decorations and crafts).

One of the best things about Italian Christmas markets is the sense of tradition that they bring. The Naples market bears this in mind by dressing up the vendors in traditional shepherd costumes. The market, near Via San Gregorio Armeno, also holds special nativity workshops for the full Christmas experience.

The Italian Christmas market conjures up its own world in many cases. Many markets are held in purposebuilt huts. Trento offers a good instance of this, boasting 60 wooden huts built for the occasion. All sorts of items are available to buy including crafts, festive decorations and home-made foods. Venice's Campo Santo Stefano also proudly hosts its very own mini-village selling local crafts, gifts and food and drink.

As for Stephen's Day, traditionally, Italians keep themselves to themselves on Christmas Day. It's a day for family and friends, as their houses are filled with loved ones to enjoy plenty of food, drink and good company. But the next day, the streets are busy again as Italy marks St Stephen's Day. St Stephen is known as the first Christian martyr and was one of the first deacons of the Christian church. The actual St Stephen's Day is said to draw inspiration from 26th December 1394. On this day, the relics of Saint Stephen were taken from the repository of the Castle of Monopoli and taken to Putignano in Bari on the orders of the Knights of St John. As the relics were carried by wagon, the knights guarding the vehicle were met with a growing crowd of interested locals. By the time the wagon made it to its destination, it had attracted quite a crowd! To represent purity, a mixture of chickpeas and barley (Farinetta) was created and applied to faces. Today, the day is celebrated in many ways. Sometimes, people choose to make a quiet visit to church to leave a donation. Or, alternatively, processions are held. In Putignano, to replicate the original Mass, poetry is spoken in the local dialect. A common theme of this day is that of Nativity re-enactments. Good examples include Veneto's 300-strong retelling of the Bible story, the living Nativity scene around the streets of Vaccheria or Fara San Martino's worthy re-enactment.

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From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy's annual Installation Excellence Award winners were announced Dec. 2 by Commander, Navy Installations Command.

This installation excellence award program recognizes the Navy's top three large and small installations, and rewards installation performance consistent with the command's strategic goals and Office of the Secretary of Defense criteria for the DoD-wide Commander in Chief Installation Excellence Awards.

The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, fly over Naval Air Station Whidbey Island's Ault Field. The Blue Angels are scheduled to perform at the Seattle Seafair Air Show Aug. 1st and 2nd. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Hetherington/Released)

The Navy's top installation winners, 2016 Large Category: 1st Place: Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island (led by Capt.

M. K. Nortier) 2nd Place: NAS Lemoore (led by Capt. M. G. Ashliman) 3rd Place: Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay (led by Capt. J. W. Jenks) 2016 Small Category: 1st Place: NAS Whiting Field (led by Capt. T. Bahlau) 2nd Place: Naval Air Facility El Centro (led by Capt. W. C. Doster) 3rd Place: Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg (led by Capt. R. Geisler) "Competition this year was extremely keen, as each large and small installation nomination package was impressive and spoke to the myriad of great accomplishments that these installation teams have made. I am proud of their collective accomplishments, outstanding leadership and world class support to the fleet, fighter, and family," said the Commander, Navy Installations Command, Vice Adm. Dixon Smith.

NAS Whidbey Island will represent the Navy in competition with other military services for the Department of Defense Commander in Chief 's Annual Award for Installation Excellence, which recognizes outstanding efforts in the operations and maintenance of U.S. military installations.

"Congratulations go out to Capt. Nortier and all the men and women of NAS Whidbey Island who worked tirelessly to make this happen," said Smith.

Supporting the fleet, fighter and family, Navy Installations Command is comprised of more than 50,000 Sailors and civilian employees located at 70 installations in 11 regions worldwide.

For more information about Navy shore installations visit http://www.cnic.navy.mil.

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

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2015 USO ENTERTAINMENT TROUPE

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December 11, 2015

That's NOT "What Right Looks Like" The Signature has established the "That's NOT What Right Looks Like" section in order to make the NAS Sigonella community aware of how the command is prosecuting improper behavior, along with the hope of deterring future bad decisions.

