The Signature, November 20, 2015

Higher Education:

Europe Shopping Markets:

Amici Program:

Preparation is key!

Let the holiday shopping begin!

Learn more about Intercultural relations

PAGE 5

PAGEs 8-9

N A S SIG O N E L L A

PAGE 12

November 20, 2015

Vol. 32 No. 44

Sigonella mourns with Paris in wake of terrorist attacks

By MC1 Tony D. Curtis & MC1 Cody R. Boyd NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

During a trip to the City of Lights to celebrate her 40th birthday, Sigonella’s Carie Tonovitz rested unknowingly through an event now dominating the news and social media. Tonovitz had been planning the birthday celebration to Paris for months with her three children and husband, Lt. Cmdr. William Boller, Department Head of NAS 2’s flight line clinic, making reservations at the Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge and some of the world’s most famous museums. Then, on a rainy Friday the 13th, she sent her son home, visited Notre Dame, and made her way back to the AirBnB around 8 p.m. to wait for her girlfriend’s flight to arrive from the United States.

Her trip was going according to plan, but after a night of restless sleep, she woke to more than 40 texts and Facebook messages, some to tell her ‘happy birthday’ and others asking about her safety.

“I read about the terrorists attacks…that I was supposed to stay in place, and I used the safety check that Facebook had put up to notify family

members that I was fine,” said Tonovitz. “My mom was very worried, of course, because they hadn’t heard from me all night. I was able to notify people via Facebook that I was fine before I was even able to talk to my husband.”

What Tonovitz slept through was a true nightmare; a night of infamy not experienced by city inhabitants since World War II; a string of terrorist attacks that took 129 lives and injured more than 300 around Paris. “The worst part is thinking about those poor young people who were just out to enjoy life with their friends, and never made it home!” said Tonovitz.

The next day, Tonovitz and her friends went out around town to try to continue with their trip, but understandably, some places, like the Moulin Rouge, were closed following the attacks. “Paris seemed subdued, but mostly seems to want to return to normal,” said Tonovitz. “When we did finally make it to the Moulin Rouge, I made sure I knew where all the exits were.”

Tonovitz is just one of many Sig’ Citizens with a strong connection to Paris. Traveling throughout Europe is one of the main perks of being stationed here and Paris a top destination. After the attacks,

Sigonella community members shared photos from recent trips to Paris, a show of support and mourning for the beautiful city and France in whole.

“It’s terribly sad,” said NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief, CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski.

“Many military members here have a special connection to the French and our histories have tightly intertwined over the years. Today Sigonella mourns alongside our oldest allies who cherish freedom and independence as we do.”

The horrific acts haven’t just affected U.S. members here; they’ve hit home with Sicilians as well.

One of Sigonella’s local national employees was just outside of Paris visiting Disneyland with his entire family during the attacks.

“Both of the parks were closed the day following the attacks, which has never happened in the 20 years since the park opened,” said Angelo M. Raciti, an employee at NAS Sigonella’s Human Resources Office. “I immediately felt sorrow for the relatives of the victims of such a brutal and unreasonably violent act. Italy, like every other country in the world, has a severe challenge ahead of them.”

EUCOM implements travel restrictions to France EUCOM Public Affairs Office

United State European Command (EUCOM) has implemented travel restrictions to France that apply to all Department of Defense personnel. Specifically, unofficial travel (leave, liberty and special pass) to France is prohibited.

This EUCOM policy applies to United States military personnel, DoD civilian employees, contractors and command-sponsored dependents and family members.

PARIS TRAVEL This prohibition is for unofficial travel to Paris, France, and includes a 50-kilometer radius around the city. For those requesting official travel or emergency leave travel to Paris (or within a 50-kilometer radius of the city), approval from the first general/flag officer (or SES) in the chain of command is required.

ELSEWHERE IN FRANCE Official travel and emergency leave travel to France requires approval from the first general/flag officer (or SES) in the chain of command.

Again, this EUCOM policy applies to United States military personnel, DoD civilian employees, contractors and command-sponsored dependents and family members.

These restrictions also apply to cruise ship shore excursions but do not apply to military personnel assigned to diplomatic posts in France and individuals who have commercial airline connections in the country and will not leave the secure portions of airport terminals.