In October, an E-5 was sent to Captain's mast for violation of UCMJ Article 121 - Larceny, due to the member stealing from the Navy Exchange (NEX). Member was taken to Captain's mast, found guilty of larceny, and punished. As an administrative measure for stealing from the NEX, E-5 is barred from entering the NEX facilities including the NEX, NEX Mini-Mart, NEX Depot, and food court for 6 months. E-5 is also prohibited from purchasing or using NATO gas coupons for 6 months.

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 ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel

CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group - Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group - Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home

PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2

Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS

PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049 NAS Sigonella Chapel Holiday Services:

Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel PROTESTANT SERVICES

CATHOLIC SERVICES

Dec. 20 - Nativity Play and Fellowship 5 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Mass 5 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 24 - Midnight Mass and Carols 11:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 25 - Christmas Day Mass 11 a.m. at NAS 2 Chapel

Dec. 20 - Nativity Play 11 a.m. worship at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 20 - Christmas Service and dinner 6 p.m. NAS 2 Chapel Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Service and Communion 11 a.m. at USNH Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel CHRISTMAS EVE CONCERT

6:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel

Weekly Traffic Reports: Nov. 30 - Dec. 7, 2015

Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Dec. 11 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Grilled Turkey Sausage Lunch: Shepherd’s Pie, Fish w/ Cherry Tomatoes Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Dinner: Chili and Rice, Grilled Chicken Breast

Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Roast Beef Dinner: Veal Parmesan, Spaghetti Carbonara

Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 15 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Biscuits and Gravy, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Simmered Corned Beef, Shepherd's Pie Speed Line: Chicken Fajitas, Burritos Dinner: Fishwich, Lasagna

Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 4:30 -6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 17 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Lunch: Beef Pot Pie, Savory Baked Chicken Speed Line: Pasta Bar Dinner: Swedish Meatballs, Chicken Tetrazzini

Wednesday, Dec. 16 Saturday, Dec. 12 Monday, Dec. 14 Friday, Dec. 18 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Sausage Patties, Chicken Ground Beef on Toast Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Beef Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Roast Turkey, Chipper Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Lunch: Oven Roasted Pork, Lunch: Grilled Pork Chops, Fish Hash, Baked Chicken Sandwich Lemon Baked Fish Baked Fish Speed Line: All American Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Speed Line: Freshly Made Pizza Grilled Burgers Sauce, Oven Fried Chicken Dinner: Chicken Fried Steak, Dinner: Baked Tuna and Dinner: Chicken in Orange Filet Pork Adobo Noodles, Cantonese Spareribs Sauce, Meatloaf 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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U. S. Naval Hospital Sigonella supports “National Influenza Vaccine Week December 6-12th, 2015” From The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

It’s not too late to vaccinate – Get your flu vaccine today!

After November when you see signs that advertise: “Get Your Flu Vaccine Here,” you might think, “Isn’t it too late for that?” As long as flu viruses are spreading, it’s not too late to get a vaccine to protect yourself and your loved ones.

“Flu season typically peaks between December and February but significant activity can occur as late as May,” says Dr. Anne Schuchat, Director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases and Assistant Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Service.

“We are encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated this season to get vaccinated now.”

For millions of people every season, the flu can mean a fever, cough, sore

throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue, and miserable days spent in bed.

However, you may not realize that more than 200,000 people are hospitalized in the United States from flu complications each year. The flu also can be deadly. Over a period of 30 years, between 1976 and 2006, estimates of yearly flu-associated deaths in the United States range from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people during the most severe season.

But there is a vaccine that can prevent flu. While how well the vaccine works can vary, the benefits from vaccination are well documented. Studies show that flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors' visits, missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.

This is why CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Children 6 months through 8

years of age who are getting vaccinated for the first time may need two doses of flu vaccine to be fully protected. If a child has not received his/her first dose, get them vaccinated now. Flu vaccine is available as a shot and as a nasal spray. According to Dr. Schuchat, however, “the most important thing is that you get vaccinated, not necessarily which vaccine you get.” Talk to your doctor or other health care professional about which vaccine is best for you and your family.