This is a precautionary measure to keep our personnel and families safe in light of the recent attacks. This is also an effort to help minimize tourist traffic at the borders in France, and in particularly, in Paris as the French authorities continue their investigation.

Chief Master-at-Arms Brian A. Teart and his wife Amy Garcia-Teart enjoy a meal at the base of the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is one of many sights that tourists enjoy seeing while visiting Paris. (Photo provided by Chief Master-at-Arms Brian A. Teart)

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Sailors conduct community outreach at Children's Center By shannon haney NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Public Affairs

PATERNÒ, Sicily -- Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Sigonella partnered with Naval Air Station Sigonella (NAS Sigonella) commands for a community outreach event at Centro Aggregazione Minori in Paterno, Sicily, Nov. 11.

Centro di Aggregazione per Minori is a center for disadvantaged children and troubled youth which provides rehabilitation social work, food for families in need, and after-school activities for approximately 150 children of the town of Paterno.

The activities at the center include computer-based learning, dancing, sports, arts, and more. During the Nov. 9 event, Sailors and their family members played outdoor games, danced, and socialized with the students. They also served the children, staff, and the mayor of Paterno with a wide range of American food.

After the meal settled, everyone gathered outside for gift giving. The children Postal Clerk Sgt. Steven Brown serves food to children during a COMREL lined up and each one of them were called by name and presented with a gift. at Centro di Aggregazione per Minori in Paternò, Sicily, Nov. 11. Centro di "This is a special time for us, not just a party. It is a way to share and connect," Aggregazione per Minori is a center for disadvantaged children that provides said Mauro Mangano, Paterno mayor. "Most importantly, the children learn from after school activities to 150 children from the town of Paternò. (U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Haney/Released)

"COMREL" continued on Page 4

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 2

November 20, 2015

Direct Line I am the NAS Sigonella Food Service Officer (FSO) Lt. j.g. Micah Wallin. I am proud to be a part of the Sigonella community, and to be working in my favorite place on base…the Galley. It is my responsibility as FSO to serve nutritious food with portions outlined by the Navy Standard Menu. I also take it upon myself, along with my talented staff of 40 local nationals and three service members, to make the Galley (Ristorante Bella Etna) a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience.

Since arriving as FSO at Ristorante Bella Etna, I have noticed that it is always bustling with special events, fresh baked bread and command cakes to order. “Eggs to order” is my favorite way to start the day. Lunch is always filled with special meals in the speed line with pizza on Mondays and Fridays, tacos or meatball sandwiches on Tuesdays, Burger Day Wednesday, and fresh pasta on Thursdays. As for desserts, we have self-serve ice-cream on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with freshly baked cakes, pies and cookies throughout the week. Our bakers are always experimenting and trying new recipes.

It is a little known fact that Ristorante Bella Etna recently received its five-star accreditation from EUCOM, and is currently in the running for the Captain Edward F. Ney Memorial award, the Navy’s highest award in food service. In regards

THE SIGNATURE

All Hands News Bulletin:

Food Service Officer Lt. j.g. Micah Wallin Buongiorno Sig’ Citizens,

November 20, 2015

to command functions, the Galley can provide food service equipment and prepare food for command functions provided food is supplied to the staff beforehand.

We have a limited number of staff and equipment to dedicate to command functions, so we ask the Sigonella community to make requests at least 14 days in advance.

The Galley has also initiated a few social media pilot programs in order to communicate better with its customers. You can follow us via our Facebook “Ristorante Bella Etna,” and on Twitter at “bella.etna and Twitter “@bella_etna”.

As we approach the end of the year, I am pleased share with you our biggest event of the year, Thanksgiving. I am thrilled about this year’s feast, and we are pulling out all the stops. We are going to have a traditional American Thanksgiving meal with an Italian flare. It is going to be a very special time with food, music, and our Italian neighbors coming to break bread with us on this very special holiday.

Ristorante Bella Etna is always looking to im-

DoDEA Town Hall Meeting: Dr. McMullen, DoDEA Europe Director, will host a Facebook Town Hall Meeting on Dec. 3, at 1800-1900 (6-7pm) on the DoDEA-Europe Facebook site (facebook.com/dodeaeurope). The focus of this meeting will be College and Career Readiness Standards. The Director, along with key staff members, will be on hand to answer any questions you have in regards to College and Career Readiness. Towards the end of the Town Hall, Dr. McMullen will open up the discussion to allow for questions on various topics of most interest to our audience. Community members can submit questions for the Director early by emailing us at feedback@ eu.dodea.edu.