“Getting the flu vaccine is simple, and it’s the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your family from the flu,” says Dr. Schuchat. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors' visits, missed work due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. Millions of people have safely received flu vaccines for decades.

Some people are at high risk for serious flu-related complications, like pneu-

monia, that can lead to hospitalization and even death. This includes young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older and people with certain medical conditions, like asthma, diabetes or heart disease. For those at high risk for complications, getting the flu vaccine is especially important. It’s also important to get the vaccine if you care for anyone at high risk, including babies younger than 6 months because they are too young to get the vaccine.

Flu vaccines are offered at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella. No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 08001200 and 1300-1500 Monday through Friday except Wednesdays, the immunization clinic is closed at 1200 for training.

For more information, stop by Medical Home Port’s immunizations clinic as your health care team is available for any questions or concerns and can also be reached at 624-CARE.

Exercise caution during ash fall From Emergency management office

GAME ZONE Christmas Gift Ideas

Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining 13 letters spell an additional Christmas gift idea.

BAKING BELT BOOK BRACELET CANDLES CANDY CHOCOLATES CLOTHES COFFEE MAKER COFFEE MUG COLOGNE

COOKIES DOLL EARRINGS

ELECTRONICS FLOWERS GAME GIFT BASKET GIFT CARD HERBAL TEAS JEWELRY MONEY MOVIE MUSIC NECKLACE NECKTIE PANTS PENDANT PERFUME

PLANT SCARF SHIRT SLIPPERS SNEAKERS SOCKS STUFFED ANIMAL SWEATER TELEVISION TOOL SET TOY TREE ORNAMENT WATCH WINE

EASY

Volcanic ash is made of small abrasive particles that may pose several health concerns. Exposure to ash can lead to irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. While short-term exposure should not pose a significant health hazard to healthy individuals, it may cause sensitive individuals such as infants and children to experience difficulty breathing.

Individuals with respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis and asthma are more at risk for developing acute respiratory symptoms from breathing volcanic ash.

While it is fascinating to watch Mount Etna as she erupts, it is important that SIG citizens remember some easy steps to maintaining a safe, healthy environment during ash fall events.

1. Close windows, doors, and fireplace/woodstove dampers, and minimize use of forced air heaters and air conditioners to prevent ash and gases from getting inside the home.

2. Replace or clean air filters frequently; this includes your vehicle's air filter.

3. Minimize exposure while outdoors during an eruption by using dust or filter masks, or if you do

not have these available a wet cloth.

4. Wear goggles while outdoors, or while cleaning up ash that has gotten indoors.

5. Keep your skin covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash.

6. Avoid driving in ash if at all possible. The roads will become increasingly slippery.

7. Avoid drinking water that has ash in it.

8. Wet ash prior to clean-up to avoid re-suspension of particulates. Also, when using windshield wipers, when possible clean off the wipers before using them, then use ample fluid as the ash particles can scratch your windshield.

9. Pay attention to warnings, and comply with instructions from local authorities (i.e., local health officials will inform the public when it is safe to go outside, drive, drink water, etc.).

10. Seek medical attention if substantial respiratory symptoms develop.

Simple yet effective precautions can protect your health and ensure your safety while living next to one of the world's most active volcanos. For more information on staying safe during emergencies contact the NASSIG Emergency Management Office at 624-8328.

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DIFFICULT

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Mt. Etna erupts Dec. 4. Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is in an almost constant state of activity. (Photo by Marley Tek)

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"ICE" continued from Page 3 per child. At this rate I’d be paying more than double per month to go to the “free” gym on base than I did stateside for a gym membership with childcare included.

Is it possible to offer more affordable gym child care or alternatively, offer a few classes a week with activities for kids so parents can work out?