Naval Hospital to Discontinue Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication Program: Starting on Dec. 1, 2015, the Pharmacy at U.S. Naval Hospital will no longer offer the OTC medication program. Previously, the patients were allowed to receive select OTC medications directly without seeing a provider for evaluation. Going forward, patients can still receive these medications, which have been selected by their provider. With the excellent access to care this hospital provides, patients will not have to wait long for an appointment. Alternatively, all of these medications are available at the NEX, 7-day store, and/or the Commissary. One important exception is the Plan B medication. Eligible beneficiaries in need of Plan B may still proceed directly to the Pharmacy without first seeing a provider.

PAGE 3

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

prove the dining experience for its patrons. If you have any questions, comments or equipment request, please fill out our comment cards, or call myself at 624-5739 or CSCS (SW) Garcia at 624-2585.

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".

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 nonmerit 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

PAGE 4

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015

November 20, 2015

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 5

"COMREL" continued from Page 1 the military members and they look up to them as role models."

"I love giving back to the community and being part of a great program," said Yeoman Seaman Maria Barron. "Dancing with the kids was the best part because it allows everyone to interact together without worrying about the language barrier."

Director of Centro di Aggregazione per Minori, Maria Tortomasi was also delighted to have the U.S. Navy personnel interacting with the children.

"We would like to thank the U.S. Navy for coming here today," said Tortomasi. "The kids really enjoyed your visit and will remember this day for a lifetime."

Established partnerships with the mayor of Paterno, local schools, and an Italian charity called Banco Alimentare allow the center to flourish.

"We keep building good community relations' partnership with the U.S. military which provides great opportunities for the Paterno community to meet Americans and make friends," said Luigi Fallica, the city of Paterno community relations liaison.

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.

Crupi Salvatore, 9, right, reveals a scooter as he opens his gift during the COMREL hosted by NAVSUP FLC Sigonella at Centro di Aggregazione per Minori in Paternò, Sicily, Nov. 11. Centro di Aggregazione per Minori is a center for disadvantaged children that provide after school activities to 150 children from the town of Paternò. (U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Haney/Released)

NASSIG personnel and family members blend in with the children and staff members of Centro Aggregazione Minori during a COMREL in Paternò, Sicily. Centro di Aggregazione per Minori is a center for disadvantaged children that provide after school activities to 150 children from the town of Paternò. (U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Haney/Released)

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)

Climbing the ladder of higher education From Fleet and Family Support Center

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - LEFT…LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT…is the direction in the military. It is structured and guides you on your way.

But life after the military can leave us at a crossroad, unsure of which way to go. It is now time to plan our own course of direction. We either prepare to succeed or we prepare to fail.

How do we prepare to succeed? By setting goals and making a plan of action. One course of direction after the military is pursuing higher education.

The Sigonella Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) offers assistance in setting goals and making your plan through our Accessing Higher Education (AHE) class, an additional track to our Transition, Goals, Plans, Success (TGPS) program. This class is free of charge and is conducted over a period of two days from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the FFSC on NAS 1. The class focuses on key aspects you will encounter during your transition from military to civilian life via the education lane.

The AHE class is much more than deciding to go to school.

Even if you have already made the decision to pursue higher education, chosen a college and a degree plan, there are still many benefits to gain from attending this class.

Among choosing a college/university and a degree plan, you can also learn which careers are more readily available and in which locations. If you have already chosen a specific location, get a head start by understanding the projected job growth and salary in that area. Choosing a marketable degree plan is crucial for future success in the work force. Another important consideration is funding. As veterans, most of you will have the Post 9/11 GI Bill to use for your education (tuition, housing, books) fees. This class will also provide information on Veteran resources specific to your desired area or location.

While your GI Bill covers tuition, books and housing, there will be other unexpected living expenses such as transportation, clothing, groceries and pocket money. For example, if you plan on having a car, there will be maintenance, gas, tires, insurance and upkeep to consider. This Higher Education class will help you find a surplus of untapped scholarship opportunities due to lack of knowledge and/or lack of applications. Scholarships can help offset your extra living expenditures. While it is preferable to avoid debt, from time to time, there may also be a need for student loans. However, should you find it necessary to take a loan, the AHE class, will teach you how to accept it with the least amount of penalties.

Come join us in our Assessing Higher Education class and let us help you navigate your life after the military! Our next Higher Education class will be held on Dec. 3 - 4, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the FFSC. Call 624-4291 or email mackenzie.smith@ eu.navy.mil to reserve your seat! CONGRATULATIONS on choosing Higher Education!!

PAGE 6

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015

Christmas Palace 2015 returns to Viagrande

by Placido Pappalardo

A new must-see edition of “Christmas Palace,” the breathaking Christmas Fantasy for everybody, returns to the town of Viagrande. Exactly like the last time it will take place in the Palace of the Prince of Partanna in VIagrande, just a few kilometers from Catania town center or from the Paesi Etnei exit on the ring road (Tangenziale). A dream that will involve all visitors, especially the younger and the young at heart. Santa Claus will be waiting to meet all his friends young and old, in the Magical Christmas Tunnel. Special effects and a real Father Christmas waiting to receive wish lists from children. You’ll get a chance to enter into this dream and treat yourself to those feelings that Christmas gave you as a child. Those feelings will come back like magic. Festival-goers can enter the Christmas Palace, Santa Claus Tunnel ¬¬– what a feeling and such wonderful special effects.

Have a picture taken with your family and friends, with your kids or even on your own. Inside the Christmas Palace, in addition to saying hello to Santa Claus it will be possible to meet some 80 artists and craftsmen that have been preparing the gifts that you can buy for your loved ones. Every single item on display in Christmas Palace is unique and hand made. There is only one piece in the whole world of whatever you purchase. Careful hands of antique culture and traditional know how enclosed in each single object. Unique like the person you love, unique like your family. You deserve something unique yourself.

The final intent of our cultural association is introducing our traditions and our culture, our greatest associated partner is UNICEF and you will find them in the central ground floor hall ready to give your children the UNICEF gift balloon. In the evenings and on some Sunday and Saturday mornings, there are live Christmas choirs and Christmas music in the central hall. For all those that come from NAS Sigonella, there will also be a special treatment. You will be given a card upon your visit to Christmas Palace, on the card you will see the writing “Hello, I’m a tourist,” while purchasing, after you get your best price from the craftsman or from the artist you are buying from, just pull out the card , you will get an extra 10% off anything you buy from them.

All those that share this initiative will have the same sign on their counter or their tables “HELLO, I’M A TOURIST.” It is hard to miss them. You will be surprised to find out that all the hand made presents on sale cost even less than common commercial objects. The difference is that these objects are made with love, a love that they will contain forever.

Reaching the event site is easy, just put in the destination in your navigator via Garibaldi # 59 – Viagrande, plenty of parking space in via Aldo Moro, just 70 yards from the Palace itself. You will love it.

Don’t miss coming to Christmas Palace. A place that will find space in your heart. You can collect your Christmas Palace card “Hello, I’M A TOURIST” upon arrival at the palace at the UNICEF stall.

U.S. NAVY HEADLINES November 20, 2015

The Personnel Exchange Program allows Sailors to live abroad BLUF: The Personnel Exchange Program (PEP), available through detailers, allows Sailors to serve with foreign navies or with another branch of the U.S. Military. If it is not an English speaking country, Sailors will be sent to language training before integration.

Dino and Maria toghether with UNICEF and of course “ SANTA CLAUS “ will be waiting for you at CHRISTMAS PALACE on the following dates : 5th – 6th- 7th- 8th- 12th-13th- 19th-20th-21st-22nd23rd Of December from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Let’s go to CHRISTMAS PALACE!

The event is promoted by the Associazione Culturale “Gli Amici del Borgo Viscalori e degli Antichi Borghi.”

For more information contact Placido Pappalardo mail to amiciborgoviscalori@yahoo.it or visit http://www.amicidelborgoviscalori.it

PAGE 7

A Yankee serving across the pond

By Terrina Weatherspoon Defense Media Activity

The second edition of CHRISTMAS PALACE will take place from Dec. 5 thru 23 in Viagrande featuring arts and crafts, live music, traditional Sicilian Christmas songs, exhibits of painters and artists and Santa in his tunnel!