Response:

Thank you for your feedback. I’ve spoken with MWR Director, Paul Lopez about your questions. The facility you’ve mentioned is not adequate to offer child care and meet all necessary requirements. In addition to space limitations, MWR does not have enough qualified staff to expand child care services to include NAS 1 Fitness Center. As for our child care costs, our hourly care fee is set by CNIC and applies Navy-wide. Thanks to yours and other community members’ suggestions, MWR has added a strength and core class in Family Fitness on Mondays and Fridays at 9 a.m. Additionally, our Fitness Director is working to identify more fitness outreach and group exercise opportunities. Finally, there is a playgroup that will be reserving gym space at Midtown for morning activities on a regular basis. For times of the playgroup and other questions/feedback, please contact the MWR Fitness Director, John Lenz at 624-0504 or via email at fitness_sigonella@eu.navy.mil.

Comment regarding "ITT Trip Limitations":

Though we’ve been on the island a short time we’re eager to get out and explore.

Unfortunately, the MWR trips are not kid-friendly and those that are sell out days after being posted. By comparison, Naples appears to have a wealth of options for families. Why can’t we offer similar trips? Families new to the island face a variety of emotions and adjustments. It would be great to be able to get out of the “Triangle” and experience the local culture more easily.

Response:

I appreciate your feedback. I am sorry to hear your desired trips filled before you could book. Having reviewed MWR’s trips, I agree there are occasions where MWR trips or programs are geared toward older audiences, but counter to that the majority of MWR programs and trips are family-friendly and usually offer reduced pricing for children. MWR lists their trips/programs on a monthly basis at www.sigmwr.com as well as in The Preview, a monthly magazine distributed throughout installation MWR facilities in hard copy and also available on the sigmwr.com website.

In regards to Naples’ offerings, we have a very similar program to theirs and even offer quite a bit more in regards to outdoor activities and instructional classes.

Naples has a USO independent of MWR, so you may be referencing their program offerings. Whether or not that’s the case, there is a USO coming to NAS Sigonella this spring. In addition to MWR’s robust trip schedule, tours, outdoor programs, and instructional classes, they also offer the Create-a-Trip Program. As such, patrons can customize a trip for their family or group. MWR also has a contracted travel agency on site (Shell Travel) that can accommodate all your travel needs.

Shell Travel is located in the ITT office and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. I encourage you to stop by the ITT office on NAS 1 as MWR would love to provide you with the resources to make your tour here in Sicily the best it can possibly be. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The office is closed Sundays and holidays. ITT can be reached at 624-4777 or +39-095-56-4777.

Comment regarding "Laundry Facilities in Bldg. 170":

Residents of UH Bldg. 170 were informed renovations of the laundry facility would commence Nov. 30 while “half” the laundry room would remain available for use.

As of tonight, there are two washing machines available for the entire building population. Please rectify this situation soon as possible.

Response:

Thank you for your comment and I apologize for the shortcoming to all Bldg. 170 residents. I am happy to report that as of Dec. 1, five washers and nine dryers are again operational. Renovations on the remaining half of the laundry room will continue as scheduled in order to provide the best possible facilities to residents of Bldg. 170. I must ask for your patience and understanding during this extensive

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renovation project (which thankfully is almost complete). If you have additional questions or concerns regarding barracks’ facilities, please do not hesitate to contact Unaccompanied Housing Director, Ralph Jackson, at 624-4075.

"ICE" continued from Page 14

It's all in how you look at it: Transforming holiday angst into gratitude

by Fleet and Family Support Center

Comment regarding "Aggressive Dogs in Housing":

Response:

Thank you for your comment. I have tasked our Navy Exchange General Manager and MWR Director to work on this and come up with a proposed way ahead. I have learned none of the locations has had a major menu refresh in quite some time. We can do better. Stay tuned!

What is the Housing policy on aggressive dogs and dog noise? In the U.S., city codes exist to keep aggressive dogs away from the general public. Why do we allow them within the confines of a gated military housing community where they can escape from their yards and roam?

Response:

Comment regarding "BZ for Security":

Comment regarding "BZ for Post Office":

Response:

Response:

Comment regarding "Sprinklers Running in Marinai":

Thank you for the question and opportunity to clarify. According to NASSIGINST 11101.4J/5000.2F all pets must be on a leash at all times. If you encounter an unleashed dog I encourage you to kindly remind the owner. Violations of any provisions of this instruction will result in issuance of an Animal Incident Report with Security. After violation(s), depending on the circumstances, offending animals may be designated a “nuisance,” which may result in the owner’s loss of pet privileges.