THE SIGNATURE

"While not away, my family and I have maximized every opportunity we could for travel and playing the tourists," said Lt. Joshua Cowart.

"The British Isles are beautiful and full of so much history. Europe is an easy day trip away and we've on more than one occasion had breakfast in the UK, lunch in France, and dinner in Belgium."

Cowart is not on vacation. For the past two years he and his family have lived in Portsmouth, England thanks to the PEP, which has allowed him to be a fully integrated member of the Royal Navy.

PEP allows individuals to serve either in other branches of the U.S. military or in foreign militaries as fully integrated members of those organizations. The opportunity is aimed at enhancing international and interservice relationships. At the moment, there are about 200 exchanges with around 20 different nations, including amazing postings in countries like Australia, Belgium, and France.

On top of that there are 40 inter-service exchanges with the US Air Force, Army, Marines, and Coast Guard.

"I first came across the program via my Operations Officer in a past command," said Cowart. "He had taken a PEP with the Canadian Navy in Halifax, Nova Scotia and absolutely loved it. After hearing his stories I began looking into the program and leapt at the opportunity when I saw PEP on my slate."

Detailers maintain the plot of available exchanges. When slates are released, the assignments will be shown along with details of what the position will be and any pre-joining training that is required. However, if exchanges aren't on a particular slate, liaise with the detailers. They'll be able to fill in the details of eligibility and availability.

Cowart is currently the Operations Officer with Mine Countermeasures Squadron Two Crew Eight.

The Royal Navy uses rotational crews in the mine hunters, so he has served in HMS MIDDLETON and HMS CHIDDINGFOLD. "As a crew we spent several weeks up in Scotland conducting our Operational Sea Training and Exercise Joint Warrior," said Cowart. "Once

we'd completed the required certifications and training, we headed out to Bahrain for a seven-month Operation KIPION deployment, during which we did maritime security operations, detailed route survey work, large scale international exercises, and supported contingency operations."

Cowart was able to bring over his family and their car, although he admits that bringing over the Dodge Charger, in retrospect, perhaps wasn't such a great decision given the narrow roads and even narrower parking spaces.

"Driving on the 'wrong' side of the road is actually easier than you would think," said Cowart. "It is much easier to go from driving on the right to driving on the left. It is much easier than reverting back to 'normal.'"

Overall Cowart said he and his family have fit in very well.

"The Royal Navy could not be more hospitable," said Cowart.

"There's been the normal amount of

"PEP" continued on Page 14

PAGE 8

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015

Guide to Europe’s best Christmas markets

By Bleecker Marquez

Thinking of checking out some of those world-famous German Christmas markets? I highly recommend this incredible experience! Here is a list of the markets I visited with my husband (plus one bonus outside Germany) and a little info on each to help you plan your trip. Keep in mind that most markets open the last weekend of November, and while some stay open until January 1 or so, many actually close before Christmas!

Eisenach We visited this town in central Germany mainly to see Wartburg Castle, which boasts original rooms dating back over 1,000 years, and was where Martin Luther first translated the New Testament of the Bible from Greek to German in 1521. The Christmas market in nearby Eisenach was really a bonus. It was quite small, but the people were friendly and it had all of the major Christmas market elements - sausages, gluhwein, various desserts, rides, and plenty of gifts and decorations. This is where we learned that when you buy your first cup of gluhwein or other hot beverage, you pay a deposit for the ceramic mug, which you can either keep as a souvenir, or in most cases return for a refund at the end of the night – drinking out of a real mug is so much nicer than plastic or Styrofoam, and creates less (well zero) waste! The castle remained the real highlight here, but it was nice to see a regular small town market and ease our way into the German Christmas extravaganza.

Nuremberg This was hands down our favorite Christmas market! It was just so pretty and picturesque, with the rows of red and white striped tents neatly arranged in the old town central square and the adjoining squares and streets. As Nuremberg is committed to keeping their market traditional, no commercial products can be sold, making room for endless unique and handcrafted items. The gingerbread here is famous, as well as the sausages, but we fell in love with schaschlik, which is basically a marinated meat skewer – look for the stall with the line around the block and you’ve found it! There is also an international area, with stalls from all over the world, including the U.S. And if you have time, Nuremberg Castle is nearby, as well as some beautiful churches, and of course many opportunities to learn more about German and world history.