I would like to take a moment to commend LS2 Jose Sanchez on his diligence and follow through. I came to him seeking assistance in a missing package. After he was unable to locate the package on site I left him the tracking number. Though I’d assumed my package would never be found, within an hour, he e-mailed me information to locate my missing package, which I eventually did. The extra effort he went to is greatly appreciated. Job well done!

-Sincerely, Carrie Nelson Dear Ms. Nelson, thank you for taking the time to recognize LS2 Sanchez for his commitment to providing “CO Customer Service.” I am very happy he helped you locate your missing package!

Comment regarding "Emergency Call System":

Captain Dennis, I received a phone call at/around 0100 hours on Nov. 15 from the automatic call system, which woke up my entire family. It would be common courtesy to call during standard working hours. I understand the threat caused by terrorists, but realistically who is going to buy tickets to Paris at that time in the morning?

-Very unsatisfied in Sigonella.

Response:

Dear Unsatisfied, thank you for your comment about receiving a late night alert on Nov. 13. The alert was generated by CNIC who is responsible for notifying people across multiple areas of responsibilities. I am sympathetic to your critique, but people may have had flights to the places in question overnight or the next morning. Had folks not been notified and traveled they would have been required to return immediately. CNIC was working with several different time zones resulting in a less than ideally timed message for EVERYONE in Europe. So that you and the community are aware, the Navy releases Mass Notification messages from four levels: CNIC, Regions, Installations, and individual Departments. I have stressed to all local releasers and to higher headquarters, to please specifically ensure we do not overuse telephone notifications. We appreciate all Sig’ Citizens registering and maintaining their information in the Mass Notification System database. The Electronic Mass Notification System is NASSIG’s primary method to disseminate emergency information to our population. If you have other suggestions on how to improve this system or for anyone who has not registered, please contact Emergency Management LCPO, Chief Jason Slama, at 624-2603 or Jason.slama@eu.navy.mil.

Comment regarding "Base Eating Establishments":

Would it be possible to vote as a base for better eating establishments? I know the base population is comparatively low to other bases, but there has to be something better than the current options. Thank you!

"ICE" continued on Page 15

Security at NAS 1 was quick and efficient in helping report my lost Soggiorno permit. Although the printers were not working, they emailed it to NAS 2 where they had it ready for me to sign upon arrival. The security liaison was excellent at translating the report into Italian. I truly appreciate their quick, helpful service.

-Sincerely, Judy Shannon Dear Ms. Shannon, thank you for taking the time to recognize the great work of our Security Forces in taking the steps to fully help you. I never tire of hearing about our folks delivering CO Customer Service! Your note and those like it are a nice thank you to those meeting our expectations!

On several occasions I’ve noticed Marinai water fixtures and sprinklers running despite constant rainfall. We’ve done so well with our energy conservation – shouldn’t we also seek smarter usage methods to conserve water?

Response:

YES, we should! Thank you for your comment and caring about our Sig' Citizenship responsibility to conserve resources. I have learned the Marinai water fixtures and sprinklers run on an automatic (but not so smart) system which sets on/off times and days. While this system is technically in accordance with CNIC policy it clearly violates common sense. While our Housing and Public Works staff monitor adherence to policy, at the same time Marinai is privately held property by Pizzarotti. In other words, I can strongly urge but not direct Pizzarotti in how they care for their property.

This said, I am confident Pizzarotti is not interested in wasting water (and the money and electricity required to make the water). It is my strong desire to work with Pizzarotti to reduce waste. In the future, please direct similar questions about Marinai Housing to our Marinai Housing Director, Mr. John Sammarco at 624-4113 or john.sammarco@eu.navy.mil.

Here it is again: The holidays. I have to shop. I hate to shop. I have to cook. I hate to cook. The relatives are coming – never did like Aunt Gertrude. Another office party standing around making conversation with people getting loaded just because the booze is free. Visit to my husband's sisters. Never did like them either. I resent buying gifts for adults I don't know or don't like and for kids who are ungrateful. I hate this time of year.