Regensburg This charming medieval city between Nuremberg and Munich is touted as one of the best preserved in Europe, and we actually visited for that reason. But the Christmas markets and decorations certainly enhanced the beauty of the Old Town, Gothic cathedral, and medieval towers scattered throughout the city. The main Christmas market is in the Thurn and Taxis Palace courtyard, but there was an entrance fee, so we opted to skip it and wander around. Luckily, just across the Danube on the 12th century Stone Bridge, we discovered a quaint Christmas market with handcrafted wares, several varieties of gluhwein and honey wine, and even some live sheep!

Munich The Christmas markets here were a bit different than in the other German cities we visited. Instead of one large market, (or two in the case of Regensburg), Munich had several small, separate Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. To us, it honestly just felt kind of random and inconvenient. In all of the other cities, we could enjoy a warming mug of gluhwein as we perused the stalls, refilling at the next stop where they either had the same mug or honored one another’s. But in Munich we had to drink and return the mugs for our deposit at each individual stall, which were sometimes blocks apart.

While that might not be a concern for everyone, it was an-

November 20, 2015

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 9 noying to us. I have read that people like this set-up because it gives each of the markets a distinct feel or personality, but we didn’t really enjoy it. Plus, perhaps it was being in a bigger city, but it was much more crowded and we didn’t feel like the people were as friendly as in other towns we visited. If you do go, however, our two favorite markets were the main market in Marienplatz with its huge Christmas tree and decorated Town Hall, and the Sternenplatzl at Rindermarkt (facing the Town Hall, go right and a little behind you).

Rothenburg ob der Tauber This small town near Nuremberg was another that we visited primarily for its well-preserved medieval buildings and character, but were immediately charmed by the festive holiday atmosphere. Largely spared from the bombing in WWII, the medieval gates, towers and walls surrounding the town are still intact (you can walk around most of the old town on top of the walls!), as well as many of the buildings and houses, the oldest of which dates back to 1270. Wandering the narrow and winding cobblestone streets, it was like being transported back in time. Of course the Christmas market in the center of town had the same old world charm and traditional character as the town itself, and the town residents we met were among the warmest and most welcoming in all of Germany.

If you are able to stay overnight (highly recommended as the crowds thinned out considerably in the evening), don’t miss the Night Watchman’s Tour, an entertaining and informative walk through the dark old town.

Stuttgart This was one of our favorite Christmas markets! The entire inner city is overtaken with stalls and decorations, and the market seems to go on forever, spilling from one large square to the next. We wandered for hours, only to discover at closing time that we hadn’t seen half of it. Of all of the towns we visited, this was the one place I wished we’d had another night just for the market. While of course we saw some of the same things being sold over and over, there were a remarkable amount of original and interesting items, and Stuttgart just had a lively and vibrant feel. I can’t say that I had (or have now) much interest in visiting Stuttgart otherwise, but it is definitely worth the trip during the Christmas season!

Ludwigsburg Only about 10-15 minutes from Stuttgart, this was our favorite of the smaller town Christmas markets. Set in the baroque market square with two festively illuminated churches and glittering angels floating above the stalls, Ludwigsburg had a truly magical holiday air. We found delicious flavored candies and nuts, plus unique handcrafted gifts. Unfortunately we only had an hour or two to spend here on our way to the airport, but I would recommend giving this town an entire day and evening to fully enjoy.

Prague This is one of my favorite cities in Europe, even the world, and is worth visiting any time of year. However, Christmastime is an especially wonderful time to be in Prague. We visited during Thanksgiving, so were able to witness the city transform into a festive and glittering winter wonderland.

The Christmas market filled Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square (New Town), and the lights and decorations stretched across the Charles Bridge to the castle and beyond. While certainly similar to those in Germany, the Prague Christmas market definitely had a wonderfully unique atmosphere, as well as some distinctive tasty treats! The brightly decorated wooden huts offered all sorts of traditional foods like spit-roasted ham, Trdelnik (a hot sugar coated pastry), and medovina (hot honey wine) and mulled wine. The selection of gifts seemed endless, including glassware, lace, candles, puppets, and wooden toys.

A climb to the top of the clock tower provided a spectacular view of the market spread out below. The only downside was that Saturday evening the Old Town Square was very crowded.

That may have been because it was the opening weekend, but visit during the week if possible to avoid the crowds.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 10

November 20, 2015

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 • Saturday - 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services • 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 Classes • 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

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

Weekly Traffic Reports: Nov. 9 - 16, 2015

Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Nov. 20 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Lasagna, Baked Stuffed Fish Speed Line: Pizza Dinner: Baked Italian Sausage w/ Grilled Peppers and Onions, Savory Baked Chicken Saturday, Nov. 21 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Roasted Turkey Dinner: Salisbury Steak with Gravy, Lemon Baked Fish

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

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Sunday, Nov. 22 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Roast Beef Dinner: Spaghetti with Meatballs, Chicken Cacciatore Monday, Nov. 23 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Sausage Gravy with Biscuits Lunch: Meat Loaf, Fried Catfish Speed Line: Pizza Dinner: Beef Ravioli, Herbed Baked Chicken

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

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

Tuesday, Nov. 24 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Chicken Fried Steak, Baked Chicken Speed Line: Taco Salad with Refried Beans and Mexican Rice Dinner: Beef Stew, Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Wednesday, Nov. 25 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Spinach Lasagna, Chuckwagon Stew Speed Line: Burgers and Chicken Patties Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Honey Ginger Chicken

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

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

Thursday, Nov. 26 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Roast Pork, Baked Fish w/ Cherry Tomatoes Speed Line: Pasta Bar Dinner: Hot Dogs w/ French Fries, Chili Macaroni Friday, Nov. 27 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Hamburger Yakisoba, Herbed Baked Chicken Speed Line: Pizza Dinner: Pasta Alfredo, Fishwich

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.

November 20, 2015

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015

GAME ZONE Car Parts

The Amici Program is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the world in which we live. We are all so different, yet all so much alike. This program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity that can enrich your life by allowing you to get to know families and individuals from another country.

Do you have a family with little kids or teenagers and wish to meet Italian families? Are you single or part of a couple and would like to get to know Italian people to learn more about their culture and language? Great! This is the program you are looking for!

Let’s share some feedback by those who have taken part in this unique program.

The following is an authentic letter from an Italian participant that expresses the joy of his taking part in the program. Please do not focus on the grammar but on the deep meaning of the words that he is trying to express in English.

“I would like to offer my most personal thanks for giving me the opportunity to participate in the ‘Amici Program.’

After joining, after your kind invitation, I was contacted by the Fleet & Family Support ‘Andrea Carobene’ to start a friendship with an American family living in a town very near to me.

From that moment, I and my family we have started to live a wonderful and unique experience.

We are very lucky to had a possibility and the opportunity to meet an American family with exceptional features, very kind and educated and with deep family values, that bringing much glory to the country of origin, thanks also to the skill of Mr. Andrea Carobene, well that was able to combine the features of interest of the two families.

My personal thanks so, for allowing me to make this wonderful experience, that in addition to improving their knowledge of English, for myself and my family, has also improved the relations of my service activities, comes from the deep of my heart.

Thank you for this wonderful program, you all do a wonderful job.”

Signed M.llo 1ª Cl. Luigi LOMBARDO Sezione Promozione Umana Sociale e Sport - 41° Stormo A/S If you would like to learn more about this program call the Fleet & Family Support Center at 624-4291 or e-mail andrea.carobene.it@eu.navy.mil

RADIO REAR VIEW MIRROR ROOF SEAT BELT STARTER STEERING WHEEL SUSPENSION TAIL LIGHT TIRES TRANSMISSION TRUNK TURN SIGNAL WHEEL RIM WHEELS WINDSHIELD

MEDIUM

From Fleet and Family Support Center

DEFOGGER DEFROSTER DOOR DRIVE LINE DRIVESHAFT ENGINE FRAME FUSE GAS TANK HEADLIGHT HOOD HORN IGNITION MUFFLER POWER WINDOW RADIATOR

EASY

The “Amici” Program – what a wonderful opportunity!

AIR BAG AIR CONDITIONER ALTERNATOR AXLE BATTERY BODY BRAKE BUMPER CAR SEAT CARBURETOR CARRIER RACK CHILD SEAT CLUTCH COOLING FAN CRANKCASE CRUISE CONTROL

DIFFICULT

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

The remaining letters spell the name of an additional car part.