It's true that December can feel relentless. It's true that a whole additional layer of tasks gets piled on to lives that are often too busy, too stressed, and just too full. We're surrounded by lights, advertisements, decorations, and bell ringers. Special events and family expectations compete for our time and our peace of mind. We are reminded daily, sometimes hourly, that this is supposed to be a special time of year. If you're a parent, there are holiday concerts to attend and holiday gatherings in the classroom, at the Scout meetings, and at Sunday or Saturday school. Ready or not, like it or not, we're surrounded by holiday hoopla every year.

It's no wonder that we all feel stretched.

Personally, I think most of the advice offered in the "living pages" of newspapers and the women's magazines sold at the grocery store miss an important point. Most of the articles are about cutting down on or eliminating stress. Although minimizing might be helpful, I've talked to many people who don't do much to observe the holidays and are still miserable. I think the real issue for most of the Bah-Humbug folks is that they are in a huge fight with the holiday world. It's the fight that's making them miserable, not the time of year.

Being grumpy takes a lot of energy. Resenting every minute you're in the mall makes the experience exhausting. Focusing on how much you don't like some of the people going to the party makes the party a downer before you even get there. Being angry at how you're spending the holiday time zaps all the potential joy out of it. Playing Scrooge when those around you are celebrating ensures that other people will keep their distance and leave you alone and lonely. Unless you are willing to go into some dark hole from preThanksgiving to New Year's, you are going to be confronted with the holidays in ways large and small every day. If the holidays are inevitable, and they certainly seem to be, why not find ways to enjoy it?

An attitude transplant isn't as hard or as time consuming as it may seem. It doesn't take more time. It takes changing how you use your time from working up your anger to allowing for peace. Here's how: • Drop the fight. Remind yourself that no one is really making you do anything. The holidays don't victimize anyone. They just are. You can choose to find

moments of happiness in the season or you can make yourself miserable. It's up to you.

• Quit trying to change other people. You can't make anyone else do anything either. When you don't like what's going on, you only have two choices: Leave or change yourself. How people you know are likely to behave is not new information.

• Plan ahead. Think of a graceful exit strategy for yourself if things get too intense. Option two is to set something new in motion by changing your own reaction. See what happens if you act interested instead of annoyed; if you make a joke instead of acting angry or hurt.

• Meditate. Pray. Observe a little silence each day.

Use whatever way you find most helpful to get in touch with something larger than yourself. Remind yourself what the holidays are really about.

• Count your blessings. Angry at having to buy presents for family? Be glad you have family to buy presents for. Unhappy that you have to go to an office party? Hey - you have a job! Stressed about how many people are vying for your time? Be happy that you are wanted and needed. Make a list of all your complaints and transform them into appreciations. Now read your new list. Feel better?

• Find a role model. Don't know how to act like a happy person? Think of someone you know who genuinely loves the holidays. How does that person walk through a room? How does he or she talk about holiday time? Try zipping yourself into that person's "personality suit." Really focus on taking on that person's approach to life for an hour or two. Chances are it will feel better than the suit you've been wearing.

• Surround yourself with positive people. If you lean towards the negative yourself, hanging out with bitter, depressed, or resentful people will only reinforce your worst tendencies. Spend time with people who have a sunnier point of view.

• Exercise. Go for a walk or a run. Work out at the gym or to your favorite tape. Put on music and boogie.

Get those endorphins going and you'll feel better.

• Be helpful. Do something for someone who needs a break. Being generous feels good. Reaching out to help someone else, especially when we don't particularly feel like it, has been found to be very healing.

• Don't drink. Contrary to what a lot of people think, drinking doesn't make unhappy people happier.

Alcohol is a depressant. If you tend towards being depressed, it will only make you feel worse.

The Fleet and Family Support Center offers counseling for individuals, couples and families to help develop healthy relationships, positive coping strategies and the skills to navigate life stressors. Learn more by contacting the Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN: 624-4291, Commercial: 095 56 4291.

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December 11, 2015