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015

November 20, 2015

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 15

Photo illustration by Lt. Joshua Cowart.

Congratulations to Chelsea Garcia, NAS Sigonella's Junior Civilian of the Quarter

"PEP" continued from Page 7 banter which you might expect to have directed at a Yank serving in Her Majesty's Navy, especially around the 4th of July, but it's all in good fun. As you'd expect, there was a transitional period required to get my feet underneath me, but everyone's been really understanding and supportive.

It's truly been a great experience so far."

However, one thing that hasn't exactly left the best taste in his mouth has been the food.

"Let's be honest here; the British Isles aren't exactly known for haute cuisine," said Cowart. "In all actuality, the food is pretty good, though a little unvaried. There's a cultural fascination with curry; the standard weekend's festivities typically involve 'ten pints and a curry.' So, that took a bit of getting used to. Pubs represent the bulk of the restaurants here in Portsmouth and one may gaze at the menu for quite a while attempting to determine exactly what will arrive at the table if "gammon" is ordered and then be pleasantly surprised when it turns out that "gammon" is actually just country ham. My children have had a bit of fun in sorting out the differences with fries being chips and chips being crisps, much to our amusement. All in all, though, the food's been pretty good.

After his PEP tour, Cowart will be heading to Surface Warfare Officers School Command in

Newport, Rhode Island for Department Head School. Following training there he is penciled in as the weapons officer aboard USS O' Kane (DDG 77) homeported in Pearl Harbor, HI. But there is one thing he will never forget about his experiences with the Royal Navy.

"I think what stood out the most was seeing a crew that stood united in one purpose, embracing and believing in the mission. Our Commanding Officer, Lt. Cdr. Andy Brown, had a philosophy that he called the 'Crew 8 Way.' Although simple and to the point; it truly resonated with the sailors. The mission was simple: Be on the front foot and create the conditions for our success. The one point which I took most to heart was the idea of making your own luck - luck being defined as what happens when preparation meets opportunity."

Cowart is going on one more adventure before his time with the program comes to an end. He was extended for a couple months in order to complete his participation in Antarctic Endurance 2016, a two-year research program, conducted by members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, which looks into team dynamics and performance.

"I applied for this program at the commencement of the two-year study and was selected to join the final team headed south," said Cowart. "We began the training with fifty applicants and through various sailing and mountaineering events have

chosen eleven to make the final push."

The AE16 team will sail from the Falkland Islands to the Antarctica Peninsula, as far south as the ice will allow. While there, the team will conduct survey work and data gathering for various organizations such as Plymouth University, Cambridge University, and the UK Hydrographic Office. Once complete, the team will set sail for Elephant Island where they will conduct similar work prior to setting off for King Haakon Bay in South Georgia.

"The research into leadership and team dynamics which we will complete readily transfers across to the USN and is immediately applicable for leaders across the full spectrum of the Navy. The expedition will make me personally a stronger and more capable leader, a trait which I can then pass on to the Sailors which I go on to work with in the future. It is also my hope that this expedition will serve to inspire Sailors to seek challenges, adventure, and unique experiences throughout their careers."

More information about team of explorers can be found on their website at www.antarcticendurance.co.uk , on Facebook under Antarctic Endurance 2016, and on Twitter under @Antarctic2016.

Cowart is ready to continue his career in the U.S. Navy, and although the beards and daily beer rations typical among the Brits probably won't catch on over here, there is something Cowart hopes to bring back with him in regards to the Royal Navy's tendency toward delegating authority down to the lowest level.

"We like to tell ourselves in the USN that we keep things at the lowest level, but in reality simple decisions are brought before the commanding officer which could have been, and arguably should have been, made by a more junior person," said Cowart. "In stark contrast to that, the CO's in the Royal Navy tend much more towards empowerment of subordinates. As a result, the crews tend to be much more productive."

The PEP is open to both officers and enlisted personnel. There are prerequisites and eligibility requirements that have to be met. Service members who are interested in applying should contact their detailers for further information. Also have a read through MILPERSMAN 1306-921 and OPNAVINST 5700.7H for further details.

For more information check out Navy.mil article Personnel Exchange Program Can Take You Places.

Congratulations to Maria Scuto, NAS Sigonella's Civilian of the Quarter

PAGE 16

THE SIGNATURE

November 20, 2015